Portugal's City Scenery & Coast by Rail with Douro Valley Extension

Day 1  Porto            
Arrive into enchanting Porto and spend a leisurely day in Portugal’s second largest city, admiring the beauty of the flowering balconies, the stunning monuments and the fascinating history prevalent in its surroundings.            

Day 2  Porto            
In the morning, meander through the medieval maze of Ribeira appreciating the decorative architecture of the Baroque church Igreja de São Francisco, visit the ornate interior of Palacio de Bolsa or soak up the sun in Praça de Ribeira. This afternoon, cross the Luís I bridge to the Gaia side of the Douro River and perhaps take a ride on the cable car for breathtaking views of the city.          

Day 3  Porto to Douro Valley      
Today pick up your car and drive east to the picturesque Douro region. Allow plenty of time for photo stops as you follow the lazily winding river through the vineyard-laden hills.  

Day 4  Douro Valley          
Spend the day relaxing amongst the vines and soaking up the beautiful views. Maybe board a river cruise to admire the miles of terraces from the water or take a drive out to enjoy a peaceful walk, taking in the scenery at your leisure. Later, opt for a vineyard tour for an in depth discovery of the early stages of wine production from an expert.  

Day 5  Douro Valley          
Enjoy a final morning at leisure before making your way back to the airport to drop off your car in time for your onward flight.    
       
Day 6  Douro Valley to Lisbon        
Make your way to São Bento Station and prior to boarding the Alfa Pendular train, admire the customary blue and white tiles covering the interior of the station. Embrace the impressive scenery en route to Lisbon. This evening, wander the cobbled streets and enjoy your first authentic Pastel de Nata.    

Day 7  Lisbon            
Jump aboard the iconic yellow tram route number 28 running through some of Lisbon’s most narrow and picturesque streets. Hop off to marvel at the fantastic city views from the highest point in the city at Castelo de São Jorge. Continue to the heart of Lisbon in the Baixa district with its welcoming atmosphere full of bustling shopping streets, grand squares and historical monuments.            

Day 8  Sintra            
Embark on a small group tour of spectacular Sintra. Once a summer retreat for Portuguese nobility and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of opulent palaces, extravagant villas and historical sites.

Day 9  Lisbon to Faro      
Catch the Alfa Pendular train to Faro. Upon arrival you will be transferred to your accommodation for some R&R.            

Days 10-15  Vilamoura            
Bask in the sunshine and serenity of the Algarve. If you want to do more than relax, there are many places to explore from dramatic cliffs and mesmerising caves to national parks and lively seaside towns.          

Day 16  Faro            
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and a final dip in the pool before being transferred to Faro airport to catch your onward flight.