Lisbon Pre-Voyage Extension

Extraordinary experiences in a beautiful land with rich history

Lisbon’s sweeping river views, lavishly ornamented churches and monuments, and hilltop castles never fail to enchant. Walk winding medieval streets photographing colorful azulejos, stand where great explorers like Magellan and de Gama set off to change our understanding of the world, and see the stunning palaces of Sintra surrounded by elaborate gardens. Since no visit to Portugal would be complete without experiencing the country’s distinctive cuisine, wine, and music, we will enjoy a fresh seafood lunch in a fishing village, taste fine wines at a leading vineyard, and conclude our adventure with a memorable dinner at a fado restaurant.

Day 1-2 - U.S. / Lisbon, Portugal

Depart on an overnight flight and arrive in Lisbon in the morning. Begin your exploration of this fascinating city on a tour of the Belém neighbourhood with a guided visit to Jerónimos Monastery, and see the Belém Tower before lunch at a riverside restaurant. This afternoon, check in at Altis Grand Hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. (Day 2: L)

Day 3 - Lisbon

Set out by tuk tuk this morning on a specially curated route across town. We’ll drive through several historical quarters—including Sé, Castelo, Graça, Chiado, and Estrela—take in sweeping city views at a Graça viewpoint, and stop at a typical café for a classic ginjinha. Enjoy a tapas-style lunch in an Alfama neighbourhood restaurant before free time this afternoon. Reconvene for dinner in a local fado restaurant for a typical Portuguese dining experience. (B,L,D)

Day 4 - Alentejo Countryside

After breakfast, depart on a scenic drive to the Alentejo region of Portugal. Spend the day at a private, family-owned palatial 18th-century wine estate, Quinta Dona Maria, home to some of the country’s finest wines. The owner will be your host, sharing the winery’s history on a walking tour of the grounds and its chapel. Join her for a special tasting of the estate’s best wines and see where the grapes are still hand-pressed in centuries-old marble vats. Lunch will be served in the dining room along with expertly paired fine wines and cheeses. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon. (B,L)

Day 5 - Sintra / Embark Sea Cloud

This morning, head to Sintra where you’ll discover whimsical palaces and extravagant villas nestled in an old pine forest. We begin our exploration with a private visit of the colourful Pena Palace, built by King Ferdinand in the 19th century. Break for a fresh seafood lunch perched above the Atlantic Ocean in the fishing village of Azenhas do Mar. This afternoon, continue to the stunning Queluz National Palace and its gardens. Explore this 18th-century French-styled former royal residence and discover its baroque architecture and ornate ballrooms, which still host state receptions today. Return to Lisbon in the late afternoon to embark Sea Cloud. (B,L)

Costs & What's Included

Occupancy

Double Occupancy

Single Occupancy

Cost Includes:

Accommodations as shown in the itinerary, or similar; meals as shown in the itinerary; local guides on all excursions; tips to local guides, to porters and to waiters for included meals.