South Portugal Journey

We begin the day with a pick-up at Marques de Pombal Square in Lisbon at 8:30 am—please arrive 15 minutes early to ensure a prompt departure. From Lisbon, we cross the Tagus River and travel south through a picturesque landscape of olive groves, cork oak trees and vineyards before reaching Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich history and culture. In this charming whitewashed town, we explore key landmarks including the Roman Temple, the Romanesque-Gothic Cathedral, St Francis Church with its famous Chapel of Bones, and the historic university. At the local market, we experience the vibrant flavours and ingredients that define Portuguese cuisine, alongside a display of authentic handicrafts made from cork, ceramics and copper. After a satisfying lunch, you will have some free time to further explore Évora at your own pace. We stay overnight in a hotel in the Évora area on a bed-and-breakfast basis.

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, enjoy some free time in Evora before we set off southwards. We pass through Beja, where the medieval castle’s tall tower stands prominently over the town and surrounding countryside. Crossing a low mountain range, we enter the Algarve region, known for its stunning landscapes and warm climate. Travelling alongside fragrant orange groves, we arrive in Silves, a historic town dominated by its striking red sandstone castle, largely dating from Moorish times. Continuing along the coast, we drive past the golden sands of Praia da Rocha before reaching the charming town of Lagos. Here, you will spend the night in a hotel on a bed-and-breakfast basis.

After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, we continue exploring the Algarve's coastal treasures. Our first stop is Ponta da Piedade, where you can admire stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and dramatic cliffs shaped by centuries of erosion. We then visit Sagres, a traditional fishing port, to explore the fortress famously linked to Prince Henry the Navigator and his legendary navigation school. From there, we travel along the cliffs to Cabo de São Vicente, the most south-western point of mainland Europe. Later, we return to Lagos, a vibrant town known for its marina and fishing port, where you can savour local specialties such as fish and shellfish prepared in a traditional cataplana copper pan, alongside regional sweets like marzipan and almond cakes. The afternoon is yours to relax at the hotel or enjoy a swim in the sea. Overnight in a Lagos area hotel on a bed-and-breakfast basis.

After a hearty breakfast, we leave the Algarve and head back to Lisbon. En route, we pass through Setúbal, an important port and industrial hub on the northern shore of the Sado estuary. Our journey continues along a scenic route over the Arrábida Mountain Range, where we take in the striking landscape, distinctive vegetation, and panoramic views of the Troia Peninsula. Crossing the Tagus River bridge, we arrive in Lisbon and conclude the tour with a drop-off at the designated location. Breakfast is included.