Portugal: Mainland & Azores Adventure

Arrival in Lisbon

Arrive in Lisbon at any time. The city’s historic Belém district is a popular first stop; plan to arrive early if you want to see the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower on the same day. Note that most of Belém’s attractions are closed on Mondays, so check your calendar before making plans.

Fado and Foothills

An orientation walk through Lisbon's core is a good way to get your bearings. The rest of the day is open for exploration. A popular day trip runs to Sintra, a town in the foothills known for its pastel-coloured houses, palaces, and lush forests. Back in the city, the evening ends in one of Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhoods for a traditional Portuguese dinner accompanied by a live *fado* performance.

Monasteries and Medieval Capitals

Leave Lisbon behind for the drive north to Coimbra. The route breaks at the small hill town of Batalha, home to an ornate Gothic monastery built to commemorate a 14th-century military victory. There's time to wander the grounds before continuing the journey to Coimbra, the medieval capital of Portugal.