Grand tour of
Monday, July 21st
We meet at Malta International Airport at 12:00 for flight FR9654, departing at 14:30 and arriving in Lisbon at 17:00. Transfer by coach to Fatima, a place of great devotion. Upon arrival at the Santa Maria 4-star hotel, we check in and have dinner at the hotel.
Tuesday, July 22nd
After breakfast, we will have a very interesting excursion to Alcobaça and Batalha. First, we visit Alcobaça where we take a tour of the town and visit the monastery (entry extra). We continue to Batalha, stopping for sightseeing and visiting the Monastery of St. Mary of the Victory, one of the most significant buildings in Portuguese Gothic and Manueline styles. In this famous monastery, we will see Stained Glass work. We will also see the magnificent tombs of King John I and Philip of Lancaster, as well as other graves of the Royal House. We return to the hotel and have dinner.
Wednesday, July 23rd
After buffet breakfast, we have time for Mass. We also visit devotional sites such as the Perpetual Adoration Chapel, Chapel of Apparitions, and the Basilica. In the afternoon, we visit Valinhos (mini train extra), where we see the Stations of the Cross. We also visit Aljustrel to see the homes where the three shepherds Lucia, Jacinta, and Francisco lived. Dinner at the hotel.
Thursday, July 24th
Buffet breakfast and then we begin our journey to Braga, but first, we stop in the city of Coimbra. We take a tour of this city full of art, where among other sites we will see the first university built in Portugal, the Church of Santa Cruz, the National Pantheon, the Old Cathedral, and Largo de Almedina. Afterward, we continue our journey to Braga. Accommodation at the Vila Gale Collection Hotel 4 stars.
Friday, July 25th
Breakfast and departure to Porto, the largest and most important city for commerce in Portugal. Upon arrival, we will have a city tour where we will see major points of interest such as the famous Porto Cathedral, decorated in Romanesque architecture, Clerigos built in Baroque style, and several buildings in Gothic and Neo-Classical styles around the city. From Foz, we will enjoy a beautiful view of the coastline. We will also visit the Port Wine Cellars. Finally, we will visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ribeira Square. Afterward, we will have free time. We return to Braga.
Saturday, July 26th
Discover with us the beauty of the Douro Valley and the Portuguese countryside on this relaxing day. We will see small and charming villages and visit wine estates where we will have a wine tasting (extra). We will have a cruise on the Douro River to continue relaxing in the beauty of nature. During the cruise, lunch will be served. Afterward, we return to Braga.
Sunday, July 27th
It’s time to leave Braga and begin our journey to the beautiful city of Lisbon, but first, we visit Aveiro, known as the Venice of Portugal. Upon arrival, together with the tour leader, we will take a tour where we will see the historic center and the fish market. We will enjoy a beautiful panorama of the storks' nests and the Aveiro Salinas, which are salt reserves. For those interested, we can take a cruise (extra) on traditional boats called ‘Moliceiros,’ which are decorated with paintings related to local culture. We continue our excursion to Figueira Del Foz for sightseeing. Afterward, we continue our journey to Lisbon. Accommodation at the HF Fenix Lisboa Hotel 4 stars. Evening outing with the leader.
Monday, July 28th
After buffet breakfast, we will have a city tour of Lisbon by coach with a local guide (English-speaking). We will have the opportunity to visit points of interest such as the Jeronimos Monastery, Lisbon Cathedral, Rossio Square, Belem Tower, Commerce Square, Tagus River, Vasco da Gama Bridge, Gare do Oriente, and the Royal Coach Museum. We will also visit the old neighborhoods and the Alfama district. In the evening (optional), there is a dinner and El Fado show for an entertaining night.
Tuesday, July 29th
Discover with us the beauty of Sintra, Cascais, and Estoril – a very informative day tour about the local history and culture. Our first stop will be in Sintra, where we take a tour of the picturesque streets and enjoy stunning views. Afterward, we will have free time. We travel along the coast where we will see the impressive Westernmost point of Europe (Cabo de Roca). Next, we visit Cascais where we will have the opportunity to see the Cascais beach. Our final stop will be in Estoril, after which we return to Lisbon.
Wednesday, July 30th
Breakfast and departure to Lisbon Airport for flight FR9655, departing at 11:45 and arriving back in Malta at 15:15.
