Lisbon | Lisbon & Algarve Duet Rail Tour

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Learn about Lisbon’s monumental maritime legacy & historic quarters, then take a train journey south to discover the golden sands and quaint fishing villages of the Algarve coast.  

Day 1: Lisbon

Upon arrival at Lisbon Airport, you will be transferred to your centrally located Lisbon hotel. Check-in and enjoy the rest of the day to relax or start exploring the Portuguese capital on your own. 

Day 2: Lisbon

Following breakfast at your hotel, set out on a full-day small-group tour to discover the best of Lisbon. . Learn about one of the oldest cities in Europe, Lisbon, the capital of the oldest European country. We will start to visit in the morning the most historical quarters of Lisbon - The Discoveries Quarter of Belem, from which the Portuguese Caravels sailed off to the epic maritime discoveries. Once at Belem, the Belém Tower, Discovery Monument, and Jeronimo's Monastery represent the most luxurious and prestigious times of the Portuguese Monarchy, built after Vasco da Gama discovery of India, in the late 15th-century. Following this, we will make a quick stop at the most famous local pastry shop in Portugal “Pasteís de Belém" founded in 1837 where you can try some of this local specialty (not included). The tour will head towards central Lisbon, to admire the major squares such as Rossio Square and Commerce Square, and learn all the history behind the Portuguese Inquisition in the 16th Century. Enjoy some free time for lunch on your own. In the afternoon, we start from Restauradores Square and follow up to visit Lisbon downtown, admiring the narrow streets of Alfama, the Lisbon Cathedral, originally built more than 1000 years ago, and views of the majestic Lisbon Castle (St Jorge). We then pass by Chiado, Bairro Alto quarters, and some amazing viewpoints like Portas do Sol and Santa Luzia. The tour will end with a visit to Parque das Nações, the new and modern part of the city, near the Tejo River, that hosted Expo'98, built to celebrate the 500 years of India's discovery by Vasco da Gama. (B) 

Day 3: Lisbon

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and a full day at leisure to spend as you choose. Set out to continue exploring Lisbon on your own, visit some of the cities museums, or perhaps take part in an optional tour to visit Sintra & Cascais or the famous sanctuary of Fatima. (B)

Day 4: Lisbon | Albufeira

Today depart Lisbon and travel south to Portugal’s sunny Algarve region. Following breakfast at the hotel transfer independently to the railway station where you will board a train bound for Albufeira. Upon arrival, make your way to your Albufeira hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is free to relax and enjoy your new surroundings. (B)

Day 5: Historical Algarve

A full day guided tour sees you discovering the Algarve’s natural and historic highlights and many remnants of its Moorish and Roman past. Visit the castle and cathedral in Silves, the region’s old Moorish capital. Drive through the Monchique Mountains to Fóia Peak, the highest point of the Algarve from where you can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and the ocean. There will be some free time for wine tasting and photo opportunities, before we make our way down the mountains to our lunch stop (meal not included). We then proceed to the beautiful town of Lagos, site of the first slave market in Europe, the richly adorned ‘golden church’ of Saint Anthony, Ponte da Bandeira Fort, and the picturesque old town. The journey continues with a visit to the lighthouse on Cape Saint Vincent, Europe's most southwesterly point, and past the beautiful fishing harbour of Baleeira and the Sagres Fortress, home to Prince Henry’s historic navigation school. Return to your hotel in Albufeira. (B)

Day 6: Albufeira

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and a full day at leisure to explore Albufeira’s old town and colourful marina, visit nearby Villa Moura or relax on one of the area’s many lovely beaches. (B)

Day 7: Albufeira

Today marks the end of your Lisbon and Algarve discovery. Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and, at a time to suit your departure time, make your way to the railway station or airport to begin your return journey. Or ask us about extending your stay in the Algarve. (B)
 

Departure dates

Lisbon & Algarve Duet Rail Tour departs on Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday.
Some excursions featured in this tour do not operate daily; the itinerary will be modified to suit.
The Lisbon & Algarve Rail Tour can also operate in reverse.