PACKAGED ITINERARY
Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our hotel in Cascais in time for dinner.
Day 2 Lisbon
This morning, we enjoy a half-day step-on guided excursion to Lisbon. Set on seven hills on the banks of the River Tagus, Lisbon has been the capital of Portugal since the 13th century. It is a city famous for its majestic architecture, old wooden trams, Moorish features and more than 20 centuries of history. Following disastrous earthquakes in the 18th century, Lisbon was rebuilt by the Marquês de Pombal, who created an elegant city with wide boulevards and a great riverfront and square, Praça do Comércio. Today there are distinct modern and ancient sections to enjoy, combining great shopping areas with culture and sightseeing in the Old Town, built on the city’s terraced hillsides. We have the afternoon to explore more of this wonderful city at leisure.
Day 3 Day in Resort Driver’s Day Off
Today is spent at leisure, providing us with the perfect opportunity to explore Cascais’ winding lanes and the local museums, or to simply relax on one of the three beaches.
Day 4 Óbidos & Sintra
After breakfast our guide will meet us for a full-day step-on guided tour, starting with a morning visit to Óbidos. As pristine as it is picturesque, Óbidos remains a perfectly photogenic jumble of cobblestone alleyways, whitewashed churches, colourful houses and dazzling tiles, all embraced within the protective walls of a 12th century castle. In the afternoon we visit the charming town of Sintra. The whole town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site owing to its 19th century romantic architecture. The town still retains much of its medieval layout, with labyrinthine streets, steps and arcades.
Day 5 Queluz Palace and Gardens
This morning, we visit Queluz Palace and Gardens, designated a National Monument in 1910. The National Palace of Queluz and its historical gardens are a remarkable example of the harmonious link between landscape and architecture. After our visit here, we return to our hotel to enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Days 6 Departure
We say goodbye to Cascais and begin our journey home to the UK.
