Sunny Portugal with Porto

Ancient castles and Roman ruins, groves of orange and almond trees, quiet whitewashed villages, and welcoming locals – Portugal is waiting for you.

Arrive in Porto, a former industrial city steeped in history. Porto’s Baroque and modernist architecture blend to create an artistic heritage that's earned a UNESCO designation. With no scheduled sightseeing today, spend the day as you wish, exploring the city independently. Here, you’ll find quiet cafés perfect for sipping a glass of port wine and watching the world go by. You may choose to venture out and head toward the Douro River, where so much of the history of this city started. Depending on your flight arrival time, join your Tour Manager and fellow travelers this evening for a welcome reception at your hotel.

Get ready for a full and intense day of discovery. Begin with a walking tour led by a local expert, exploring charming cobblestone streets and the vibrant atmosphere Porto is known for. As you make your way towards the Palácio da Bolsa, pass by the São Bento Railway Station, renowned for its azulejo (tile) panels depicting scenes from Portuguese history. At Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace), take in the grandeur of the Arab Room with its lavish Moorish-inspired decor. Stroll through the historic Ribeira District, a UNESCO World Heritage site, bursting with colorful building facades and lively riverside cafés. Next, cross the bridge into the neighboring city of Vila Nova de Gaia, tracing the historic paths of Portugal's wine merchants. Tour a traditional wine cellar, indulging in the rich flavors of vintage wines that have made this region famous worldwide. Cap off your day with a scenic cruise along the Douro River, passing under Porto's magnificent bridges and taking in breathtaking views of the city. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner.

The day is yours to enjoy. Perhaps you’ll decide to visit Livraria Lello,* one of the world's most beautiful bookstores, or climb the Clérigos Tower for panoramic views of the city. Don’t miss a stop at a local restaurant to try a famous delicacy, the francesinha: a multi-tiered sandwich topped with savory sauce and a fried egg. Alternatively, you might choose to join an optional excursion to the charming cities of Braga and Guimarães.