Lisbon to Madrid Escape

Welcome to Lisbon! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and traveling companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)

Lovely Lisbon This morning, discover the historic grandeur of Lisbon when you join your Local Guide for a fascinating sightseeing drive complete with photo stops at Belem Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries. See important landmarks including Jerónimos Monastery. Enjoy free time this afternoon and evening to explore more of the city. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHT HISTORIC SPOT The stunning capital city of Portugal is a treasure trove of historic and architectural masterpieces. Along the banks of the River Tagus see the 16th-century Belém Tower, which served as a fortress and an embarkation point for sailors, it was their last sight of land before the start of their journey. Lisbon’s impressive sculpture, the Monument to the Discoveries pays homage to great Portuguese explorers with a spectacular carved prow of an ancient ship.

Templars & Sanctuaries First stop this morning is the stunning town of Tomar. Enjoy free time to browse the historic center and discover the town’s strong links to the Knights Templar. Continue to Fatima, one of the most important Marian shrines, and visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary. Later, arrive in the beautiful waterfront city of Porto and spend an evening at leisure. (B) 236 mi / 380 km TOUR HIGHLIGHT MIRACULOUS EVENTS In 1928 the Basilica of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary was built to celebrate the 1917 apparitions of the Virgin Mary to three shepherd children and the “Miracle of the Sun.” Today Fatima is a principal pilgrimage destination and welcomes multitudes of pilgrims from around the world.

Panoramas & Port Wine Uncover the beauty of Porto when you follow your Local Guide on a sightseeing tour that features a panoramic drive to the mouth of the Douro River, plus a walk in the center including visits of the Church of São Francisco, and the Stock Exchange with its Arabian Hall. Enjoy a Port wine tasting at a local Port Wine Cellar. This afternoon and evening, explore the city at leisure. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHT LOCAL TASTES The grapes from the vineyards in the Douro Valley surrounding Porto provide the main ingredient for one of the world’s most recognized fortified wines. Visit a local wine cellar and taste centuries of tradition in a glass of Port wine in the city that bears its name. Saúde!