Portugal Highlights

Meeting in the luscious city of Lisbon we'll admire the Gothic glamour, winding cobbled streets, gorgeous cathedrals and scenic views. But the best way to explore this gastronomic capital is through taste, why not sample some delicacies and the Lisbon speciality: green wine, or maybe go for a glass of port in the Bairro Alto and watch the sunset.

See ya, Lisbon. We'll never forget your culinary and cultural charms. We'll make a quick stop to visit the this tiny town known for it's massive waves & surfing scene. This lively city is bursting at the seams with historical monuments. It's home to Portugal's oldest university, and when we stop for lunch we'll fall in love with the old stone walls and tumbling terraces of pastel coloured buildings. And welcome to Porto. Famous for port wine, baroque architecture and a UNESCO-Listed historic centre, you’ll feel right at home in this colourful city… and tonight you’re free to check it out however you like.

Today is yours to explore Porto’s many wonders with your new Contiki crew. Need some inspo? Why not visit the Harry Potter Library, or one of the city’s multiple famous wine cellars? (Magic awaits, whatever you do.)

We're saying 'Tchau' to Porto today. After breakfast we're taking the coach towards Santa Cruz.This mini-Venice is a gorgeous town built on canals. We'll have an optional traditional boat tour to cruise the winding canals, admiring the colourful houses.Another stop for lunch, another stunning historic old town to enjoy it in. Obidos will charm us with its whitewashed houses and ruddy blooms of flowers.Arriving on the surf shore of Peniche, we’ll settle into our modern hotel, with whitewashed walls, colourful rugs & wall murals, right in front of Alfarroba beach. Complete with indoor & outdoor swimming pools, a bar and Green Key sustainability award status, this is the perfect place to base ourselves whether you’re looking to kick back or hit the waves.

Welcome to Peniche, a relaxed coastal town with Atlantic views, golden beaches and fresh sea air. Stroll along long sandy shores, take a dip in the ocean, or simply unwind by the water. Jump on a boat trip to the stunning Berlenga Islands, a protected reserve known for its rugged cliffs, sea caves and crystal-clear water. Peniche is also famous for its powerful surf, attracting wave-riders from around the world. Even if you stay dry, the beach cafes are perfect for a drink while watching surfers tackle the Atlantic swells. Back in town, wander the charming old centre with its cobbled streets, colourful fishing boats and fresh seafood - an easygoing slice of authentic coastal Portugal.

Peniche - you've been a dream. It's time to drag ourselves away this morning as we head to The Algarve. Another trip to the past as we head inside the 14th century walls of Evora, home to grandiose medieval cathedrals, Ancient Roman baths and a spectacular town square. After wandering the cobbled streets we'll head on towards the Algarve.  Hitting another coast on the way, we'll make a quick stop here for dinner and some more idyllic exploration. This picture perfect port-side part of Portugal retains Evora's quaint cobbled lanes but adds a whole bunch of stunning beaches.

Today is yours to enjoy the Algarve. Play golf, eat, take a boat trip, swim, soak up some rays or enjoy some water sports. The choice is yours in this sun-drenched playground.

After breakfast, we have a short drive from the Algarve back to Lisbon today. Thanks for the good times! Welcome to the UNESCO town of Sintra. This fairytale town features turreted palaces and castle ruins - an insta dream.   Grab your new pals for a farewell feast  - the perfect chance to reflect on how much we've fallen in love with Portugal, and say our sad goodbyes.

Portugal, it's been emotional. Your delicious food, rich culture, paradisaical coastlines and glittering waters will stay in our memories forever. But we'll be back soon enough.