In Portugal, we will explore charming Porto and the beautiful Douro Valley. Coimbra will captivate us, while Lisbon will dazzle with its vibrant culture. Sintra’s fairy-tale palaces will enchant, and São Miguel Island in the Azores will amaze with its volcanic landscapes and lush greenery. Each place will offer unforgettable experiences.
You are an active traveler who loves to see things up-close and personal. You aren’t bothered by standing or walking for long periods of time (1-2 hours) and you can navigate uneven surfaces and easily climb into and out of different kinds of vehicles or vessels. You can handle the rigors of exploring the world in a hands-on way, even if that means getting up early or staying up late!
NOTE: International return flights should be booked arriving in Porto with a departure from Ponta Delgada.
**Itinerary Subject to Change**
Individual arrivals at Porto International Airport. You’ll be transferred to the beautiful Maison Albar – Le Monumental Palace Hotel.
Dinner will be on your own.
No Meals
Maison Albar – Le Monumental Palace Hotel
Breakfast at the hotel is included. Meet our guide for an immersive walking tour of Porto. We’ll uncover the city’s highlights and hidden gems, starting with the stunning Carmo and Carmelitas churches. We’ll delve into the art of tile manufacturing, a Portuguese specialty, and marvel at the Clérigos Church bell tower, Porto Cathedral, and São Bento Railway Station. Beyond the main sights, our tour will lead us to breathtaking monuments tucked away from the usual tourist paths.
We’ll gain insights into Porto’s politics, religion, customs, traditions, gastronomy, wines, and more, and we’ll top off with a tasting of the delectable Pastel de Nata. After lunch, we’ll visit a renowned Porto wine cellar for a tasting with a view of the Douro River. Stepping into the cellars, we’ll be transported back to 1750, immersing ourselves in the rich history of this nearly 300-year-old winery. Lunch at a local restaurant.
The rest of the afternoon will be at our leisure, followed by an official welcome dinner to kick off our adventure!
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Maison Albar – Le Monumental Palace Hotel
After breakfast, we will depart towards the Douro Region. Our first stop will be the charming town of Pinhão in the heart of the Douro Valley. Here, board a historic boat for a relaxing cruise on the Douro River, heading upriver flanked by wineries on both banks. We’ll sip local Porto wine as we enjoy this serene journey.
Afterwards, visit a local family-run winery in the Douro Valley. At Quinta das Sequerinhas we’ll enjoy a lovely lunch, tour the vineyard, and learn about the winemaking process. We’ll then have the chance to sample the wines produced at the quinta.
Post-lunch, we’ll head to our next stop: Passadiços do Paiva. Located on the left bank of the River Paiva in the municipality of Arouca, this 8-kilometer walkway offers an “untouched” path surrounded by landscapes of unparalleled beauty. Traverse an authentic natural sanctuary, next to whitewater descents, quartz crystals, and endangered species in Europe. This route stretches between the river beaches of Areinho and Espiunca, with the beach of Vau in between, offering a journey through biology, geology, and archaeology that will leave a lasting impression on any nature lover.
We’ll return to Porto and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure, including dinner on own.
Breakfast & Lunch
Maison Albar – Le Monumental Palace Hotel
After breakfast, depart from Porto to Aveiro, a unique and largely undiscovered treasure along the Northern Portuguese coastline. The charming “ria” gives it the nickname “little Venice.” Time to learn about the history and production of Ovos Moles de Aveiro IGP. We’ll have the opportunity to participate in the filling and cutting process and finally taste this wonderful delicacy.
Next, we’re off to explore the city of students, Coimbra! Admiring this historic and atmospheric city, set in the beautiful landscape of the eastern bank of the Mondego River. The city is a multi-colored collage of buildings spanning nearly a millennium. We’ll visit the city center, explore narrow streets filled with tales of thousands of students, and see gardens, convents, and monasteries. Then it’s time to be captivated by the haunting notes of the Portuguese guitar and the deep voices of Fado singers. Our walking tour will start at the beautiful university campus, perched atop the town.
Continuing to Bussaco, explore this protected forest area known for its diverse flora and fauna. Then, it’s a leisurely walk through winding trails, surrounded by ancient trees and beautiful flowers. Keep an eye out for unique plant species, including the exotic Bussaco cedar and giant ferns. We’ll proceed to the Cruz Alta viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, where we can admire the vast Bussaco forest and glimpse the village below.
From there, it’s off to the Bussaco Palace Hotel, a grand neo-Manueline-style building that was initially a luxury retreat for Portuguese royalty. Explore the hotel’s magnificent interior, filled with opulent tapestries, antique furniture, and stunning art pieces. The hotel’s beautiful gardens will reveal exquisite rose gardens and manicured lawns.
Next, it’s a visit to the Mata do Bussaco Monastery, a serene sanctuary hidden within the forest. This Carmelite Monastery dates back to the 17th century and is known for its ornate architecture and peaceful atmosphere. We’ll take a moment to explore its beautiful chapels and courtyards.
Enjoy lunch during the tour.
Our walking tour will conclude with a visit to the Palace de S. Miguel, located near the Monastery. Built in the 19th century, this palace served as a hunting lodge for King Carlos I. We’ll admire the palace’s luxurious interiors and enjoy the scenic views from its terrace.
After this full day of exploring, head to our hotel, the Vila Galé Hotel, and enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure. We will regroup for dinner together at a local restaurant.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Vila Galé Hotel
To start our day, we will visit the Batalha Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s most fascinating Gothic monuments. King John I of Portugal built the monastery to thank the Virgin Mary for a victory over Spanish troops in 1385.
After this unique experience, we will head west to the coast, stopping in Nazaré, one of Portugal’s most famous fishing villages. We will admire the stunning views over the beach and sea from the top of the cliffs. The tiny whitewashed houses of the fishermen offer a lovely picture opportunity.
Following lunch, we will fall in love with one of Portugal’s loveliest medieval villages, Óbidos. Multicolored flowerbeds decorate the houses to reflect the female touch in this village, once a wedding gift from kings to their queens. Its winding streets, medieval structures, castle walls, and handicraft shops highlight this trip. Here, we will have the opportunity to taste a typical Portuguese liquor known as Medronho.
We will then continue to our hotel in Lisbon—The One Palácio da Anunciada—to settle in. We’ll regroup and meet again for dinner at a local restaurant.
Breakfast. Lunch & Dinner
The One Palácio da Anunciada
Today, we start our day with a tour of the city, exploring hidden gems as well as popular highlights. Discover how the city has evolved over time and learn about the mysteries and insights of the notorious 1755 earthquake. We’ll take in the view of the historic city from one of its belvederes and pass by the beautiful Carmo Church, marveling at the San Roque golden chapel.
We’ll stop for a break and sample local bites at small, family-run businesses along the way. Enjoy an authentic snack of cheese and chorizo paired with a glass of wine. We will also visit the oldest Ginjinha Bar in Lisbon to try the famous sour cherry liquor. Our local guide will share their knowledge and stories about everything from the Bairro Alto and Alfama neighborhoods to essential churches.
In the afternoon, you will be free to enjoy lunch on your own and perhaps explore or relax at the hotel. Dinner will be together as a group at a local restaurant.
Breakfast & Dinner
The One Palácio da Anunciada
This morning, we’re off for a full day’s adventure in Sintra, Cabo da Roca, and Cascais. We will head to the Sintra Mountains, which are designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their natural beauty and the cultural importance of their palaces and mansions. Learn how the village has inspired great authors and artists over the centuries. Stroll through the charming streets of the historic center and enjoy the local pastry. Drive along the beautiful mountain roads to the extravagant Pena Palace and get close to the fairy tale castle, built in the romantic Portuguese style.
Next, we will make our way to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe, to gaze out at the wild Atlantic Ocean’s infinite blue. Passing the famous surfing beach at Guincho, we will travel along the coastal road to the elegant resort town of Cascais. Lunch is included at a local restaurant.
The rest of the afternoon will be free for exploration or relaxation. We’ll then regroup for dinner at Taverna dos Trovadores, where we can enjoy their gastronomic specialties and listen to good Portuguese music.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The One Palácio da Anunciada
Today, we’re headed to the Azores! São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores archipelago, is known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant landscapes. Often referred to as “The Green Island,” São Miguel boasts lush hills, volcanic craters, and pristine lakes. Key attractions include the Sete Cidades twin lakes, the geothermal hot springs of Furnas, and the picturesque Lagoa do Fogo. The island offers a rich blend of cultural heritage, with charming villages, historical churches, and delicious local cuisine. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, whale watching, and exploring the island’s unique flora and fauna.
After our 2.5-hour flight, we’ll head to our hotel—Octant Ponta Delgada Hotel—to check in and get settled. After some relaxation or exploring, we’ll reconnect and head to dinner at a local restaurant.
Breakfast & Dinner
Octant Ponta Delgada Hotel
Start the day by visiting the town center of Ribeira Grande, one of the most picturesque towns in the Azores. Not far from town, we will reach a lookout with an incredible view. Then, we completely change the scenery by heading to the island’s inland areas, where we will find the gorgeous waterfall of Salto do Cabrito.
We will then drive up to Fogo Lake, the most isolated and well-preserved lake of São Miguel, at the top of a volcano mountain. The views over the island’s outline are mesmerizing.
We’ll stop for lunch and have a nice meal to catch our breath after a morning full of natural beauty!
After that, we head to Sete Cidades, which is called “the postcard of the Azores” for good reason. We will see the famous “King’s view” – a great view of the mystical twin lakes from a different perspective.
We’ll then reach the west end of the island, where we will first stop at a great lookout over the coastline before getting to Mosteiros. Here, we can enjoy close-up views of the beautiful islets and natural pools made of lava rock.
Our return to Ponta Delgada is a pleasant drive along the island’s southwestern coast, arriving in time to enjoy dinner on your own.
Breakfast & Lunch
Octant Ponta Delgada Hotel
Departing from Ponta Delgada, our first stop will be the stunning Santa Iria viewpoint, with extensive views over the island’s north coast in both directions. We continue to Furnas, a village built inside the crater of a volcano. After enjoying the village and Lagoa das Furnas, we’ll visit a magical place to see the panoramic view firsthand! From watching the steaming calderas at work to bathing in the thermal waters or watching your lunch (the famous stew) being pulled out of the volcanic soil, experiencing Furnas is something you’ll never forget!
We’ll then drive to the hot springs of Poça da Dona Beija and relax in the healing waters. The water is said to have medicinal properties, while the landscape of sub-tropical palm trees and conifers is beneficial to your sense of well-being!
We’ll be staying at the Octant Furnas Hotel tonight. This evening, enjoy a delightful dinner at our hotel.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Octant Furnas Hotel
Today is a free day to enjoy this fantastic town—immerse yourselves in its natural beauty and cultural richness. Perhaps start the day with a stroll around Lagoa das Furnas, admiring the serene lake and surrounding lush landscape. Visit the Furnas Caldeiras, where geothermal activity creates bubbling hot springs and steam vents, and learn more about the unique cooking method used for the traditional “Cozido das Furnas,” – the famous stew cooked underground using volcanic heat.
For a relaxing experience, head to the Terra Nostra Park, a botanical garden filled with exotic plants and a geothermal pool. Here, you can soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by tropical greenery. Alternatively, visit Poça da Dona Beija for a series of thermal pools set in a picturesque environment.
In the afternoon, explore the town and its quaint shops, cafes, and traditional eateries. Savor local delicacies such as sweet cornbread and Azorean cheese, or enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants. For those interested in nature, hiking trails offer breathtaking views of the valley and its surroundings. You can also visit one of the local tea plantations or the Gorreana Tea Factory, the oldest tea plantation in Europe, where you can learn about the tea-making process and sample different varieties.
We’ll meet at the hotel around dinner time to celebrate our final meal together and reminisce about this fantastic adventure.
Breakfast & Dinner
Octant Furnas Hotel
Today, we head to the airport for our flights home, our hearts and minds full of memories of this very special adventure.
Breakfast
Maison Albar – Le Monumental Palace Hotel is a luxury hotel in the center of Porto. Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, the hotel offers elegant rooms with modern amenities. Guests can dine at the on-site restaurant, relax at the spa, and enjoy convenient access to Porto’s main attractions, shopping, and dining areas. With its blend of classic architecture and contemporary comforts, Maison Albar – Le Monumental Palace provides a refined and comfortable stay in the heart of the city.
Room Category: Superior Room
Vila Galé Hotel in Coimbra, offers a blend of modern comfort and historical charm in the heart of the city. Situated along the scenic Mondego River, this contemporary hotel features elegantly designed rooms, a relaxing spa, and a gourmet restaurant showcasing local cuisine. Guests can enjoy easy access to Coimbra’s rich cultural heritage, including its famous university, historic churches, and charming old town. Vila Galé provides a stylish and convenient base for exploring this captivating city.e=”font-size: 16px;”>
Room Category: Standard Room with a View
The One Palácio da Anunciada Hotel in Lisbon is a luxurious five-star property that blends historic grandeur with modern sophistication. Set in a beautifully restored 16th-century palace, the hotel features elegant rooms, a lush garden, and an inviting outdoor pool. Guests can indulge in fine dining at the on-site restaurant, relax at the serene spa, and enjoy the central location, steps away from the city’s vibrant cultural and shopping districts. The One Palácio da Anunciada offers a refined and unforgettable experience in the heart of Lisbon.
Room Category: Deluxe Room
Dates:
11-night package: September 8-19, 2025
Cost:
10-night package: $6,995 per person double occupancy; $9,995 single occupancy
Unless otherwise noted, all participants on a WOW! trip must be at least 18 years old at the time of travel.
Payment Schedule:
Space is limited. Reservations will be made on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation:
Penalties vary depending on the date of cancellation:
* We will do all possible to resell your space should you cancel. If we are successful, we will refund you in full, less $875 per person.
Air Transportation:
You may make your own flight arrangements, or we can assist with a $75 per person service fee (waived for WOW! Travel Club alumni). We cannot book mileage tickets or upgrades, which must be done directly with the carrier. If you would like us to assist, contact Gabriel Haigazian (gabriel@wowtravelclub.com or 818-444-2700) or Howard Wise (howard@wowtravelclub.com or 818-444-2710). It is the traveler’s responsibility to provide the legal name on the passport. Carriers may deny boarding if the name on the ticket does not EXACTLY match the name on the passport.
Supplemental Travel Insurance for Trip Cancellation / Interruption:
Your package includes basic trip insurance:
Additional trip cancellation insurance is available for purchase to cover financial penalties if you need to cancel your trip. Travelers may insure all prepaid and nonrefundable payments against cancellation and interruption due to covered reasons. Note that fear of travel is not covered under these policies. Certain plans include coverage for Pre-Existing Medical conditions, financial default, “Cancel for Work Reasons,” and “Cancellation for Any Reason.” Coverage varies by product. Please note that most insurance companies require you to purchase insurance within 14 days of the initial deposit date to be covered for pre-existing conditions.
For further information and purchase options, click HERE to learn about Travel Guard plans. Alternatively, contact Travel Guard Insurance directly at (800) 826-1300, ext. 3, and speak with an agent. Please provide Agency Code #05-614836.
MedJet Assist – Air Medical Travel Protection Membership
MedJet Assist provides and pays for a member’s hospital-to-hospital medical transfer if injury or illness occurs during domestic or international travel more than 150 miles from home. Unlike most travel insurance, a MedJet Assist member is transferred to their home hospital of choice, regardless of medical necessity. There are no “acceptable facility” clauses, claim forms, cost caps, or surprise bills after the transport.
MedJet Assist complements travel insurance, so it’s recommended that you purchase both. Here’s a great 2-minute video explaining the coverage and how it differs from travel insurance. Click HERE to view the video.
Short-term or annual memberships are available. Click HERE for pricing and to enroll:
For those of you 75-84 years of age, you’ll need to call MedJet Assist to enroll at 800-527-7478
Pricing:
All prices quoted are based on tariffs and exchange rates in effect as of August 01, 2024, and are subject to change. Rates are based on a minimum group size of 16 paying guests. Should the group size(s) fall below this minimum number, package price or inclusions may be modified.
Unused tour items, missed meals or activities, etc., are not refundable.
Tips and Taxes:
The package includes all service charges, taxes, entrance fees, etc. Basic gratuities to drivers, guides, and porters are included. You are welcome to extend additional gratuities to anyone who has provided exemplary service.
Baggage:
Please check applicable baggage allowances and fees with your international airline carrier. Overweight luggage and/or additional checked bags can be purchased directly from the airlines.
Passport/Visa:
You must have a passport valid for at least six months from the date of re-entry to your home country. Currently, Portugal does not require a visa.
Health / Vaccinations:
Portugal does not require any specific vaccinations. You may wish to consult your physician for recommendations. Additional information is available on the CDC website for Portugal.
Travel Documents:
Final travel documents will be sent to your mailing address approximately two weeks before departure.
Risks of Travel and Your Responsibilities:
International travel involves inherent risks. The CTP Group/WOW! Travel Club (CTP/WOW) cannot be liable for any injury, death, or loss of personal property in connection with your participation in CTP/WOW activities. By participating in this CTP/WOW travel program, you assume the risk of inherent dangers (including, without limitation, annoyance and expenses) related to military or political action, civil disturbances, quarantine, strikes, detention, mental trauma, pilferage, weather, epidemiological events, acts of God or any other circumstances over which CTP/WOW has no control.
I understand that CTP/WOW reserves the right to refuse as a trip participant or remove from a trip any person it judges to be incapable of meeting the rigors and requirements of participating in activities or who it determines to detract from the enjoyment of the trip by others. I agree to follow all written and verbal rules of safety presented to me by CTP/WOW. CTP/WOW reserves the right to make route, hotel, itinerary and trip modifications as required or desirable to improve the trip quality and/or to accommodate the comfort and well-being of guests.
CTP/WOW reserves the right to alter or cancel any trip due to weather, sickness, political climate, and/or insufficient registration or other unforeseen circumstances beyond our control. While CTP/WOW will make every effort to obtain full or partial refunds from suppliers, CTP/ WOW cannot guarantee your ability to recoup payment.
The above Terms and Conditions are hereby expressly incorporated into the “Release, Waiver, and Indemnity Agreement” to be signed by you as a WOW! Travel Club participant.
WOW! Vows:
All guests will be asked to sign and agree to the WOW! Vows for responsible travel:
Consent:
Payment of the deposit OR any other partial payment for registration of a participant for CTP/ WOW activities constitutes consent by all guests/participants registered by the party completing online registration. You and your guests/participants hereby agree to the Terms & Conditions of this website. The Terms & Conditions set forth on this website may not be modified or amended except in writing by an authorized officer of CTP/WOW.
All guests/participants are required to initial and sign a Release Waiver and Indemnity Agreement, which will be sent upon receipt of your deposit. Your final payment cannot be processed until you return the signed Release. Travelers cannot join the program without a signed Release, and payments made will not be refunded for refusal to sign.
Please note: This trip includes full sightseeing days and significant walking on stairs and uneven surfaces. You should be in good physical condition to take this journey to its fullest.
August 2024 CST # 1016440-10
What will the weather be like?
September is a lovely time to visit Portugal as the summer heat begins to fade, making the weather more comfortable for outdoor activities. The days are generally warm, with plenty of sunshine and clear skies. However, there may be occasional rain showers, so it’s a good idea to be prepared with an umbrella or raincoat. Portugal experiences average daily temperatures ranging from 63° to 82°. Weather in the Azores will be a bit more moderate, with lows of 60º and highs of 70º.
What should I wear?
Pack lightweight clothes and a light jacket or sweater. Cool and casual are the operative words here! Be sure to pack sunscreen and comfortable shoes. Layers are always a good idea, and you should bring along an umbrella just in case.
Do I need to get any vaccinations?
Nothing specific is required, but you should be up-to-date with all routine vaccinations. Consult the Center for Disease Control website for current recommendations For travel to Portugal and the Azores. Check with your physician at least 30-60 days before travel.
Are there any special requirements/documents I need to visit Portugal or the Azores?
No, just your passport. Please ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended travel date to Portugal and the Azores.
What about airfare?
International airfare is not included in the package. We can assist with reservations for a service fee of $75 per person. (Service fee is waived for WOW! Travel Club alumni.)
Will I need an adapter to plug in my appliances and chargers?
In the United States, we have plugs A and B. In Portugal, there are two associated plug types, types C and F. Plug type C has two round pins, and plug type F has two round pins with two earth clips on the side. The Azores use type F plugs. Please note that a US hairdryer should not be used even with an adapter. All hotels will have hairdryers available.
Can I use my cell phone in Portugal?
With most providers, activating an international data and telephone plan is best. We suggest you contact your carrier to discuss potential data and voice communications costs.
What is the currency?
Like most of the European Union, Portugal uses the Euro as its currency. You’ll see the Euro represented by the symbol – € – and the initials: EUR. As of this posting (July 2024), the exchange rate is 1.09 € to one USD – almost one-to-one. For reference, a glass of beer at a cafe is €2.50 or $2.72. A great way to figure out prices while you travel is to install an exchange app on your phone – we recommend My Currency Converter (it’s free to install). Click HERE for the current exchange rate.
Of course, Visa and Mastercard credit cards (many merchants do not accept Amex) are widely accepted, as are USD. Bank-associated ATMs are available and generally charge a better exchange rate than an exchange office.
What about travel insurance?
We recommend insurance to cover financial penalties if you need to cancel your trip. Information will be provided upon receipt of the deposit. Here are links to two travel insurance providers: Travel Guard and MedJet.
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