6 Day Portugal Tour including Lisbon and Fatima from Madrid

Discover the 6-Day Portugal Tour from Madrid for an All-Inclusive Journey

This 6-day Portugal tour from Madrid offers a comprehensive introduction to some of the country’s most captivating cities and sights, all at a cost of $983.96 per person. Designed with first-time visitors in mind, the trip features 4-star hotel stays, guided city tours in Porto and Lisbon, and memorable experiences such as a Douro River cruise with wine tasting. The tour departs from Aloft Madrid Gran Via at 8:00 am, and covers key highlights, making it ideal for those eager to see Portugal with minimal logistical hassle.

While the tour is packed with exciting stops and includes most meals and transportation, reviews indicate that the pacing can be brisk and accommodations vary. The value and variety of sights make this tour a popular choice for travelers seeking an accessible, well-organized introduction to Portugal.

Key Points

• All-inclusive package with transportation, guided tours, and 4-star hotel stays
• Visit major cities: Porto, Lisbon, Coimbra, and Fatima
• Experience Porto’s highlights including the Cathedral, Santa Clara Church, and a Douro River cruise with port wine tasting
• Explore Lisbon’s top attractions: Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, and the Coach Museum
• See historic towns like Nazaré, Alcobaça, and Batalha Monastery
• Optional Fado dinner in Lisbon offers a taste of traditional Portuguese music

The Journey Begins in Salamanca and Porto

The tour kicks off with a drive to Salamanca, a UNESCO World Heritage City famous for its architectural beauty. Travelers enjoy two hours of free time to explore its historic university buildings and lively streets. From there, the journey continues into Porto, Portugal’s vibrant northern city, where the group checks into a 4-star hotel.

In Porto, the guide leads you through key sites such as the Cathedral of Porto and the Church of Santa Clara. A Douro River cruise provides stunning views of the cityscape, complemented by a wine tasting experience at renowned Port wine cellars. This one-hour cruise and tasting are often highlighted as memorable moments, showcasing Porto’s scenic beauty and wine heritage.

Exploring Coimbra and the Sanctuary of Fatima

Midway through the trip, the itinerary takes travelers to Coimbra, home to one of Europe’s oldest universities. The group enjoys two hours of free time to explore this university city, famous for its Fado music birthplace. Then, the tour heads to Fatima, a major pilgrimage site. The Impressive Basilica and the Cova da Iria, where the Virgin Mary is believed to have appeared, are key stops.

In Fatima, there’s an option to attend a candlelight procession at night, adding a spiritual dimension to the journey. The sanctuary’s Chapel of the Apparitions and the tombs of the shepherd children are central features that leave a lasting impression.

Visiting Gothic and Manueline Monasteries

On the fourth day, the tour includes visits to iconic religious sites. The Batalha Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases intricate Gothic and Manueline architecture. Its UNESCO status highlights its cultural importance, and the two-hour visit allows a thorough appreciation of its artistry.

Next, the group visits the charming fishing town of Nazaré, famous for its towering waves and seaside charm, with two hours of free time. The tour then continues to Alcobaça, where the Gothic Cistercian monastery and its historic church await visitors. These stops showcase Portugal’s medieval religious history and architecture.

Arrival in Lisbon and Nightlife

The day concludes with arrival in Lisbon, where the group checks into a central hotel. An optional Fado dinner and show provides an authentic taste of Portugal’s musical traditions, with traditional dishes and live performances. This evening option enriches the cultural experience of Lisbon, known for its lively atmosphere and historical charm.

Lisbon’s Top Sights: Belem and the Coach Museum

The fifth day is dedicated to Lisbon’s most famous landmarks. The Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery are highlights, offering stunning examples of Manueline architecture. The Coach Museum displays a remarkable collection of historic carriages, emphasizing Portugal’s royal history.

The Monument to the Discoverers pays tribute to Portugal’s Age of Exploration, giving travelers a deeper appreciation of the country’s maritime past. The guided tours in Lisbon are led by local guides, who are praised for their informative and engaging explanations.

Ending with Mérida and Return to Madrid

The final day takes travelers to Caceres for breakfast, followed by a visit to Mérida, a city celebrated for its Roman ruins including a well-preserved theatre, amphitheatre, and Roman bridge. These historic sites are free to explore during the two-hour stop before the journey back to Madrid.

The tour wraps up with a return to Madrid in the early evening, completing an immersive journey through Portugal’s cities, towns, and countryside.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour departs from Aloft Madrid Gran Via at 8:00 am. Transportation is by an air-conditioned deluxe coach, ensuring comfort throughout the 6-day trip. The group size is limited to 40 travelers, helping maintain an intimate atmosphere.

Included in the package are guided city tours with local guides, a Douro River cruise, wine tasting, breakfasts (total of five), and travel insurance. Not included are local city taxes in Lisbon and Porto, and meals besides breakfast. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not part of the package, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Honest Review of Strengths and Limitations

The guides are frequently praised for their helpfulness and knowledge, especially during city tours. The bus is described as comfortable, and the itinerary balances guided visits with free time, giving travelers flexibility.

However, some reviews note that the pace can be fast, with a lot of walking and sightseeing packed into each day. Accommodations, especially in Porto, receive mixed feedback, with some travelers finding them adequate but not luxurious. The chaotic nature of excursions and the need to speak multiple languages for explanations can sometimes reduce the overall experience.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour

This well-organized tour suits those who want a rundown of Portugal without the hassle of planning logistics. It’s ideal for first-time visitors eager to see highlights like Lisbon, Porto, and Fatima while enjoying guided commentary and organized transportation. Budget-conscious travelers will find the included accommodations and activities offer good value, despite some compromises in pace or hotel quality.

The Sum Up: A Solid Choice for Portugal First-Timers

The 6-day Portugal tour from Madrid delivers on its promise of an immersive, all-in-one experience. It offers a great mix of historical sites, religious landmarks, and coastal beauty, all with organized logistics that appeal to travelers who prefer a structured itinerary.

While the tour’s pacing can feel hurried at times and accommodations may vary, the guides’ knowledge, variety of stops, and inclusive features make it a worthwhile option. This tour is especially suitable for first-time travelers eager to grasp Portugal’s essence within a week.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $983.96 per person.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 days.

What are the main cities visited?
Porto, Lisbon, Coimbra, Fatima, and Mérida are the primary stops.

Are meals included?
Breakfasts (5) are included, but other meals are not included unless specified.

What attractions are in Lisbon?
The Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, Coach Museum, and Monument to the Discoverers.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, travel is by air-conditioned deluxe coach.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 6 days in advance for a full refund.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 40 travelers.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for walking and a busy schedule.

Is accommodation in Porto and Lisbon comfortable?
Yes, the tour includes 4-star hotels, though some reviews suggest the Porto hotel could be improved.

Does the tour include a guide?
Yes, a bilingual tour director accompanies the trip, and local guides provide insights in Porto and Lisbon.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from Aloft Madrid Gran Via at 8:00 am.

This 6-day Portugal tour from Madrid offers a practical, well-structured way to experience Portugal’s highlights, balancing guided sightseeing with free time and cultural experiences.