Voyagers Self-Drive Adventure: Northern Portugal

Description

Included/Excluded

Tour Plan

Embark on an unforgettable Self-Drive Adventure through Northern Portugal, an 8-day journey that combines stunning landscapes, rich culture, and culinary delights. Starting from the vibrant city of Porto, this self-drive holiday allows you to explore at your own pace, driving through picturesque countryside, charming towns, and renowned wine regions. Discover the historical treasures of Guimarães, indulge in world-class wines in the Douro Valley, and experience the breathtaking beauty of Peneda-Gerês National Park. With your itinerary, accommodations, and car rental included, this trip is designed for those who crave adventure and freedom on the open road while soaking in the unique culture and stunning scenery that Northern Portugal has to offer.

Tour Highlights:

Explore Porto: Begin your journey in Porto, a city famous for its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. Stroll through the picturesque Ribeira district, visit the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, and taste the region’s renowned port wine at one of the many wine cellars in Gaia.
Douro Valley Delights: Drive into the breathtaking Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its terraced vineyards along the Douro River. Enjoy vineyard tours, sample local wines, and take in the stunning river views, making it a perfect spot for a picturesque picnic.
Historical Guimarães: Visit Guimarães, often referred to as the “birthplace of Portugal.” Explore its medieval architecture, including the impressive Guimarães Castle and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza. The charming streets and historical significance make it a must-see destination.
Braga’s Sanctuary: Discover Braga, a city known for its religious heritage and stunning baroque architecture. Visit the Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary, famous for its monumental staircase and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Nature in Peneda-Gerês National Park: Experience the natural beauty of Peneda-Gerês National Park, where you can hike through lush landscapes, spot diverse wildlife, and take in the breathtaking scenery. Enjoy the tranquility of the park and the chance to connect with nature.
Douro Wine Tasting: On your free day, choose to explore the rural towns of Northern Portugal or indulge in wine tasting in the Douro Valley, where you can meet local winemakers and learn about the wine-making process while sampling some of the best wines in the region.

Included/Excluded

Accommodation (3-star hotels)
Daily breakfast
Car rental for 8 days
Suggested self-drive itinerary and maps and Sightseeing Tickets Inclusion
Support: 24/7 travel assistance throughout the trip. Entrance to Zoomarine and Benagil Cave boat trip

Flights to Portugal
Food & drink, unless otherwise stated
Attraction entrance fees, unless otherwise stated
Personal travel insurance

Tour Plan

01 Arrival in Porto – Pick Up Rental Car

Arrive in Porto and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. After picking up your rental car, settle into your accommodation and take some time to explore. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling Porto’s famous dishes, such as Francesinha, a delicious sandwich layered with cured meats and topped with a rich tomato sauce.

02 Explore Porto and Gaia’s Wine Cellars

Spend the day discovering the highlights of Porto. Start with a visit to Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, before strolling along the Ribeira waterfront. Cross the river to Vila Nova de Gaia to explore the wine cellars where you can take a tour and enjoy a tasting of the region's famous port wine. Conclude your day with a relaxing dinner overlooking the river.

03 Drive to the Douro Valley

Today, you’ll drive to the stunning Douro Valley, renowned for its terraced vineyards. Stop at scenic viewpoints along the way, capturing photos of the breathtaking landscapes. Once in the valley, enjoy guided vineyard tours, learn about local wine production, and savor a delightful lunch with a view of the river. Spend the night in a charming winery accommodation.

04 Visit the Historical City of Guimarães

Depart the Douro Valley and head to Guimarães, a city steeped in history. Explore the Castle of Guimarães, the symbol of Portugal's birth, and visit the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy lunch at a traditional restaurant before returning to your hotel.

05 Explore Braga and Bom Jesus do Monte

Travel to Braga, known for its rich religious history. Visit the stunning Bom Jesus do Monte, with its iconic baroque staircase leading to the sanctuary. Enjoy the beautiful gardens and panoramic views from the top. Spend your afternoon exploring Braga’s charming streets and historic churches, and savor dinner at a local eatery famous for its delicious Portuguese cuisine.

06 Drive to Peneda-Gerês National Park

Today is dedicated to the natural beauty of Peneda-Gerês National Park. Drive through the park, stopping for hiking opportunities on well-marked trails that lead to stunning waterfalls and panoramic views. Enjoy a picnic in nature or dine in a local village restaurant, experiencing the flavors of traditional Portuguese cuisine surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

07 Free Day to Explore

This day is yours to spend as you wish. Choose to continue exploring the charming rural towns nearby or indulge in a wine-tasting experience in the Douro Valley, where you can connect with local winemakers. Alternatively, relax at your hotel or visit a local market for a taste of regional specialties.

08 Return to Porto for Departure

After a week of adventure, it's time to head back to Porto. Enjoy a leisurely drive through the scenic countryside, soaking in the last views of Northern Portugal. Once in Porto, drop off your rental car and prepare for your departure, leaving with wonderful memories of your self-drive adventure.

Tour Map

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