This is the tour route that travels north south between the two largest cities of Portugal and incorporates many varied and interesting destinations. The route includes some of Portugal’s greatest beaches and coastline, historic cities busting with culture and the holiest pilgrimage location in Western Europe. So much variety packed into just 14 days combined by the glorious Portuguese weather, the sumptuous food and the hospitality of the Portuguese.

This tour is suitable for all ages thou certain age groups may wish to adjust the time spent at each location to suit tastes. The route can be undertaken by use of a hire car or by using the intercity coach service provided by Rede Express. The advantage of car hire is that the area surrounding each of the destinations can be fully discovered, but the major drawback is driving in the two big cities which can be very difficult. (Car Hire Guide)

Discovering Lisbon

The sights of Lisbon can be raced through in just two very packed days see Lisbon Itinerary but a third day is highly recommended .Sights include Castle Sao Jorge, Expo Park and the district of Belem.
A day for each Sintra and Cascais can be included to extend the tour and are very highly recommended. (Photo tour of Sintra, Photo tour Cascais)

Obidos - Charming Walled City

Obidos is a very traditional fortified town which is exceptional pretty, the downside is that during the high season the town can become over run by coach loads of Spanish tourists. The way to appreciate the town is to spend a night and walk the city walls around sun set when the town is peaceful.

Peniche - The Surfing Capital of Europe

Peniche is famous for its long sandy beach with massive tubular waves perfect for surfing.  Many of the top European surfing  championships take place along this long stretch of golden sand.  All beach extreme activities including;  surfing, windsurfing , body-boarding or kite surfing can be found on the beaches of Peniche with good value tuition and hiring. For the less adventures the town has numerous sites and enjoyable walks.

Nazaré - The Traditional Fishing Town

Nazaré is the traditional Portuguese fishing town, the small fishing boats are pulled up the beach and the fishes are dried on the beach.  Nazare consists of three sections: A Praia the beach front, O Sítio the old town, on top of a cliff and Pederneira the old town, on the hill behind the A Praia. Nazaire is one of the best beach resorts along the silver coast  and should be high on any tour of the region.

Fatima - The Pilgrimage

Fatima Religious pilgrimage destinations are not to the liking of all but Fatima is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Europe, with hundreds of thousands making the trip each year. Fatima is where in 1917 Mary appeared to the lowliest of people, child shepherds, and told of great hardship that would befall people during the First World War.

While at Fatima the shepherd’s homes can be visited, the grand new basilica appreciated and the acts of devotion marveled at which include walking on knees to the site off the first apparition. Fatima should be included in the tour route but the length of stay is unique to the individual. (Photo Tour of Fatima)

Coimbra – Portugal's University City

Coimbra is Portugal’s oldest university town and since the establishment of the university in 1290 the city’s history has revolved around its educational base. Coimbra is on the banks of the river Rio Mondego and Portugal’s students can be seen out wandering the city wearing their traditional black robes with their badge laid sashes or frequenting the cafes.

 

Portugal’s university students seem to understand the privilege of education offered to them and tend not to spend all day trying to out drink each other. Coimbra is a great location to savour for a couple of days.