Highlights of Portugal - 7 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this tour?

  This tour highlights exploring the seven hills of Lisbon, stepping back in history by wandering charming hill towns, tasting local delicacies and becoming a port wine connoisseur in Porto, and soaking up classic European culture.

• What type of accommodation is provided?

  You will stay in hotels for 6 nights. Please note that accommodation in European cities, especially downtown hotels, can be older, may have smaller rooms and bathrooms, and might not always have modern amenities like elevators or air-conditioning. We primarily use small, locally-run hotels or pensions in central locations.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The tour includes 6 breakfasts and 1 dinner.

• How will we travel between destinations on this tour?

  Intercity travel will primarily be by public bus and train, which are generally efficient in Portugal. Within cities, we will use public transport like metro and taxis to reach stations. You should be prepared to carry your luggage short distances (up to 15 minutes walk) between transport and hotels.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The tour operates with a minimum of 1 and a maximum of 16 participants.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 2 (out of 5). It involves a moderate amount of activity, including walking around hilly cities like Lisbon and Porto.

• Will there be a tour leader with us throughout the trip?

  Yes, a CEO (Chief Experience Officer) will accompany the group throughout the entire trip.

• Are there any optional activities available on this trip?

  Yes, there are many optional activities. In Lisbon, you can visit São Jorge Castle, Santa Justa Lift, Alfama District, Mercado da Ribeira Market, Rossio Square, Belém District (Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower), take a Lisbon Food Tour, or a day trip to Sintra. In Coimbra, options include the Joanina Library, University of Coimbra, or day trips to Aveiro or Fátima. In Porto, you can opt for a Douro River cruise, visit Ribeira Square, Porto Cathedral, São Bento Railway Station, Clerigos Church and Tower, Lello Bookstore, or Palácio de Bolsa.

• Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?

  Yes, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not typically involve a single supplement for solo travelers, who are paired with someone of the same sex. There is also ample free time to explore independently or with new friends from the group.

• What is the age range for participants on this tour?

  The tour is suitable for individuals aged 12 to 100 years.

• Are there mandatory travel insurance requirements for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will not be permitted to join the group without evidence of coverage for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. It is strongly recommended to also cover personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage/personal effects.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money?

  The local currency is Euros. Credit and debit cards (especially Visa) are useful for cash advances, and ATMs are widely available. However, there are no guarantees your cards will work everywhere, so a combination of Euros, traveler's cheques, and cards is recommended. Be aware that a 5%-10% fee may apply to credit card purchases.

• What are the tipping guidelines for this trip?

  Tipping is customary in Europe. A general guideline is 10% for restaurant staff and €1-€2 for other service providers. For local guides, €6-€8 per day is recommended. If you feel your CEO did an outstanding job, a tip of €6-€8 per person per day is appreciated.

• What emergency funds do I need access to?

  You should have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent in Euros) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• What general safety tips and free-time guidelines should I follow?

  Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy areas. It is recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leave expensive jewelry at home. Many hotels offer safety deposit boxes. During free time, always use your good judgment when selecting activities, stay in small groups at night, and use taxis for evening excursions.

• Where can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Some hotels offer laundry facilities for a charge. Your CEO can also direct you to the closest laundromat. It is advisable to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap for hand-washing.