Portugal

Portugal Tours and Adventures

Portugal’s botanical wonders, sun-warmed coasts, renowned vineyards, and exquisite Mediterranean cuisine make it a European paradise for exploration and adventure. From the amazing hikes and adventures through the Portuguese islands of Madeira and Azores to a journey down the Douro River, each region has its own distinct story. Road Scholar will introduce you to the flourishing heritage and culture waiting to be explored in Portugal.

Portugal Walking & Hiking Tours

Walking Madeira

Madeira is one of four tropical islands off the coast of Portugal, featuring beautiful waterfalls, palm trees, ocean surf crashing on breezy beaches, and great hiking. With its reputation as the “Isle of Flowers,” Madeira offers pristine walkways along the coast, weaving through gardens and offering impressive vistas. 

In this 11-day hiking tour in Madeira, join local experts for a walking exploration of Madeira’s capital city of Funchal, wedged between the sea and mountains. Hike in a pristine laurel forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and visit the local colorful markets. 

Hiking the Azores

Join a naturalist to learn about Azores island’s stunning natural beauty on hikes to the woodlands, thermal spring pools, caves, and volcanic landscapes of Europe’s best-kept secret. 

Nicknamed “Hawaii of the Mid-Atlantic” for its verdant landscapes, explore Portugal’s Azores on foot in this Portugal tour to uncover the precious secrets of this natural paradise.

Best Of Portugal Tours

Winter in Portugal Tour

Madeira is an island of Portugal considered the floating garden of the Atlantic because of its renowned Botanical Gardens and lush subtropical forest. Uncover the history behind its vital artisan industries, from wine cellars and embroidery factories to sugar mills. 

On the Winter in Portugal tour of Madeira that lasts eight days, you will go on exhilarating adventures including a tour to the tops of Funchal’s hills by cable car for breathtaking views before taking an exhilarating toboggan ride back down. Madeira is known as the “island of eternal springtime” for its perfect mild temperatures even during the winter months. 

Sail the Douro River 

Discover hidden gems in the villages and valleys of Portugal on a riverboat down the Douro River. Discoveries Along the Douro is Road Scholar’s 11-day river cruise where you will marvel at the fairy-tale landscapes of Portugal and learn from top-notch instructors about the Baroque architecture of medieval towns. Taste the spectacular wines of Portugal and learn about regional Port wine during an educational wine tasting at a local "Quinta”.

The Best of Portugal Tour

Portugal's sightseeing is popular because of its architecture, heritage, universities and traditions of port wine. Discover adventures in Portugal on this journey to medieval monasteries, fertile vineyards, and cities filled with rich history and modern energy. The 10-day education, Best of Portugal tour, combines field trips led by local experts as well as independent time for discovery.  

Small Group and Expert-Led Experiences on Portugal Tours

Joining small adventure tours in Portugal allows you to experience this region of the world in a more personal and meaningful way, as fewer people means more opportunities to connect with your surroundings, whether it’s strolling the streets of Lisbon or tasting wines in the Douro Valley. At Road Scholar, our small Portugal group tours connect you with a local experienced guide, allowing you to ask in-depth questions and receive detailed responses that deepen your knowledge of the country’s history, culture and geography. Enjoy a travel experience that comes to life through our Portugal tours that offer the insights you won’t find in a guidebook.

Cultural Traditions and Heritage Experiences on Portuguese Tours

Portugal’s rich history and cultural traditions are woven into daily life, and our Portugal guided tours offer you the chance to experience them firsthand:

• Fado music performances: Dance the night away to the captivating sounds of Portugal’s soulful, UNESCO-recognized music tradition in intimate venues where locals share stories through song.
• Traditional tile-making: Known as azulejos, you can learn about traditional blue and white tile-making techniques from skilled artisans in an intimate class setting.
• Historic villages and castles: Wander through medieval towns like Óbidos or Monsaraz, where cobbled streets and ancient fortresses reveal Portugal’s layered past and the mighty role this tiny nation played in key world events, from the Age of Exploration to the Renaissance Movement and beyond.

Food and Wine Immersions on Portugal Guided Tours

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in Portugal’s culture is through its flavors, allowing you to taste Portuguese cuisine as locals do. Popular Portugal excursions include a journey through the world-renowned Douro Valley, known for its port wines and rich reds crafted at hillside vineyards. Along the way, you can learn about centuries-old winemaking traditions that give these delicacies a name for themselves.

Other immersive gastronomy experiences include seafood festivals along the coast in towns and villages such as Peniche, Viana do Castelo and Lagos, where you can savor grilled sardines, octopus and shellfish in towns where fishing is a way of life. Alternatively, you may opt to visit food markets in Lisbon or Porto to discover regional cheeses, cured meats and pastries.

FAQs

What are the best months for Portugal group tours?

The best months for Portugal group tours depend somewhat on what you want from your trip, but most travelers find the months of April to June and September to October ideal. Here’s what each season offers:

• Spring (April-June): Enjoy Portugal tours with mild weather, blooming landscapes and fewer crowds compared to those in the busier summer months, making this time ideal for walking tours, sightseeing and attending local festivals like Lisbon’s Festa de Santo António in June.
• Summer (July-August): Warm and lively with plenty of festivals and local activities, the summer is a great time for travelers looking for warmer weather and a range of options. Keep in mind that tourists are plentiful, meaning prices and crowds are higher, especially in areas such as Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve.
• Fall (September-October): With comfortable temperatures and the grape harvest season underway in the Douro Valley, autumn is an excellent time of year for Portugal excursions for anyone interested in a more relaxed pace, after the busy summer months.
• Winter (November-March): Although quieter, the winter months are more affordable and offer mild weather, making this time of year ideal for travelers seeking a more relaxed experience without the warmer temperatures that bring the bustling crowds.

How many days should I plan for Portuguese tours to see the highlights?

To see Portugal’s highlights without feeling rushed, most travelers aim to spend at least seven to 10 days in the region. This timeframe offers enough opportunity to experience Lisbon, Porto and the Douro Valley in full, along with time to spend a day or two in a coastal region. 

If you prefer to take a short trip of five days or less, consider staying strictly in Lisbon and Sintra, with the possibility of a day trip to Cascais. If you can extend your stay to two weeks or more, for a deeper dive into Portugal, consider including Lisbon, Porto, the Algarve and the Douro Valley, along with a stint in the Azores or Madeira, or smaller towns like Óbidos and Tomar, where you can explore at a more relaxed pace.

What is included in Portugal guided tours with Road Scholar?

When joining Portugal tours with Road Scholar, program participants can expect:

• Most meals covered, including breakfast, lunch and dinner, with specific details varying by program
• Expert-led activities and carefully curated itineraries that feature lectures, field trips and hands-on experiences
• Comfortable accommodations in hotels and historic properties
• Transportation

What are the top dos and don’ts during Portugal excursions?

As with any country you visit, there are important dos and don’ts to keep in mind to remain safe and respectful of local cultures.

Dos

• Learn a few Portuguese phrases, such as obrigado/obrigada for “thank you.”
• Wear comfortable walking shoes.
• Try local specialities and activities.
• Carry cash.
• Explore beyond the cities with trips to local towns and regions.

Don’ts

• Don’t confuse Portuguese with Spanish.
• Don’t expect fast service.
• Don’t overtip.
• Don’t wear beach attire in towns.
• Don’t talk too loudly in public transport.

Are adventure tours in Portugal suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, at Road Scholar, you can filter through Portugal tours based on your desired activity level to find a program that suits you, whether it’s a challenging outdoor excursion or an easy-paced traditional adventure.

Experience Travel with Road Scholar

At Road Scholar, we offer a wide range of trips through the great country of Portugal. Through any of our Portugal tours, you’ll be placed in a cohort of like-minded adventurers. Together, you’ll enjoy spirited conversations while learning more about the world’s cultures, history, and traditions from local experts. Book your travel and learn more with Road Scholar today.