Tour Plan
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Day 1: Arrival in Lisbon - heading to Ericeira
Upon arrival in Lisbon, rent a car at the airport and immediately immerse yourself in the beauty of the Portuguese coast, heading to Ericeira, your base for the first five nights. This old fishing village, located just over half an hour from the capital Lisbon, is famous for its perfect surfing waves and golden sandy beaches washed by the Atlantic Ocean. The beaches near the town and the one at Foz do Lizandro, a short distance away, are more sheltered and therefore suitable for families with children. Ericeira is also a place rich in history, culture and gastronomy, with its narrow streets and traditional colorful fishermen's houses, where you can taste fresh fish dishes cooked according to old local recipes. You can take short trips to the surrounding area and visit the Aldeia Típica of José Franco, a miniature village fashioned in clay.
Overnight stay in Ericeira
Set out to discover the city and start savoring the tastes and smells! The first thing to do in Lisbon is to explore the different neighborhoods, each with its own soul: the historic Chiado, the elegant Baixa, the very traditional Alfama, Belém and the maritime conquests...
EXTRA - Visit to the Lisbon Oceanarium (25€/adults - 15€/children)
If you choose our suggested activity, a visit to the Lisbon Oceanarium, a true immersion into the heart of the oceans, is planned for today. With its immense tanks and striking architecture, this aquarium is one of the most visited attractions in the Portuguese capital. Inside, thousands of sea creatures from around the world coexist in faithfully recreated habitats. From majestic stingrays to sharks, colorful tropical fish to penguins, every corner of the Oceanarium is a discovery.
Children enjoy gazing at the immense tanks filled with colorful sea creatures. The giant shark swims majestically, the penguins glide through the water, and the colorful coral reefs catch their attention. It is wonderful to see their eyes sparkle as they discover the secrets of marine life. It's an adventure that brings little ones closer to the underwater world and makes them more aware of the importance of protecting our oceans.
Overnight stay in Ericeira
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Day 3: Discovering the Castles of Sintra
On this day you can take the car and head up to the Sintra Serra to discover one of the three Castles: Castelo dos Mouros, Palácio da Pena and Quinta da Regaleira, three must-sees in Sintra.
EXTRA: Half Day private guided tour (180€/visit).
If you opt to add our private guided tour, choose one to visit with her, who will stay with you half a day.
For lunch you can stop either downtown in the Tasca do Xico restaurant, or in the São Pedro area in the typical Restaurant Street. In the evening you can take a walk around the alleys of the old town, buy some souvenirs or buy a bottle of Ginja or Port, typical products of the area, before going in search of a restaurant where you can end the day, or drive back to Ericeira.
Overnight stay in Ericeira
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Day 4: Visit to Cascais and Cabo da Roca, "O fim do mundo!"
On this day you can visit Cascais. Cascais, a seaside resort of considerable fame north of Lisbon, is best known in Italy because it was chosen for exile by the late King Umberto II. The town of Cascais, once a fishing village, is now entirely devoted to the tourist industry, with many hotels, stores, bars and restaurants open mainly in the summer. However, it still remains an active fishing port; the old town, with its narrow alleys, has not lost its old charm and is well worth a visit. One quirky building you can visit is the Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães, where you can see a rare representation of Lisbon as it was before the earthquake. If you've had enough of the sun, shelter in the cool of the Parque Municipal da Gandarinha, a lovely city park dotted with palm trees, eucalyptus, birch and pine trees and adorned with rose gardens and flowering bushes. It is the beautiful coastal beaches that attract droves of vacationers and day-trippers to Cascais. The city beaches are three small sandy coves: Praia da Rainha, Praia da Conceição and Praia da Duquesa.
To end the day, don't miss the westernmost point on the European continent: the Cabo de Roca, where the sheer cliffs offer a breathtaking sight, especially at sunset. An experience that will remain etched in the memory of all family members.
Overnight stay in Ericeira
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Day 5: Day trip to Nazaré
Today's day will take you to discover the North Coast of Portugal and in particular the town of Nazaré. Nazaré Beach, with its mild climate and remarkable natural beauty, boasts some of Portugal's oldest fishing-related traditions. During the summer months, on Saturdays you absolutely must sit on the waterfront at the end of the day to watch the spectacle of “Arte Xávega” (seine fishing), when nets laden with fish are withdrawn from the water and the calls of the saleswomen echo.
At sunset, nothing beats watching the sunset while sitting at the outdoor tables of a bar overlooking the ocean, as the lights come on and evening falls.
Overnight stay in Ericeira
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Day 6: Towards the Vicentina Coast
Today's trip will take you to the beaches of the coast beyond the XXV April Bridge that separates the North from the South of Portugal. We highly recommend the endless beaches of Caparica or fonte da Telha, or going further down and into the Serra d'Arrabida the beaches of Galappos and Galappinhos. In the town of Setubal it will be a must to stop and eat the famous “Choco frito” (Fried Ocean Squid). In the Serra d'Arrabida you can admire one of the most spectacular coastlines in Portugal, with its pristine beaches, towering cliffs, and wilderness that stretches for miles.
Vila Nova de Milfontes is a pretty town on Portugal's Vicenza coast. Featuring a picturesque bay with white sandy beaches, the town is surrounded by beautiful green countryside and the Mira River runs through its center. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Southwest Alentejano and Costa Vicentina Natural Park, a true treasure of nature. Discover the wild beauty of the coastal landscape, the fine sandy beaches, and the crystal clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
Overnight stay in Vila Nova de Milfontes
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Day 7: Vila Nova de Milfontes
The Southwestern Alentejo and Costa Vicentina Natural Park is one of Portugal's most spectacular natural destinations. Here you will find wild, unspoiled beaches, breathtaking cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and a wide variety of protected flora and fauna.
EXTRA: Guided horseback ride (80€/adults or children x 2 rides)
Enjoy an immersion in nature and the human-horse connection during this one-hour ride. Through the principles of Natural Horsemanship, you will learn how to communicate with your equine partner in a clear and respectful manner. You will explore beautiful trails, experiencing the freedom and well-being offered by horseback riding while strengthening the bond with your horse. A unique experience that will allow you to appreciate the beauty of nature and the magic of the relationship with these animals.
Overnight stay in Vila Nova de Milfontes
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Day 8: Vila Nova de Milfontes
Free day at the Alentejo beaches: among the most family-friendly are Praia do Amado, Praia da Bordeira, Praia do Tonel and Praia da Arrifana. Many of them offer facilities and services for families, such as toilets, showers, picnic areas, and parking lots.
EXTRA: guided horseback ride (80€/adults or children x 2 rides)
A horseback ride is also planned for today. Share special moments with your loved ones as you explore nature and learn about horses.
Overnight stay in Vila Nova de Milfontes
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Day 9: En route to the Algarve
Say goodbye to Vila Nova de Milfontes to hit the road and head into the Algarve. Your final destination will be Lagos, a small town located on the coast.
Overnight stay in Lagos.
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Day 10: Exploring the Algarve
If you want to immerse yourself in the history and culture of the city, stroll through the historic center of Lagos with its picturesque cobblestone streets and ancient buildings, such as the church of St. Anthony and the fortress of Ponta da Bandeira. Or you will have a choice of two beautiful excursions.
EXTRA: Boat tour to the Benagil caves (40€/adults - 25€/children)
Algar de Benagil is the most visited attraction in the Algarve. During the excursion you can admire the geological richness and diversity and discover caves, seaweed and reefs that are authentic treasures of the Algarve coast.
The boat is just the right size for a more in-depth exploration of the caves, allowing you to visit the inside of 6 caves!
The tour lasts 2 hours and the boat can accommodate a maximum of 20 people. Embarkation will be at the Lagos Marina.
EXTRA: Dolphin spotting boat excursion (40€/adults - 25€/children)
Join an exciting safari and experience a once-in-a-lifetime experience: watching dolphins in their natural habitat.
The dolphin species that can be observed are the common dolphin, bottlenose dolphin, Roaz's and Risso's dolphin, striped dolphin, and orca. However, you can also find other cetacean species such as the Minke whale or other marine animals such as sharks and turtles.
Don't miss the chance to observe these free and wild animals in the waters of the Algarve!
The tour lasts 1h30-2 hours and the boat can accommodate a maximum of 28 people. Embarkation will be at the Lagos Marina.
Overnight stay in Lagos.
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Day 11: Exploring the Algarve
On the southern coast of the Algarve, don't miss Salema: its golden sandy beach is one of the area's main attractions, although still off the beaten path of mass tourism, ideal for letting children play, relax and enjoy the sun. Visit Burgau, a small village overlooking the sea with a historic center: here, too, there is no shortage of excellent restaurants where you can eat fresh fish.
EXTRA: Tickets to the water amusement park (32€/adults - 24€/children).
Sun, water and fun for everyone! The Algarve's Slide&Splash is the perfect place to spend an unforgettable day with the whole family. While the little ones have fun on the colorful slides, adults can relax in the pools or try more adrenaline-pumping attractions. An oasis of fun for all ages!
Overnight stay in Lagos
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Day 12: Free day at the beaches of the Algarve
The Algarve is a true paradise for families with children! Its beaches, with golden sand and crystal clear waters, offer a safe and fun environment for the little ones. Praia da Rocha is perfect for building sand castles, while a small river can be explored at Praia de Alvor. Praia da Falésia enchants with its dunes and cliffs, while Praia da Marinha offers an unforgettable experience with its sea caves. For a more intimate atmosphere, Praia de Camilo is ideal. Don't forget: protect yourself from the sun, bring water and a packed lunch, and most importantly, have fun! Explore the natural pools, rent a paddleboat, or just relax on the beach admiring the view.
Overnight stay in Lagos
It is time to depart and say goodbye to Portugal, hoping to return soon to continue discovering all it has to offer. You will be able to drop off your car directly at the airport before departure.