Portuguese Adventure

Bem-vindo a Portugal! Meet your Encore Tour Manager and begin to unlock the secrets of this fascinating city, once the capital of the world’s greatest maritime empire.

In the morning a sightseeing tour with a local expert shows you the Monument of the Discoveries, Alfáma district, Rossio Square and St. George’s Castle before you enjoy a visit inside Jerónimos Monastery. Then in the afternoon you’ll learn more about the famed Portuguese ceramic tiles, or azulejos, that you’ve been seeing across the city—decorate your own piece during a hands-on ceramic tile workshop.

Visit the coastal towns of Cascais and Estoril. Cascais is a small and picturesque fishing town where you can enjoy the natural beauty and the Fort of Cascais, built to protect the city from pirate invasions. Estoril was once a small spa town conveniently placed between Lisbon and Cascais that became well known as a prime residence for several European royal exiles. At its height, its visitors knew Estoril as the “Portuguese Riviera”. Later this afternoon, rehearse for tonight’s debut concert performance!

Today’s journey brings you north to the enchanting city of Coimbra; Portugal’s medieval capital for more than a century. Visit Coimbra University which has been the country’s greatest intellectual centers for the past five centuries. After dinner, stroll the city’s cobblestone streets and listen as the old stone walls reverberate with the haunting metallic notes of the guitarra (Portuguese guitar) and the full, deep voices of fado singers performing on the street.

Today visit the Fátima, home to the Sanctuary of Fátima, a Catholic pilgrimage site. Then Journey to the hill-town of Obidos. This gorgeous walled city of cobblestoned streets and flower-bedecked whitewashed houses is a delightful destination for those with a wandering spirit. Tonight perform your second concert performance of the tour!

Depart north along the Atlantic Coast to the cosmopolitan city of Porto! Perhaps best known for its sweet, fortified wine, Porto’s historic center is designated as a Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO since 1996. Spend the afternoon exploring the bustling and eclectic Ribeira district and enjoy panoramic views of the Duoro River.

Our local expert will take you on a guided sightseeing tour of the city of Porto. One of the most ancient European cities, discover the magical charms of the city as our local expert takes you through the alley-woven historic center. In the afternoon, transfer to the final venue to prepare for tonight’s farewell concert performance!

Depart for the USA.