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 Coastal gems, sun-drenched vineyards, and a castle in the clouds await on our gay Portugal tour.n Savour the soul of Portugal, where centuries-old architecture fuses with contemporary artistry amidst a mosaic of terracotta rooftops. Discover historic Porto and the Livraria Lello bookshop which inspired the library at Hogwarts, tour the ornate Ducal Palace, cook with The Countess, then set sail on a river cruise through the spectacular Douro Valley, famous for its wineries. Explore coastal Nazaré, medieval Óbidos, and gay Lisbon, then indulge in a fairy-tale ending at Palacio da Pena, a vibrant castle and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sintra.
• Marvel at the grandeur of Palacio da Pena, a “castle in the clouds” in Sintra
• Discover Porto’s historic city centre on a guided walking tour
• Enjoy skip-the-line passes to Livraria Lello bookshop, the inspiration for the Hogwarts library in Harry Potter
• Explore centuries-old Ducal Palace
• Bask in the beauty of Braga, the “birthplace of Portugal”
• Visit alluring Amarante and its Romanesque architecture
• Soak in the spectacular scenery of the Douro Valley
• Pair a vineyard tour with a wine tasting at a Douro Valley winery
• Cruise the Douro River on a traditional Portuguese wooden boat
• Take a cooking lesson with ‘The Countess’ at her stunning estate
• Tour the coastal village of Nazaré & the medieval village of Óbidos
• Wallow in Lisbon’s most iconic sites, such as Rossio Square, St. George’s Castle, Belem Tower, and the Monument to the Discoveries
• Set sail on a 1-hour Tagus River private cruise with included sparkling wine
Day 1
Olá, and welcome to Porto, Portugal!
Our adventure begins with a short Group Meeting at 6PM. This evening, we’ll get our first taste of delicious Portuguese cuisine during our official (and included) Welcome Dinner.
Hotel: Axis Porto Club Aliados Hotel, Porto, 4*
Day 2
Bom dia! Ready the cameras, because today’s guided walking tour begins at Porto’s historic city centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From there, we’ll visit the Porto Cathedral, gaze over the Douro River, spot Batalha Palace, and browse the lively Santa Catarina Street. Today’s included lunch is a simple and savory francesinha sandwich – famous in Porto. This afternoon we’ll enjoy skip-the-line passes to the stunning Livraria Lello bookshop, known as the inspiration for the Hogwarts library in Harry Potter. Afterwards, we’ll tour the neoclassical facades of Liberdade Square, behold the massive spire of Clerigos Church, and end our day with the colourful vibrance of Ribeira Square. Tonight, we’re free to enjoy dinner at our leisure or join an optional group dinner (not included).
Hotel: Axis Porto Club Aliados Hotel, Porto, 4*
Day 3
After breakfast, we’ll take a private transfer to historic Guimarães and nearby Braga, the "birthplace of Portugal". Begin with a tour of the ornate Ducal Palace, built in the 15th century by one of the richest and most powerful families on the Iberian Peninsula. After an included lunch and another short transfer, we’ll discover the lush central square of Braga and its cathedrals which form the triangle of faith, devotion, and pilgrimage. We’ll visit the Bom Jesus Sanctuary, notable for its stairway containing 17 landings adorned with symbolic fountains, statues, and Baroque-style decorations. This evening, we return to Porto for some free time.
Hotel: Axis Porto Club Aliados Hotel, Porto, 4*
Day 4
Rise and shine! After breakfast, transfer to the enchanting Douro Valley, famous for its spectacular scenery and legendary vineyards.
We’ll start in Amarante, where the houses take riverside living to a whole new level, before we visit the 16th century Church of Sao Goncalo Monastery. After lunch, we’ll be treated to scenic views of vineyards on inclined terraces, then we’ll stop at one of the best wineries for a delicious tasting where we’ll gain insight into this verdant region’s history. We’ll round out the afternoon aboard a traditional Portuguese wooden rabelo for a 2-hour private river cruise before returning to our hotel to feast on an included dinner.
Hotel: The Wine House Hotel - Quinta da Pacheca, The Douro Valley, 4*
Day 5
After breakfast we’ll depart the hotel to cook with ‘The Countess’ at her estate, the stunning House of Viscondes da Várzea. Savour stories of Maria Manuel Cyrne’s rich history while learning to use ancient cookware on wood-burning stoves. After our lesson, an included lunch will be served with a wine pairing in one of the dining rooms or al fresco on the patio. Later, we’ll return to the hotel for a relaxing afternoon of free time and another included dinner at our hotel.
Hotel: The Wine House Hotel - Quinta da Pacheca, The Douro Valley, 4*
Day 6
Up and at ‘em! After breakfast, we’ll see the charming countryside via our private transfer to the coastal village of Nazaré, famous for its massive waves. Notably, the HBO docu-series 100 Foot Wave is set in Nazaré. After exploration and an included lunch, we’ll transfer to the cute medieval village of Óbidos, known for its whitewashed houses adorned with blooms of bougainvillea flowers. Upon arrival, we’ll indulge in a cherry liquor tasting, then stroll through the old streets and visit the castle. Later, we’ll continue with a 1-hour transfer to Lisbon, where we can stretch our legs on an orientation walk followed by a group dinner accompanied by a Fado show, a haunting and distinctive style of music that originated in Lisbon’s rustic neighbourhoods.
Hotel: My Story Hotel Figueira, Lisbon, 4*
Day 7
Good morning, Lisbon (or as they say, Lisboa). After a hearty breakfast, we’ll embark on a tour of this picturesque city’s most iconic historical sites such as Rossio Square, the Lisbon Cathedral, St. George’s Castle, the Jeronimos Monastery, Belem Tower, and the Monument to the Discoveries. Along the way, we’ll indulge in stunning panoramic views of the city from the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte lookout. After a break for lunch, we’ll reconvene for a 1-hour Tagus River private cruise with included sparkling wine. Tonight, you’re free to spend the evening at leisure, or join the group for an optional dinner.
Hotel: My Story Hotel Figueira, Lisbon, 4*
Day 8
The beauty of Portugal’s coastline is on full display today! During a quick morning transfer, we’ll stop at the resort town of Estoril, admire 17th-century fortresses, stroll along the Tamariz Beach promenade, meander through the luxurious town of Cascais, and explore the westernmost point of the continent at Cabo da Roca. After a lunch break, we’ll forge onward to Sintra to witness one of Portugal’s most stunning architectural masterpieces, the Palacio da Pena. Here, we’ll marvel at the one-of-a-kind beauty and grandeur of this colourful castle and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tonight, we’ll give our adventure its own fairy-tale ending at an included Farewell Dinner near the hotel.
Hotel: My Story Hotel Figueira, Lisbon, 4*
Day 9
As the last day of our tour, are no activities planned. Thank you for joining our gay Portugal tour. Please confirm departure transfers with your trip leader, and safe travels home.
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• Arrival & departure transfers to/from joining/finishing point hotel
• Gay group host and an English-speaking local guide throughout
• 8 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners
• All activities mentioned in the itinerary
• All land transportation in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles with bottled water available on the bus
• Gratuities for hotel porters, drivers, and guides
• Other activities, meals and extra costs at hotels not mentioned
• Gratuities for host and local guide (budget approximately $130 – $180 USD)
• Items of a personal nature
• Travel insurance is mandatory for all travellers.
Portugal Visa
Starting in 2025, most visitors will require an EU Travel Information & Authorisation System (ETIAS) which will be obtained online. There may be some exceptions and it is the responsibility of all travellers to ensure they meet all entry requirements. Click here for more info.
Culture Shock
Portugal is a highly developed Western nation. Crime rates are low and the nation is generally safe, but beware of pickpockets and petty theft anywhere that’s popular with tourists.
Local LGBT Scene
Porto and Lisbon both have amazing gay scenes. Overall, the whole country is gay-friendly!
Weather
In late spring, the climate is typically mild and ranges from 13C (55F) to 22C (72F) so it’s a good idea to bring a sweater or light jacket for the evenings. The weather is generally pleasant with clear skies, making it suitable for outdoor exploration and visiting cultural sites.
Required Vaccinations
Based on the entry requirements for Portugal, there are no mandatory vaccinations. To determine if you should take preventative measures to reduce the risk of illness, consult with your doctor or a travel medical clinic. We cannot provide vaccination recommendations.
Electricity
You will need an international travel plug/adapter for Type F sockets.
Connectivity
All of our hotels will have Wi-Fi access. If you require connectivity, we recommend purchasing an international data plan or local SIM card (with an unlocked device).
Travel Insurance
For everybody’s peace of mind, medical travel insurance is required on this tour. At a minimum, your travel insurance must provide cover against personal accident, death, medical expenses, emergency repatriation and personal liability, with a minimum medical coverage of US $200,000.
Meals
Breakfast daily, 5 lunches, 5 dinners
Money
Portugal’s local currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted.
NOTE: We recommend carrying approximately $400 USD to be used in case of an emergency, or if your credit/ATM cards are placed on hold. This should be in addition to any spending money.
Tipping
Gratuities are included for hotel porters, drivers, and day guides, but not for optional meals, activities, or for your host and local group leader. More details will be provided with your final trip documents.
What to bring
Our adventures entail carrying your own luggage on occasion. And while you’ll never schlep far, things can quickly get costlier than a celebrity breakup if you don’t keep your baggage under 20kg/44lb thanks to costly surcharges on domestic flights. You should also bring something smaller for day trips to carry water, your camera, and any souvenirs you find along the way.
Optional Activities
Our tours offers optional excursions that are not included in price of this trip. Please see the daily itinerary in your final pre-trip packet to learn what’s available.
Physical Preparedness
This tour is rated 2-2.5/5. All guests must have a good level of health, and all tours involve uneven steps or stairs, and you will be required to carry your own luggage from time to time. Unfortunately, we are not able to accommodate individuals with limited mobility unless they are willing to absorb the cost of a private guide/assistant which varies by country and is only possible on a case-by-case basis. It is also your responsibility to advise Out Adventures of any pre-existing medical conditions that may increase the risk of you requiring medical attention, or that may affect the normal conduct of the tour and the enjoyment of the tour by other participants.
Your Guide
Tour is led by a gay (or gay-welcoming) guide. Whenever possible, we hire destination locals. And we can also connect you with the right people if you’d like to delve deeper into the local culture. If you’re pleased with your guide, we recommend a tip of US $5-10 per person, per day…they’ll certainly appreciate it!
Flying Solo
If you’ve never travelled on your own, it’s an amazing way to get to know yourself while making new friends along the way. We can arrange for you to share a room with people in your age range at no charge, or you can pay a supplement for your own room. If there’s an odd number of solos, we’ll rotate a single room on a random basis.
Starting Point Hotel
Axis Porto Club Aliados Hotel, Porto
Situated in Porto and with Sao Bento Metro Station reachable within 600 metres, Axis Porto Club Aliados features concierge services, allergy-free rooms, a restaurant, free WiFi throughout the property and a bar. This 4-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and room service. The property is 600 metres from Sao Bento Train Station, and within 200 metres of the city centre.
Popular points of interest near the accommodation include Oporto Coliseum, Clerigos Tower and Palacio da Bolsa. The nearest airport is Francisco Sá Carneiro, 15 km from Axis Porto Club Aliados.
All rooms are fitted with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a minibar, a kettle, a shower, slippers and a desk. The hotel provides some units that have a balcony and city view, and the rooms have a private bathroom and a wardrobe. At Axis Porto Club Aliados rooms include bed linen and towels.
A buffet, continental or vegetarian breakfast can be enjoyed at the property.
Finishing Point Hotel
My Story Hotel Figueira, Lisbon
Set in Lisbon and with Rossio reachable within 300 metres, My Story Hotel Figueira offers concierge services, allergy-free rooms, a restaurant, free WiFithroughout the property and a bar. This 4-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and room service. The property is 1.3 km from the city centre and 400 metres from Dona Maria II National Theatre.
Popular points of interest near the accommodation include Commerce Square, St. George's Castle and Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. The nearest airport is Humberto Delgado Airport, 7 km from My Story Hotel Figueira.
At the hotel all rooms have air conditioning, a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a safety deposit box and a private bathroom with a shower, bathrobes and slippers. All guest rooms will provide guests with a desk and a coffee machine.
Guests at My Story Hotel Figueira can enjoy a buffet breakfast.
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