Portugal Rail and Stay 2025 will take you to Lisbon, Coimbra and Porto, the Gems of Portugal
Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital, is a city of contrasts. Its colourful neighborhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto brim with history, while contemporary art and innovation thrive. Perched on seven hills, Lisbon offers stunning views, particularly from São Jorge Castle and Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. Iconic trams rattle through narrow streets, leading visitors to landmarks like the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower. Alongside its rich history, Lisbon is alive with modern culture, delectable seafood, and the haunting melodies of Fado music.
Coimbra, known as the "City of Students," is the intellectual heart of Portugal. Home to one of the world’s oldest universities, the University of Coimbra, its baroque Joanina Library is a masterpiece. Coimbra’s steep streets echo academic tradition, especially during the Queima das Fitas festival. Visitors can explore the Romanesque Old Cathedral and the lush gardens of Quinta das Lágrimas, steeped in the romantic legend of Pedro and Inês.
Porto, Portugal’s northern jewel, is famed for its port wine and dramatic riverside views. The Ribeira district, with its colourful facades and lively atmosphere, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Landmarks like the Clérigos Tower and Livraria Lello captivate visitors, while the Dom Luís I Bridge offers sweeping vistas of the Douro River and wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia.
At a glance
Lisbon | 3 Nights at the Browns Central Hotel or similar | |
Coimbra | 2 Nights at the Sapienta Boutique Hotel or similar | |
Porto | 3 nights at the Editory House Ribeira Hotel or similar | |
Accommodation | Standard double room | |
Meals | Breakfast daily | |
Other | 2nd class Rail travel between Lisbon - Coimbra and Porto |
Highlights
Lisbon, the vibrant capital city of Portugal, is located on the western coast of Europe, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It is known for its charming old neighbourhoods, colourful architecture, old-fashioned trams, delicious food, and rich history. Decadent and enchanting, Lisbon is a city that's easy to love.
Coimbra is undoubtedly worth visiting, especially for those interested in history, culture, and academic heritage. Coimbra was once the capital of Portugal
Porto is most famous for its azulejos, Port wine production, and historic centre
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Itinerary
Arrive Lisbon
- Arrive at Lisbon Airport, Clear customs and make your way to your hotel
- The remainder of the day free to explore the city
Lisbon (B)
After breakfast, go on a historic Lisbon walk: Alfama and Graça
Start your adventure at the Praca do Comercio , a grand square that opens up to the magnificent Tagus River.
Rise early to beat the crowds and find a cosy spot between the stone pillars along the riverbanks to take in the scenery. Fuel up at Fabrica Coffee Roasters. The baristas here are warm and friendly and seriously know their java. Must-order: a cappuccino with oat milk or “uma bica” (a Portuguese espresso) like the locals do.
Next up is an authentic Alfama experience: the steep climb up to Castelo Sao Jorge, an iconic hilltop castle with sweeping views of the city. You can also opt for a leisurely ride on Tram 28
Lisbon (B)
- Breakfast at the Hotel
Hope you bought your Lisbon Card. It offers free unlimited travel on the Lisbon subway, buses, trams and funiculars of CARRIS lines. Also includes CP Train to Sintra, Cascais and the south margin of the Tagus River and free entrance to 51 places of interest, including Lisbon's top monuments and attractions (e.g. Torre de Belém)!
Use it today to explore the city
Inclusions
- Return flights from Johannesburg on Turkish Airlines (Specific and Limited Seats)
- 2nd Class rail travel between Lisbon - Coimbra and Porto
- 8 Nights accommodation at selected hotels or similar
- Meals as mentioned
Exclusions
Increases in airfares and departure/fuel taxes
Optional tours
Tips
Visa fee
Services not mentioned in the itinerary
Travel Insurance
Validity
- Valid for travel during May 2025
- Seasonal, Weekend, Events and School holiday Supplements may be applicable
Contact us for any other travel date require
Country information
Best time to Travel
There can be quite a difference in temperature between the coast and inland as well as the North vs the South.
In general July and August are very very busy with European tourists as well as locals on holidays
May is an ideal month to see Portugal. Temperatures are pleasant to enjoy a perfect holiday