Region Overviews: Portugal Travel Guide: Overview
The oldest nation-state in Europe—it became the Kingdom of Portugal in 1139—Portugal is as steeped in history as it is in its own unique culture.
Couples, Friends & Solos
6 days 5 nights
Activity Level: 1-3
Premiere Hotels
From: $5,299 - $5,799 pp dbl occ
($900 - $1,100 for sgl occ)
Quiet beaches, refreshing sea breezes and sun-drenched landscapes. Portugal is the place to have an adventure beyond the crowds. Bike past hillsides and vineyards. Hike along wild coastline. Surf rolling waves into the shore. Kayak through turquoise waters. Wander to small towns filled with artists and farmers. And always indulge in the fresh catch of the day.
Start/End Lisbon
Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.
Meet in Lisbon, Portugal’s stylish capital city | Bike through the golden grasses, groves of olive trees and rolling hills of Portugal's Alentejo | Stand-up paddleboard on the azure waters of a picturesque lagoon | Visit Cais Palatifica, a quaint spot full of wooden buildings, long narrow piers and gorgeous waterfront views | In the chic town of Comporta, browse through bohemian stores | Lunch at a stately adega (farmhouse) where you can try local wines and learn about the cultivation of rice | Test your balance at a beginner's surf class.
This extraordinary wellness resort was designed by Portuguese architect Miguel Câncio Martins whose dedication to honoring traditional structures and the natural environment is matched only by his keen eye for detail. A Small Luxury Hotels of the World member. (pool, spa)
Bike through serene rural landscapes, small traditional villages and ancient historical sites | Follow winding paths along the coastline filled with pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters | Don't forget to bring a bathing suit—if the weather is right, this is the perfect place for an impromptu dip! | Hike on the cliffs above the beaches of Arrifana, famed for their beauty and pale-gold color | Weave through breathtaking grottoes and honey-hued rock formations as you kayak among the Algarve caves | Vacation and dine on exceptional cuisine at our scenic hotel.
Nestled in a breathtaking landscape that stretches from a plateau to the ocean, this nature-inspired refuge is the perfect place to rejuvenate. (pool, spa)
The earlier you book, the more choice you'll have and the lower your price. And you can always change your mind — you won't be charged to transfer to a different trip before your final payment is due. View cancellation policy.
Click on dates for pricing, itinerary variations and to book your trip. Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.
Our Private Trips are best for groups of 6 or more. We suggest joining a scheduled trip.
Group size is required to show per-person pricing. Your group size can be approximate and can change.
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Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests and fitness levels. Several routes and a range of levels are offered each day so you can choose how much or how little activity you want to do. Learn more about how we determine activity levels.
Portugal's landscape is characterized by constant rises and valleys, and the continuously rolling terrain, as well as high heat in the summer months, can make routes feel more challenging than the mileage may suggest.
The key to a stellar day's ride is a bike that's perfectly in tune with your cycling style… Backroads has you covered with the best bike fleet in the world! Please note that bike requests are subject to availability and prioritized based on the date they're submitted.
Click the arrow to see all bike options.
Included in your trip price
This custom-designed titanium bike is lightweight and responsive, featuring Shimano Ultegra Di2 electronic shifting, 11-speed compact gearing, a premium Mavic Ksyrium Pro wheelset and a full carbon fork.
Included in your trip price
A proven classic, this custom-designed titanium bike is suited for a wide range of cyclists. It features a comfortable ergonomic seat and a long wheel base that add to the bike’s control and stability.
Included in your trip price
Keep pace or zip ahead, pedaling with an electric boost. This bike provides plenty of power to flatten the hills and more than enough battery range to cover the distance.
Min. age to ride e-bike: 16+
We want to make sure you're on the right trip and that you have the best experience possible. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.
The slower pace, relaxed approach to life and old-world qualities in Portugal are some of the highlights of this spectacular region and are reflected in the hotels and restaurants on this trip. That said, service can lack a sense of urgency when compared with the service found in other parts of Europe. Additionally, while the Premiere hotels we've chosen are some of the finest in the country, they may seem a bit simpler than the Backroads European standard. The same can be said for Portuguese cuisine, which is traditionally a celebration of local flavors but is also bit more rustic than other places we visit in Europe.
Due to variable ocean tides and weather conditions, the day and time of activities may vary somewhat by departure. Rarely, an activity may be canceled because of bad weather and/or conditions. If this is the case, your leaders will have alternative options planned.
The oldest nation-state in Europe—it became the Kingdom of Portugal in 1139—Portugal is as steeped in history as it is in its own unique culture.
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