About this experience
During the tour, we will visit four out of six cities in the central region of Portugal of your choice. You will enjoy magnificent views of the country, hear stories about important historical events, and explore the architectural and cultural heritage.
You will learn about the ancient peoples who inhabited the territory of Portugal, how the formation of the state evolved, what role the knightly orders of Europe played, and what they were rewarded for their assistance. You'll discover what the Portuguese had to overcome to gain independence. Stories about remarkable individuals who left an indelible mark in the history of the Iberian Peninsula await you. There will be room for lyrical digressions, love tragedies, and wonders.
What to Expect
Our journey takes us to the heart of Portugal - the central district of Estremadura.
- The journey begins with a visit to the city of Tomar and the Templar Castle. The castle is a magnificent religious complex, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Fátima - a world center of Catholic pilgrimage, ranked 3rd in importance in Europe (after Santiago de Compostela in Spain and Lourdes in France). Millions of pilgrims from around the world come here annually.
- Batalha. In 1385, before the battle with the Spanish-French army, King John I hosted a banquet: in case of victory, a monastery to the Holy Virgin Mary was to be built. The king triumphed, resulting in Portugal gaining independence and a magnificent example of monumental Gothic architecture, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Alcobaça. In March 1147, before an important battle with the Moors, the first king of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, vowed to build a monastery if God granted him victory. In 1153, the grand construction of the Cistercian Monastery of Santa Maria began, which for many centuries was the spiritual center of Portugal.
- Nazaré - formerly a fishing village, today a small town popular among surfers worldwide. World championships are held here, professional surfers set global records! It is in Nazaré that the highest waves in late autumn, winter, and early spring are found.
There is also a lighthouse, a tiny chapel where Vasco da Gama prayed, and a church with an image of the Madonna of Nazareth. - Óbidos - a fairy-tale town. Life froze behind its fortress walls from the 14th century. For centuries, Portuguese kings gifted Óbidos to their beloved, hence it is called the 'fiancée's town.' You are guaranteed to feel like you are in the Middle Ages while strolling through narrow alleys with various shops. Here, we will try the national cherry liqueur, Ginja, in a chocolate cup.
- Return to Lisbon.
