Portugal: Lisbon and Porto

Portugal's biggest university town, Coimbra has been a center of learning since 1290, when the country's first college was founded here. Fátima draws pilgrims rather than students. In 1917, three children saw several apparitions of the Virgin Mary in a field here, and the enormous basilica that was built in her honor attests to the continuing flood of pilgrims who visit the city each year.

Enjoy a walking tour through the University of Coimbra, featuring key highlights such as the Porta Férrea, the Via Latina, the Sala dos Capelos with its portraits of Portuguese kings, and the University Chapel. Inside the chapel, see an 18th-century organ, 16th-century candelabra, 17th-century tiles, and a finely carved Manueline portal.

A guided sightseeing tour introduces Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, known for its bustling riverfront, historic neighborhoods, and iconic bridges, including one designed by a disciple of Gustave Eiffel. Begin in the Ribeira district, where colorful houses and decorative balconies line narrow cobblestone streets along the Douro River. Visit the Church of São Francisco, whose plain exterior contrasts with its richly gilded Baroque interior, and continue to the Sé Cathedral of Porto, featuring marble and stonework, a silver altarpiece in the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament, and traditional Portuguese azulejo tiles.

Explore Braga and Guimarães on a guided excursion through Portugal’s rich history and culture. Visit the Cathedral of Braga, one of the country’s oldest religious sites, and Bom Jesus do Monte, known for its iconic baroque staircase and sweeping views. Stop at the Sameiro Sanctuary before continuing to Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal, where its medieval castle reflects the nation’s origins.

Admire the world's most beautiful wine region as you make your way from Porto to Peso da Régua, through the terraced hillsides at the heart of the Douro Valley.

Explore Europe’s smallest capital as you visit the Monument to the Discoveries and consider Portugal’s Age of Exploration. Tour Mosteiro dos Jerónimos to study Manueline architecture and the legacy of Vasco da Gama, then examine Belém Tower’s defensive role along the Tagus River. Discuss the engineering of Ponte Vasco da Gama and take in panoramic views from the Mirador de Santa Justa while reflecting on Lisbon’s blend of medieval heritage and modern growth.

Explore beyond Lisbon on a guided excursion to Sintra, Cabo da Roca, and Cascais. Visit the National Palace of Sintra, a remarkably preserved royal residence, then stand at Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe. Continue to Cascais and Estoril to see scenic beaches and the historic citadel, once a royal retreat.

Portugal's version of the Blues, Fado means "fate" or "destiny," and its songs generally tell the tale of lost love or glory. Head to a Fado house in the Bairro Alto and see the singers swathed in black, accompanied by 12-stringed guitars, crooning their hearts out.