Portuguese Tart Tour 2026
- 16 - 23 May 2026
- 7 Nights / 8 Days
- Weather 15 - 23 C
- Fitness - Med - walk up to 5km a day
- This tour starts and ends in Lisbon
Land of great royal dynasties and famous explorers, Portugal is a destination marked by its impressive history of several millennia: Celts, Romans, Visigoths, Moors and more recently Christians left their mark on this small Iberian nation.
Architecture, food, green valleys, famous vineyards and a generous sunshine during all the year, many are “the reasons-why” to visit this amazing country.
Portugal is waiting for you, do not make it wait any longer !
Oh the places we'll go ......
Lisbon is the vibrant capital city of Portugal, situated on the west coast of Europe. It is one of the oldest cities in the world, boasting a rich history and culture. Lisbon is known for its charming cobblestone streets, scenic viewpoints, and stunning architecture, including the famous Tower of Belem and Jeronimos Monastery. The city offers an abundance of cultural and recreational activities, from exploring the museums and galleries of the Chiado neighborhood, to indulging in the delicious food and wine scene, to enjoying the city’s lively nightlife. Lisbon is also a great starting point for exploring other parts of Portugal, such as the nearby beautiful beaches or the famous vineyards of the Douro Valley. Overall, Lisbon is a must-see destination for travellers who appreciate history, culture, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Sintra is a picturesque town located in the hills outside of Lisbon, Portugal. Known for its stunning palaces, castles, and gardens, Sintra has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical and cultural significance. The town’s most iconic landmark is the Moorish Castle, a medieval fortress dating back to the 8th century. Another popular attraction is the Pena Palace, a colorful palace built in the Romantic style in the 19th century. The town is also home to numerous other palaces and mansions, such as the Quinta da Regaleira and the Monserrate Palace. Visitors can explore the town’s narrow streets and alleyways, charming cafes and restaurants, and lovely shops selling handicrafts and souvenirs. With its captivating beauty and unique charm, Sintra is a must-visit destination for travellers to Portugal.
Cascais is a charming seaside town located just 30 minutes away from Lisbon, Portugal. It is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning coastline, and vibrant atmosphere. The town has a rich history, which dates back to the 12th century, when it was a fishing village. It became a popular destination among the Portuguese nobility in the 19th century, and since then, it has attracted visitors from all over the world. The old town of Cascais is a picturesque maze of narrow streets, white-washed houses, and colorful tiles, while the modern marina offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. Some of the best things to do in Cascais include visiting the Condes de Castro Guimarรฃes Museum, the Boca do Inferno cliff, and the Guincho beach.
Belรฉm is a historic district located in the western part of the city of Lisbon, Portugal. This area is known for its iconic landmarks, including the famous Jerรณnimos Monastery, the stunning Belรฉm Tower, and the impressive Discoveries Monument. Other noteworthy attractions in Belรฉm include the Cultural Center of Belรฉm, the National Coach Museum, and the tranquil gardens of the Tropical Botanical Garden.
Belรฉm is also famous for its delicious pastries, particularly the creamy egg custard tarts, known as Pastรฉis de Belรฉm. Visitors can sample these sweet treats at the century-old bakery, Antiga Confeitaria de Belรฉm.
Finally, Belรฉm is located near the Tagus River, providing picturesque views and opportunities for relaxing walks along the waterfront. Overall, this Lisbon district offers a blend of rich history, diverse attractions, and delectable cuisine that make it a must-see destination for visitors to the city.
Coimbra University is an ancient and prestigious institution of higher learning located in the city of Coimbra, Portugal. Founded in 1290, it is one of the oldest universities in continuous operation in the world. It has a long and rich history, having played an important role in the development of Portugal’s culture and identity, as well as in the evolution of ideas and knowledge.
The university is organized into eight faculties, offering a wide range of undergraduate, graduate and post-doctoral degrees across a variety of disciplines, including law, medicine, engineering, humanities, natural sciences and social sciences. The university is known for the quality of its research and teaching, as well as its beautiful campus and historic buildings, which have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Coimbra University is one of the most respected institutions of higher learning in Europe and the world, attracting students, scholars and researchers from all corners of the globe.
Porto is a charming city located in the northwestern coast of Portugal. It is known for its colorful buildings, delicious Port wine, and historical landmarks. The old city center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to picturesque streets, stunning churches, and a bustling food scene. The Ribeira district is a lively waterfront area with numerous restaurants and bars that offer authentic Portuguese cuisine and beverages. Visitors to Porto can explore many cultural and historical attractions, such as the Clรฉrigos Tower, the Bolhรฃo Market, and the Livraria Lello bookstore. A visit to a Port wine cellar is a must-do experience, where visitors can learn about the history and production of the fortified wine and enjoy tastings. Overall, Porto is a vibrant and captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and gastronomy.
Trip Highlights
- Try a Traditional Portuguese Tart Cooking Class
- Visit the romantic Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra - PS: Madonna owns the house across the road.
- Spend a night in the Historic Lawrence Hotel in Sintra
- Have lunch at the spectacular cliffside Moinho Dom Quixote
- Take in the seaside air of Cascais via an historic train
- Visit the historic University of Coimbra built in 1290
- Walk to Ribeira quay in Porto for a relaxing boat trip on the Douro
- Indulge in Chocolate and Port Wine Pairing workshop
- Visit the Vila Nova de Gaia wineries in Porto and enjoy a ticket to WOW - World of Wine!
- Hear the spectacular sounds of the Fado Folk Singing
- Visit of the Lello & Irmรฃo library which inspired the author JK Rowling for his Harry Potter books.
Book your Portuguese Tart Tour
- Twinshare โ $3985 AUD (2370 Euro)
- Single Room โ $4585 AUD (2730 Euro)
*FLIGHTS NOT INCLUDED
*Please note twinshare rooms can be compact for two people and sometimes beds may be Hollywood style.
This tour requires a $500 deposit, followed by two installment payments.
The first installment is due 6 months before the start of the trip.
The second installment is due 75 days prior to departure.
If you are combining Portugal and Spain please use the button below to book
*Receive $100 discount for combining two trips, which has already been applied to the final pricing.
If this tour is fully booked, but youโre still hoping to join us, donโt worryโyou can be added to our waitlist.
Simply email us at [email protected]
Experience the finest in guided travel with our Escorted Tours, fully led by a certified, English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the journey, sharing their extensive knowledge and passion for the destination.
For groups of eight or more, a Vibrant Women Travel Host will join the tour to provide additional support and ensure a seamless travel experience.
Inclusions
- Airport transfers on 16 and 23rd of May 2026
- 7 Nights Accommodation
- All breakfasts, one lunch & one dinner
- All sightseeing and entrance fees as per above mentioned itinerary
- Local English-speaking tour guide throughout
- City Tour Porto, Coimbra, Sintra and Lisbon
- Portuguese Tart Cooking Class
- Fado Performance
- Port & Chocolate Tasting
- Morning boat trip on the Druoro river
What is not included
- Airfares to and from Portugal
- Travel Insurance (which is compulsory)
- Personal spending, including lunches, drinks and dinners not included on the itinerary
- Airport transfers if arriving before the 16tht or after the 23rd of May 2026
- Tip for our tour guide, drivers etc. We suggest $25AUD per day per person, and collect this in currency at the beginning of the tour = $175 AUD. This does not include tipping for meals not included in the itinerary.
Travel Itinerary
Arrival to Lisbon
Arrival in the Portuguese capital, Lisbon.
Reception at Lisbon airport by your driver. Private transport to your accommodation. Afternoon free to discover and enjoy the city, have a rest after your flight.
Recommendation :
Take a wander and discover Lisbon’s old districts, Alfama and Graรงa, and the typical hillside lanes of these popular old parts of the city (approx. 2.5km walk or take the metro). Marked by the presence of the Moors and spared by the earthquake of 1755, the alleyways of Alfama and Castelo retain a village atmosphere of yesteryear.
Far from the hustle and bustle of the lower town, the inhabitants have managed to preserve the authenticity of their district. You can wander through the labyrinth of flower-lined alleyways of Alfama, resting on the shady belvederes of Graรงa and admiring the breathtaking views over the lower town and the Tagus.
Night at hotel in Lisbon – My Story Hotel Figueira (or similar)
My Story Hotel Figueira
Set in Lisbon and with Rossio reachable within 300 metres, My Story Hotel Figueira offers concierge services, allergy-free rooms, a restaurant, free WiFi throughout the property and a bar. This 4-star hotel offers room service and a 24-hour front desk. The property is 1.3 km from the city centre and 400 metres from Dona Maria II National Theatre.
Meals: N/A
Lisbon Local Tour & Portuguese Tart cooking class
With our local guide and on foot we spend the morning discovering Lisbon’s secret places. Following a theme, the aim is to immerse yourself in a capital rich in culture: the Middle Ages, Freemasonry, ancient paintings and azulejos, museums, belvederes, gardens and botany, fountain squares and underground monuments, artisans and “small trades”, markets, music, contemporary art.
Then in the afternoon take a yummy traditional Portuguese Tart cooking class.ย This is HANDS-ON experience! Unlike other Pastรฉis de Nata classes in Lisbon, you will be shown how to make puff pastry from scratch. Afterwards, we will make the custard and bake it all inside a professional oven. During this class we all work together as a team. Everyone makes at least 3 tarts by hand – learn how to laminate the dough, shape it with a specific Pastel de Nata technique, fill in the custard, etc. โWe’ll end tasting the warm tarts with a drink of choice, crafted by our baristas.
Night at hotel in Lisbon – My Story Hotel Figueira (or similar)
Meals – Breakfast and Tarts!
Lisbon – Sintraย
In the morning we make our way to Sintra, an historic town nestled in the green hills of a UNESCO-listed national park, Sintra is the jewel of the Lisbon region.
First stop The Pena Palace. The National Palace of Pena stands out as the renowned jewel in the crown of the Sintra Hills. The surrounding park, in close harmony with the magical character of the palace, triggers emotions of mystery and discovery. In its nooks and corners, our gaze gets lost amongst its charms.
Enjoy lunch in the town square.ย
In the afternoon visit the Quinta da Regaleira, the work of the Italian architect Luigi Manini, a curious early 20th century residence belonging to a very wealthy businessman of the time. Its construction is inspired by various artistic styles and currents of thought. The visit is mainly based on the extraordinary gardens where the lake, caves, secret passages, underground labyrinths create a mystical and mysterious atmosphere. Do not miss the descent into the Poรงo Iniciรกtico, a large well dug into the rock.
Late afternoon free time to wander the cobblestone lanes and have a drink in a local cafe on the square.
NB: Sintra truly has one of the most intriguing and unpredictable weather systems. It’s not uncommon to experience mist enveloping the area, creating an almost ethereal atmosphere where visibility can drop dramatically. One moment you could be basking in bright sunshine, and the next, a thick mist can roll in, obscuring views and creating an entirely different mood.
As you travel from the mountainous regions down to the coast, the weather can shift dramatically. On some days, you can find yourself standing on the beach, hearing the waves crashing but unable to see the ocean due to the dense mist. This mystical quality adds a layer of magic to Sintra, making it a place where nature and weather play an active role in shaping your experience. Whether you’re exploring its historic palaces or walking through its lush gardens, the ever-changing weather keeps you on your toes and adds to the allure of this enchanting destination.
Overnight Sintra – Lawrences Hotel (or similar)ย
Established by an Englishman in 1764, Lawrence’s Hotel is the oldest hotel on the Iberian Peninsula. Legend has it that George Lord Byron began writingย The Pilgrimage of Childe Haroldย while staying at Lawrenceโs Hotel in 1809. The hotel also received several other international and Portuguese writers, such as Eรงa de Queiroz.
Meals: Breakfast
Sintra – Cascais
After a leisurely breakfast we catch the historic tram from Sintra to the Atlantic Ocean. The ride takes 45 minutes through the national park area.ย
Form our arrival at Colores we stop by the Cape Roca which forms the westernmost point of the Sintra Mountain Range, of mainland Portugal, of continental Europe, and of the Eurasian landmass. *Look out it is usally windy here!
Lunch at one of our favourite cafes in the whole world on our way to Cascais – Moinho Dom Quixote!ย
The onto the small fishing village in Cascais.
After a few days of holidays spent in this small fishing village, King Don Carlos I gave Cascais a reputation that turned it into a fashionable seaside resort at the beginning of the 20th century and attracted aristocrats from many European countries. Cascais today is visited for its pleasant seaside, its sumptuous 1900s houses, its lively and colourful streets and its artistic soul. also has some pretty good ice cream.ย
Overngiht Cascais –ย Hotel Baรญa (or similar)
Situated in the centre of Cascais, just 20 metres from Fishermans Beach, this hotel features an indoor rooftop pool and an outdoor terrace with panoramic ocean views. *Please note your rooms reserved are for city view.
Meals: Breakfast
Coimbra – Porto
Private transport from Cascais to Coimbra
In the morning we visit one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe. Built in 1308, the University of Coimbra consists of several buildings including the Royal Palace of Schools which is the historical and literary heart of the university and is composed of various rooms, then the Sรฃo Miguel Chapel. The discovery ends with the Joanina Library (subject to availability), this early 18th century Baroque treasure, built on the ruins of an old medieval prison, contains thousands of books dedicated to Knowledge on three floors, with works of inestimable value due to their antiquity and exclusivity.
We then drive on to Pretty Porto!
From our hotel, the group will walk to the restaurant (12 min). Dinner with Fado performance in the centre of Porto.
Tasting menu (starter, main course, dessert and coffee/tea) with choice of drink (red wine, white wine, mineral water).
Night at hotel in Porto – Hotel Carris Porto Ribeira (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Porto – Vila Nova De Gaia
In the morning, from your hotel, walk to Ribeira quay for the cruise boat: (5 min by walk)
Emblematic of the Douro River, depart aboard with Rabelo (a simple flat-bottomed boat that was once used to transport barrels of wine from vineyards) and take a cruise along the 6 giant iron bridges that are an inseparable part of Porto’s urban landscape, such as the D.Luis I Bridge, a true technical feat of its time, or Maria Pia, the work of Gustave Eiffel.
Approximately 50 minutes boat trip.
Vila Nova de Gaia there is a lot to do on the Port side, its neighbour is not to be outdone and offers many activities. It also has the most beautiful views of Porto.ย
Lunch at a local restaurant – *Self Pay
After lunch we will visit WOW yes its the world of wine! Located in the historic heart of Gaia, a short distance from the centre of Porto, WOW was born from renovated old Port wine warehouses that have given rise to a district containing seven museums, twelve restaurants and bars, shops, and a wine school.
Here you will be given a ticket for entry to one of the permanent museums to visit of your choice and then at 4 pm please meet at The Chocolate Story Museum as we will enjoy a – Chocolate and Port Pairing Workshop – Embark on a unique journey of aromas and flavours. By the end of the workshop, you’ll have learnt how to taste chocolate, how to assess its quality, and the production methods for both chocolate and Port wine. As well as all this, you’ll also learn how to taste Port wine and how to harmonise chocolate and Port for a perfect pairing.
Head back to the hotel for a free night.
Night at hotel in Porto โ Hotel Carris Porto Ribeira (or similar)
Meals: Breakfastย
Porto – Lisbon
In the morning, we will take a half-day guided tour in Porto.
Visit of the Lello & Irmรฃo library inaugurated in 1906 considered as the most beautiful of all Portugal. It even inspired the author JK Rowling for his Harry Potter books.
On our arrival back in Lisbon, we’ll make a stop in Belem to see the famous Belem Tower and the Monument to the Age of Discoveries. Before we conclude our tour, we’ll indulge in the original Pastel de Nata from Belem. Though I’ll admit, it’s good, but it won’t quite compare to the one you made on day one.
Night at hotel in Lisbon – Olissippo Saldanha Hotel (or similar) tonngith we stay closer to the ariport in the new part of Lisbon closer to the airport.ย
Meals: Breakfast & Pastel De Nata
Lisbon Departure
After breakfast, free time until taken to the airport for your departure flight.
Private transfer from your hotel to Lisbon airport, according to your flight schedule.
Departure from Lisbon we hope you are joining us in Greece!
Meals: Breakfast
“There is no time to be bored in a world as beautiful as this”
*NOTE: WHEN PLANNING TOURS SO FAR IN ADVANCE YOU CAN EXPECT SOME CHANGES TO THE ITINERARY PLEASE ADJUST YOUR EXPECTATIONS FOR THIS.ย
FAQ's
Arrival and Departure are from Lisbon. If you are joining from the Spain tour we will drive from Seville to Lisbon. Otherwise you will be collected from the airport upon arrival and driven to your accommodation on day 1.ย
Portugal is a ย member of the Schengen States, and doย notย require Australians citizensย as tourists to obtain aย visaย prior to arrival. You require 6 months validity on your passport.
For Tourists:
Australian Citizens: Australians do not need a visa to visit Spain for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This is part of the Schengen Agreement, which allows Australians to travel freely within the Schengen Area.
Other Nationalities: Citizens of countries outside the Schengen Area will need a Schengen visa to enter Spain. This visa allows for a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Read our article on how to apply for ETIAS HERE
This tour requires a $500 non-refundable, non-transferable deposit. Once you have secured your booking, you will receive a welcome email with all the details for the trip.ย
The first installment is due 6 months before the start of the trip.
The second installment is due 75 days prior to departure.
Our rates do not include any kind of travel insurance and each guest must make sure to arrange their own necessary insurance prior arrival. We will do everything possible to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. However, all travel involves some degree of risk we strongly recommend that you take out appropriate travel insurance for your adventure.ย
Your insurance protection should include cover for cancellation, medical, in particular Coronavirus and repatriation expenses, personal injury and accident, death and loss of personal baggage and money and personal liability. Insurance cover offered by credit card companies or reciprocal medical cover agreements are often not comprehensive please check this before travelling. Or contact our preferred Travel Insurance provider CoverMore.
Cancellation Policyย
Read more about our Booking Process and why we have the cancellation policy we doย HERE
- Up to 180 Days Before Tour Start: A $500 non-refundable, non-transferable deposit will be retained.
- From 180 โ 75 Days Before Tour Start: 25% of the tour cost, plus the non-refundable, non-transferable deposit, will be forfeited.
- Fromย 75 โ 45 Days Before Tour Start: 50% of the tour cost, plus the non-refundable, non-transferable deposit, will be forfeited.
- Less Than 45 Days Before Tour Start or No Shows: The entire amount 100% of the tour cost will be retained, as we would have already incurred costs for accommodation, transport, flights, and activities, which cannot be refunded to us.
- After Tour Commencement: No refunds will be issued.
This is whyย travel insuranceย is compulsory. We suggest taking out travel insurance within 2 weeks of booking your tour.ย
We’re sorry, but we’re unable to accommodate complex dietary issues on our tours. If you can manage your dietary needs independently, that’s perfectly fine. However, we cannot assume responsibility for guests’ health and wellbeing regarding food in foreign countries, as sometimes there can be misunderstandings due to language barriers. We hope you understand that our primary concern is to ensure that none of our guests become unwell while travelling with us.
Thank you for your understanding.
Our tours are designed to provide a rich and immersive experience, which includes walking tours on some days. Participants will encounter uneven footpaths, stairs, and other elements that require good mobility. Therefore, we recommend that women joining our tours have a medium level of fitness. You should be able to walk up to 7km a day to fully enjoy all the activities and explore the beautiful destinations with ease.
To ensure a safe and healthy journey, it’s important to be up-to-date with your vaccinations. We recommend consulting with a healthcare professional or visiting a travel health clinic for personalised advice based on your travel itinerary. For comprehensive information on required and recommended vaccinations, please visit Travel Doctor. They provide expert guidance to help you stay protected while exploring the world.
Spain uses the Euro (โฌ) as its official currency. Here are some key points about the Euro in Spain:
Symbol: The symbol for the Euro is โฌ.
Code: The international currency code for the Euro is EUR.
Banknotes: Euro banknotes come in denominations of โฌ5, โฌ10, โฌ20, โฌ50, โฌ100, โฌ200, and โฌ500.
Coins: Euro coins are available in denominations of 1 cent, 2 cents, 5 cents, 10 cents, 20 cents, 50 cents, โฌ1, and โฌ2.
ATMs and Credit Cards: ATMs are widely available in Spain, and credit/debit cards are commonly accepted in most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Currency Exchange: You can exchange your currency for Euros at banks, exchange bureaus, and some hotels. It’s also possible to withdraw Euros directly from ATMs using a credit or debit card.
The Euro is used in many other countries across the Eurozone, making it convenient for travel within Europe.
ย
Tipping is a firm and expected element in the tourism industry. A nominated tipping amount is not included in all group tour pricing. However, we suggest $25 a day is appropriate. We will collect approximately A$175 at the introduction session, this will then distribute the tips among your main service providers โ guides, drivers and accommodation โ on your behalf. You will see how hard people work for us but of course this is only a suggestion. Any other tipping, such as tips for for restaurants is at your discretion based on satisfaction of services received, as are gratuities for additional requested special services. It is suggested a 5 euro tip for your drivers to and from the airport is adequate. .
In May, Portugal enjoys mild to warm weather, making it a fantastic time to visit! Here’s a general overview:
Average High Temperature: 20ยฐC to 26ยฐC (68ยฐF to 79ยฐF)
Average Low Temperature: 14ยฐC to 18ยฐC (57ยฐF to 64ยฐF)
Rainfall: Minimal, with most regions experiencing around 20 mm to 60 mm of precipitation on average
Sea Temperature: Around 18ยฐC to 20ยฐC (64ยฐF to 68ยฐF)
May is perfect for exploring historic landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, and relaxing on the beach without the intense summer crowds. The days are long and sunny, with pleasant evenings, making it ideal for terrace dining and evening strolls.
**Preparation notes for your trip are available in your trip dashboard and can be accessed once you register.