Portugal 12-Day Trip

Trip cost per person

(See below for occupancy options, inclusions, and exclusions)

$6,200 USD – Single occupancy

Payment schedule 

A deposit of half the trip cost is needed to secure your spot. The other half is due 75 days before the trip start date.

*$300 of the deposit is a non-refundable booking fee. You can view our cancellation policy HERE.

Credit or debit card payments are subject to processing fees at booking and are non-refundable under any circumstances. To avoid these fees, you can pay via bank account instead.

I’m a single traveler. Will I be charged a single supplement?

There is no single supplement fee for this trip. You can upgrade your room at the Sintra hotel for an additional fee.

*Please see the ‘Rooms’ tab for more information on each room. All rooms are on a first-come, first-served basis. If you are 2 people who are sharing a room, you will not have to pay any upgrade fees. Note that some rooms are smaller in size and are not suitable for 2 people sharing a room. We do not offer roommate pairing on this trip.

What is included :

  • 11 nights accommodation (based on single occupancy)
  • Activities as noted on the itinerary
  • Private, air-conditioned ground transportation
  • Trip leader throughout
  • All breakfasts, 5 lunches, 1 dinner

What is not included :

  • Visas (if needed)
  • Trip insurance
  • International flights
  • Airport pick-up & drop-off
  • Optional activities
  • Some lunches & dinners
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Gratuities
  • Souvenirs

  1. Smile policy
    We welcome all kinds of travelers and the group dynamic of each trip is different but also part of what makes the trip so amazing. You should be able to treat everyone in the group as well as the locals with respect and kindness.

    No complainers
    Our goal is for everyone to have fun and a trip of a lifetime. On our trips, you should be able to let the small stuff go and exercise flexibility when things don’t go according to plan. If you are a traveler who finds fault with everything and complains about the little things, then our trips are not right for you. Come with an open mind and adventurous spirit, and you’ll have the trip of a lifetime!

    Portugal is not like home
    Expect things to be different than what you’re used to back home and remember that it’s all a part of traveling and experiencing new places! For example, water pressure, bed and pillow firmness, and room temperature may be different than what you’re used to back home. Also, Wifi may be spotty, slow, or even unavailable in certain remote areas.

    Trip leader
    Your trip leader will help you have an unforgettable experience and can answer questions & offer suggestions. He/She will always try to go above and beyond to help you have an amazing trip but is not your personal assistant. Travelers should exercise a certain level of self-sufficiency and independence on our trips. We also suggest tipping those who went out of their way to help you, especially your trip leader who will be with you every day throughout the entire trip.

    Semi-independent trip
    Our trips are designed for the semi-independent traveler. If you choose not to participate in any of the included activities, you are responsible for organizing your own activities. Your trip leader can offer recommendations for alternative activities but it is up to you to make reservations for extra activities. Additionally, you’re free to arrive before or depart after the trip but pre-/post-tour plans, accommodation, transport, etc. are yours to arrange. We do not offer assistance with any plans outside of the trip dates.

  2. This trip requires a low – medium level of physical fitness. Some Portuguese towns, such as Sintra, Lisbon, and Porto, are in elevated areas and require some walking up and down hills.

    In Sintra, the road from the hotel to town is approximately 0.5 miles/0.8 kilometers (10 minutes on foot). There’s an incline for about 8 minutes, and it’s narrow in some places. You should be able to walk from the hotel to town unassisted, or take a taxi/Uber/tuktuk for about 10 EUR each way, to participate in this trip.

    To participate in this trip, you should be able to:

    • Walk approximately 1–2 miles (1.5–3 km) over the course of the day, including stairs, inclines, cobblestone streets, and occasional unpaved surfaces.
    • Remain on your feet for up to 3 hours at a time while walking or standing, both indoors and outdoors.
    • Carry or manage your personal belongings during transfers
    • Walk up and down 2 – 3 flights of stairs to and from your room. The hotel in Sintra has no elevator.

  3. A Slowcation is designed to give you more time to enjoy each destination without constantly packing, unpacking, and moving from place to place.

    On this trip, we stay in just two locations, allowing you to settle in and experience each island at a more relaxed pace.

    You will also have plenty of free time to relax, return to a favorite spot, go shopping, or explore independently. The goal is to experience fewer places more deeply and enjoy the trip without feeling rushed.

  4. Each group usually consists of around  6 – 16 travelers. We prefer small group travel because, based on our experience, small groups are more easily able to integrate into local society and generally have more authentic contact with the locals.

    A small group number also means that the participants will receive more personal treatment from the trip leader, who can more thoroughly attend to the needs of each person. Small groups are also more mobile and flexible as travel plans can be more easily altered en route.

  5. Most of our travelers are in their late 30s to late 60s/early 70s and most are solo travelers. Generally, we get a good mix of diverse people and every trip is unique thanks to the group dynamic.

    The minimum age on our trips is 18.

    Everyone is welcome on our trips; male/female, LGBTQIA+/straight, and solos/couples. 

    Check out pictures from our previous trips to get an idea of the group dynamic by clicking HERE.

  6. While most daily activities are already included in the trip price, you will have some free time and your trip leader can recommend and/or help arrange any activity that might interest you. Activities in your free time are not included in the trip cost and are at your own expense.

  7. Airport pick-up is not included in this trip. The arrival airport is Lisbon (LIS). Upon arrival, you can take a taxi or pre-arrange airport pick-up with a transport company such as Welcome Pickups or one that you find on travel sites such as TripAdvisor.

    Airport drop-off is also not included on this trip. The departure airport is Porto (OPO). The hotel can help you arrange a taxi to the airport.

  8. The official currency of Portugal is the euro (EUR).

    Find out the live mid-market rate for your currency by using a currency converter online.

  9. ATMs are widely available in Portugal and are generally a convenient way to withdraw euros. Whenever possible, use an ATM operated by a major bank rather than an independent ATM in an airport, hotel, or tourist area, as independent machines may charge higher fees.

    When withdrawing money, always choose to complete the transaction in euros and decline any option that converts the amount into your home currency. Your own bank or card provider will usually provide a better exchange rate.

    ATM and foreign transaction fees vary, so check with your bank before traveling. It is also a good idea to carry some euros and bring a second debit or credit card in case one card is lost, declined, or temporarily blocked.

    We will provide additional information in the pre-departure notes sent approximately two weeks before the trip begins.

    Because euros are widely available, many banks and currency-exchange providers can arrange euros before your departure. This can be convenient if you would like to arrive with some cash, but exchange rates and fees vary. Check the total cost with your bank in advance, as withdrawing euros from a bank-operated ATM in Portugal may be more economical.

  10. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout Portugal, including at most hotels, restaurants, cafes, shops, and supermarkets. However, it’s still a good idea to carry a small amount of cash (around €50–100) for purchases at some small businesses, tips, taxis, or in the unlikely event that a card terminal is temporarily unavailable.

    Before you travel, check with your bank or credit card issuer to see if they recommend setting a travel notice. Many banks no longer require travel notifications, but some still do. It’s also a good idea to bring at least two different payment cards in case one is lost or declined.

    When paying by card or using an ATM, always choose to be charged in Euros rather than your home currency. This usually provides a better exchange rate through your bank or credit card.

  11. Tipping in Portugal is appreciated but always at your discretion.

    Your tour host will be with the group throughout the trip. If you feel they have done a great job, we recommend budgeting approximately €100–€150 per person, given directly to your host at the end of the trip.

    Tips for local guides and drivers are not included in this amount and may be given separately at your discretion.

    For other services, you may wish to leave:

    • Restaurants: Around 10% for good service
    • Hotel housekeeping: €1–€2 per day
    • Luggage porters: Around €2 per bag

  12. Most unlocked smartphones work perfectly in Portugal. Before you travel, check with your mobile provider to see what international roaming plans they offer. Many providers now offer affordable daily or monthly international plans that allow you to use your phone in Portugal much like you do at home, making it easy to stay connected throughout your trip.

    When you arrive in Portugal, your provider will often send you a text message explaining the roaming rates or confirming that your international plan is active.

    If your provider’s international plan is expensive, you may wish to purchase a travel eSIM (for compatible, unlocked phones) before you leave home. A travel eSIM can provide mobile data at a lower cost while allowing you to continue using apps such as WhatsApp, Google Maps, and email.

    Free Wi-Fi is available at our hotels and at many restaurants and cafés throughout Portugal.

  13. In Portugal, the most common outlet fits European pin plugs also known as the standard “Euro” outlet (see picture below). Portugal operates on 230V and 50Hz. Converters and/or adapters might be necessary for your electronic devices. 

  14. Due to the high elevation and the abundance of thick forests, the Sintra Mountains have their own microclimate. It is always slightly cooler in Sintra than in Lisbon or Porto. The temperature difference is most evident in the morning and at night when it gets cool and humid.

  15. Below are a few things that we suggest bringing to make your trip more comfortable:

    • Comfortable walking shoes (good traction & ankle support for cobblestone streets)
    • Light and warm jacket/coat/cardigan (for cooler days and nights and sunset cruise)
    • Bathing Suit (both hotels have a pool)
    • Rain jacket
    • Umbrella (for shade & rain)
    • Sunglasses
    • Hat
    • Small backpack or across-the-shoulder bag (for day trips)
    • Reusable water bottle (the tap water is very safe to drink and meets strict EU guidelines for safe clean water)
    • Adapters/converters for electronics (bring 2 or more just in case)
    • Prescription/over-the-counter medication (if needed)
    • Sunscreen 
    • A positive attitude & open mind!

    *Each hotel room has a hairdryer and shampoo, body soap, and hand soap. Please bring conditioner if you need it. 

  16. The tap water in Portugal is safe to drink. Many people consider the water in Sintra to be especially good, as it comes fresh from the surrounding mountains.

    In larger cities such as Lisbon, some travelers find the taste less appealing, but the water remains perfectly safe to drink. Bottled water is widely available if you prefer, but to help reduce plastic waste, we encourage you to bring a reusable water bottle.

  17. Most areas of Portugal that you will visit on this trip experience fewer crimes compared to bigger US and European cities. As with any travel destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and not to leave belongings unattended to avoid being an easy target for a thief.

    When going to larger cities such as Lisbon or Porto, pick-pocketing is more common and you should not put anything in your back pockets, especially when taking public transportation or at a crowded or touristy spot as thieves target these areas.

  18. Restaurants throughout Portugal offer a wide variety of foods. When making your reservation, please notify us of your specific requests such as gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, etc. Alternative options will always be possible throughout the trip although options might be limited.

  19. Please review the CDC Health Information for Travelers Website before traveling to Portugal to see any recommended vaccinations.

    If you suffer from pre-existing medical conditions or are concerned about what vaccinations may be right for you, we strongly advise that you visit a medical professional or your personal physician before your trip.

  20. We offer private trips to Portugal depending on the size of the group and availability.

    Please reach out to us at info@globe-drifters.com for more information.

Flights

Your arrival airport is Lisbon (LIS) and your departure airport is Porto (OPO).

*Please do not book any flights until you receive an email from us. You will receive an email regarding your trip within 1-2 business days of booking the trip.

Visa

Currently, US, Australian, Canadian, UK, and New Zealand passport holders traveling to Portugal for less than 90 days DO NOT need a visa.

If you are not a citizen of one of the above-mentioned countries, please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for information on visas and travel to Portugal.

As a general rule, passports should have at least six months of validity when traveling internationally. Most countries will not permit a traveler to enter their country unless the passport is set to expire at least six months after the final day of travel.

You will spend 6 nights in Sintra at a 150-year-old quinta, or villa estate, followed by 5 nights in Porto, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the Douro River and Porto’s colorful cityscape.

The Sintra hotel offers different room categories. When booking, you must choose your preferred room category. Refer to the ‘Rooms’ tab for more information.

Sintra

This 19th-century quinta (villa estate) was originally the summer home of a wealthy family from Lisbon. It offers a large terrace with views of the pool, the extensive property gardens, and the Moorish Castle of Sintra. It is located 10 minutes by foot from the center of Sintra where you’ll find many restaurants and shops.

The hotel has a variety of room types. When booking, you must choose your preferred room category. Refer to the ‘Rooms’ tab for more information. 

*IMPORTANT: Please note that this is an original historic hotel, with architecture and décor dating back to the 19th century. Amenities and soundproofing may not be as modern as what you’re used to at home.

Porto

Located in Porto’s charming Gaia neighborhood, this stylish boutique hotel offers exceptional panoramic views of the Douro River and Porto from its terrace. Its prime location places you within easy walking distance of the historic center, the riverfront, Port wine cellars, the Luís I Bridge, the cable car, an excellent selection of restaurants, cafés, and nearby attractions.

We’ll stay at the Sintra hotel for 6 nights. There are 5 room categories with rooms on the ground and first floors. The rooms in each category are all approximately the same size. When you book, you can select your preferred room category and floor.

Some rooms require an upgrade fee. If you’re sharing a room, there is no upgrade fee. We do not offer roommate pairing on this trip.

There is no elevator on the property so please keep this in mind when making your room selection. You can read the description of each room category below.

Each room has an ensuite bathroom, a hairdryer, a TV, heating, a wardrobe, and a fan. All rooms can be fitted with either 2 twin beds or 1 full bed.

Rooms are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis so the sooner you book, the better chance you have of geting your preferred room category.

The Obidos Room - First Floor

There is only 1 Óbidos room available and it is on the first floor. It can be set up with 1 full-sized bed or 2 twin beds and includes a small sitting area.

This room type has no upgrade fee and is best for a solo traveler.

The Évora Rooms - Ground Floor

There are 3 Évora rooms available on the ground floor. Each room can be set up with 1 full-sized bed or 2 twin beds. There are 4 small steps from the bathroom (inside the room) to the bedroom. Each room has a small sitting area.

This room type has no upgrade fee and is best for a solo traveler.

The Evora Rooms - First Floor

There are 3 Évora rooms available on the first floor. Each room can be set up with 1 full-sized bed or 2 twin beds. Each room has a small sitting area.

This room type has no upgrade fee and is best for a solo traveler.

The Porto Rooms - Ground Floor

There are 2 Porto rooms available on the ground floor. Each room can be set up with 1 full-sized bed or 2 twin beds. Each room has a small sitting area.

Upgrade fee: $150

The Porto Rooms - First Floor

There are 2 Porto rooms available on the first floor.Each room can be set up with 1 full-sized bed or 2 twin beds. Each room has a small sitting area.

Upgrade fee: $150

The Lisbon Room - Ground Floor

There is 1 Lisbon room available on the ground floor. It can be set up with 1 full-sized bed or 2 twin beds and it has a sitting area.

Upgrade fee: $150

The Lisbon Room - First Floor

There is 1 Lisbon room available on the first floor. It can be set up with 1 full-sized bed or two 2 beds and it has a sitting area. It also features a larger bedroom and bathroom.

Upgrade fee: $150

The Sintra Room - Ground Floor

The Sintra rooms are the largest on the property. There is 1 Sintra room available on the ground floor. It can be set up with 1 full-sized bed or 2 twin beds and has a sitting area. It also features a larger bedroom and bathroom as well as a view of the terrace and gardens.

Upgrade fee: $200

The Sintra Room - First Floor

The Sintra rooms are the largest on the property. There is 1 Sintra room available on the first floor. It can be set up with 1 full-sized bed or 2 twin beds and it has a sitting area. It also features a larger bedroom and bathroom as well as a view of the terrace and gardens.

Upgrade fee: $250

We recommend that you purchase trip/travel insurance for your trip. We work with Travelex which offers travel protection plans to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. Travel protection plans include coverage for trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical, emergency evacuation/repatriation, trip delay, baggage delay, and more. Otherwise, you are welcome to shop around online for a provider and policy that best suits your needs.

For more information on the recommended plans or to enroll, click on the image below or contact Travelex Insurance Services at 800-228-9792. Globe Drifters’ reference location number is 09-0984.

Trip insurance get a quote travelex

The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries. The full coverage terms and details, including limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy. Travelex CA Agency License #0D10209. All products listed are underwritten by, Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company, NAIC #22276. 11.17 E7N