Portugal 11-Day Trip

$4,450 USD – Trip cost per person (See below for inclusions and exclusions.)

A down payment of half the trip cost is needed to secure a spot on the trip. The other half is due 75 days before the trip start date.

*$300 of the down payment serves as an administration fee and is non-refundable. You can see our cancellation policy HERE.

Payments made by credit or debit card are subject to processing fees at the time of booking. These fees are non-refundable under any circumstances. To avoid these fees, you can pay via bank account which does not incur any processing fees.

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 in the hotel in Sintra 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 :

  • 10 nights accommodation (single occupancy)
  • Trip host throughout
  • All breakfasts, 5 lunches, 1 dinner
  • Activities as noted on the itinerary
  • Climatized ground transportation

What is not included :

  • Visa
  • Insurance
  • International flights
  • International airport pick-up & drop-off
  • Optional activities
  • Some lunches & dinners
  • 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 host
    Your trip host 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 host 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 host 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 medium level of physical fitness. Some Portuguese towns, such as Sintra, Lisbon and Porto, are in elevated areas and require some walking up- and downhill.

    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/tuk tuk for about 10 EUR each way in order to participate in this trip.

    To participate in this trip you should be able to:

    • Walk 1 – 2 miles throughout the day, up and down stairs, and over unpaved or cobblestone surfaces with and without an incline. The hotel in Sintra is a 10-min walk (0.5 mi) from town, mostly uphill and narrow. You’ll need to walk unassisted or take a taxi/Uber/tuk tuk (~10 EUR each way).
    • Be comfortable on your feet for up to 6 hours walking and standing, both indoors and outdoors, in all weather conditions.
    • Walk up and down 2 – 3 flights of stairs to and from your room. The hotel in Sintra has no elevator.
    • Carry your luggage from the van to the hotel. In Sintra, you will also need to carry it up 1 – 2 flights of stairs to your room as there is no porter service.
    • Get in and out of a van and a boat without assistance.

  3. A slowcation is a slower-paced type of travel during which you only stay in 1 or 2 “base” locations as your base and explore the area in-depth from your base. This differs from  a traditional tour in that you don’t have to pack up and move from place to place on a daily basis. It also allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and truly experience a place rather than stopping there quickly before moving on to the next place.

    Most days have planned activities and excursions with some meals included. In each place, you will usually have at least 1 free day where you get to choose what you want to do. Your host can recommend things to do during your free time. Whether it is organizing excursions with your fellow travelers, a happy hour, or just lounging by the pool; the choice is yours!

    Find out more about how our slowcations work by clicking here:  HOW IT WORKS.

  4. Each group usually consists of around  9 – 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 host, 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 host 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. Currently, US, Australian, Canadian, UK, and EU 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.

  9. 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.

  10. We strongly recommend using ATMs while in Portugal as they usually offer the best exchange rates. The easiest way is to withdraw money out from the ATM at the airport upon arrival and throughout your trip. It is always a good idea to carry some cash on you in case your bank puts a hold on your ATM card.

    You can find ATMs at almost all bank branches as well as at large supermarkets, gas stations, shopping malls, airports, and post offices. There are several banks in town so you won’t have any issues finding an ATM.

    Since euros are a popular currency, most banks in your home town/city will exchange your local currency for euros. This a very convenient way to get euros but be aware that some banks might not have favorable exchange rates or charge additional fees to exchange. It is best to check with your bank to see what fees are associated with exchanging money in your home town.

  11. Credit and debit cards are widely used in most towns and cities in Portugal. However, at small, local businesses such as coffee shops and bars, cash is the main method of payment. Therefore, it’s best to carry cash in case you come across a place that does not take card payments.

    It’s important to tell your bank and/or credit card company that you’ll be using your card in Portugal. Some banks block transactions in foreign countries or currencies if they haven’t been forewarned about your travel plans.

  12. While tipping isn’t mandatory in Portugal, it is customary. Rounding up the bill and leaving spare change at restaurants and cafes is the norm. If you do decide to tip, around 10-20% of the total bill is appreciated.

    Trip host: If you feel he/she did an exceptional job, then you can tip around 80 – 100 euros at the end of your trip based on past travelers’ feedback.

    Local day guides: A suggested tip is 5 ~ 10 euros per guide, per day/excursion/activity.

    Drivers: If you were satisfied with the drivers’ service on full-day tours, we suggest leaving 5 euros per day at the end of the day.

    For more information about tipping, please see our blog on tipping.

  13. We recommend having access to anywhere between 600 – 800 euros in cash or by credit/debit card. We strongly advise budgeting more than you plan to spend in case of an emergency.

  14. When using your phone overseas, be sure to check with your provider to get informed about data and call roaming prices before you travel. When you land, you will usually get a message from your provider that will give you the price of data, calls, and texts. See the example below:

    Welcome to Portugal! Your plan gives you unlimited data at up to 2G speeds and texts at no extra cost. Calls at 20 cents/min. Want our fastest data and unlimited calls? Get an International Pass for just $5/day. 

    You may consider contacting your service provider to learn about what kind of international plans they offer for calls, texts, and data.

  15. All hotels you will stay at offer free Wifi and most restaurants and other public places will offer it as well. Connection may be weak in your room and/or only available in the lobby or common areas of the hotel. Keep in mind that it may not be as fast and the connection may not be as strong as you are used to back home.

    If you absolutely need an internet connection, it is best to get an international plan for the duration of your stay.

  16. 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. 

  17. 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.

  18. 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)
    • Lightweight clothing that dries quickly
    • Warm clothing (for cooler days)
    • Light and warm jacket/coat/cardigan (for cooler days and nights)
    • Scarf (for colder days)
    • Rain jacket
    • Umbrella (for shade & rain)
    • Sunglasses
    • Hat
    • Small backpack or across-the-shoulder bag (for day trips)
    • Reusable water bottle
    • Flashlight/headlamp
    • Adapters/converters for electronics (bring 2 or more just in case)
    • Prescription/over-the-counter medication (if needed)
    • Sunscreen (biodegradable, if possible)
    • Conditioner (shampoo and soap provided)*
    • Washcloth
    • Extra bag for souvenirs (if needed)
    • A positive attitude & open mind!

    *In Sintra, each hotel room will be equipped with a hairdryer and generous-sized bottles of shampoo and body soap. It’s best to bring conditioner if you need it. In Porto, rooms will be provided with small toiletry kits.

  19. Laundry service is available at the hotels and takes less than 48 hours to complete. The price list will be available at the hotel reception.

  20. The tap water in Portugal is safe to drink and many consider tap water in the Sintra to be superior as it comes clean and fresh directly from the mountains.

    If you go to larger cities such as Lisbon, many travelers have said that they don’t enjoy the taste of the water in the bigger cities but it is still safe to drink. You will be able to purchase bottled water but to alleviate the plastic waste epidemic, we recommend a reusable filtered water bottle like LifeStraw or Grayl.

  21. 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.

  22. 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.

  23. 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.

  24. 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 24 – 48 hours of booking the trip.

Visa

Currently, US, Australian, Canadian, UK, and EU 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 stay in Sintra for 6 nights in a 150-year-old quinta (villa estate) and in Porto for 4 nights in a centrally located hotel with attentive service.

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.

Porto

This stylish hotel offers comfortable rooms in Porto’s historic center. Set on a lively street brimming with shops, restaurants, bars, and a nearby theater, you are just steps from top attractions like the Porto Cathedral, Avenida dos Aliados, and the famous Lello Bookshop. It boasts a trendy Italian restaurant that opens onto the street and a cozy bar with handcrafted cocktails to cap off the day.

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