Routes · Europe

Vancouver to Portugal: Lisbon, Sintra, Porto and the Douro Valley

Vancouver → Lisbon → Sintra → Porto → Douro Valley

Portugal coast & wine Best season (general guide): Apr–Oct (harvest mid-Sep)

This route travels north through Portugal, from the capital to the wine region of the Douro. It spends eight nights in the country. From Vancouver you'll connect through Europe or North America.

Lisbon's Alfama district climbs the hill below the castle. In Belém, the Jerónimos Monastery and the Tower of Belém are listed by UNESCO. Trams and viewpoints help you see the city's hills.

Sintra, a short trip from Lisbon, has the Pena Palace and the Quinta da Regaleira, set in forested hills. UNESCO lists the cultural landscape.

Take the train to Porto. The Ribeira district runs along the river, and the port lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia offer tastings. UNESCO lists Porto's historic centre.

Take the train up the Douro to Pinhão and visit a quinta. UNESCO lists the Alto Douro wine region. April to October is the best season, and the harvest begins in mid-September.

Pacing: Lisbon is hilly, so wear comfortable shoes and use the trams and funiculars. Book Pena Palace tickets ahead, and go early to avoid the crowds. Sintra is a short train ride from Lisbon.

The train from Lisbon to Porto is quick and comfortable. In Porto, walk across the Dom Luís I bridge to the port lodges, and book tastings ahead.

The Douro line follows the river to Pinhão, with beautiful views. Many quintas offer tours and tastings, but book in advance, especially during the harvest, when the vineyards are at their busiest.

Portuguese food is a highlight: pastéis de nata in Belém, grilled sardines in Lisbon, and francesinha in Porto. Each region also has its own wines, from vinho verde to port.

In the evening, fado houses in Alfama and Mouraria offer Portugal's traditional song.

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