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Portugal

The Best of Portugal: From the Age of Exploration to Today

Program No. 20983RJ
Discover the unique history of Portugal from a local perspective as you examine its architecture, heritage, universities and traditions of port wine on expert-led walks.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
10 days
Program Begins
Lisbon
Program Concludes
Porto
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
16 ( 8B, 3L, 5D )
Activity Level
In a land known for its explorers, make your own discoveries in Portugal on this journey to medieval monasteries, fertile vineyards and cities that are equal parts history and modern energy. This program combines field trips led by local experts with some time for independent exploration.
Best of all, you'll...
  • Examine architectural treasures of the Age of Discovery in Lisbon and enjoy a lively evening of music at a fado house.
  • Set off on a trip to one of the world’s oldest universities, the University of Coimbra, founded in 1290.
  • Taste and learn about port wine at the vineyards of the Alto Douro Wine Region.
General Notes
Program includes independent time to explore the city and several meals on your own. Group Leaders will provide directions for self-directed excursions and suggestions for free-time activities.
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Paula Bizarro Moreira
Paula Moreira was born in Portugal and currently lives in Lisbon. She enjoys art, learning about different cultures and cinema. She has taken a variety of different courses ranging from art and image to Judaism and Jewish heritage in Portugal. Paula also speaks four languages. Since 1980, she has been leading groups throughout Europe and has worked as a consultant in tourism product planning, designing and development. Paula studied psychology, tourism and cinema at University in Lisbon, receiving a master’s degree in psychology.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
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Adriana Alves
Adriana Alves earned her master's degree in strategic management of travel destinations. Adriana is an energetic and knowledgeable group leader who delights in sharing her experiences as well as cultural, historical information on Portugal with Road Scholar participants. She is fluent in English and her native Portuguese.
Profile Image of Luisa Gomes
Luisa Maria Gonçalves Gomes
Luisa Gomes graduated with a degree in Tourism from the Superior School of Tourism of Lisbon and has been working as a National leader since 1992. Her interests range from art history and languages to geography and religious studies. She continues to take many courses at various universities and cultural centers in Lisbon to further her knowledge. Luisa is fluent in French, English, and loves to travel throughout her home country, bringing her course work and expansive knowledge to every program she leads.
Profile Image of Ana Maria Mayordomo Cunha
Ana Maria Mayordomo Cunha
Ana Maria was born in Porto to a Spanish mother and a Portuguese father. She has lived most of her life in Lisbon. Ana Maria has been a yoga teacher since 2003, and was for a time the head of the travel department of the Portuguese Yoga Confederation, organizing group travel to Spain, Italy, Peru, the UK, India and Egypt. She has been involved with Road Scholar as a Group Leader and as a speaker. Her interests include trekking and sustainability/environmental protection initiatives.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Varies by date
Small Group (13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List (16 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call 800-454-5768
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Peace of Mind

We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. That’s why we go to the ends of the earth to give you peace of mind, from the moment you enroll until the day you return home.

Assurance Plan

Road Scholar's continued commitment to our participants and their well-being is exemplified whether participating on a program in the United States or on one of our International programs, every Road Scholar participant receives coverage under our Road Scholar Assurance Plan.

Want to Protect Your Investment?

Road Scholar is pleased to offer its Trip Protection Plan as a way to protect your program investment. You may purchase this optional trip protection plan when enrolling in your program.

Sustainable Travel

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Read about our commitment to a more sustainable planet.