Beach Paradise tour - 2 Days in Algarve (from Lisbon)

Day 1: Vasco da Gama Bridge: We will begin our tour by crossing the longest bridge in Europe, Vasco da Gama Bridge. The bridge was built in 1998 and inaugurated during Lisbon’s World Fair (Expo 98), celebrating the 500th anniversary of Vasco da Gama’s voyage and discovery of the ocean route to India from Europe. Setubal: Setubal is the capital city of this region. It is bathed by the only river in Portugal that flows from south to north, the River Sado. This city expanded immensely during the Roman Era due to the production of salt and the technique of salting fish. It was here that one of the most appreciated condiments of Ancient Greece and Rome was produced, “the Garum”. Leisure time to walk around the central shopping streets of Setubal and the seaport with its dazzling views of the peninsula of Troia. Alentejo Litoral: We will arrive at one of the most beautiful landscaped areas and beaches in Portugal. Stop at Vila Nova de Mil Fontes to observe the magnificent estuary of the Mira River, which spreads out to the Atlantic Ocean. Passage through the Southwest Alentejo Natural Park and a stop at the spectacular beach of Odeceixe with its stunning schist cliffs. Sagres: Sagres was the place chosen by Prince Henry the Navigator to establish the first nautical school in the world: The Nautical School of Sagres. This seaside region, privileged by nature, is an ideal stop for a relaxing lunch (optional). The Fortress of Sagres: The Nautical School of Sagres founded in 1416 by Prince Hanry the Navigator made the Portuguese the first Europeans to have the supremacy of the oceans, due to the inventions of the triangular sail, the caravel and the astrolabe. Visit to this world historical site. Cape of Saint Vincent: The Cape of Saint Vincent is the most southwestern point in continental Europe. This plateau enters splendidly into the sea and from it you can contemplate some of the most amazing views of the separation of the cold waters of the Atlantic and the warm waters of the Mediterranean and the coast of Africa. Lagos: Lagos has been a city o great commercial activity since the Middle Ages. This city was the starting point of the first Portuguese maritime expeditions to Africa. It was in Lagos that the trade of slaves, gold and other exotic products originating from the western coast of Africa first evolved. Leisure time to walk around in one of the most pleasant cities in Portugal and enjoy the local shops, sweets and pastries, and traditional items. (Overnight in Lagos)

Day 2: Ponta da Piedade: We will begin our second day with an exciting one hour boat ride in an area blessed by nature with crystal green waters that are ideal for a dive to explore the undersea caves formed by waves over millions of years. This was a place of refuge for pirates who inspired stories for so many writers and film makers. Praia Rocha: The mythic beach, Praia da Rocha, considered one of the most beautiful in the world, has always been a favorite summer holiday destination for European families, especially British. We will have time here, in this extremely cosmopolitan area, to walk along the boardwalk and have a refreshing drink and enjoy the sea-views and the spectacular beach. Portimao: Visit to Portimao’s well-known marketplace. Fishing continues to be the major industry of this city. Time to have lunch in one of the famous restaurants by the Arade River, where the catch of the day is the main dish. (Besides fish and seafood, there are also other excellent gastronomic options.) Silves: Silves, the former capital of Algarve, had its peak during the era of Moorish domination in Portugal. The Arade River was the main channel of communication with the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Goods, which delighted local merchants, arrived here from Africa, Mediterranean countries and all over Europe. Silves was conquered from the Moors by King Afonso III in 1249. We will visit the ancient medieval castle and walk around the old Arabian streets of Silves. Bridge 25 de Abril: Returning to Lisbon through “Ponte 25 de Abril”, an impressive suspension bridge which is a replica of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge in California and has become a symbol of Portugal’s capital since its construction in 1966. Return to lisbon - End of tour (overnight Lisbon) Upon request we will email you the full itinerary program