Colorful Coastal Portugal Medieval Castles, Lisbon and Madeira Island

Colorful Costal Portugal Medieval Castles, Lisbon and Madeira Island

september 18-27, 2025
10 days / 9 nights

Overall Trip Highlights

Historic Lisbon Exploration: Visit the Castle of São Jorge and stroll through Lisbon’s vibrant neighborhoods filled with history and charm.
Fairytale Pena Palace in Sintra: Discover the enchanting Pena Palace, a former royal summer home surrounded by lush gardens.
Porto Walking Tour: Cross the Ponte Dom Luis Bridge and explore Porto’s historic streets, colorful tiles, and riverside views.
Douro Valley Wine Cruise: Explore the scenic Douro Valley, on a leisure cruise while sipping on local wine.
Whale and dolphin watching cruise
4×4 Jeep Adventure in Madeira: Experience an exciting 4×4 jeep tour, driving through Eucalyptus forests and scenic lookouts.
Old Funchal & Monte: Explore Old Funchal’s markets and head to the picturesque town of Monte for more local charm.

September 18-27th, 2025
10 Days / 9 Nights

Group Size: 10-12 Guests

Note: This itinerary serves as a general guide to what we will be doing, seeing, and eating, with the final version provided approximately two weeks prior. The published itinerary is an example and may be adjusted to include accommodations, tours, or restaurants of comparable quality to ensure the best experience.

Single Occupancy	Double Occupancy
$7,650	$6,850
Private Room with Private Bath	Shared Room, Separate Beds, Shared Bath
Deposit Due at Time of Booking: $250 for Domestic/$500 for International	Deposit Due at Time of Booking: $250 for Domestic/$500 for International
Single Occupancy – Sold Out Click for Waitlist	Double Occupancy – Sold Out Click for Waitlist

Beatrice Bradley Experiences are All Inclusive. What does that mean?

Airport Group Transfers: Seamless airport pickups and drop-offs by our friendly hostesses, ensuring a smooth start and end to your adventure.
Dedicated BB Hostess: Travel with peace of mind knowing a dedicated Beatrice Bradley hostess will be with you throughout the trip, ensuring every aspect of your journey is unforgettable.
Full Dining: Enjoy 2-3 daily meals carefully selected to reflect the local cuisine, inclusive of all tips. Whether it’s a quick breakfast or a sumptuous dinner, we’ve got it all covered.
Unique Accommodations: Stay in boutique hotels or unique properties that are handpicked for their charm and comfort, providing an authentic and intimate experience.
Curated Activities: We find the BEST of the best tours. Making the absolute most out of our time.
Included Gratuities: Tips for tour guides, meals, and transportation are all taken care of. We ensure that those who make your trip special are rewarded, without you needing to worry about the details.
Transportation: All transportation is included throughout the experience, from airport pickup to your final drop-off.
You won’t see “Free Days” on our itineraries: Our trips are made for a balanced experience. We carve out time to bond, laugh, shop and explore but we will never just send you out on your own and say “good luck” we do everything together or smaller group breakouts.

With Beatrice Bradley, every detail is meticulously planned to ensure you have a memorable and carefree travel experience. Join us and discover the joy of true hassle-free travel!

We Offer Flex-Pay! What is that?

Flexible Payments at Your Fingertips: You can use your invoice to pay any amount you choose, as frequently as you wish, until the full payment deadline.

Want to make a payment? Click “Review and Pay” on your invoice whenever you’re ready.

Pay Your Way: You can adjust the payment amount by selecting “Edit Amount,” allowing you to manage your budget flexibly.

Final Countdown: Ensure everything is paid up 60 days prior to your trip for domestic and 90 days prior for international. Don’t worry, we’ll send you reminders! If there’s any remaining balance, we’ll automatically process it, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your upcoming adventure!

Arrival Information	Departing Information
LIS – Humberto Delgado Airport	LIS – Humberto Delgado Airport
September 18. 2025 Depart the USA on the 17th	September 27. 2025
Pick up times will vary	Flights at 11am or later

This trip offers a well-balanced mix of exploration and relaxation, perfect for those looking to enjoy a variety of experiences at a comfortable pace. Expect leisurely walking tours through charming towns, historical sites, and vibrant markets. The itinerary includes scenic drives, gentle hikes, and opportunities to savor local culture, with plenty of time to rest between activities. Most outings are moderate in intensity, with some walking on cobblestone streets and gentle inclines, allowing you to fully enjoy Portugal’s beauty without feeling rushed.

Sara Barthel and Suzanne Ray are set to be your fabulous hosts—but stay tuned, as our dazzling hostess lineup is always subject to a little delightful change!

As your hostesses, we understand that traveling solo can be intimidating, but rest assured, making you feel welcomed and comfortable is our top priority. Our experiences are designed for building new and lasting friendships in a warm and welcoming environment.

From the moment you arrive until we bid you farewell, we’ll be right by your side. We meticulously handle all the details and manage the logistics seamlessly behind the scenes, ensuring your journey is truly unique and worry-free. While we aren’t local experts or tour guides, we work with a network of local professionals carefully selected for each location to enrich your experience.

Read more about our Hostesses Here

Thinking about joining us?

If you’re on the fence or have any questions, we’re here to help. Simply fill out this form to get in touch. We can’t wait to assist you in planning an unforgettable adventure!

If you have any immediate questions, please feel free to get in touch: 763-864-8291 | Lindsay@bbgage.com

Ready to book? We’re happy to have you!

Book Here

Don’t just tour Portugal, Experience Portugal

Every Beatrice Bradley trip is crafted to maximize the experiences had during the trip.
The itineraries are specially made to allow time for engaging in conversation and having belly laughs with a new friend. We hope that the activities and experiences may allow you to come out of your comfort zone and to try new or unique things.
These trips are made to replicate a ‘friends get-away trip’.

Day One: Welcome to Lisbon!

Upon your arrival in Lisbon, you’ll be transported from the airport to your hotel, where you can settle in and relax. For those arriving early, we’ll send you information about the hotel and some suggestions for exploring the vibrant downtown area on your own before the group gathers.

Once everyone has arrived, we’ll meet at 6:30 PM in the hotel bar for a warm welcome drink, a perfect opportunity to get to know your fellow travelers. Afterward, we’ll head out for a delightful dinner, where you’ll enjoy authentic Portuguese cuisine and experience the flavors and fun of Lisbon.

Highlights

Arrival in Lisbon: Transportation from the airport to your hotel.
Welcome Gathering: Join us at 6:30 PM in the hotel bar for a welcome drink and group introductions.
Welcome Dinner: Enjoy a memorable dinner with delicious Portuguese cuisine in a vibrant setting.

Fun Fact: Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in Europe, predating even Rome by centuries!

Day Two: Exploring Lisbon, Castle of São Jorge, and a Cooking Class

Start the day with a group breakfast at 8 AM before heading out around 9:15 AM for a guided exploration of Lisbon. Our local guide will take us through Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods, where we’ll visit the impressive Castle of São Jorge, a 15th-century fortress offering stunning views over the city. As we stroll through charming districts filled with old shops, cafés, and theaters, you’ll also hear stories of the devastating 1755 earthquake and how Lisbon was rebuilt afterward.

We’ll enjoy lunch together at a local café, followed by some free time to explore downtown Lisbon or shop at your own pace. In the evening, we’ll head to the Lisbon Cooking School for an exciting cooking class. You’ll learn how to prepare traditional Portuguese dishes while sampling wines from various regions of Portugal. The evening will conclude with a shared dinner featuring the delicious dishes you helped create.

Highlights

Guided Walking Tour: Discover Lisbon’s history and culture, including a visit to the 15th-century Castle of São Jorge.
Lunch Together: Enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local café after the morning tour.
Free Time in Downtown Lisbon: Take time to shop or explore Lisbon’s vibrant downtown.
Cooking Class: Participate in a hands-on cooking experience, preparing Portuguese dishes and tasting regional wines.
Dinner Together: End the day with a delicious dinner featuring the dishes from your cooking class.

Fun Fact: Lisbon’s Castle of São Jorge offers some of the best views of the city, stretching all the way to the Tagus River!

Day Three: Fairytale Palace and Scenic Coastal Route

After breakfast together, we’ll depart the hotel at 9 AM for a full day of adventure. Our journey takes us along the scenic coastal route to the enchanting town of Sintra, known for its whimsical architecture and rich history. The highlight of the day is a visit to Pena Palace, a fairytale-like castle that was once the summer residence of the Portuguese monarchy. This unique palace is famous for its vibrant colors, intricate tilework, and beautiful ceramic details.

After touring the palace and its lush gardens, we’ll enjoy a delightful lunch in Sintra, surrounded by the town’s charm.

In the afternoon, we’ll head north to Porto, where we’ll check into a lovely hotel along the Douro River. After some time to freshen up, we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, followed by an optional evening walk along the river in Porto’s safe and charming atmosphere.

Highlights

Visit to Pena Palace: Explore the magical summer residence of the Portuguese monarchy in Sintra.
Lunch in Sintra: Savor a relaxing meal in this charming town before continuing our journey.
Scenic Drive to Porto: Enjoy the ride to Porto and check into a riverside hotel along the famous Douro River.
Dinner in Porto: End the day with a wonderful dinner at a local restaurant, followed by an optional evening stroll along the river.

Fun Fact: Cabo do Roca is not only the westernmost point of mainland Europe, but it was also considered by ancient Romans to be the end of the world!

Day Four: Famous Ponte Dom Luis Bridge and a Little Harry Potter Magic

After a delicious breakfast at 9:00 AM, we’ll set off at 10:00 AM for a walking tour of Porto, a city known for its dramatic beauty and rich history. Porto’s hilly streets offer stunning views, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes for exploring. We’ll cross the iconic Ponte Dom Luis Bridge, which spans more than 1,000 feet above the Douro River, providing postcard-perfect views of the city’s colorful rooftops and charming architecture.

As we navigate Porto’s streets, we’ll visit key landmarks with our local guide, including the famous Lello Bookstore, which inspired J.K. Rowling during her time in Porto and influenced her writing of Harry Potter. We’ll also stop by the historic São Bento Railway Station, renowned for its beautiful Portuguese tilework that tells the story of the country’s past.

After a day of exploring, we’ll enjoy another wonderful dinner at a local restaurant, savoring Porto’s rich culinary traditions.

Highlights

Walking Tour of Porto: Explore the hilly, picturesque streets of Porto, with stunning views from the Ponte Dom Luis Bridge.
Ponte Dom Luis Bridge: Cross this iconic bridge for breathtaking views of the Douro River and Porto’s skyline.
Visit to Lello Bookstore: Step into the magical bookstore that inspired J.K. Rowling, filled with literary history.
São Bento Railway Station: Admire the historic tilework in one of Portugal’s most beautiful train stations.
Dinner in Porto: End the day with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, experiencing the best of Porto’s cuisine.

Fun Fact: The Lello Bookstore, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores, is said to have inspired parts of Hogwarts in the Harry Potter series!

Day Five: Wines and a Foodie Dream in the Douro Valley

Start the day with breakfast at 8 AM before we depart around 9:15 AM for a full-day adventure in the breathtaking Douro Valley, one of Portugal’s most scenic regions.

After a quick drive we will arrive on the docks to board our scenic leisure cruise viewing Douro River Valley from the water while enjoying lunch and local wine aboard.

After returning to the hotel, you can unwind pre group dinner in town.

Highlights

Visit to A&D Organic Winery: Tour a historic organic vineyard and learn about sustainable winemaking while enjoying a tasting.
Douro Valley River Cruise: Tour the area via a leisure boat ride
Evening Relaxation: End the day relaxing back at the hotel with a final glass of wine.

Fun Fact: The Douro Valley is one of the world’s oldest wine regions, known for its port wine and dramatic terraced vineyards carved into the hillsides!

Day Six: Madeira, Here We Come!

Start the morning with breakfast at 7:30 AM and enjoy some free time to take a last stroll along the River area near the hotel, capturing a few final photos of Porto’s beautiful surroundings. Be ready to depart for the airport at 9:45 AM, as we’ll be flying to the enchanting island of Madeira at 12:30 PM.

Madeira, a Portuguese territory known for its rich history, amazing food, and world-famous wines, is a lush paradise full of scenic mountain views and colorful flowers. After arriving, we’ll head to our stunning hotel, the PortoBay Mare, a true botanical wonderland. You’ll have time to explore the beautiful grounds, relax, or take a swim in the pool before dinner.

In the evening, we’ll enjoy an early dinner at a nearby restaurant, where we’ll dine al fresco and take in the lush surroundings. Afterward, we’ll take a leisurely walk back to the hotel.

Highlights

Morning Stroll by the River: Enjoy a final walk along Porto’s scenic river before departing for the airport.
Flight to Madeira: Experience the beauty of this lush Portuguese island.
Check-In at PortoBay Mare: Explore the botanical gardens and relax at the pool of our beautiful hotel.
Early Dinner: Savor a delicious meal just a short walk from the hotel, enjoying the lush scenery of Madeira.

Fun Fact: Madeira is often called the “Island of Eternal Spring” due to its year-round mild climate and stunning displays of flowers that bloom across the island!

Day Seven: Exploring Madeira by Jeep

Start your day with breakfast at 8 AM, post breakfast we will head out for our full day jeep tour exploring the island of Madeira. We will enjoy stops and a light lunch along the way.

Later, we’ll regroup at the hotel before heading out for another wonderful dinner that evening.

Day Eight: Tour of Funchal and Dolphin and Whale Watching

Post breakfast we will head our for a walking tour of Funchal. We will enjoy a nice lunch by the ocean before boarding our afternoon dolphin and whale watching cruise.

After a great day out, we will refresh at the hotel before heading to dinner.

We’ll conclude the day with a delicious dinner in Old Funchal, surrounded by the beauty and history of the city.

Highlights

Walking Tour of Funchal: Explore the markets, historic buildings, and artisanal heritage.
Lunch by Ocean: Enjoy lunch by the water pre boat cruise
Whale and Dolphin Watching: Enjoy a nice afternoon on the ocean looking for whales and dolphins.

Day Nine: Choose your adventure day and head back Lisbon

We’ll begin the day with breakfast together at 8:30 AM at the hotel before picking our adventures and heading out for a few hours.

Optional adventures includes a swim at the local tide pools, famous basket ride down the mountain, or cable car and botanical garden. We will meet back up for a light lunch before grabbing out bags and heading back to Lisbon.

Goodbye dinner near the airport hotel in Lisbon.

Highlights

Pick your adventures day
Farewell Dinner: End the day with a fun and memorable dinner, celebrating the amazing journey we’ve had.

Fun Fact: Madeira’s unique Eucalyptus forests not only provide beautiful scenery but also fill the air with a refreshing, aromatic scent that adds to the island’s natural charm!

Day Ten: Departure Day

Our journey comes to an end as we have a last breakfast together at the hotel before departing for the airport.

Highlights

Early Morning Departure: Post breakfast at hotel, head to the airport at your leisure
Flight to US: Safe travels on your journey home to the USA.

Fun Fact: Lisbon Airport is one of the busiest in Europe, connecting travelers from all over the world to Portugal’s beautiful landscapes and rich culture!