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Portugal is a vibrant tapestry of coastal charm and rich history, from its colourful waterfront towns to sun-washed historic hills. Experience an intriguing mix of maritime heritage and modern culture as you explore lively Porto, coastal Nazaré, and iconic Lisbon. Explore ancient castle ramparts, bake sweet local pastries, and meet a local big wave surfer to hear firsthand stories. In this captivating land of giant swells, traditional blue tiles, and winding medieval streets, there is something to delight every member of the family.
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Sarah
Petra
CharlotteWelcome to Porto–your arrival transfer to the hotel is included. Check in and get excited to meet your fellow travellers during a welcome meeting this evening where all families can bond before the Journey ahead. We recommend arriving a day or two early to fully explore this lively city. There are no planned activities until an evening welcome meeting.
Kick off your adventure on an orientation walk led by your National Geographic Expedition Leader, following winding lanes past Porto's historic landmarks and granite architecture. The afternoon is yours to explore at your family's own pace, browsing atmospheric bookstores together or zipping through the city's hilly streets on an optional tuk-tuk ride. Later, head to the World of Wine cultural space for a hands-on workshop where kids and parents join forces to craft chocolate cake-pops together.
Head south to Aveiro, Portugal's coastal town woven with waterways, for a cruise aboard a colourful, traditional moliceiro boat. Taste local pastries and sip refreshing drinks as you drift past brightly painted waterfront houses. Afterwards, take a short walk through town with your Expedition Leader and sit down for a fresh local lunch. Continue your journey to the coastal town of Nazaré, then ride the historic funicular railway up to the cliffside Sítio neighbourhood for vast ocean views before heading to your hotel for an evening at your leisure.
This morning, meet a local big wave surfer to hear stories about riding Nazaré's giant ocean waves. Next, head into a protected bay for a surf or stand-up paddleboard lesson tailored to the day's conditions. Enjoy free time for lunch at a beachside café, stroll the sand, or visit the cliffside surf museum. Tonight, kids paint traditional Portuguese blue-and-white azulejo tiles while parents settle in for a relaxing dinner nearby.
Travel toward Lisbon, stopping along the way in Óbidos. Walk along ancient castle ramparts and stone towers in this fully intact medieval town before continuing to the capital. Enjoy a relaxed lunch together before climbing aboard the HippoTrip amphibious bus. Tour Lisbon's historic streets listening to local legends that reveal the city's highlights and hidden gems along the way. Then, hold on as your bus transforms into a boat and plunges directly into the Tagus River. Spend the evening exploring the city's neighbourhoods at your own pace.
Drive to the coastal town of Cascais for free time to walk its seaside boardwalks and feel the ocean spray. Continue along the coast to Cabo da Roca, stopping at its historic lighthouse to take in sweeping views from the westernmost edge of continental Europe. In the afternoon, take a guided family tour through the colourful, fairytale-like towers of Pena Palace in Sintra before returning to Lisbon for a relaxed evening.
Team up for an interactive scavenger hunt through Alfama, Lisbon's oldest neighbourhood. Solve riddles together as you navigate Praça do Comércio, Carmo Convent, and the Fantastic World of Portuguese Sardines. Rest up at the hotel before gathering with your fellow travelling families for a final dinner together.
Depart at any time.
Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.
We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage. You must be prepared to carry your luggage up and down stairs, on and off transportation, and to hotels (max 15-20 mins.) It should also be noted that baggage should adhere to strict airline weight limits - 15kg for checked luggage and 6kg for hand luggage.
Documents: • Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border) • Insurance info (required) (With photocopies) • Passport (required) (With photocopies) • Vouchers and pre-departure information (required) • Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies) Essentials: • Footwear (required) (Closed toe suggested) • Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.) • Binoculars (optional) • Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries) • Cash, credit and debit cards • Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights) • Ear plugs • First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking) • Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal) • Fleece top/sweater • Hat • Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended) • Locks for bags • Long pants/jeans • Moneybelt • Outlet adapter • Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.) • Reusable water bottle • Shirts/t-shirts • Sleepwear • Small travel towel • Sunglasses • Swimwear • Watch and alarm clock • Waterproof backpack cover • Windproof rain jacket Health & Safety: • Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.) • Hand sanitizer • Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.) Smart Dress: • Smart outfit (For evenings out) Warm Weather: • Sandals/flip-flops • Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended) • Sturdy water shoes/sandals • Sun hat/bandana • Swimwear
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