Day 1 UK to Cascais
Today, Just You’s Private Chauffeur Service will collect you from home for your flight to Lisbon, where on arrival we'll transfer you to your hotel in the coastal town of Cascais. After checking in, unpack and relax, then use your free time to explore the hotel or head into the town before meeting up with your travelling companions for a welcome drink and dinner at the hotel. D
Day 2 Christmas Eve - Óbidos
We're off to the hilltop town of Óbidos today. Home to a striking castle, the town stuns all year round – but at Christmas it really takes things to the next level with its colourful decorations, twinkling lights and festive Christmas Village. The compact historic heart of the town is easy to explore on foot, and consists of narrow cobbled streets lined with white houses and small, independent shops. Why not pick up local specialties such as cherry liqueur or artisanal handicrafts during free time here before we head back to the hotel and enjoy dinner together. B,D
Day 3 Christmas Day - Cascais
Feliz Natal! Today is a day to spend in the way that makes you happiest. You'll have a joyful Christmas lunch with your fellow travellers at the hotel, as well as a festive Portuguese dinner later on. Otherwise, choose your own activities. You might want to explore the gorgeous beaches and gardens of Cascais, or go shopping for souvenirs on Rua Direita, the main street. B,L,D
Day 4 Boxing Day - Sintra and Cabo da Roca
Whether you consider yourself a history buff or just have an eye for beauty, you're sure to fall in love with Sintra, where we're going today. This UNESCO-listed town is jam-packed with breathtaking, historically significant architecture, from the grand villas belonging to local residents to the multiple palaces that dominate the skyline.
We'll start with a tour of Sintra National Palace, with its unmistakable twin chimneys and lavish painted interiors. Before heading back to the hotel we'll visit the Cabo da Roca Lighthouse, the beautifully isolated building that marks the westernmost point of continental Europe. B,D
Day 5 Lisbon
Something completely different is on the agenda today, as we make our way to Lisbon for a change of pace. The Portuguese capital is renowned for its Christmas lights, which put on a dazzling display all over the city.
Discover a wealth of historic architecture in the Moorish Quarter and climb the iconic Belém Tower, which sits on the beautiful River Tagus. In the Maritime Museum, we'll then learn about Portugal's long history of naval exploration. Look out for the figurine of the archangel Raphael, which travelled all the way to India with the explorer Vasco da Gama – and back. B,D
Day 6 Coimbra - Oporto
Coimbra was the medieval capital of Portugal and the legacy of that important role is still very apparent, as we'll discover on our visit to the city today. Architectural highlights include the ancient University of Coimbra and the magnificent New Cathedral, which, despite its name, opened in the 17th century. Next we'll pass through historic Óbidos once more, before continuing on to the bustling city of Oporto, your base for the remainder of your festive holiday. B,D
Day 7 Porto
It's famous for producing port wine, which is indeed delicious, but there's more to Porto than just a great drink! Today we'll tour its highlights, from the Baroque marvel that is Clérigos Church to the centuries-old Lello Bookstore, where books run all the way up to the carved ceiling (an entrance fee applies). Over lunch, take the time to explore solo, or stick with your fellow travellers and enjoy lunch in one of the excellent local restaurants. Afterwards, we'll wander through the winding cobbled streets of historic Ribeira and admire the Neoclassical opulence of the 19th century Stock Exchange Palace. B,D
Day 8 Guimarães
The city of Guimarães is our next exciting stop. This is where the first king of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, was born, so it plays a key part in the country's story. Our visit today will cover the scenic square of Largo da Oliveira and a host of historic buildings, including an atmospheric ruined castle. You'll have some free time for lunch and your own explorations before we move on to Vila Real to drink in the simply astonishing beauty of the 18th century Mateus Palace. B,D
Day 9 New Year's Eve - Viana do Castelo
Most of today will be spent on an excursion to Viana do Castelo. Prepare to be amazed by the beauty of this area, which has an abundance of all that makes the Costa Verde and Minho regions so special. In contrast with the verdant landscapes and sweeping coastline, the city itself buzzes with an industrial vitality that comes from its long history of shipbuilding. Famous sights include the Pousada de Viana do Castelo, an elegant early 20th century building perched on leafy Monte de Santa Luzia.
In the evening, we'll be welcoming the new year with an all-out celebration at a wonderful gala dinner complete with live music and dancing. B,D
Day 10 New Year's Day - Porto
New Year's Day is usually slow-paced, so you'll have the day to yourself to relax or explore as you choose. After brunch at the hotel, you could unwind in your room or with your fellow travellers, or wander through Porto shopping for souvenirs and taking in cultural highlights like the ornate Soares dos Reis National Museum.
Back at the hotel this evening we'll gather for a farewell dinner. B,D
Day 11 Porto to UK
Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before we transfer you to the airport for your flight back to the UK. Upon arrival, your Just You’s Private Chauffeur Service will be waiting for the journey home. B