So Cal Explorers: Portugal awaits!

Join your fellow So Cal Explorers on an unforgettable journey to the Iberian Peninsula in 2026! Travel with friends, explore amazing destinations, and create lasting memories with Yvonne and Tony as your hosts. Ready for an adventure you'll never forget?

Discover Portugal

Experience the multilayered history and vibrant culture of Portugal on this immersive 8-day itinerary with an optional pre-tour 3- night stay in Lisbon. This National Geographic Journeys curated adventure takes you from the sun-drenched hills of Lisbon to the historic riverside wine cellars of Porto. This small-group trip features 4-star accommodations and an expert guide to ensure a thoughtful and deeply insightful travel experience.

Itinerary

Starting in Lisbon. Along the way, you will visit the fairytale hills of Sintra, the medieval streets of Évora, the historic town of Tomar, and the prestigious university city of Coimbra, before concluding your journey in vibrant Porto.

Dates:

Your adventure begins on September 20, 2026. Please ensure you arrive by 6:00 PM to join the group for our opening events.

For those joining our optional pre-tour extension in Lisbon, your journey begins with a departure from the U.S. on September 16, arriving in Portugal's vibrant capital on September 17.

Need to know:

Expert Travel Guide

Small group experience Max. 16

4-star accommodations

Light walking and hiking suitable for most fitness levels - Portugal's charming uneven terrain requires sturdy footwear and be prepared for plenty of walking

All travelers must 18 years or older

Mandatory Insurance required (Mandatory: $200,000 USD medical evacuation and repatriation coverage. )

Inclusions

7 nights accommodations (3 additional nights in Lisbon for optional pre-tour

7 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 1 dinner

Private transport to/from all included activities and between all destinations

Excursions & activities:

  • Lisbon Orientation Walk: Explore Pastel Palaces and Vibrant Plazas
  • Portuguese Fado Night: A Traditional Dinner Performance
  • Sintra: Guided Tour of the UNESCO-listed fairytale Pena Palace
  • Chapel of Bones visit in Evora erected by 16th-century Franciscan monks
  • Évora Cork Farm: Expert Tour & Traditional Lunch
  • Diana's Temple visit in Evora the best preserved Roman structure on the Iberian Peninsula
  • Knights Templar Historic Tour a vast medieval complex of the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Templar Castle, founded in 1160 
  • Guided tour of Coimbra University’s Mosaic Paths and Baroque Library

  • Porto Wine Visit: Discover the Art of Port Making and indulge in a Port Wine Cellar Tasting 

  • Douro River boat cruise on a typical Rabelo Boat along the riverbanks of Porto and Vila Novfa de Gaia

Costs

  • $2829 per person double occupancy tour only
  • $3828 per person single occupancy tour only

Optional pre-tour:

  • $630 per room for double occupancy on optional 3 night pre-tour hotel
  • $555 per room for single occupancy on optional pre-tour hotel 

(pre-tour accommodation prices are subject to change until booking confirmed)

Additional costs:

  • Airfare from USA to Lisbon, Porto to USA

  • Travel Insurance (Emergency Medical Insurance mandatory. For full peace of mind, we strongly suggest adding trip cancellation insurance too.)

  • Visas and other entry requirements
  • Transfers from airport/hotel/airport
  • Most meals (allows for exploring and experiencing authentic Portuguese food)
  • Additional optional activities and experiences during the pre-tour and during the tour
  • All gratuities and tips
  • Souvenirs or items of a personal nature

Find your travel tribe

Tired of traveling alone? Want to explore the world with like-minded people? The So Cal Explorers 2026 trip offers the perfect solution. Join our community and embark on an adventure of a lifetime.

Is this trip right for you?

It's perfect for those seeking a wonderful, hosted experience, exploring iconic sites and unique activities alongside a supportive group - especially for So Cal Explorers members and their friends who attend local So Cal Explorer events. If you haven't attended an event yet, there's still time. Bonding with members of the group? Save money on single supplements and share accommodations with fellow travelers!

Ready to explore?

Imagine yourself exploring breathtaking landscapes, sharing laughter with friends, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. The So Cal Explorers 2026 Discover Portugal trip is more than just a vacation; it's an opportunity to connect, discover, and grow.