Picturesque Portugal
DATES TBD
The Edge of Europe
PhotoFly Travel Club brings you another amazing adventure which sold out in 24 hours in 2023! Portugal rewards those who wander with open eyes. Compact yet deeply layered, it marries a proud seafaring past with an easygoing contemporary pulse - sunlit azulejo tiles, cobbled lanes, and café tables drifting into the street. From Lisbon’s tram-lined hills to Porto’s wine-soaked riverfront, history is always close at hand, balanced by creativity, innovation, and exceptional value for travelers. Venture to the stone village of Piódão, one of the country’s best-kept secrets, where tradition and charm feel untouched by time. In central Portugal, Coimbra awaits, home to one of Europe’s oldest universities, its medieval streets cascading toward the Mondego River and age-old customs woven into everyday life. Add soulful cuisine, warm hospitality, and the drama of the Atlantic coast, and Portugal reveals itself not just as a place to visit but a country that invites you back again and again.
"I just returned from my first PhotoFly trip to Portugal & the Azores and it definitely will NOT be my last! I legit loved everything about it - the tour director Stevyn was amazing (and all of the other tour guides along the way as well). Accommodations, what we saw, other travelers on the trip - honestly everything was executed so brilliantly. I cannot wait to go again, thanks Stevyn and Photofly!" - Bonnie, Portugal & Azores'25
Email us at joinus@photoflytravel.com for the daily itinerary!
Portugal (9 Nights/10 Days)
"Portugal’s 1,000 miles of shore and California-style climate are attracting travelers in record numbers. Beyond the glorious beaches, this ancient nation is crammed with heritage ranging from Stone Age graffiti to villages clustered beneath medieval castles and forests filled with romantic palaces. Its lifestyle is laidback; its food and wine fabulous. Five hundred years ago, Portuguese explorers opened up the world; now it’s time to discover this little land of many wonders." - Frommer's
Porto & the North (3 Nights)
"Craggy mountain wilderness, towering medieval castles and hilltop vineyards with jaw-dropping views are among the many attractions awaiting you on a day trip from Porto. Whether you’re seeking a nature escape with rugged trails and waterfalls or want to explore some surprisingly amorous elements of village life in the Minho, Porto makes an ideal gateway to the wonders of northern Portugal." - Lonely Planet
The Capital of the North
"Porto’s charms are as subtle as the nuances of an aged tawny port, best savoured slowly on a romp through the hilly backstreets of Miragaia, Ribeira and Massarelos. It’s the quiet moments of reflection and the snapshots of daily life that you’ll remember most: the slosh of the Douro against the docks; the snap of laundry drying in river winds; the sound of port glasses clinking; the sight of young lovers discreetly tangled under a landmark bridge, on the rim of a park fountain, in the crumbling notch of a graffiti-blasted wall…" - Lonely Planet
- Privately guided walking tour: Discover & photograph the impressive D. Luis Bridge, City Hall, & Clérigos Tower while learning about the city's fascinating history. Other highlights include visits to the Stock Exchange Palace, Music Hall, & Oporto’s Cathedral.
- The most colorful & lively district: In the heart of the old town along the riverbank we'll discover Ribeira, the most picturesque part of the city. Capture stunning photographs of the colorfully decorated facades reflecting off the Douro River. Did we mention it's here where they produce the world-famous port wine?
- Indulge in Porto's delicious delicacies: Visiting Porto isn't complete without tasting her fantastic cuisine. We'll scour the streets for the best restaurants to eat like a local, with a local!
Douro Valley
"The Douro Valley could as easily be called the enchanted valley, such is the beauty and magic that its landscapes offer." - Visit Portugal
- Wine tasting while exploring the valley: We'll start our road trip along the route that offers the best vistas, stopping for photos as we go. A visit to Douro is not complete without tasting the "fruits" of her rich & fertile lands: the delicious wine!
- Cruise on the Douro: We'll relax on a sail through the lush landscapes of the Douro Valley along the river of the same name.
Central Portugal & Her Mountain Villages (2 Night)
"Finding hidden treasures in Central Portugal is the feeling one embodies after walking amidst the mountains and rivers that lead to the mountain Villages of Portugal. A world of secular trails connecting each unique village to another, where centuries of history, tradition, and landscape remain preserved." - Portugal A2Z
Piódão, the Ultimate Mountain Village
This "small village nestled up in the mountains of the Serra do Açor looks like it is out of a fairytale. Piodão is one of 12 classified as Aldeias Históricas de Portugal – Historical Villages of Portugal and has been featured in historical accounts since the 14th century. It was probably used by medieval fugitives hiding in the wild Portuguese mountains. Indeed, on a rainy day you should look from the other side of the mountain to see the village coming out of the fog." - The Guardian
Free time in Piódão: This is the perfect place to wander the narrow streets and peculiar alleys made of shale rock. Tons of photographs to capture around every corner. Savor a taste of the local flavors for lunch
and don't forget to try the tasty cajadas – milk tarts!
Exploring Foz d'Égua: This moderate hike begins in Piódão and takes us to an idyllic and unforgettable little village. Take in the historic architecture and well-maintained schist houses. The "iconic" spot to capture is near the two stone bridges that cross the village streams, giving way to a picturesque river beach.
Convent of the Soothing of the Blessed Sacrament: This historical landmark and former 18th-century convent is our hotel for the night! When the last nun of the convent died at the beginning of the 19th century the building became a military hospital until it was ultimately converted into a pousada (historical hotel) at the beginning of the 21st century.
The Schist Villages: Talesnal & Casal de São Simão
"The 27 schist (shale) villages that have been beautifully preserved in the center of Portugal are scattered across the countryside, with the most crucial cluster in the Lousã Mountains. Talesnal is considered the prettiest example, with much loved Ti Lena restaurant at its heart. Try the goat, baked with chestnuts from the surrounding mountains, or stop at one of the village shops for a talasnico, a pastry made with local honey, chestnuts, and almonds." - CN Traveler | "The stone houses of (Casal de São Simão) are built side by side and imbue a special character of belonging and a strong sense of community. The village was built by men who derived their sustenance from the land: in the valley bathed by Ribeira do Fato, vegetable gardens were sown, while in Ribeira de Alge, stone millstones ground cereals to make bread. Today, simple tales of this occupation are an important part of the local villager's identity." - From fragasdesaosimao.pt
The Prettiest Village: "The most beautiful of the 27 schist villages. Remote & hidden, small & beautiful beyond belief, quiet, surrounded by pristine nature; Talasnal checks all the boxes for a perfect escape from the buzzing world." - Road Trips Around the World. This must-stop is yet another opportunity to snap fantastic images while enjoying the peace & quiet of the mountains
Fragas de São Simão Walkway: The wooden paths embrace dramatic granite landscapes, steep hills, an enchanting valley, and also vestiges of laurel forest. We'll encounter a "Hobbit-like" hermitage and river beach, where the Alge stream rips through the rocky massif and follows its path towards the river Zêzere. The "hike" starts and ends in yet another beautiful village
Coimbra & the Coast (2 Nights)
"Rising scenically from the Rio Mondego, Coimbra is an animated city steeped in history. It was Portugal’s medieval capital for more than a century and it's home to the country’s oldest and most prestigious university. Its steeply stacked historic center dates to Moorish times and is wonderfully atmospheric, with its dark cobbled lanes and monumental cathedral. On summer evenings, the city’s old stone walls reverberate with the haunting metallic notes of the guitarra (Portuguese guitar) and the full, deep voices of fado singers." - Lonely Planet
- Privately guided tour of the "University City": For over 100 years Coimbra was the capital of medieval Portugal. Today it's known as the "University City", with its world-famous school providing awe-inspiring architecture and timeless traditions. Being one of the world's oldest universities, it's truly bursting with heritage. After an optional visit to the school, we'll check out the old town and the heart of "ancient Coimbra". Gothic cathedrals and stunning Moorish fortifications provide the backdrop for legendary tales of miracles and mischief.
- The University of Coimbra: With 730 years of history, the University of Coimbra is an unavoidable institution in the history of Portugal and the entire Portuguese-speaking world, having been considered an UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013, due to its unique material and immaterial heritage, fundamental in the history of Portugal, Europe and world culture.
- Baroque Library: "The Baroque Library is the best example of Portuguese Baroque and is considered to be one of the richest European libraries. It is also known as the Joanina Library in honor and memory of King John V. It holds sixty thousand books, dating from the 16th century to the 18th century, on a wide variety of topics that can still be consulted today."
- Cabinet of Curiosities: "In this space experience a whole world made up of "bizarre", unusual, and exquisite objects, which, due to their beauty and enigmatic character, will arouse curiosity, a sense of wonder, and the desire to find out more by visitors of all ages. It is a "Theater of the World" where the shifting lights guide the visitor. In this place there are no explanatory captions, because it is intended to recreate the pre-museum of science where contemplation and admiration were taken to the limit. The 
total immersion of visitors in this space efficiently seeks to encourage the emotional and sensorial challenge for the understanding and experience of a museum with a classical structure, although progressively modernized."
- The Old Cathedral: Originally built in 1117 and designed by Portuguese and French architects, it preserves much of the original Romanesque architecture, which is rather rare in major churches of the time around Portugal and Europe. We love the outside of this structure because it looks like a castle and cathedral made love and had a baby! The inside is quite stunning as well so make sure those camera batteries are charged!
Óbidos, a Fairytale Town
"Surrounded by a classic crenelated wall, Óbidos’ gorgeous historic center is a labyrinth of cobblestoned streets and flower-
bedecked, whitewashed houses livened up with dashes of vivid yellow and blue paint. It’s a delightful place to pass an afternoon" - Lonely Planet
- The Walled Labyrinth; Privately guided walking tour: Enclosed in unique medieval walls with a castle watching over, explore the maze of cobblestone pathways and learn about the significance of Óbidos' "nooks and crannies".
Lisbon, City of Hills (2 Nights)
"Seven cinematic hillsides overlooking the Rio Tejo cradle Lisbon's postcard-perfect panorama of cobbled alleyways, ancient ruins and white-domed cathedrals, a captivating scene crafted over centuries." - Lonely Planet
- Guided Tuk-Tuk Adventure in the capital: Exploring this world-class city by tuk-tuk is a real treat. The historic center of Lisbon is the city’s most atmospheric district, but its narrow lanes and steep hills can be tiring to navigate on foot. We'll cover ground in style with less hill climbing and more sites, sounds, & 
photos. Must stops include the oldest and most picturesque district, Alfama with its beautiful Moorish influence, and the Lisbon Cathedral to capture images of this solid, imposing structure. It’s also the city’s most iconic and important religious building, dating from the 12th century. The tour is not complete without stopping in the Belém district to see the great tower of the same name and the Monument of Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos). These World-Heritage Sites represent the epi-center of the Portuguese Age of Discovery.
- Castelo de Sao Jorge (St. George's Castle): Towering dramatically 
above Lisbon, the 11th-century fortifications atop the capital's highest hill sneak into most photos. Wander the winding ramparts and shaded courtyards for superb views and photographs of the city’s red rooftops all the way to the Tagus river.
- Belém Tower & the Monument of Discoveries: See and photograph these World-Heritage Sites that represent the epi-center of the Portuguese Age of Discovery.
* PhotoFly Travel Club adventures are laid back when it comes to photography. They are not workshop-style based tours and you do not need to be an avid photographer to join. All are welcome!
Price: $3,995.00
Single Supplement: $895.00 *LIMITED Single Supplements Available
Cancellation Policy & Refunds
*There is a $300 administrative fee for all cancellations. Cancellations made 120 days (May 14th, 2026) or more prior to trip departure date are fully refundable except for the $300 fee. Cancellations less than 120 days (May 15th, 2026) prior to the trip departure date will receive no refund of the full amount due. No refunds on unused portions of the tour. Credit card fees and PayPal processing fees cannot be refunded. After airline tickets are issued, airline cancellations are per the airline’s policy and are usually non-refundable and changeable with a fee plus new ticket price. Travel insurance strongly encouraged (ask us about policy options). *Hotels subject to change based on availability
Roommate Pairing Policy: Please be advised that PhotoFly endeavors, but does not guarantee, to secure a suitable roommate for travelers electing to share accommodations. In the event a match cannot be arranged no less than forty-five (45) days prior to the scheduled departure date, the traveler shall be required to convert to a single occupancy room and shall be responsible for the associated single supplement fee. Should a roommate become available after said date, PhotoFly will facilitate the pairing and issue a refund for the previously paid single supplement.
Optional Activity Cancellation Policy: Travelers wishing to cancel any optional activity(s) have until the day before Day 1 on the official itinerary to receive a refund. Please note that this is subject to approval by the provider and PhotoFly will act in good faith to recoup the money. From Day 1 on, cancellations for personal reasons (changed mind, potential bad weather, etc.) are not entitled to any refunds and PhotoFly will directly ask the provider for money back.
Payment Details
*Notice: Payment online incurs 3.7% credit card processing fee or 3.6% PayPal* processing fee (automatically added to shopping cart). PayPal Payments from outside the USA incur a 4.5% processing fee. Please mail check to avoid fees to:
Local Planet Travel
325 Rocky Slope Road, Suite 104-240
Greenville, SC 29607
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* Privately guided small group tour