Explore Lisbon and Madeira on our 7-night multi-centre holiday in Portugal

Portugal’s capital is one of Europe’s most enchanting cities, and you’ll be introduced to its great monuments on this insightful half-day tour. On Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays a visit to the Palace of Ajuda is a highlight, where you’ll get to explore its ornate Neoclassical rooms and hilltop botanical gardens. On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, you'll visit the Royal Treasure Museum instead and take in the sparkling jewels from throughout Portugal's history. We’ll then continue to one of the most traditional quarters of Lisbon: Alfama, where you’ll experience one of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritages. UNESCO established this list to protect important cultural representations. In Lisbon, this is Fado, and there are traditional Fado houses (small eateries or larger restaurants where singers perform emotional, nostalgic songs) on every corner.

• Duration: half day
• Time: 9am
• Daily departures 
• Operates year round
• Group experience

Good to know
Meals and entrance fee to the Palace of Ajuda are not included.

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Madeira is on the migratory route of just under 30 species of whales and dolphins, as well as being home to a resident population of sperm whales, and there are few experiences to match the thrill of seeing them in their natural environment. On this two-and-a-half-hour adventure, you’ll have an excellent chance of spotting some of these captivating creatures, along with a host of other marine life including turtles. Starting with a short introductory talk, you’ll head out to sea on a trio of nippy semi-rigid boats with Rota dos Cetáceos’ team of marine biologists, keeping your eyes peeled for the tell-tale glimpse of a fin, tail or blow. In this, you’ll be assisted by lookouts on land who have up-to-the-minute information as to likely locations. It’s a brilliant way to spend a morning or afternoon that will appeal to families with older children as well as couples.

• Duration: 2½ hours
• Time: June to September 9am to 11.30am, 12.30pm to 3pm or 4pm to 6.30pm; October to May 9am to 11.30am or 1.30pm to 3pm
• Daily departures
• Group experience

Good to know
The species you’re likely to see depends on the time of year, so do your research if there’s a particular one you’re keen to spot. Transfers are not included.

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Sample the delights of traditional island hospitality with an evening of good food, wine and music. You and your fellow diners will head to a typical Madeiran restaurant where you’ll enjoy a three-course meal of local specialities. After a light starter - tomato and onion soup, perhaps, or caldo verde - you’ll have a chance to try one of the islanders’ favourite dishes, Espetada, a skewer of tender marinated beef cooked over hot coals or wood chips. It’s usually accompanied by milho frito (fried corn) and bolo do caco, a type of bread roll made with sweet potato and served with garlic butter. During the meal, there’ll be local wines to sip and savour and live music provided by a folkloric group playing traditional instruments such as the guitar-like rajão and the colourful jangling brinquinho.

• Duration: evening
• Start time: 7am
• Departs on Friday
• Operates April to October
• Group experience

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