Christmas in Porto & New Year on the Lisbon Coast

Christmas in Porto & New Year on the Lisbon Coast

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Christmas in Porto & New Year on the Lisbon Coast

11 Days

Visiting: Porto, Viana do Castelo, Guimarães, Coimbra, Lisbon, Sintra, Óbidos, Cascais, Oporto

Tour operator:

Just You

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

15 - 35

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

18-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Special Events

Activities:

Sightseeing

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Experience the magic of the festive season with our "Christmas in Porto & New Year on the Lisbon Coast" tour. Delight in a tour of Porto, complete with a port wine tasting, and celebrate Christmas Day with a traditional lunch. Explore the historic city of Guimarães and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganca, and enjoy a tour of Viana do Castelo. Discover the ancient university in Coimbra before heading to Portugal's vibrant capital, Lisbon. Marvel at the UNESCO-listed town of Sintra and the Cabo da Roca Lighthouse, and wander through the charming hilltop town of Óbidos. With guaranteed single rooms and no single supplement, this tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and festive celebration, all under the guidance of a dedicated Just You holiday director.

Highlights

  • Tour of Porto with a tasting of port wine

  • Celebrate Christmas Day with a traditional lunch

  • The city of Guimarães & the Palace of the Dukes of Braganca

  • Tour of Viana do Castelo

  • Coimbra & its ancient university

  • Discover Portugal's capital, Lisbon

  • Explore UNESCO-listed Sintra & Cabo da Roca Lighthouse

  • Visit the hilltop town of Obidos


  • Your own room guaranteed & no single supplement

  • Dedicated Just You holiday director with you on the trip

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 Porto

Location: Porto

Accommodation Name: Grande Hotel Do Porto

Make your own way to our hotel where your Holiday Director will meet you for your welcome meeting that evening.

Day 2 Christmas Eve, Porto

Location: Porto

Accommodation Name: Grande Hotel Do 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. Take some free time to explore on your own or 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. Tonight, a Festive dinner awaits.

Day 3 Christmas Day, Porto

Location: Porto

Accommodation Name: Grande Hotel Do Porto

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 dinner at the hotel later on. Otherwise, choose your own activities at the hotel or around the surrounding areas

Day 4 Boxing Day, Viana Do Castelo

Location: Viana do Castelo

Accommodation Name: Grande Hotel Do Porto

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.

Day 5 Guimarães

Location: Guimarães

Accommodation Name: Grande Hotel Do Porto

The city of Guimarães is our next exciting destination. This is where the first king of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, was born. Our visit today we will admire the scenic square of Largo da Oliveira and a host of historic buildings, including an atmospheric ruined castle, before exploring the Palace of the Dukes of Bragança.

Day 6 Porto - Coimbra - Cascais

Location: Coimbra

Accommodation Name: Hotel Vila Gale Cascais

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 continue to the coastal town of Cascais, your base for the remainder of your festive holiday.

Day 7 Lisbon

Location: Lisbon

Accommodation Name: Hotel Vila Gale Cascais

Something completely different today, as we make our way to Lisbon for a panoramic tour and change of pace. Admire a wealth of historic architecture in the Moorish Quarter, view the iconic Belém Tower and also the Jerónimos Monastery. We will take a visit to the National Tile Museum and also cross the 25th April bridge to the Statue of Christ the Redeemer to enjoy the fantastic views.

Day 8 Sintra & Cabo Da Roca Lighthouse

Location: Sintra

Accommodation Name: Hotel Vila Gale Cascais

You're sure to fall in love with Sintra, a UNESCO-listed town jam-packed with breathtaking architecture, from the grand villas to the multiple palaces that dominate the skyline. We'll have a tour of Sintra National Palace, with its unmistakable twin chimneys and lavish painted interiors. We’ll also visit the Cabo da Roca Lighthouse - the westernmost point of continental Europe.

Day 9 New Year's Eve, Óbidos

Location: Óbidos

Accommodation Name: Hotel Vila Gale Cascais

Today we explore the hilltop town of Óbidos a compact town that is easy to explore on foot with it's narrow cobbled streets, lined with whitewashed buildings. With time to shop for local crafts. You could pick up some local specialties such as cherry liqueur or artisanal handicrafts during free time here. We'll be welcoming the new year with an all-out celebration at a wonderful gala dinner.

Day 10 New Year's Day, Cascais

Location: Cascais

Accommodation Name: Hotel Vila Gale Cascais

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 explore the gorgeous beaches and gardens of Cascais, or stroll along Rua Direita, the main street. Perhaps you prefer to just unwind in your room or find your fellow travellers and spend time with them around the grounds of the hotel.
Back at the hotel this evening, we'll gather for a farewell dinner.

Day 11 Departure

Location: Oporto

Today it's time to say goodbye to your fellow travellers as your holiday comes to an end.

What's Included

  • Just You Holiday Director as your host & Specialist Local Guide

  • 10 nights half-board in 3 & 4-star hotels

  • A guaranteed twin or double room of your own

  • 22 included meals: 10 breakfasts, 1 festive Christmas Day lunch, a New

  • Transportation excluding overseas transfers to and from the airport*

  • Porterage

Check out our Q&As

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    All the people in your group will be solo travellers and will share your sense of adventure and passion for travel. There’s usually a good mix of ages too, so you’ll meet a variety of solo travellers who have more, or in some cases less, life experience. We find the overall mix of people really adds to the whole experience and there are certainly plenty of l

  • Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

    A few years ago we set up Just You Cares, a programme that gives back to some of the places we love. We have always believed in taking care of the communities we visit, and have taken the time to really get to know the local people and understand the challenges they face. Some of our holidays give our Customers the chance to see how the money from their trips has been spent.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    At Just You, we are committed to operating our business operations responsibly, with integrity and always act ethically in all our business dealings and relationships. We are committed to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure slavery and human trafficking does not take place in our own business or in any of our supply chains

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If we can accommodate a change in date - we will always do our best to help you. Just pick up the phone and ask one of our friendly advisors - just make sure you have your booking number to hand.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes, and all of our accommodation providers will be working to the very highest standards of hygiene – you already always enjoy a private room of your own on all of our trips, all of our partners will be guided by local government operational standards of hygiene and the new protocols we have issued to them.

  • Will I eat alone?

    We find there’s always a social element to dining, so you’ll never eat alone, unless you want to! Every holiday includes a welcome get-together, all breakfasts and many other meals. When a meal is not included we find travellers meet and dine together.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    No, given the nature of our holidays, it is not possible to join the tour once it has departed.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Just You has been operating solo holidays for more than 15 years.

  • Am I guaranteed a room of my own?

    Of course, you’ll always have a twin or double room all to yourself. It’s great to have that space to relax and reflect at the end of the day. In some hotels you can also pay a little extra to upgrade for more space or a lovely sea view.

  • What is the typical age range on a Just You holiday?

    Typically, our customers are solo travellers in their 40s, 50s and 60s, but it’s quite possible you could meet 20-year-olds or 70-year-olds (or anyone in between)... After all, age is just a number!

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    We have received the World Travel and Tourism Councils (WTTC) Safe Travels stamp, which recognises businesses and destinations worldwide that have adopted a new set of global protocols to support the return of 'Safe Travel' around the world. The 'Safe Travels' stamp provides you, with assurance and peace of mind that we have implemented enhanced health and hygiene prprotocols on all holidays.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Once you book, you will receive a confirmation invoice within 7 days, prior to departure, we will send you further information to help prepare for your trip.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Just You is exclusively for solo travellers, every tour includes a twin or double room of your own, with no single supplement.

Reviews of this operator

Jenny Elliott  

Fabulous Holiday with Just You

28-Oct-2021

Fabulous holiday with Just You - well organised, excellent accommodation and our tour leader absolutely made the trip! Would highly recommend.

Featured on Trustpilot
Russell Kerfoot  

Travels 2013 -2019

21/06/2021

Have taken about 15 tours with JY, mainly long haul, and found the experience exhilarating. Apart from the company's professionalism and extensive and varied tour options, I have made so many friends for life. Looking forward to resuming my travels in 2022.

Featured on Trustpilot
Tyler Kerr (Google Reviewer)  

Apologies in advance to the...

09-Jun-2024

Apologies in advance to the business as my holiday was the Eastern Wonders tour in Canada in June 2023 but some things happened shortly after which I had to focus on and then I kept forgetting to write a review. This was hands down the best holiday I’ve ever had. My coeliac disease was no issue whatsoever and the tour guide ‘Johanna’ is an absolute credit to Just You. She along with all of the other tour guides in the city stops were knowledgeable and great fun. The only day I felt wasn’t necessary for that time of year was Mont-Tremblant and the Holiday Inn there wasn’t the best but every other hotel was wonderful. Everyday was well-balanced with little tours to see the gorgeous sights in each location whilst still leaving us with plenty of time for our own exploration. The coach driver ‘Dave’ was also a really lovely chap. We always felt very safe with him behind the wheel and, should Just You offer this tour again someday, I would definitely recommend it. I will be using this company again and I can’t wait. I’d also like to thank the team at Just You over the phone and the representative at Heathrow who helped me as I’m on the autism spectrum and can get overwhelmed. Lovely company and very well priced in my opinion. With everything we did it would have cost around double if you’d made this trip independently.

aled blackshaw (Google Reviewer)  

Been on 5 holidays with...

13-Oct-2023

Been on 5 holidays with this company they have generally been good but the prices have risen considerably and i feel do not provide true value for money. In my opinion all the excursions and meals should be included in the total cost as they not worth the extra cost. Also they are very dismissive of any complaints once you have paid for the holiday they are not interested. I think i will try another company next time

Sue Sweeney (Google Reviewer)  

Great holidays for singles. I've been...

28-Jun-2023

Great holidays for singles. I've been on 4 holidays with them. Only issue is the hotel rooms. They generally use 3* hotels and I've booked at the same time and price as my friends but the difference in rooms is unbelievable. I've been lucky, but I've heard horror stories from friends of rooms like a dungeon with one small high window whilst I've had a fabulous sea view.

COLIN BROAD (Google Reviewer)  

I went on a spirit...

08-Apr-2024

I went on a spirit of an India trip with Amritsar add on. It looks good in the brochure, but things aren’t always as they seem. If like me you like a toilet break every two hours (discussed with the company in depth in advance) or have a hidden disability. then this holiday is not for you - use a different holiday company! Their planned toilet stops are every 3.5 hours, so ladies bring your pads and gents be prepared for “natural stops” while all the passengers watch you out the window or bring a bottle and a blanket as a screen. The Taj Mahal in Agra was good, along with the two trips to the Ganges river and the Golden Temple at Amritsar too. Rarely are you in the same spot for more than one night and a 6 hour daily coach or train journey became the norm. It was a shame that there was not an opportunity to enjoy the hotels that we’d obviously paid a lot of money for. If you’re looking for tigers in the game park, don’t get your hopes up. 99% unlikely. It is also a disappointment that there is little opportunity to explore the areas in the major cities that we’d traveled too If you are lucky enough to find some companionship from the opposite sex and wish to be bring them “home” this is frowned upon by the company - even if you have paid extra due double occupancy as required by the hotel I received a letter on holiday basically saying that the two hourly toilet stops required (and discussed in advance) due to diabetes was a disruption to the schedule. That photos sent to me by a girlfriend were “illicit”. Photo uploaded - make your own mind up” Also that managing to get lucky a couple of times and bringing them back to the hotel was an issue - very strange due a so called singles holiday

Maureen May (Google Reviewer)  

Just returned from St Lucia....

29-Feb-2024

Just returned from St Lucia. Hotel dreadfully shabby. Breakfasts very limited with very little fresh fruit. Our hotel was a 20 minute walk in 29C or a free bus on the hour to the beach and sister hotel. Location good for nearby local shopping and restaurants. The sunset cruise was brilliant as was the whale watching, but surf and safari trip was a disaster. We travelled in two open topped trucks with a two and a half hour drive to the surfing destination. During the trip smoke started from the gear box and we had to abandon the vehicle until the situation was rectified, which, to their credit, was sorted very quickly. Unfortunately the sea was too rough for the boat so we had to return back in the trucks. Extremely uncomfortable on side bench seats, hanging on in the rain. So, all in all we don’t over 6 hours on the trucks - not good. The tour guide left before the 5 day extension period without a handover to the local tour operators. No Information was given except by the hotel. I had already booked to go the Athens with Just You in May, now I wish I hadn’t.

Sunlight59 (Google Reviewer)  

Booked the French & Italian...

12-May-2024

Booked the French & Italian Riviera. Too much travelling on the coach. Most journeys to places were around 2 hours or more. No toilet facilities unless you go into a cafe to buy something. The group were lovely but mostly retired and older. Didn’t have much in common. The hotel was comfortable and clean. Vegetarians had mainly different types of cooked eggs for dinner. But plenty of food. However the hotel Toscana in Alessio does cater for families with children so noisy at night for the last few days of the holiday. Paid a lot of money for this holiday. Did not meet my expectations as per brochure.

Lynda Martin (Google Reviewer)  

Don't go to the Mercure...

10-Feb-2024

Don't go to the Mercure Hotel in Brighton for a Christmas holiday. Dingy rooms, small tables so you are encouraged to sit on your own when you have expected to be able to chat. But this is nothing compared to the Christmas lunch. Reconstituted white meat that could have been anything, no roasties, no stuffing, no cranberry sauce, you couldn't cut the sprouts because the knife wasn't sharp enough. I had pre ordered prawn cocktail as my starter but on the day when we all turned up together, there was no prawn cocktail for me they had run out, so all I had was soup. No dancing, no music. The carpets were stained and it was a very sorry affair. I paid £1348 for 4 nights of this very shabby standard. Sorry Just You, butbit is the last holiday I will have with you. This year, whether I go to Aldi or Waitrose, I will buy the whole shebang and cook it myself, and then I will be sure to enjoy it.

eamonn young (Google Reviewer)  

Great holiday but then no...

21-Sep-2023

Great holiday but then no response to email concerning an important point concerning incorrect information in documentation. Turkish Airlines do have online check in..saves being put on standby. Documentation says you can't check in online..you can. Just wanted to save other travellers having the same problem about being put on stand by. Just You don't seem to care.

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  • Low Deposit

    Just You requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 84 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of just you charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 42 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

  • Book with Confidence

    When you book your holiday with Just You, you can have complete peace of mind. Your money is 100% protected through our Independent Trust Fund, any money you pay to us is held by them & governed by 3rd?party trustees. It is also a condition of our ATOL license and is regularly monitored by the Civil Aviation Authority. We don’t receive any money until after you’ve come back from your holiday – so your money is 100% protected no matter what. If you have any questions you can speak to one of our friendly and knowledgeable holiday advisors.

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