The Healing waters of the North Portugal, Self-drive
Tour Overview
Embark on a rejuvenating self-drive tour through the enchanting landscapes of Northern Portugal. Begin your journey in the historic city of Oporto, where vibrant plazas and exquisite local wines await. Venture to the charming village of Penafiel, nestled in the lush Douro Valley, and indulge in the therapeutic São Vicente Spa, renowned for its ancient Roman thermal springs. Continue to the picturesque town of São Pedro do Sul, famed for its healing waters and stunning natural beauty. Conclude your adventure back in Oporto, exploring its cultural treasures and savoring the iconic Francesinha dish. With comfortable accommodations and a choice of rental cars, this tour offers the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich culture and breathtaking scenery of Portugal. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : ARRIVAL PORTO – PENAFIEL (560 km – 4.45 hrs)
Location: Porto, Penafiel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Pena Park or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Arrive at Oporto International Airport, meet and greet by our local representative who will assist you with your car hire and inform you how to proceed on your departure day. Hop in to your car and drive to your first Portuguese location, Penafiel. Drive among the hills, valleys and rivers and admire the stunning views over this North Region of Portugal. Once in Penafiel, walk along the picturesque streets and admire the local architecture, small squares and churches, built before the birth of Portugal as a nation. The scenery is real marvel, with shades of green from the lush banks of the Douro and Sousa rivers to the bucolic vineyards and pine forest draped across every hillside.
Overnight in Penafiel.
Day 2 : PENAFIEL
Location: Pinheiro, São Vicente Spa, Mosteiro Beneditino de Paço de Sousa, Castelo de Penafiel, Santuario do Sameiro, Penafiel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Pena Park or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wake up to your tasty breakfast and prepare yourself for a real relaxing experience. Drive to the region of Pinheiro, where you can enjoy the healing effects of thermal springs in famous São Vicente Spa (own expenses). Roman spa found in the early 20th century. Its waters are considered the most alkaline in Europe and the best choice for treatments related to the respiratory system. Surrounded sites are Mosteiro Beneditino de Paço de Sousa, Castelo de Penafiel and Santuario do Sameiro. Make sure you try Vinho Verde (green wine), typical for this region and for opening your gastronomic experience we recommend you to try the lamprey, which is cooked with rice, while in the hills the damp winters are warmed with stew and roasted lamb and kit goat. For dessert sopa seca (fry soup), a kind of bread pudding with cinnamon, lemon zest and a splah of Port wine.
Overnight in Penafiel.
Day 3 : PENAFIEL – SAO PEDRO DO SUL (140 km – 1.5 hrs)
Location: Sao Pedro do Sul, Thearm Baths of Sao Pedro do Sul, Viseu, Casa do Viriato, Viseu, The Viseu Cathedral, Viseu, The Grão Vasco Museum, Viseu
Accommodation Name: Hotel do Parque or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel and continue your trip to Sao Pedro do Sul, where you will spend the next 2 nights. Sao Pedro do Sul is a small town situated in the valley of Lafões, framed by massifs of Arada, Gralheira and S Macario mountains. Their lush landscapes, cold, crystal waters, and small hidden villages in the valleys are creating stunning landscapes and beautiful natural phenomena. Once in Sao Pedro do Sul, we recommend you to visit the Thearm Baths of Sao Pedro do Sul. Still perceiving Roman changing room proves that this Spa was used in the period of the Roman conquest. Just a few kilometers away there is a small city Viseu, an ancient city, built of grey stone, full of green and lively surroundings. Viseu was considered the best of Portugal in the quality of life ranking. If you wish to go around this city, do not miss Casa do Viriato, The Viseu Cathedral, and The Grão Vasco Museum.
Overnight in Sao Pedro do Sul.
Day 4 : SAO PEDRO DO SUL
Location: São Pedro do Sul
Accommodation Name: Hotel do Parque or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start your day with the breakfast at the hotel. Today you can reach some of the local sites around the city, or try another thermal spa in the area. Tranquillity and relax in one of the wellness centres will calm your sense and fill your energy for your upcoming destinations.
Overnight in Sao Pedro do Sul.
Day 5 : SAO PEDRO DO SUL - PORTO (120 km – 1.5 hrs)
Location: Sao Pedro do Sul, Porto, Serralves Museum, Torre dos Clérigos, Livraria Lello
Accommodation Name: Hotel Turim Porto or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Big farewell to Sao Pedro do Sul! After your tasty breakfast continue driving back to Oporto. Enjoy the drive along the attractive landscape, perhaps stop at one of the local village for a short refreshment. After the check-in in the hotel, stroll down the streets of Oporto, and visit some of the cultural places of interest, the Serralves Museum and gardens, climb up Torre dos Clérigos, ride on the old trams and visit Livraria Lello. When in Oporto you need to try the famous Francesinha, composed of steak, sliced ham and spicy sausage between toasted bread, all covered with melted cheese and a hot sauce, the recipe for which is a well-kept secret.
Overnight in Oporto.
Day 6 : DEPARTURE PORTO
Location: Porto
Meals Included: Breakfast
Spend your last morning in Portugal savouring your breakfast. Then, return the rental car at the Oporto Airport and prepare for your return flight.
What's Included
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Car Hire
The tour includes car hire with unlimited mileage, Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW), Theft Protection (TP), Vehicle License Fee (VLF), Airport Service Charge (ASC), and tax.
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Meet & Greet
A meet and greet service is included upon arrival.
What's Not Included
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Flights
Domestic and international flights are not included.
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City Tax
City tax is not included and is payable on the spot.
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Porterage and Gratuities
Porterage and gratuities are not included.
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Tour Guide
A tour guide is not included in the package.
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Personal Expenditures
Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks, meals, or items not explicitly stated in the program are not included.
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Drinks and Camera Fees
Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, and camera/video camera fees (if any) are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays or accidents is not included.
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Personal Accident Insurance
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) is not included.
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Car Hire Exclusions
Fuel, fines, tolls, parking, damage to a third party or to the hire vehicle due to negligence, loss or damage to vehicle components, damage to the engine through negligence, theft of the vehicle with keys left in the ignition, damage caused through driving under the influence, fines due to breaking traffic laws, costs for leaving the car outside designated areas, each additional driver, and any extra equipment (GPS, baby seat, etc.) are not included. ...more ...less
Accommodation options
Day 1, 2 Penafiel:
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Pena Park or similar 4*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel do Parque or similar 4*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Turim Porto or similar 4*
- Car Group Y = Renault Clio or similar
Please Note
- Drivers age from 26 to 75 years old (must have had their driver´s license for a minimum of one year)
- Pick-up hours are Monday through Sunday, 07:00 to 22:00 hrs. Pick-up outside of these times is subject to a surcharge.
- Drivers who are not citizens of the European Union must present an international driver’s license together with the original from their country of origin.
- If the customer returns the vehicle earlier than the agreed upon drop-off date stated in the rental contract, the rental company will not refund the customer for any unused days
- Deposit credit card Visa or MasterCard only
- Accident/theft reporting must be notified within 48 hours of the incident
- In cases where, following the return of the vehicle, additional cleaning is required due to the car being dirty beyond the level expected from normal vehicle use, an additional charge shall apply, against evidence of the cost of the service provided
- Return procedure and the exact designated area will be advised by the rental car company when you pick up the car on arrival day
- We reserve the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical problems or security reasons.
- Late check-out, early check-in, connecting or adjoining rooms at the hotel are all subject to availability and not guaranteed.
Accommodation options
Day 1-2 Penafiel:
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Pena Park or similar 4*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel do Parque or similar 4*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Turim Porto or similar 4*
- Car Group A = Fiat 500 or similar
- Car Group C = Renault Clio or similar
Mode of Transport
This self-drive tour includes car hire with options like a Fiat 500 or Renault Clio, offering unlimited mileage, Super Collision Damage Waiver, Theft Protection, and more, ensuring a smooth journey through Portugal's scenic landscapes.Accommodation
Enjoy 5 nights of superior hotel accommodation in Portugal, staying at Hotel Pena Park in Penafiel, Hotel do Parque in São Pedro do Sul, and Hotel Turim Porto in Oporto, all rated 4 stars or similar.Requirements
Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Portugal. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.Check out our Q&As
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What type of car can I hire for the self-drive tour?
You can hire a car from Car Group A, such as a Fiat 500 or similar, or from Car Group C, such as a Renault Clio or similar.
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Are there any specific requirements for drivers on this tour?
Drivers must be between 26 to 75 years old and have had their driver's license for a minimum of one year. Non-EU citizens must present an international driver's license along with the original from their country of origin.
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What is included in the car hire for the tour?
The car hire includes unlimited mileage, Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW), Theft Protection (TP), Vehicle Licensee Fee (VLF), Airport Service Charge (ASC), and tax.
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What are some of the highlights of the tour in Penafiel?
In Penafiel, you can enjoy the healing effects of thermal springs at the São Vicente Spa, explore local architecture, and try regional specialties like Vinho Verde and lamprey cooked with rice.
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What can I expect to see in São Pedro do Sul?
In São Pedro do Sul, you can visit the thermal baths, explore lush landscapes, and visit nearby Viseu, known for its quality of life and historical sites like the Viseu Cathedral and the Grão Vasco Museum.
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What are some must-try foods in Oporto?
In Oporto, you should try the famous Francesinha, a dish composed of steak, sliced ham, and spicy sausage between toasted bread, covered with melted cheese and a hot sauce.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.
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Do you offer any travel insurance?
We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers
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When are there specific hotel names confirmed?
Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client's arrival
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Are Visa fees included in the price?
No, visa fees are not included
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Are flights included in the tour?
No, they are not included
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What does the price include?
What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.
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Is there any option for solo traveller?
Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.
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Low Deposit
Destination Services Portugal requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of destination services portugal charges.
At 45 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
The Healing waters of the North Portugal, Self-drive
6 Days Starting in Penafiel, Portugal and ending in Porto, Portugal
Visiting: Porto, Penafiel, Pinheiro, São Vicente Spa, Mosteiro Beneditino de Paço de Sousa, Castelo de Penafiel, Santuario do Sameiro, Sao Pedro do Sul, Thearm Baths of Sao Pedro do Sul, Viseu, Casa do Viriato, Viseu, The Viseu Cathedral, Viseu, The Grão Vasco Museum, Viseu, São Pedro do Sul, Serralves Museum, Torre dos Clérigos, Livraria Lello ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
348678
Group Type:
Independent
Guide Type:
Self Guided
Age range:
10-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Meat
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History, Wellness Tours
