The Pearls of the North of Portugal, Self-drive

The Pearls of the North of Portugal, Self-drive

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8 Days From

$1121

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Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating self-drive journey through the North of Portugal with "The Pearls of the North of Portugal" tour. Begin in the historic city of Oporto, renowned for its stunning hills, blue rivers, and vibrant cultural heritage. Explore the charming medieval atmosphere of Guimarães, often referred to as the cradle of Portugal, with its castles and fortresses. Continue to the picturesque town of Peso da Régua, nestled on the banks of the River Douro, a principal wine production region. Enjoy seven nights of comfortable accommodation, daily breakfasts, and the freedom of unlimited mileage with your rental car. Discover the rich history, exquisite architecture, and delectable local cuisine that make this region truly unique. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Oporto: one of the oldest cities in Europe, surrounded by stunning hills and blue rivers

  • Explore the charming vineyards of Oporto and visit wine cellars for guided tours and tastings

  • Guimarães: attractive historic city filled with medieval atmosphere, castles, and fortresses

  • Peso da Régua: picturesque town on the banks of the River Douro, known for its wine production

  • Visit Castelo de Paiva, a municipality with fascinating views over hills and valleys

  • Enjoy traditional dishes like Francesinha in Oporto and Tortas de Guimarães in Guimarães

  • Take river trips and walks through the incomparable landscape of the Douro wine region

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrival Oporto

Paul Allen

Location: Porto

Accommodation Name: Hotel Turim Porto or similar 4*

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. Enjoy the rest of the day while exploring this beautiful town. Few cities are as packed history as this one is, with classic and surprising sites, cultural treasures, and a beautiful setting that makes it a paradise for walkers and photographers. Drive to your first hotel and check in to spend the night.

Overnight in Oporto.

Day 2 : Oporto

Location: Porto

Accommodation Name: Hotel Turim Porto or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast

Wake up to your tasty breakfast and get ready for your first Portuguese drive. Today you could drive out of the city, to explore the charming vineyards of Oporto. The region is famed for the production of Porto wine, which is still stored and manufactured in the vast cellars that stretch along the banks of the Douro River. We suggest the visit to the wine cellars that are located right across the river. Nearly all port wine cellars provide guided tours and tastings. Caves Ferreira, Caves Calém, Caves Churchill or Caves Taylor's are few popular cellar where you can enjoy a great wine degustation and learn about the wine art of this region. Once back in Oporto fill your energy with the typical local dish – Francesinha, which is steak, sliced ham and spicy sausage between toasted bread, all covered with melted cheese and a hot sauce. The recipe is kept secret for whole generations. 

Overnight in Oporto.

Day 3 : Oporto – Guimaraes (70 Km – 1 H)

Location: Guimaraes

Accommodation Name: Hotel de Guimaraes or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy your morning breakfast at the hotel and prepare yourself for your following destination. Guimarães is considered the cradle of Portugal, as D. Afonso Henriques, who became the first independent King of Portugal, was born here. The historical center in the area that was within Guimarães city walls, is associated with the creation and identity of Portugal and was classified a World Heritage site based on the originality and authenticity applied in its restoration. Beautiful sites are Palace of the Dukes of Bragança, Guimarães Castle, Citânia de Briteiros, São Francisco church and the Gardens of Palacio de Vila Flor. After the full day sightseeing, check-in to your hotel and perhaps stroll down the streets of this royal town and try some of the local dishes.

Overnight in Guimarães.

Day 4 : Guimaraes

Location: Guimaraes

Accommodation Name: Hotel de Guimaraes or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast

Start your day with the breakfast at the hotel. Today you can explore even deeper the traditional gastronomy of this region by visiting one of many convents, rise to all sorts of confectionery as by tradition the nuns, would be donate ingredients like eggs on special occasions. Egg yolks, along with almonds and cinnamon are the main ingredients in the pastry, Tortas de Guimarães, while toucinho do céu (bacon from heaven) is a traditional almond cake that also relies on a lot of egg yolks. For savoury food papas de sarrabulho is a rich, filling meat dish with various pork products, beef and chicken, made in the winter months. 

Overnight in Guimarães.

Day 5 : Guimaraes – Peso Da Régua (110 Km – 1.15 Hrs)

Location: Peso da Régua

Accommodation Name: Hotel Vila Gale Collection Douro or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast continue your drive to another famous wine region- Peso da Régua. This agriculture area is situated on the bank of the River Douro and its vineyard is fabulously shaping the whole landscape and offer spectacular views to all its visitors. Until the last century Peso da Régua was the place, where the barrels were loaded onto wooden boats, known as Rabelos, and shipped down to Vila Nova de Gaia at the mouth of the Douro. And this is also the base of the oldest demarcated wine region in the world, the Douro DOC, regulated since 1756. Wine tour, river trips and walks through this incomparable landscape all need to be in your plans. Explore the region with Port Wine, Wine Tours and Douro Historical Train in your plans. In the evening give a try to the Peso da Régua's gastronomy. Here you can appreciate rice in the oven with roast lamb, "custard", and a regional candy "Rebuçados da Régua". 

Overnight in Peso da Régua.

Day 6 : Peso Da Régua – Castelo De Paiva – Peso Da Régua (220 Km – 3 Hrs)

Location: Castelo de Paiva

Accommodation Name: Hotel Vila Gale Collection Douro or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast

After morning breakfast at the hotel visit Castelo de Paiva, a municipality in northern Portugal, located about an hour from the city of Aveiro. The city is a getaway to the north of the Montanhas Mágicas territory and its river system, that includes the river Douro, Paiva, Arda, and Sadoura Rivers, defined the whole beauty of this region. Surrounded by hills and valleys, it offers fascinating views over this stunning landscape. From the cultural sites make sure you visit the Marmoiral de Sobrado, the Pelourinho de Raiva, the Medieval graves dug in Penedo de Vegide; and the manor houses, especially the Solar de Boavista and the Solar da Fisga with charming fountains and gardens and in the evening try out some traditional dishes at one of the local restaurants. Baked rice in the oven, Sta. Euforme's chive steaks, traditional roast veal, farmer's stew, and many more delightful plates taste delicious accompanied by the excellent Vinho Verde de Paiva.

Overnight in Peso da Régua. 

Day 7 : Peso Da Régua – Oporto (120 Km – 1.5 Hrs)

Location: Porto

Accommodation Name: Hotel Turim Porto or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel and the last moments in this tranquil atmosphere of Peso da Régua. Today you will drive back to Oporto. Stroll down the streets and enjoy buzzing streets, musicians, and vibes of this city for the last time.

Overnight in Oporto.

Day 8 : Departure Oporto

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

  • Accommodation

    7 nights' hotel accommodation in superior hotel categories.

  • Meals

    7 breakfasts included.

  • Car Hire

    Car hire with unlimited mileage, Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW), Theft Protection (TP), Vehicle License Fee (VLF), Airport Service Charge (ASC), and tax.

  • Other

    Meet & Greet service upon arrival.

What's Not Included

  • Flights

    Domestic and international flights are not included.

  • Drinks

    Drinks during meals are not included unless specified otherwise.

  • City Tax

    City tax is not included and is payable on the spot.

  • Porterage and Gratuities

    Porterage and gratuities are not included.

  • Personal Accident Insurance

    Personal accident insurance (PAI) is not included.

  • Tour Guide

    Tour guide services are not included.

  • Personal Expenditures

    Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks, meals, or items not stated explicitly in the program are not included.

  • Additional Drinks

    Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, and camera/video camera fees (if any) are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc., is not included.

  • Car Hire Exclusions

    Fuel, fines, tolls, parking, personal accident insurance (PAI), damage to a third party or to the hire vehicle due to negligence or inappropriate driving, loss or damage to aerials, jack, safety triangles and vests, windscreen wipers, petrol cap, luggage covers, or any other fixed or mobile component of the vehicle, damage to the engine through negligence, theft of the vehicle with keys left in the ignition, damage caused to the vehicle or to persons through driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, fines due to breaking traffic laws and regulations during the hire period, costs generated if the car is left outside of rent a car designated area on drop off, each additional driver, and any extra equipment (GPS, baby seat, etc.) are not included. ...more ...less

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

Instructions for the car collection:

  • Day 8: Return procedure and the exact designated area will be advised by rent a 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

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1, 2 Porto:

  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Turim Porto or similar 4*

Day 3, 4 Guimarães:

  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel de Gumaraes or similar 4*

Day 5, 6 Peso da Régua:

  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Vila Gale Collection Douro or similar 4*

Day 7 Porto:

  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Turim Porto or similar 4*

CAR HIRE OPTION:

  • Car Group Y =  Renault Clio or similar

Mode of Transport

This self-drive tour includes a car hire option with a Renault Clio or similar, offering unlimited mileage, SCDW, TP, VLF, ASC, and tax.

Accommodation

Enjoy 7 nights of superior hotel accommodation, including stays at Hotel Turim Porto, Hotel de Guimaraes, and Hotel Vila Gale Collection Douro, all rated 4 stars.

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1, 2 Porto:

  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Turim Porto or similar 4*

Day 3, 4 Guimarães:

  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel de Gumaraes or similar 4*

Day 5, 6 Peso da Régua:

  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Vila Gale Collection Douro or similar 4*

Day 7 Porto:

  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Turim Porto or similar 4*

CAR HIRE OPTION:

  • Car Group C =  VW Polo or similar

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of car will I be driving during the tour?

    You will be driving a car from Car Group Y, which includes models like the Renault Clio or similar.

  • What is included in the car hire?

    The car hire includes unlimited mileage, Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW), Theft Protection (TP), Vehicle License Fee (VLF), Airport Service Charge (ASC), and tax.

  • What is not included in the car hire?

    The car hire does not include fuel, fines, tolls, parking, Personal Accident Insurance (PAI), damage to a third party or to the hire vehicle due to negligence or inappropriate driving, loss or damage to certain vehicle components, damage to the engine through negligence, theft of the vehicle with keys left in the ignition, damage caused by driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, fines due to breaking traffic laws, costs generated if the car is left outside of the designated area on drop-off, each additional driver, and any extra equipment like GPS or baby seats. ...more ...less

  • What should I do if I have an accident or the car is stolen?

    Accident or theft reporting must be notified within 48 hours of the incident.

  • What are the age requirements for drivers?

    Drivers must be between 26 to 75 years old and must have had their driver’s license for a minimum of one year.

  • What documents do I need to present for car hire?

    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. A deposit credit card (Visa or MasterCard only) is also required.

  • What happens if I return the vehicle earlier than the agreed drop-off date?

    If you return the vehicle earlier than the agreed drop-off date stated in the rental contract, the rental company will not refund you for any unused days.

  • What are the pick-up hours for the car hire?

    Pick-up hours are Monday through Sunday, 07:00 to 22:00 hrs. Pick-up outside of these times is subject to a surcharge.

  • What should I do if the car is excessively dirty upon return?

    If 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.

  • What are some of the key attractions in Guimarães?

    In Guimarães, you can visit the Palace of the Dukes of Bragança, Guimarães Castle, Citânia de Briteiros, São Francisco church, and the Gardens of Palacio de Vila Flor.

  • What local dishes should I try in Peso da Régua?

    In Peso da Régua, you can try rice in the oven with roast lamb, 'custard', and a regional candy called 'Rebuçados da Régua'.

  • What are some traditional dishes in Castelo de Paiva?

    In Castelo de Paiva, you can try baked rice in the oven, Sta. Euforme's chive steaks, traditional roast veal, and farmer's stew, often accompanied by the excellent Vinho Verde de Paiva.

  • 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.

  • 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. 

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers

  • When are there specific hotel names confirmed?

    Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client's arrival

  • Are Visa fees included in the price?

    No, visa fees are not included

  • Are flights included in the tour?

    No, they are not included

  • 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.

  • 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.

Reviews of this operator

TG  

Portugal Discovery, Self-drive

04-Nov-2022

Great itinerary. Hotels were quite nice with breakfast included. Highways in Portugal may be the best in the world.

Mary Ann  

South of Portugal

17-Sep-2022

This tour was so much more than I expected. The hotels were great especially the Villa Gale in Lagos. We had busy days and saw so much. There were only a few of us on my tour so Fernando, our driver, and Miguel, our guide, were flexible about doing independent things plus the regular tour. They were always willing to help and very sociable. I found Portugal to be a hidden gem and would love to return to spend more time in some areas. ...more ...less

Diego  

The Best of Portugal

14-Apr-2022

This tour has a lot of walking it’s well educated on the history of Portugal I had a wonderful driver his name was Fabio Gomes and I tour guide Cristina Evo she was wonderful she was very well educated and She knew a lot of information I really like to thank them both it was a great trip ...more ...less

Tony  

Wondrs of Portugal

06-Jun-2022

A wonderful Tour Will definitely book again

Robert  

Lisbon Cultural Experience, City Break, 6 Days

18-Aug-2022

Great communication from the Tourradar team. Everything worked out as planned / promised. Would use them again.

Leo B.  

South of Portugal

17-Feb-2022

What an amazing experience! Surprises around every corner. We really learned about the culture, ate great meals and visited several hidden gems! Highly recommend!! Thank you to our awesome guide, Joao!

Jay C.  

Portugal North and South, Self-drive

30-Oct-2022

It was a wonderful experience. The hotels are way above my expectations. Just one little thing not too important is that there is drop off fee at Faro airport. I totally recommend this tour to my friends.

Pauline  

The Best of Portugal

15-Mar-2022

Our tour guide Kristina was fabulous. Our driver Fabio was excellent. Our initial trying to find our tour at Marquis de Pombal Square in Lisbon was very nerve wracking with anxiety as the name Tour Radar was nowhere to be seen. It was under the name Cityrama. Luckily Kristina found us wandering in the parking lot with rolling suitcases. Other than that everything went well and the breakfasts were great and hotels were very good. ...more ...less

1 Select your preferred date

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Mar 09, 2025 - Mar 16, 2025
$1121 (USD)

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$1295 (USD)

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Mar 31, 2025 - Apr 07, 2025
$1295 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • 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.

  • 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 Pearls of the North of Portugal, Self-drive

8 Days Starting and ending in Porto, Portugal

Visiting: Porto, Guimaraes, Peso da Régua, Castelo de Paiva

Tour code:

348962

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

EASY

Age range:

26-75

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Meat

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $1121 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 15-Feb-2025 but subject to change.

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