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Tour Overview
Embark on a rejuvenating journey through Northern Portugal with "The Healing Waters of North Portugal, Self-drive" tour. This wellness-focused adventure begins in the historic city of Oporto, renowned for its stunning hills, blue rivers, and vibrant architecture. Drive through picturesque landscapes to the charming village of Penafiel, nestled in the Douro Valley, and indulge in the therapeutic São Vicente Spa. Continue to the serene town of São Pedro do Sul, famous for its healing thermal springs and lush surroundings. Conclude your trip back in Oporto, exploring its cultural treasures and savoring local delicacies. Enjoy 5 nights in superior 4-star accommodations and the freedom of a rental car with unlimited mileage. ...more ...less
Highlights
Oporto: one of the oldest cities in Europe, surrounded by stunning hills and blue rivers
Penafiel: charming village settled in the valley marked by the river Duoro
São Vicente Spa, ancient Rome thermal spa, offers the best relaxation while inhaling the pure air of eucalyptus forests
Sao Pedro do Sul: picturesque town settled into the beautiful region of northern Portugal
Famous for its thermal springs with healing effects
Visit the Serralves Museum and gardens in Oporto
Climb up Torre dos Clérigos in Oporto
Try the famous Francesinha in Oporto, a local culinary delight
Itinerary
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Day 1
:
ARRIVAL PORTO – PENAFIEL (560 km – 4.45 hrs)
Location: Penafiel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Pena Park 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. 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: 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: São Pedro do Sul
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)
Paul Allen
Porto, Portugal
Location: Porto
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
Paul Allen
Porto, Portugal
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
5 nights' hotel accommodation in superior hotel categories.
Meals
5 breakfasts are included.
Car Hire
Car hire includes unlimited mileage, Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW), Theft Protection (TP), Vehicle License Fee (VLF), Airport Service Charge (ASC), and tax.
Meet & Greet
Meet and greet service upon arrival.
What's Not Included
Flights
Domestic and international flights are not included.
City Tax
City tax is not included and is payable on the spot.
Porterage and Gratuities
Porterage and gratuities are not included.
Tour Guide
A tour guide is not included.
Personal Expenditures
Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks, meals, or items not explicitly stated in the program are not included.
Drinks and Camera Fees
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.
Personal Accident Insurance
Personal accident insurance (PAI) is not included.
Car Hire Exclusions
Fuel, fines, tolls, parking, damage to a third party or the hire vehicle due to negligence or inappropriate driving, loss or damage to 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 if the car is left outside of designated areas, each additional driver, and any extra equipment (GPS, baby seat, etc.) are not included. ...more ...less
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1, 2 Penafiel:
Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Pena Park or similar 4*
Day 3, 4 São Pedro do Sul:
Superior Hotel Category = Hotel do Parque or similar 4*
Day 5 Oporto:
Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Turim Porto or similar 4*
CAR HIRE OPTIONS:
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
Instructions for the car collection
Day 6: 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 Penafiel:
Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Pena Park or similar 4*
Day 3, 4 São Pedro do Sul:
Superior Hotel Category = Hotel do Parque or similar 4*
Day 5 Oporto:
Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Turim Porto or similar 4*
CAR HIRE OPTIONS:
Car Group C = VW Polo or similar
Mode of Transport
This self-drive tour includes a rental car, such as a Renault Clio or similar, with unlimited mileage, Super Collision Damage Waiver, Theft Protection, Vehicle License Fee, and Airport Service Charge.
Accommodation
Enjoy 5 nights of superior hotel accommodation, including stays at Hotel Pena Park in Penafiel, Hotel do Parque in São Pedro do Sul, and Hotel Turim Porto in Oporto, all rated 4 stars.
Check out our Q&As
What type of car is included in the self-drive tour?
The self-drive tour includes a rental car such as a Renault Clio or similar, with unlimited mileage, Super Collision Damage Waiver, Theft Protection, Vehicle License Fee, and Airport Service Charge.
What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 5 nights of superior hotel accommodation. You will stay at Hotel Pena Park in Penafiel, Hotel do Parque in São Pedro do Sul, and Hotel Turim Porto in Oporto, all rated 4 stars.
Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour package includes 5 breakfasts.
Is a tour guide included in the package?
No, a tour guide is not included in the package.
What are some of the activities or sites to visit in Penafiel?
In Penafiel, you can walk along the picturesque streets and admire the local architecture, small squares, and churches. You can also visit the São Vicente Spa, Mosteiro Beneditino de Paço de Sousa, Castelo de Penafiel, and Santuario do Sameiro.
What can I do in São Pedro do Sul?
In São Pedro do Sul, you can visit the thermal baths, explore the lush landscapes, and visit nearby Viseu, an ancient city known for its quality of life. Key sites in Viseu include Casa do Viriato, The Viseu Cathedral, and The Grão Vasco Museum.
What are some must-try local foods in the regions visited?
In Penafiel, you should try Vinho Verde (green wine) and lamprey cooked with rice. For dessert, try sopa seca, a kind of bread pudding with cinnamon, lemon zest, and a splash of Port wine. In Oporto, you must 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.
What are the car hire exclusions I should be aware of?
Car hire exclusions include fuel, fines, tolls, parking, damage to a third party or the hire vehicle due to negligence or inappropriate driving, loss or damage to 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 if the car is left outside of designated areas, each additional driver, and any extra equipment (GPS, baby seat, etc.).
What should I know about the driver's requirements for the car hire?
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. A deposit via credit card (Visa or MasterCard only) is required.
What happens if I return the rental car 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 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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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 Healing waters of the North Portugal, Self-drive
6 Days Starting in Penafiel, Portugal and ending in Porto, Portugal
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