Heart of Portugal Route

7-Night Itinerary

Fly into Lisbon and you will find the lovely Pousada de Alcacer do Sal set in a medieval Moorish castle in this ancient port town, famed for its role in the salt trade, where you can marvel at the interesting architecture or explore the nearby Estuário do Sado Nature Reserves and the lovely Atlantic coastline.

After the first two nights you head to Vila Viçosa in the heart of the Alentejo region which is perfect for outdoor activities including hiking and birdwatching, for visiting the impressive Ducal Palace, or for exploring the nearby historic towns of Evora (for the Temple of Diana) and Borba.

From here it’s north bound to the medieval castle-monastery of Crato that was once home to the Knights of the Order of Malta. The Pousada is situated in the rural village of Flor de Rosa, famed for its pottery and a 5 minute drive away from the town of Crato, and provides a relaxing stay.

Your journey then takes you to the charming town of Viseu and its treasure of a Pousada which occupies the former 18th São Teotónio Hospital, a stunning neoclassical building of 4 floors surrounding an atmospheric cloister. The Pousada is just a short walk from the town centre, famous as the birthplace of artist Vasco Fernandes and home to excellent religious art and wonderful architecture.

Your final two nights are spent in the Pousada de Queluz in front of the blue Queluz Palace. This is a great location too for exploring Lisbon from a quieter base with a direct train service into the city centre located a 10 minute walk away. 

From here it is a 12km drive to Lisbon airport for your return.