Sunny Portugal featuring New Year's Eve in Funchal, Madeira - Holiday

Ancient castles and Roman ruins, groves of lemon and almond trees, quiet whitewashed villages, and welcoming locals – Portugal is waiting for you.

Say hello to the Portuguese Riviera, your home for the next two nights. With no scheduled sightseeing today, spend the day as you wish, exploring the city independently. Mansions scattered about Cascais and Monte Estoril – all hint at its history as a haven for exiled European royals and nobility. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner.

Venture to Nazaré, a traditional fishing town along the coast, where Atlantic beaches, maritime history, and local traditions shape daily life. Take in sweeping ocean views, the legendary giant waves, and the energy of this seaside community. Explore the picture-perfect village of Óbidos, where whitewashed houses sit snug within medieval city walls. Stroll through its charming cobblestone streets and enjoy a tasting of the region’s beloved ginjinha, the local sour-cherry liqueur traditionally served in small chocolate cups.

Fly to Madeira, the “Pearl of the Atlantic.” Wander along the colorful Rua de Santa Maria, decorated with vibrant murals, and enjoy lunch on your own at one of the island's many restaurants. Then embark on a walking tour of Funchal’s old downtown with its quaint narrow streets and historical sites, such as a 15th-century cathedral. Visit the Botanical Garden of Madeira with its collection of more than 2,500 plants from all continents.

Begin your day at Câmara de Lobos, a 15th-century town that's both a humble fishing village and sunny nature retreat. Drive along banana plantations and winding vineyards en route to the world’s second-highest cliff – Cabo Girão. Visit the fishing village of Porto Moniz and see its natural volcanic pools before returning to Funchal. Gather in the evening for an espetada, a traditional dinner cooked over an open fire, accompanied by folk dancers and music.

Allow the warm ocean breeze to brush against your skin as you spend time exploring coastal Garajau. Continue to Ponta de São Lourenço, the easternmost point of the island, and gaze out over the deep blue waves with your unparalleled view of the Atlantic. Enjoy time to relax and prepare for a lively evening at an elegant New Year’s Eve Gala.* Ring in the New Year in the most unforgettable way as you watch Madeira’s world-famous fireworks display.

Spend the first day of the new year in Funchal as you please. With a full day in the capital city, enjoy the beautiful island as you see fit. You may wish to join locals and visitors for the Madeira Plunge at the Lido Bathing Complex, a spirited New Year’s tradition held on the morning of January 1. Participants gather from late morning into early afternoon for a refreshing dip in the Atlantic, often donning seasonal accessories such as Father Christmas hats to welcome the new year in an unorthodox way. Many restaurants and hotel dining rooms offer special holiday menus. It’s a great way to indulge in classic island dishes — fresh fish, espetada, bolo do caco, or a sip of poncha — while soaking in sea.

Fly back to mainland Portugal. Arrive in Lisbon and embark on a tour of Belem, where you’ll see the iconic Belem Tower (UNESCO). See the façade of the 16th-century Jeronimos Monastery** (UNESCO) and learn about its historic importance. As the day draws to a close, you may choose to join your Tour Manager on a stroll of downtown Lisbon and explore this magical Lisbon city, walking along streets illuminated by two million Christmas lights.

Enjoy Lisbon like a local by taking advantage of the city’s excellent public transportation. Begin at the majestic Praça do Comércio, the grand riverside square marked by elegant arcades and the striking Arco da Rua Augusta, the gateway into downtown Lisbon. From here, stroll into the Baixa, the city’s historic commercial center, where Pombaline streets lead past lively cafés, bakeries, and traditional shops. As you walk, soak in the rhythm of everyday Lisbon — street performers, tiled façades, and inviting storefronts — before reaching the bustling upper streets, an ideal area to complete your route with a delicious meal. This tour will end around 12:00 p.m., and the afternoon is yours to explore Lisbon as you wish. Tonight, consider an optional experience featuring Portuguese cuisine and wine, paired with local artists performing Fado, a traditional art form recognized by UNESCO as part of the World’s Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Explore the enchanting UNESCO-listed town of Sintra, once the beloved summer retreat of Portuguese kings. Set amid cool mountain air and dramatic landscapes, the town is home to the National Palace of Sintra, the best-preserved medieval royal residence in the country. With a local expert, visit the palace’s distinctive conical chimneys, the richly decorated Swan and Magpie Rooms, and its Mudéjar tiles. Continue together on a leisurely walk through Sintra. Though small in scale, the village is full of character, with winding lanes, traditional shops, and a storybook ambiance that captures the timeless magic of this royal retreat. Tonight, gather to toast to a trip well-traveled and bid Portugal adeus.

Your tour ends today.