Overview
Our program brings you the best of both worlds: the consistency you rely on and the flexibility your group needs.
Olá Lisbon! Bring your students to discover the history and culture of Portugal, visiting Coimbra University, discovering the Royal Palace, and enjoying a scenic drive through the Douro Valley. Your group will also wander the colorful streets of Sintra—Portugal’s royal oasis, explore the heart of Porto in the Ribeira district, and enjoy an evening of live Fado music.
Itinerary
Day 1
Overnight flight to Portugal (Lisbon)
Day 2
Arrive in Lisbon
Meet your Tour Director
Your 24-hour Tour Director will meet you at the airport and remain with your group until your final airport departure.
Lisbon city walk
Explore Lisbon on a guided city walk through neighborhoods shaped by centuries of global trade. Wander the narrow lanes of the Alfama quarter, spend time in lively Rossio Square, and explore the Chiado quarter’s cafés and shops before strolling along Avenida da Liberdade, the city’s grand, tree-lined boulevard.
Day 3
Travel to Porto via Coimbra & Fátima
Portugal's biggest university town, Coimbra has been a centre of learning since 1290, when the country's first college was founded here. Fátima draws pilgrims rather than students. In 1917, three children saw several apparitions of the Virgin Mary in a field here, and the enormous basilica that was built in her honour attests to the continuing flood of pilgrims who visit the city each year.
Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima visit
Coimbra University guided visit
Enjoy a walking tour through the University of Coimbra, featuring key highlights such as the Porta Férrea, the Via Latina, the Sala dos Capelos with its portraits of Portuguese kings, and the University Chapel. Inside the chapel, see an 18th-century organ, 16th-century candelabra, 17th-century tiles, and a finely carved Manueline portal.
Day 4
Porto guided sightseeing tour
A guided sightseeing tour introduces Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, known for its bustling riverfront, historic neighborhoods, and iconic bridges, including one designed by a disciple of Gustave Eiffel. Begin in the Ribeira district, where colourful houses and decorative balconies line narrow cobblestone streets along the Douro River. Visit the Church of São Francisco, whose plain exterior contrasts with its richly gilded Baroque interior, and continue to the Sé Cathedral of Porto, featuring marble and stonework, a silver altarpiece in the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament, and traditional Portuguese azulejo tiles.
Day 5
Braga and Guimarães guided excursion (optional)
Explore Braga and Guimarães on a guided excursion through Portugal’s rich history and culture. Visit the Cathedral of Braga, one of the country’s oldest religious sites, and Bom Jesus do Monte, known for its iconic baroque staircase and sweeping views. Stop at the Sameiro Sanctuary before continuing to Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal, where its medieval castle reflects the nation’s origins.
Day 6
Scenic drive through the Douro Valley
Admire the world's most beautiful wine region as you make your way from Porto to Peso da Régua, through the terraced hillsides at the heart of the Douro Valley.
Travel to Lisbon
Day 7
Lisbon guided sightseeing tour
Explore Portugal’s capital city as you visit the Monument to the Discoveries and consider Portugal’s Age of Exploration. Tour Mosteiro dos Jerónimos to study Manueline architecture and the legacy of Vasco da Gama, then examine Belém Tower’s defensive role along the Tagus River. Discuss the engineering of Ponte Vasco da Gama and take in panoramic views from the Mirador de Santa Justa while reflecting on Lisbon’s blend of medieval heritage and modern growth.
Day 8
Sintra, Cape Roca, and Cascais guided excursion
Explore beyond Lisbon on a guided excursion to Sintra, Cabo da Roca, and Cascais. Visit the National Palace of Sintra, a remarkably preserved royal residence, then stand at Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe. Continue to Cascais and Estoril to see scenic beaches and the historic citadel, once a royal retreat.
Fado evening
Portugal's version of the Blues, Fado means "fate" or "destiny," and its songs generally tell the tale of lost love or glory. Head to a Fado house in the Bairro Alto and see the singers swathed in black, accompanied by 12-stringed guitars, crooning their hearts out.
Day 9
Return home
Optional Extension
Add 2 Days in Algarve
Travel through the historic city of Évora, where you’ll visit the Roman Temple, the São João Evangelista Church, and the unforgettable Chapel of Bones. Continue to the Algarve for an excursion to Lagos, known for its striking Ponta da Piedade cliffs and serene Camilo Beach. Enjoy a guided walk through Lagos’ Old Town, rich in maritime history and local charm, before returning to Lisbon.
TourFlex: Your Experience, Your Way
With TourFlex, available for tours departing October 2027 or later, you get the flexibility to shape an itinerary that's as unique as your group. Dial your trip up or down for more choice, more control, and more unforgettable hands-on moments, all while getting the right experience at the right value. Available options vary by program and destination.
Explore Your Way
- Add experiences like theatre tickets or unique excursions
- Swap activities for ones that better serve your group
- Extend the learning through go-aheads or stay-behinds
Go Your Way
- Choose the most accessible departure airport for your group
- Opt for 2-, 3-, or 4-star hotels that are centrally located or a convenient ride to major itinerary attractions
Dine Your Way
- Opt for pre-selected meals or encourage exploration by dining on your own
- Enjoy 2-3 course, culturally representative meals or opt for 3-course, authentic dinners at local restaurants
Already Included
WorldStrides Tour Director: A dynamic destination expert who makes learning come to life by leading your group's activities and discussions.
Transportation to & from your destination
Hotel accommodations
Daily meals, with options varying by program (ask your Program Consultant for details)
Admissions to top attractions (details in itinerary)
Guided sightseeing tours & city walks (details in itinerary)
Tips for local guides and drivers (excluding full-day bus drivers and Tour Director)
WorldAssist staff members available 24/7/365 should your group need extra help
Scenes from Portugal
Health & Safety
Additional health and safety measures may be available within your respective destination. Refer to your program-specific materials for complete details.
Financial Assistance
Financial Assistance
Through the WorldStrides Canada Financial Assistance Program (FAP), we provide travel grants to elementary and secondary school facing financial hardship. These grants, which can be up to $250 for coach tours and up to $1,000 for flight tours, are designed to make our programs more accessible to students from all backgrounds. Interested families are encouraged to speak with their school to learn more about our confidential application process.
Payment Plans
Monthly Automated Plan
Enroll with a deposit of $99 plus the cost of your travel protection plan (if included). We’ll automatically debit the rest of your tour fee from your chequing account in equal monthly payments, with the final payment due 35 days before you travel.
Please note: If two consecutive payments are declined, your account will be moved to the 4-Step Manual Plan.
4-Step Manual Plan
Manage your payments manually with a $249 initial payment plus your travel protection plan costs (if included). You’ll then make three more payments at key milestones as your departure date approaches. The final balance is due 65 days before your trip.
Please note: Payments on this plan are not automatically deducted and must be made manually.
Fundraising Tools
We are committed to helping you make your educational travel dreams a reality. We offer a comprehensive Fundraising Guide packed with creative ideas, tips, and resources to help you and your students reach your fundraising goals. From setting a timeline to brainstorming innovative campaigns, our guide provides a structured approach to make fundraising a fun and engaging experience for everyone involved.
