Lisbon Baixa - Lisbon experienced Europe’s largest recorded earthquake in 1755, leading the then Prime Minister, Marquis of Pombal, to undertake the reconstruction of the devastated city center. This effort gave birth to the first modern European city, “Baixa Pombalina,” characterized by its urban and geometric architectural design. This model influenced the construction of other new cities, particularly in the New World, such as Manhattan in New York and downtown Chicago. In Baixa, we will visit notable squares like “Praça do Comércio” and “Rossio” (featuring a statue of Brazil’s first Emperor, D. Pedro I), and stroll along Rua Augusta, Portugal’s most significant pedestrian street, known for its iconic Arch of Triumph.

Centro Historico de Sintra - Sintra is undoubtedly one of Portugal’s most remarkable locations, largely due to its unique microclimate that transforms this small town on the slopes of the “Serra de Sintra” mountain range, near the Atlantic, into a major tourist attraction. Visitors can admire its renowned castles and palaces or savor traditional foods, pastries, sweets, and shop for typical local souvenirs. In its historic center, you will have the opportunity to taste the famous “travesseiros” and “queijadas” at the Piriquita Pastry Shop and explore the narrow streets of Portugal’s most romantic town.

Park and National Palace of Pena - You have the choice of which palace (or palaces) to visit, with the guide recommending options such as “Quinta da Regaleira,” a 19th-century palace with impressive decorations rich in Masonic symbolism, the Moorish Castle, a testament to the Islamic presence in the region built between the 8th and 9th centuries and expanded after the Reconquest, or the Palácio da Pena, a fantastical and revivalist reconstruction reflecting 19th-century romanticism, inspired by the passion and imagination of artist D. Ferdinand of Saxe-Coburg Gotha, consort of D. Maria II.

Torre de Belem - Belem, a district in Lisbon, epitomizes the era of Portuguese Discoveries with several monuments classified as Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, such as the Jerónimos Monastery and Torre de Belém, both in the Manueline style, forming a unique urban ensemble. Additionally, the more modern Monument of the Discoveries and the Plaza do Imperio enhance the grandeur of the Great Portuguese Empire era. Explore these elements that narrate the story of this epic period. All of this is set in a pleasant area by the Tagus River, featuring green spaces, marinas, sailing clubs, and a cycle path where the fresh sea air complements the beautiful views. Don’t miss the Pastels of Bethlehem, a secret and magical recipe that brings joy.

Mosteiro dos Jeronimos - Belem, the Lisbon district that embodies the epic of the Portuguese Discoveries, boasts several monuments classified as Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. The Portuguese empire became one of the largest in history, and the majestic monuments in Belem reflect this golden era in Portugal’s history. Key sites include the Monastery of Jerónimos, Belém Tower, and the Monument to the Discoveries, featuring statues of great Portuguese sailors and explorers like Pedro Alvares Cabral and Vasco da Gama. A must-visit is the famous “Pastéis de Belém,” one of Portugal’s most iconic pastries.