The Portugal Experience:

Taste, Feel, and See It All

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure as your group of friends takes on Portugal!

With a mix of explorers, chill-seekers, and those dreaming of making Portugal their new home, this trip promises something for everyone. From the sun-soaked beaches of the Algarve in the south to the historic charm of Monsaraz in the east, the vibrant energy of Lisbon and its coastal gems, and the rich culture of Porto in the north—this journey will be nothing short of epic.

We’ve lined up the BEST guides to showcase the heart and soul of Portugal, starting with two incredible tours in Lisbon. But the adventure doesn’t stop there! You’ll have the chance to dive deeper into Portugal’s essence with experiences designed to make you feel, taste, and truly see the magic of this beautiful country.

Whether you’re exploring on your own, relaxing in the moment, or imagining a future here,
this trip is your gateway to discovering the best of Portugal. Let’s make it unforgettable!

LISBON

Wander through the historic streets of Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, where cobblestone alleys lead past colorful, tile-adorned buildings and the soulful melodies of Fado echo around every corner. Take in sweeping views of the Tagus River and the city’s iconic red rooftops from one of its stunning Miradouros, perfect for capturing unforgettable moments.

Lisbon’s culinary scene is a feast for the senses, from the creamy perfection of pastéis de nata to traditional dishes like bacalhau à brás. Explore the grandeur of the Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or hop aboard the iconic yellow tram as it winds through the city’s charming hills. Lisbon offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and flavor at every turn.

Porto

Imagine wandering through the ancient streets of Ribeira, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where vibrant, colorful buildings line the Douro River, offering breathtaking views that you’ll long to capture. Picture yourself indulging in rich and aromatic port wine, directly from the cellars of the iconic wine lodges dotting the city's landscape. Visualize the sensation of traversing the majestic Dom Luís I Bridge, taking in panoramic vistas that will leave you in awe.

Porto's culinary scene is nothing short of spectacular, with traditional dishes like Francesinha sparking a feast for your taste buds. Dive into a world of craftsmanship at Livraria Lello, often hailed as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, providing an enchanting backdrop for literary lovers.

madrid extension

Stroll through the vibrant streets of Madrid, where grand boulevards meet charming neighborhoods like La Latina and Malasaña, each brimming with character and history. Admire the architectural splendor of landmarks like the Royal Palace and the Almudena Cathedral, or relax in the lush greenery of Retiro Park, a serene escape in the heart of the city.

Madrid’s culinary offerings are just as captivating, from savoring traditional tapas at bustling markets like San Miguel to indulging in the city’s famous churros with chocolate. Dive into its rich cultural scene with a visit to the Prado Museum or Reina Sofía, home to masterpieces by Goya, Velázquez, and Picasso. Madrid is a city that seamlessly blends history, art, and vibrant energy, leaving every visitor enchanted.

REGISTRATION FORM

PLEASE TYPE CAREFULLY! INACCURATE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN TRAVEL DELAYS AND/OR CHANGE FEES.

(Please submit one registration form per person)

Pricing details

*All pricing & availability is subject to change until completed through the booking process. If your vacation package includes airfare, baggage fees may be an additional cost. For international travel, a passport book is required. Most locations require at least 6 months before expiration on your passport, as well as 2 blank visa pages. Please make sure to have the correct and updated documents if applicable. If you have a criminal background, you are responsible for knowing the travel restrictions pertaining to the offense.

INCLUDED IN THE QUOTE

• Most taxes and fees

  • Deposits, Service fees and commissions (NON REFUNDABLE)

    
    
    

NOT INCLUDED

• Add-On Experiences

• 4% processing fee per payment (if paying w/debit or credit card)

• Airfare

• Transportation (not listed in the tours above)

• Hotel accommodations

• Gratuities

• Meals/snacks/drinks

  • unless included in the tour

• Additional Optional Travel Insurance *DUE AT TIME OF BOOKING- PLEASE REVIEW THE DETAILS OF EACH PLAN THOROUGHLY

  The final price will be on your invoice, please note that the price below is an average price.

  • Worldwide Trip Protector Essentials

  • Worldwide Trip Protector Deluxe

  • Worldwide Trip Protector Platinum

  • Other insurance options are available, if you have questions or want more coverage options, please let us know at time of booking.

REGISTRATION 

• A completed registration form (one per household -max 2 people per registration form)

FINAL PAYMENT

• Payments not received on time will result in reservation cancellation without refund.

• Additional bookings after the final payment deadline may result in higher prices, less availability and additional administrative fees.

• Fee amounts imposed are at the discretion of Zone Travel.

CANCELLATION

Cancellation in writing must be received by Zone Travel 120 days prior to departure for appropriate refund on the land tour cost minus the following fees:

• Commissions and Travel insurance are non-refundable.

Zone Travel LLC and its cooperative destination incur unrecoverable charges preparing for your trip therefore, no refunds if cancellations occur less than 120 days before departure. Cancellations more than 120 days prior to departure are based on individual group bookings per the outlined confirmation document you receive.

We sell a variety of travel related products from different suppliers and service providers ("Suppliers"). Each Supplier has its own terms and condition that are applicable to your particular arrangements in addition to our general terms and conditions, and you should make sure you understand them.

Zone Travel is acting as intermediary or a "Booking Agent" for products and services that are not directly supplied by us (e.g., air carriage and ground transportation, hotel accommodations, meals, tours, cruises, etc.). We are not a co-vendor of such products and services. You will be entering into a separate contract with such Suppliers in connection with such products and services.

By making payments to Zone Travel for this trip you are agreeing to all Terms and Conditions listed on the Zone Travel website.

Vendor Cancel policy: Each vendor has their own policies, which we have to apply. This information may vary and is listed in full detail on the contract signed for each vendor.

TRAVEL INSURANCE IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED.

F.A.Q.

Passport/Visa/Traveler information

Click HERE to see what documentation you will need to enter Portugal

Do I have to purchase insurance?

NO, Travel Insurance is not required for USA citizens to travel on this trip; however, we strongly recommend travel insurance.

Is it better to use cash or card on my trip?

In Portugal, both cash and cards are widely accepted, but the best option depends on where you are and what you're doing:

When to Use Cash:

• Small Businesses & Markets: Local shops, markets, and smaller establishments often prefer cash, especially in rural areas or smaller towns.

• Tipping: While tipping isn’t mandatory, it’s appreciated, and cash is typically used for this.

• Public Transport: Some buses or local transport may only accept cash.

• Emergency Situations: Having some cash on hand is always a good idea in case of technical issues with card machines.

When to Use Cards:

• Hotels & Restaurants: Most mid-range to high-end establishments accept credit and debit cards.

• Cities & Tourist Areas: Cards are widely accepted in urban areas.

• Convenience: Using a card can save you from carrying large amounts of cash.

Currency Tips:

• Portugal uses the Euro (€) as its official currency. Make sure to have some Euros in cash for smaller transactions.

• ATMs are widely available, but check for fees before withdrawing.

• Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions.

A mix of both cash and card is ideal for flexibility. Let me know if you'd like more specific advice!

Should I exchange money before I travel?

Exchanging money before traveling to Portugal can be a good idea, but it depends on your preferences and travel plans. Here's a breakdown to help you decide:

Reasons to Exchange Money Before Traveling:

1. Convenience Upon Arrival: Having some Euros (€), Portugal’s official currency, on hand can be helpful for immediate expenses like transportation, tips, or snacks, especially if you're arriving late or in a rural area.

2. Avoid Airport Exchange Rates: Currency exchange services at airports often have higher fees and less favorable rates.

3. Peace of Mind: If you prefer to have cash ready and not worry about finding an ATM or exchange service upon arrival, exchanging beforehand is a good option.

Reasons to Wait Until You Arrive:

1. Better Exchange Rates: Local ATMs and exchange offices in Portugal often offer better rates than those in your home country.

2. Widely Available ATMs: ATMs are plentiful in cities and tourist areas, making it easy to withdraw Euros directly.

3. Avoid Carrying Large Amounts of Cash: Traveling with too much cash can be risky in case of loss or theft.

Tips for Exchanging Money:

• Check Fees: Whether you exchange before or after arrival, compare fees and rates to get the best deal.

• Use ATMs Wisely: Withdraw larger amounts at once to minimize transaction fees, but avoid dynamic currency conversion (choosing to be charged in your home currency instead of Euros).

• Bring a Backup: Carry a credit or debit card as a backup for larger purchases or emergencies.

A small amount of Euros before you travel is a safe bet, but you can rely on ATMs and local exchanges for the bulk of your cash needs. Let me know if you'd like more travel tips!

What is the tipping etiquette?

In Portugal, tipping is appreciated but not always expected, as it’s not as customary as in some other countries. Here’s a quick guide:

• Restaurants: If service is good, leaving 5-10% of the bill is a kind gesture. For casual cafes or small meals, rounding up the bill or leaving a couple of euros is common.

• Taxis: Tipping isn’t mandatory, but rounding up to the nearest euro or adding 5-10% is appreciated.

• Hotels: For porters or housekeeping, a tip of 1-2 euros per bag or per day is a nice gesture.

• Tour Guides: If you’ve had a great experience, tipping 5-10 euros per person for a guide is a thoughtful way to show your appreciation.

While tipping isn’t obligatory, it’s always welcomed as a way to acknowledge good service.

Thinking about moving to portugal?

We’re proud to have a strong connection with an excellent real estate agent based in Lisbon, as well as trusted partners in other regions of Portugal. If you’d like to meet with a Realtor during your visit to Portugal, simply indicate your interest in learning more about relocating to Portugal on the Registration Form. We’ll ensure you’re connected for personalized guidance and insights!

Visa Options: Americans can stay in Portugal for up to 90 days without a visa, but for long-term residency, you’ll need a visa. Popular options include:

1. D7 Visa: For retirees or those with passive income (e.g., pensions, investments). Requires proof of €870/month income.

2. Digital Nomad Visa: For remote workers earning at least €2,800/month.

3. D2 Visa: For entrepreneurs with a business plan.

4. Golden Visa: For investors contributing €250,000+ to the Portuguese economy.

5. Residency Process: Apply for a visa at a Portuguese consulate in the US, then complete the residence permit process in Portugal. After five years of residency, you may apply for permanent residency or citizenship.

Cost of Living: Portugal is 30-40% cheaper than the US. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Lisbon averages €800–1,000/month, and dining out is significantly more affordable.

Healthcare: Portugal offers high-quality public healthcare at low costs. Private insurance is also affordable, ranging from €40–200/month.

Language and Culture: While English is widely spoken in urban areas, learning Portuguese is recommended for better integration. The lifestyle is relaxed, with a strong emphasis on work-life balance.

Taxes: Portugal taxes residents on worldwide income, but the US-Portugal tax treaty helps avoid double taxation. Americans must still file US taxes.

Popular Locations: Lisbon, Porto, the Algarve, Cascais, and Madeira are top choices for expats, offering a mix of urban amenities, coastal living, and affordability.

For more detailed guidance, consult resources like the Get Golden Visa, Taxes for Expats, or Imin Portugal.

SUGGESTED PAYMENT SCHEDULE

There are usually three payment options available to you. Due to the quickly approaching departure date of your trip, Option 1 (Full Payment) is the only option available to you for this trip.
*Payment schedule does not include insurance costs. To help you select the ideal coverage, we will send you a personalized comparison of insurance plans. You can review the options and purchase your chosen plan directly from the email. 

Option 1: Full Payment
(Most affordable overall)
Full payment is due upon receipt.

*Please keep in mind, a 4% processing fee will be charged at time of payment if paying with debit or debit or credit card. (this has not been included in the costs.)

Option 2: Two Payments- NOT AVAILABLE FOR THIS TRIP
One payment will be due immediately and the second payment will be due no later than May 1, 2026

(There will be a one time $50 fee per person, for this delayed payment option)
(More than 2 payments are not allowed without an additional $50 administrative fee per extra payment)
NOTE: Not all insurance policy will allow you to purchase coverage after the initial deposit. It is illegal to purchase insurance with the knowledge and intent that you will be changing or canceling your trip.)

*Please keep in mind, a 4% processing fee will be charged at time of payment if paying with debit or credit card. (this has not been included in the costs.)

TWO-PAYMENT PLAN:

(price per person)
Due now: $200/pp + $50/pp payment plan fee + Insurance (suggested)
Final payment date: Remainder due

 

Option 3: Monthly Payments- NOT AVAILABLE FOR THIS TRIP
Payments will be split into the remaining months prior to 160 days prior to the trip

(A one time $50/pp fee and a $50 fee per payment is applicable for this delayed payment option.)
*Please keep in mind, a 4% processing fee may be charged at time of payment if choosing to pay with a debit or credit card. (this has not been included in the costs.)

Split amount due into monthly payments.

• The payments will be divided by the number of months leading up to the final payment deadline..

  • The first payment will also include the monthly planning fee and the insurance

Can I pay by Zelle?

Yes!

We started taking Zelle payments last month and we found this to be a fast and FREE way to pay!
For those who don’t know what Zelle is… it is very much like a wire transfer (but it is not a wire transfer).

Everyone’s bank is different, though, so you may want to call/go in to your local bank and ask to have the maximum amount available to transfer every day.

Example: Some banks only allow $500/day transfer. Other banks will allow $1200/day.

Always be careful when making payments through Zelle to people that you do not know. There is no protection guarantee provided and you cannot reverse the fee.

The Pros for using Zelle:

• It is FREE (no processing fees)!

• It is instantaneous (funds will go directly to Zone Travel- so this is the absolute fastest way to make a payment)

The Cons for using Zelle:

• Every bank is different when it comes to maximum amount available to be transferred every day. So, this may mean that you need to make multiple payments to Zone Travel, multiple days in a row.

• It does require an app download onto your phone, and you need to set up your account with your bank information.

Can I pay by check?

Yes!

If you would like to avoid the 4% credit card processing fees, you may pay by check.
It is very important that you pay in advance of the deadlines and allow ample time for delivery.

Payments received after the deadline could result in cancelation of your reservation or increased fees.

There are two ways to pay by check:

• Mail the check

• Deposit directly at a local branch