Saudade is a uniquely Portuguese word to describe a deep longing for something. It’s a sensation with no easy translation, but you can hear it in the soulful voice of a fado musician, detect it in the vibrant colors of mosaics, or even savor it in a glass of sweet port wine. However you perceive it, you’ll already be feeling wistful saudade for your next trip to Portugal before boarding your flight back home.
Saudade is a uniquely Portuguese word to describe a deep longing for something. It’s a sensation with no easy translation, but you can hear it in the soulful voice of a fado musician, detect it in the vibrant colors of mosaics, or even savor it in a glass of sweet port wine. However you perceive it, you’ll already be feeling wistful saudade for your next trip to Portugal before boarding your flight back home.
Aug 13–15, 2024 | Lisbon | 2 nights
Aug 15-18, 2024 | Lagos | 3 nights
Aug 18–21, 2024 | London | 3 nights
If you need any assistance while you are traveling, or if you would like to make any changes, reservations or cancellations during your time in Portugal or England you can contact the following who will be your local contacts during your trip:
Portugal (August 13- 15)
Portugal (August 16- 18)
England
Scenset
Important: Due to the time difference, for small day-to-day things like touring and dining reservations - or emergencies that need immediate assistance - it will be most efficient for you to use the local contacts as they are in the same time zone as you.
WhatsApp: If you don’t have WhatsApp on your phone, we strongly encourage downloading it for free as it makes contacting our local team easier.
In August, Lisbon experiences warm to hot weather with temperatures ranging from 77°F to 95°F, accompanied by minimal rainfall and plenty of sunshine. Similarly, the Algarve region in southern Portugal sees even hotter temperatures, often exceeding 86°F, with little to no rainfall and abundant sunshine, making it ideal for beach vacations.
London weather in August is typically mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 21°C (57°F to 70°F), occasional rain showers, and longer daylight hours providing a mix of sunshine and cloudy skies.
The currency in Portugal is Euros.
Here are some of our packing recommendations for your trip to Portugal:
Plugs: In Portugal, the standard plug type is Type F, which has two round pins and an additional grounding pin in the middle. Type C plugs, which have two round pins without the grounding pin, are also commonly used. An adapter will be needed to plug devices into the outlets.
Voltage: The electrical voltage is 230 volts, and the frequency is 50 Hz. In the US, the voltage is 120 volts, and the frequency is 60 Hz. Therefore, using electrical appliances from the US in Portugal requires a converter or adapter to match the voltage and frequency. It's important to note that not all converters are the same; a suitable one must be chosen for the specific appliances.
Tipping is always appreciated, though not obligatory. For drivers, we generally suggest a tip depending on the transfer duration. For guides, we recommend a tip for half-day experiences or a tip for full-day experiences.
Public Transport
For optimal navigation and access to comprehensive maps and routes using public transport, we suggest downloading Citymapper.
Lisbon
Taxi/ Uber
Lagos
Here are some helpful Portuguese phrases for your travels:
The currency in England is British Pounds (GBP).
Plugs & Voltage
For best navigation and access to comprehensive maps and routes using public transport, we highly recommend downloading Citymapper. This app provides real-time updates, journey planning, and even walking directions.
London Transport Options:
Operating Hours: The Tube generally operates from early morning to late night, with some variations depending on the line.
Tickets: Several ticketing options are available, including single tickets, travelcards, and Oyster Cards. Contactless payments are also accepted.
Tickets: You can purchase single tickets or use an Oyster Card or contactless payments on buses.
Taxis & Ride-Sharing Apps:
Tip:
London is generally a safe city, but it's essential to be aware of your surroundings. Here are some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip:
Mobile Phone Safety:
U.S. passport holders do not need any special visa to enter Portugal for tourism purposes. Make sure your passports are valid for at least 3 months after your trip.
These guidelines are for reference only. Scenset holds no responsibility for travel restrictions. Travelers are responsible for ensuring the right documentation to travel.
We have designed some great playlists for you to enjoy during your trip, full of local talent to discover!
We've put together this essential listening playlist for your Taylor Swift concert - full of smash hits and fan favorites from all her iconic eras; it's sure to get you hyped for the concert!
Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world, although it was practically rebuilt from scratch after a 1755 earthquake. The only neighborhood to survive was the Alfama district, where cobbled streets and the sounds of fado music recall a nostalgic past. Throughout the rest of Lisbon, new restaurants and bars continue to reinvent the seaside city, often by serving modern takes on traditional tasca cuisine like fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and local wine.
Your driver will pick you up from the airport for a private transfer to your hotel in the city center.
Booked By Scenset.
Head over to the rental office on your own to meet your local guide and pick up your e-bikes.
Enjoy your first afternoon in Portugal with an E-bike tour passing by the Atlantic Ocean and a few of Lisbon's most iconic spots outside of the city center. You'll pass the Alcantara River, the Torre de Belem, and the Monasterio Jeronimos. Take a pitstop at one of the most renowned pastry shops to try the pasteis de nata!
Bottled water will be provided for you during the bike tour.
Booked by Scenset.
Why we love it for you: Offering one of the nicest rooftop bars in Lisbon, with far-reaching views over the Tagus River and the capital's red rooftops, Bairro Alto stands above the rest in picturesque Lisbon. The chosen suite is the top-tier room for complete comfort.
Booked by Scenset.
Discover the fascinating coast of Sesimbra, just outside of Lisbon, in a way that is both radical and contemplative. "Coasteering" is a recent activity that consists of exploring the rocky coast without resorting to any boat. Walk along the cliffs, jump to the sea, descend and climb the cliffs, and be amazed at the beauty of this coast!
Swimming experience is required!
Please bring sports shoes (running shoes) and shorts to wear under the neoprene suit. We recommend that you also bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, and towel. If you have long hair, bring a hair tie to tie it back.
If the sea conditions do not meet the necessary safety standards for the activity to take place, we will contact you in advance.
Water and snacks will be provided.
If you have any problems locating your driver, please call will be provided. Please note, there is no guide on this tour but you will have your driver with you.
Booked by Scenset.
Discover the soul-stirring melodies of Fado, the hauntingly beautiful traditional music of Portugal, during an enchanting evening in Lisbon. Settle into an intimate venue, where the emotive voices of talented Fado singers and skilled musicians weave tales of love, longing, and saudade—the quintessential Portuguese sense of melancholic yearning. Accompanied by the heartfelt strumming of the Portuguese guitar, each note resonates with history and emotion, creating an unforgettable atmosphere that captures the essence of Lisbon's musical heritage.
Recommended by Scenset—nothing has been booked.
Booked by scenset.
The Algarve was the go-to beach destination for European travelers long before Portugal was on the tourist map, and its enduring popularity is a testament to everything that it has to offer. Michelin-level restaurants serve up spectacular meals while music spills out from flashy beach clubs from midday to nighttime, but even those pale in comparison to the Algarve’s golden beaches and ethereal caves carved out by the waves of the Atlantic.
Today is a national holiday in Portugal. Keep in mind that stores and some restaurants may be closed.
Breakfast at your hotel is served during the morning.
If you would like to pre-order a breakfast box for your transfer in the morning, please arrange this with the hotel staff at check-in.
You'll be picked up this morning from your hotel for a private transfer down to the southern coast of Portugal—with an exciting pitstop along the way to drive off-road buggies!
If you have any problems locating your driver, please call will be provided.
Booked by Scenset.
Enjoy a stop in Silves for a buggy driving experience.
Discover the beauty of nature as you explore some of the most scenic trails with breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, forests, and lakes, these trails are perfect for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. Choose between an inland route including small villages or drives along the coast. From the rugged terrain of the mountains to the tranquil trails of sand there is plenty of amazing views to take in.
Please bring the following with you:
We recommend:
This tour will end in the early afternoon.
Booked by a client.
After buggy rides, you'll be picked up for your drive to Casa Mae hotel. After you have freshened up, head out for a leisurely lunch.
Booked By Scenset.
Here are some restaurant recommendations in Lagos. Every restaurant offers fish options as well as at least one vegetarian option. Please review the menus before requesting a reservation to ensure your dietary requirements are met.
Restaurants in Beautiful Settings:
Relaxed Dinner Options & Tapas:
Michelin Star & Fine Dining:
Why we love it for you: This former estate on Portugal's most sunny coast lets you unwind in style. From the minimalistic main building to your own boho chic cabana, complete with bathtub, right through to the classic suites in the old estate building. Pick your perfect room to set the scenset for an idyllic vacation. With the beach just a 20-minute walk away, you can easily venture to the sandy shores and embrace the coastal beauty, all while staying in the heart of the Old Town.
After breakfast, head out of your hotel and take a walk to the boating dock to meet your captain.
Head out in the late morning to get to the dock and meet your captain. Please give yourself enough time to get to the marina as your departure is at 10 AM.
(15 -20 minutes walk from your hotel.)
Upon check-in, the hotel staff will provide details about the meeting point for the day. If you require any assistance, please feel free to ask the Concierge or you can call Guest Services. A phone number will be provided.
Enjoy the ultimate maritime adventure with a private catamaran experience in the enchanting waters of Lagos. Your journey begins as you step aboard a luxurious catamaran, setting the stage for an exclusive and personalized exploration of the Algarve's stunning coastline. With a knowledgeable crew at your service, you'll sail along the rugged cliffs and picturesque beaches that define this coastal haven. Enjoy lunch and drinks on board.
Lunch and drinks included with experience. Water, soft drinks, beer, and white wine available on board.
Booked By Scenset.
Portugal is one of the most famous surfing destinations in the world. While the Algarve waves aren't quite as crushing as those on the Atlantic Coast, they are still over a great range for surfers of all skill levels. This private class will be adapted to your experience level: from beginning to advanced.
Your surf instructor will check conditions the night before and decide the best location to surf.
Booked by Scenset.
Carrapateira village lies a 30-minute drive from Casa Mãe, located at the core of the natural park of Costa Vicentina - natural untouched beauty prevails there. Here, a riding school ensures you are paired with a horse suited to your level of experience before you venture out on a breathtaking 2-hour sunset riding experience.
The guided ride starts exploring winding trails, surrounded by pine trees in beautiful countryside, then you will cross small rivers and ride over untouched dunes leading to the ocean. Once on the beach, experienced riders will be happy to push the strength of their horses, for a wild ride. The tour finishes as the day unwinds, watching the sun falling in the ocean, surrounded by the immensity of wild nature for unforgettable memories!
If you have any issues locating your driver, please speak with the Concierge at your hotel or call their number will be provided.
Booked by Scenset.
Check in for your flight tomorrow at British Airways Check-In to get your boarding passes.
🧳 You each have 1 checked bag (23kg) allowance per person.
We recommend downloading the British Airways app, for the most up-to-date flight details.
This morning, it's time to check out and say adeus to Portugal. Thankfully, in Portugal we don't say goodbye but rather até logo, or until next time. But until then, it's off to London!
Enjoy a final leisurely morning in Portugal to sleep in, enjoy breakfast, and spend a final couple of hours on the beach before being picked up for your flight out.
You'll be picked up from your hotel in time for your flight out of Faro Airport.
If you have any issues locating your driver, please contact will be provided.
Booked by Scenset.
Upon arrival in London, meet your driver upon exiting baggage claim for a private transfer to your residence in the Mayfair neighborhood.
If you do not see the driver, please call the COMO Concierge desk at telephone number will be provided.
Booked by Scenset.
While in London, a few of our favorite recommendations around Mayfair are:
These are recommendations only - let us know if you'd like us to make any reservations for you.
Why we love it for you: The COMO Metropolitan is in the posh Mayfair neighborhood, walking distance from many of London's most iconic landmarks. Your apartment is in the residences part of the hotel, a true home-away-from-home.
This morning after breakfast, meet your guide in front of the statue of Winston Churchill next to Big Ben. The easiest way to get there is to grab a taxi, which is just a 10-minute ride.
You can ask your hotel concierge for assistance if needed.
Step into the beating heart of London, a city steeped in stories hidden by the bustle of modern life. Walk the same paths as monarchs and ministers as your expert reveals the city’s untold stories.
Start at the historic Parliament Square surrounded by magnificent architecture and a bustling London atmosphere. If time allows, stop by Horse Guards Parade, home to a multitude of royal ceremonies and rituals including the famous 'Trooping of the Colour.’
A short tube ride initiates you as a true Londoner. In the City of London, see the remnants of the Roman 'London Wall' and the narrow alleys, secret gardens, and abundance of Baroque churches that make up this extraordinary district, culminating with an exterior view of the spectacular St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Don't just visit London; experience it with a local who knows it best. Immerse yourself in a narrative that spans centuries and discover a London that most tourists rarely see, returning home with stories of the true spirit of the city.
Your tour ends at Buckingham Palace, which is just a short walk from your hotel so you can go back to freshen up.
Booked by scenset.
Begin your day with a visit to Borough Market, one of London’s oldest and most famous food markets. This culinary haven offers a vibrant selection of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and diverse street food from around the globe. Don’t miss out on trying some of the market’s viral treats, like chocolate-covered strawberries and the renowned paella. Since the market can get quite busy, it's best to arrive when it opens to enjoy a more relaxed experience.
While at Borough Market, look up to spot The Shard, one of London's most iconic landmarks towering above the city. You can visit the top of the Shard via paid entrance. At the top, you will see 360 views of London, a nice bar, and relaxing areas to enjoy a drink!
After exploring the market, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the River Thames. As you walk, you’ll soon reach the iconic Tower Bridge, with the historic Tower of London visible across the river. This is an ideal spot to capture stunning photos with these iconic London landmarks as your backdrop.
The closest tube station to Borough Market, is London Bridge Station.
Other recommendations: Consider visiting Battersea Power Station, a beautifully restored industrial landmark that now houses shops, restaurants, and cultural spaces, offering a unique blend of history and modernity.
Recommendation only.
This entire trip has been leading up to this moment: experiencing the Eras Tour at the legendary Wembley Stadium.
To reach the stadium, you can call a taxi from your hotel, with the drive taking around 35-60 minutes, depending on traffic. Please speak to your concierge for advice on traffic times.
However, with traffic likely to be heavy, a more convenient option is the London Underground. It's just a 12-minute walk to Green Park Station, where you can catch the Jubilee Line directly to Wembley Park. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk to the stadium.
See tube directions here.
After a whirlwind trip, it's time to head back home today, hopefully full of great memories and excitement for the next trip together.
You'll be picked up from your apartment and taken to the airport for your flight out.
If you do not see the driver, please call the COMO Concierge desk. The number will be provided.
Booked by Scenset.