Portugal Long Stay Winter 2027 - Algarve

International Tours / by Air and Land
30 Day

    • Itinerary

    PORTUGAL LONG STAY WINTER 2027 – Algarve (Southern Portugal)
    Date: 05 FEB - 06 MAR, 2027 (30 days/28 nights) 
    Group size: Approx. 35 travelers 
    This Package includes Airfare, Accommodation, Transfers, Tours, and all Taxes.
    Your tour conductor will travel with you from Toronto. He will be your host during your entire stay.  
    ACCOMMODATION: You will be staying in the Alfagar Complex, a beautiful 27-acre resort surrounded by lush gardens, featuring private beach access, indoor and outdoor pools, restaurants and bars, playgrounds, sports facilities, entertainment programs, a gym, sauna, Turkish bath, supermarket, and self-service laundry facilities.
     
    ✨See memories of our Portugal’s Winter Long Stays Across Four Years (2022-2025) here: https://youtu.be/JX-tWx6MZY8   

    Experience the Algarve, Portugal’s sunniest southern coast, with our one-month long-stay package featuring golden beaches, mild winters, and a curated selection of included tours and activities. Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation, exploration, and authentic local experiences in this charming Mediterranean paradise.
     
    ******** BRIEF ITINERARY ********
     
    DAY 1) FRI 05 FEB 2027: Departure from Toronto
    You will meet your tour director at the departure gate at Toronto Pearson International Airport on Friday, 05 FEB 2027, 1.5 hours before the flight. He will travel with you from Toronto, and will be your host throughout your entire stay.
    FLIGHT: FRI 05-FEB-2027: Toronto (YYZ) - Faro (FAO) by TS232 @ 19:25 >> 07:30 +1 (duration: 7h 5min) - Flight arrives next day.  
     
    DAY 2) SAT 06 FEB 2027: Arrive in Faro >> Transfer to Albufeira
    * A complimentary transfer from Faro airport to your hotel is included when you book the same flight as your Canadian Tour Director. If the flight is not delayed, you will arrive at Faro Airport at 07:30 AM.
     
    Program of the Day: 
    * Private coach transfer from Faro Airport to Alfagar Resort in Albufeira (36 km, approx. 40 minutes).
    * Upon arrival at the resort, you may leave your luggage in the reception’s storage room and relax at one of the hotel’s restaurants. You’ll have the option to enjoy breakfast or brunch, or simply unwind with a drink, while your room is being prepared.
    * Afterward, you can join your Canadian tour director in the hotel lobby at 12:00 noon. He will give you an orientation walk of the resort and will stay at the resort as your dedicated host throughout your entire stay. During the orientation walk, you will see the resort facilities: Restaurants, Indoor pool, Outdoor pools, Sauna, Spa, Gym, Laundry facility, Private Access to the beach, Tennis courts, Minimarket...
     
    Hotel Check-in: Although the hotel’s official check-in time is 4:00 PM, they may check you in one by one from 1:00 PM. However, they do not guarantee that all the keys will be given out before 4 PM.
    * If you are on a different flight, you can get an Uber from Faro Airport to Alfagar Village (Address: Aldeamento Alfagar, 8200-912 Albufeira, Portugal). The ride will take 35-40 minutes and typically costs between €25-30
    * Guests arriving later may check in individually and take some time to relax. At 5:00 PM, you’ll meet your Canadian Tour Director in the hotel lobby for an orientation walk of the resort.
     
    * Our group "Welcome Dinner" will be held at one of the hotel’s restaurants at 6:30 PM, a wonderful chance to relax and get to know each other.
     
     
     
    DAY 3) SUN 07 FEB 2027: Orientation walk outside the resort
    Join your guide for an orientation walk around the area outside the resort (approx. 1.5 km = 20 min walk) to get familiar with the surroundings. Along the way, you’ll visit two nearby supermarkets, and if you're interested in getting a local SIM card, your guide will be happy to help you with the process.
     
    DAY 4 to >> DAY 30)
    During your Long Stay in Algarve, we have included the following 4 sightseeing tours in your package. You can find more details under the "Tour Attractions" tab.
     
    Tour #1: Full-Day Tour: Treasures of the East (Olhão, Tavira, Faro)
     
    Tour #2: Full-Day Tour: Albufeira old town walking tour + Caves Boat Tour (discover Benagil Cave, rock formations, and the unique Praia da Marinha)
     
    Tour #3: Half-Day Tour: Loulé Market & City Tour
     
    Tour #4: An Afternoon Beach Walk + Dinner: Take a leisurely walk from our resort to Praia Olhos de Água (“Eyes of Water”) ≈ 40-minute walk, and visit the lookout point for a picturesque view. Then, enjoy a delicious dinner featuring authentic traditional Portuguese dishes.
     
    * For those eager to explore more of the region during their stay in Algarve, many Optional Public and Private Sightseeing Tours/Experiences are available to purchase when you get there. Also, the list of our Optional Private Tours and Activities will be published in October 2026.
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    DAY 30 (LAST DAY): SAT 06 MAR 2027: Albufeira >> Faro >> Toronto
    Transfer to Faro Airport at 5.00 AM. The ride will take approx. 40 min.  
    FLIGHT: SAT 06-MAR-2027: Faro (FAO) - Toronto (YYZ) by TS233 @ 09:00 >> 12:30 (duration: 8h 30min)
     

    Price & Inclusions

    This Package includes Airfare, Accommodation, Transfers, Tours, and all Taxes.

    Apartment Type in

    Alfagar Village 3*

    		  Per person in Double Occupancy  One person in Single Occupancy Availability
    One-bedroom Garden-View Apartment  CA$ 4850 CA$ 6360  Available
    One-bedroom Partial Sea-View Apartment CA$ 5310  CA$ 7190  Available 
    Two-bedroom Garden-View Apartment   CA$ 5470  ------ Available
    Two-bedroom Partial Sea View Apartment CA$ 5930  ------ Available

    NEED A ROOMMATE? PLEASE ASK! 

    • Only a $300 deposit per person is required to secure your spot
    • Prices are subject to change without notice. 
    • Prices are in CA$, and Taxes are included
    • PLEASE BOOK ONLY THE APARTMENTS THAT ARE AVAILABLE
    • If you book your own flights, CA$ 1370 will be deducted from your package price.
     
    NOTE about the Accommodation and Booking:
    • If you are two people/family/friends and want to share a room, BUT you want to pay separately, PLEASE place separate orders from the beginning!
    • If you need a roommate, please ask! NOT guaranteed!
    • This package has a FIXED Date and FIXED Inclusions. No deviation can be accepted!
    • The 1-bedroom apartment has 2 single beds inside the room. In the living room, there is a sofa bed, with a pull-out.
    • The number of full sea-view apartments in Alfagar Village is very limited. That's why they only guarantee a PARTIAL Sea view.
    • Please note that each apartment in Alfagar Village features a unique layout. Floor level, Size, Location, and exposure (orientation) are assigned by the property and are beyond our control.
    • If you are a family of 3 or 4 people and need to stay in 1 apartment, please contact us to get the quote.
    • Prices are subject to change without notice. 
    Looking for a Roommate? Please read the following details:
    • We will help to pair you with another traveler of the same gender.  
    • We’ve set up a WhatsApp group chat for solo travellers who have already booked double occupancy and are looking to share a room. The group gives you an opportunity to connect with fellow travellers, get to know each other before the trip, and choose a suitable roommate. If you’d like to join, please send us your phone number, and we’ll be happy to add you to the group.
    • Alternatively, you can also post a note about your roommate request on our two meetup groups —  TorontoFunTours  , and VacationPartners — to connect with other travellers.
    • If we introduce you to a prospective roommate to share a room (based on your request), please note that: if things don't work out with your roommate and you face any issues during your stay and wish to change your room, you will have to pay the associated cost.
     ***************************************************** 
    What’s Included:
    • International Flights (Toronto <> Faro <> Toronto) - Direct on Air Transat (Standard Economy Seats)
    • 28 nights in an apartment with a kitchen, balcony, or terrace at the (Alfagar Village 3-star), in the Algarve region  
    • Guests enjoy free access to indoor and outdoor pools at Alfagar Resort, complimentary Wi-Fi, housekeeping three times weekly, towel changes twice weekly, and linen changes once a week
    • A welcome Dinner on the arrival day at Alfagar Complex 
    • All hotels' city taxes
    • Airport Transfers
    • Service of your Tour Director (who will travel with you from Toronto), leading group activities, and offering optional day trips to stunning destinations throughout the region.  
    • The Following Four (4) Sightseeing Tours Are Included:
    1) Full-Day Tour in Algarve: Treasures of the Eastern Algarve (Olhão, Tavira, Faro) 
    2) Full-Day Tour in Algarve: Albufeira old town walking tour + Caves Boat Tour (discover Benagil Cave, rock formations, and the unique Praia da Marinha)
    3) Half-Day Tour in Algarve: Loulé Market & Old Town Discovery
    4) An afternoon Beach Walk in Algarve + Dinner at a traditional Portuguese restaurant
     
    What’s NOT Included:
    • All meals, except those specifically mentioned under "Inclusions"
    • OPTIONAL Private Tours and Activities will be published in October 2026
    • Gratuities
    • Travel Insurance
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    YOUR CANADIAN TOUR DIRECTOR will travel with you from Toronto. He will be there to make sure everything goes smoothly and answer questions. The primary role of your Tour Director during a long stay is a point of contact for assistance. Due to the number of participants in the group, the host will be located mainly in the resort to be available to assist. 
    Here is a list of his responsibilities during your stay:
    1) Travel with the group to the resort and make sure everyone has the appropriate room
    2) Give a tour of the resort
    3) Assist in obtaining local SIM cards if interested
    4) Suggest day trips around Algarve 
    5) Provide information on nearby shopping, grocery stores, entertainment, and restaurants
    6) Arrange some group activities 
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    Payment Terms:
    • A $300 deposit per person is required to secure your spot (non-refundable, but creditable for future tours if you cancel before the final payment). 
    • The full balance is due by 10 October 2026 as a single payment. You can pay the balance HERE 
    • We’ll send you a reminder email for balance payments, but if you’ll be away with limited email access, please pay early so you don’t miss a deadline. 
    Cancellation & Refunds:
    • 50% Penalty if canceled between 11 October 2026 and 10 December 2026.
    • 100% Penalty if canceled between 11 December 2026 and the departure date.
    • Penalties are calculated based on the total package price per person, regardless of the amount already paid at the time of cancellation, or the method of payment (Visa, Debit, or E-transfer).
    • Refunds will be issued in the same way you initially paid.
    *****************************************
    Payment modes: We accept Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex), Debit Cards, and E-transfer. When booking, you can select the payment method that works best for you.
     
    Booking and Invoice
    When you book and pay the deposit, you will immediately receive a booking confirmation, and within 2 business days, you will receive an invoice for your paid deposit. The final invoice will be issued once the full payment has been made.
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    Important Information About Your Stay at Alfagar Village 3*: When booking Alfagar Village 3* Apartments, please note that the buildings are low-rise (2 stories) and do not have elevators. The apartments are located approximately a pleasant 5–7 minute walk from the resort’s main entrance, along charming garden paths (closer to the staircase leading to the beach area).
    If you have mobility concerns or prefer to be closer to the resort’s reception and entrance, we’d be happy to provide a quote for accommodation in either Alfagar Aparthotel 4*/or/ Alfagar Prestige Luxury 4*. Kindly note that the pricing for these 2 options is higher than that of Alfagar Village 3★. Both of them are mid-rise buildings (6 stories) equipped with elevators and situated closer to the resort entrance.
    Please see the attached resort map (PDF) for a better overview of the layout. All three properties are part of the Alfagar complex, a beautiful 27-acre resort surrounded by lush gardens. Each one-bedroom apartment is approximately 50 square metres, and includes: A fully equipped kitchenette, A bathroom with a bathtub, A living room with a sofa bed, and A bedroom with two single beds. Regardless of which property you choose, all guests have access to all facilities within the Alfagar complex. This includes pools, gym, restaurants, bars, sports areas, gardens, etc. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us! 
     
    FLIGHT INFORMATION
    The group's departure point is YYZ (Toronto Pearson Airport). If you would like to fly out of other cities in CA/US you need to book your own flights, and CA$ 1370 will be deducted from your package price.
     
    Group Flight on Air Transat (Round Trip from Toronto)
    Direct flights on Air Transat 
    FRI 05-FEB-2027: Toronto (YYZ) - Faro (FAO) by TS232 @ 19:25 >> 07:30 +1 (duration: 7h 5min) - Flight arrives next day.  
    SAT 06-MAR-2027: Faro (FAO) - Toronto (YYZ) by TS233 @ 09:00 >> 12:30 (duration: 8h 30min)
     
    TICKETS: You will receive your flight e-tickets 1 month before departure 
    ONLINE CHECK-IN: You can check in and get your boarding pass online HERE starting 24 hours before your scheduled departure time.
    If you encounter problems during Air transat online check-in, you can contact Air Transat call centre at 1-877-872-6728 for assistance with your request.
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    Our Group booking includes 1st Checked bag FREE
    Max. weight per bag: 23kg (50lb)
    Max. linear dimensions per bag: 158 cm (62in)
    If you have any questions about baggage allowance (Fees, Weight, and Dimensions), please check Air Transat’s baggage allowance

    Required Passenger Information (As per Passport)
    • After booking this tour, please email the information to: sadafholidays20@gmail.com
    • TITLE (Mr. Ms, Mrs...) // FIRST NAME // MIDDLE NAME // LAST NAME // GENDER // DATE OF BIRTH // NATIONALITY // An emergency contact name and number + A copy of your passport
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    IMPORTANT NOTES ABOUT YOUR FLIGHT BASED ON OUR GROUP BOOKING    
    • A "standard" seat will be assigned for you automatically by Air Transat. But we don't know what seat you will get (Aisle/Middle/Window) until 24 hours before the departure (when you do your online check-in). At that time you can either keep your assigned seat if you like it, or change it to your preferred seat (if available). 
    • The Group seat block is located in the middle to the back of the aircraft typically over the wing. The block does not include any exit row or special request seating.   
    • Please note that based on Air Transat policy, if you use the first leg of your flight (YYZ-FAO), the 2nd leg (FAO-YYZ) will be automatically non-refundable. This is the Air Transat rule that applies to all of their European flights.
    • All seats in our group block are standard seats. If you need a Club class (First Class seat) // or // Bulkhead Seat (extra legroom), you need to book your own flight directly through Air Transat. 
    • If you book your own flights, CA$ 1370 will be deducted from your package price.
    • Airport transfers for the group will be arranged based on the group flight details/schedules (above). If your flight details are different (timewise), you need to make your own Airport Transfer arrangement.
    • Our departure point is YYZ (Toronto Pearson Airport). If you would like to fly out of other cities in CA/US you need to book your own flights, and CA$ 1370 will be deducted from your package price.
    • This package has a FIXED Departure Date, FIXED Return Date, and FIXED Inclusions. No deviation can be accepted! If you would like to extend your stay by going earlier (or) returning later, you need to book your own flight and accommodation and transportation for pre or post-tour.
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    SEAT SELECTION (Important Notice – Please Read Carefully)
    On our group booking, a standard seat will be automatically assigned by Air Transat at no charge. However, the specific seat type (aisle/middle/window) will not be known until 24 hours prior to departure, when online check-in opens. At that time, you may either keep your assigned seat if you are satisfied, or change it to your preferred seat (subject to availability and possible fees).
    Kindly note that on group bookings, seat selection is managed individually by each passenger, as our agency is unable to arrange or manage seat assignments.
    ADVANCE SEAT SELECTION: After receiving your flight e-tickets, you can contact the airline directly at 1-877-872-6728 (select 1) to choose your seat and/or purchase airline services such as Option Plus, add extra baggage or order special meals. More information
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    Pickup

    Your Accompanying Canadian Tour Director on this tour will be: PETER GOWING
    He will meet you at Toronto Pearson International Airport 1.5 hours before departure at the gate. He will travel with you from Toronto and will be your host during your entire stay.
    Email address: pdgowing@gmail.com 

    Tour Attractions

    ACCOMMODATION IN ALGARVE (28 nights)  

    ALGARVE: ALFAGAR VILLAGE (3 Star) 
    Albufeira, Algarve
    This popular, centrally located resort is set in a protected area of natural beauty made up of 11 hectares of gardens, within the Algarve Region. Enjoy a stunning cliff-top location overlooking the sea, with direct access to Santa Eulalia beach via private steps and just a five-minute drive from Areias de São João’s shopping and entertainment areas. The Alfagar Village is located within the exclusive Balaia area, just 40-minutes from the Faro International Airport.

    Resort Amenities:
    • Private access to Santa Eulalia Beach via path and steps.
    • 2 Outdoor Pools for adults and 1 for Children, sunbeds, parasols, modern Playground, Bar, Restaurant, Supermarket, Tennis courts, Football, Game room, daytime and evening entertainment, Self-serve Laundry machines*, etc....
    • Guests are free to use all the facilities of Alfagar Aparthotel – and Colina (bars, restaurants, swimming pools, Indoor Heated pool, sauna, Turkish bath and gym, playground, etc...).
    • * Some facilities seasonal and with an additional charge. * Pets (dogs) are NOT allowed.
    • Self-service laundry at €5 for each load wash or dry. There is free access to the indoor heated pool, however, a Turkish bath and sauna is €10 p.p. for 30 minutes of use. Please note a swimming cap is mandatory if you want to use the indoor swimming pool. Beach towels are available at €5 each (€2.50 for a refresh), plus a €20 refundable deposit. The outdoor tennis court is €5 per hour/court, racket hire is €2 each and €1 for balls. Public bus service to Albufeira (€2 each way).
    • Alfagar Village has no elevators. All 1-bedroom apartments are either on the ground floor /OR/ on the first floor. You can choose your desired floor at the time of booking. We will request it, and the resort will try to accommodate it, BUT they never guarantee the floor.
    • The number of FULL Sea view apartments in Alfagar Village is very limited. That's why they only guarantee the PARTIAL Sea view.
    * Apartments Facilities:
    All apartments are composed of a living room with: Convertible sofa bed for 2 persons, Dining area; Open full kitchen (4 electric rings, oven, microwave, electric kettle, toaster, coffee machine, fridge), and all kitchen tools/utensils. All have a balcony or terrace, Safety deposit box*, Satellite TV, radio. All the bedrooms have 2 twin beds and a wardrobe, iron and ironing board; All one-bedroom apartments have one large bathroom with a hairdryer, air conditioning/heating. A FREE high speed internet is available in all apartments. Please bring your own supply of toiletries, we suggest that you consider packing your favourite necessities such as Scouring pads (for washing your dishes), face towels, your favourite soap, shampoo etc.
     
    Private Access to the beach
    Exclusivity and privacy within walking distance.
     
     
     
    SUPERMARKETS NEARBY: There is a Minimarket "Minimercado" inside the resort. The best option is "Favorita Supermarket" which is a 3 min walk from the resort. 
     
     
     
    *** Restaurants-Bar-Cafeteria in the complex *** 
    Prestige Restaurant - Buganvilia Restaurant & Bar - Cafeteria - Red Bar
     
     
    Note: alterations are possible in winter (opening days and operating times)
     
    *** Gym & Pool (indoor and outdoor) *** 
    The Gym and the Indoor pool are available and Free to use. The water of the outdoor pool is not warm enough during wintertime. Sauna and Steam Room (Turco) available for a fee (EUR 10 for 45 min)
     
    *** Presentation session for available Tours in Algarve *** 
     
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    FOUR (4) Sightseeing Tours that are included in our package
    (Dates will be scheduled on the first 10 days of your stay)
    1. 1) Full-Day Tour: Treasures of the East (Olhão, Tavira, Faro)
    2. 2) Full-Day Tour: Albufeira old town walking tour + Caves Boat Tour (discover Benagil Cave, rock formations, and the unique Praia da Marinha)
    3. 3) Half-Day Tour: Loulé Market & City Tour
    4. 4) An Afternoon Beach Walk + Dinner at a traditional Portuguese restaurant
    TOUR # 1: Full-Day Tour: "Treasures of the Eastern Algarve" (9 hours)
    • Visit the beautiful and charming villages facing Ria Formosa. • Learn about Olhão and its history. • Tavira’s charming old town with unique “scissors roofs”.  • Get to know Faro, Algarves capital
    The East is still the picturesque side of the Algarve! We start this special day by visiting one of the most ancient towns in the Algarve - OLHÃO. The town is known for its peculiar cubist houses placed in a type of labyrinth. Olhão it’s the heart of Ria Formosa Natural Park. A natural environment highly important to the economy of the town and region. It’s also a fishing village with the second most important fishing harbor of the Algarve. The visit to the markets considered the “ex-libris” of the town is something you cannot miss. Tavira known as the “Venice of the Algarve” has 32 churches and houses with peculiar roofs named “4 águas”. To reach the old town one has to cross the Roman bridge. Tavira’s atmosphere is perfect to invite you to assist a session of FADO “the National Portuguese song” where you will discover the origins and the evolution of this singular song (entrance fee included). At Faro visit the interesting Old part of the town, the Arch of the Villa - one of Faro´s ex-libris, the arch marks the entrance to Vila Adentro (Inner Town), the city’s historic center.
     
    TOUR # 2: HALF-DAY TOUR: Loulé Market & Old Town Discovery (5 hours)
    A visit to this beautiful inland town to get involved with the locals at the weekly Markets. Plenty of free time to browse around the quaint narrow shopping streets or hustle and bustle with the locals in the market. This is for those who love a bargain!!
    Major Sights: ▪ Loulé historical center ▪ Free time to visit the local markets.
    Description: A visit to Loulé is a delightful experience! This charming inland town, known for its vibrant markets and rich history, offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture. The Saturday market is a highlight, where you can explore an array of fresh produce, from fish and meats to colorful fruits and vegetables. Be sure to check out traditional regional products like almonds, figs, and the local liqueur, medronho. Strolling through the narrow shopping streets, you’ll discover unique handicrafts and local artisans showcasing their work. The Moorish castle is a must-visit, offering a glimpse into the town's historical significance and stunning views of the surrounding area. Just remember that entrance fees for monuments are not included in your visit, so plan accordingly. Overall, Loulé perfectly combines the charm of local markets with rich cultural heritage, making it an unforgettable part of your Algarve adventure!
     
    TOUR # 3: Full-Day Tour:Albufeira old town walking tour + Caves Boat Tour (7 hours)
    Albufeira Old Town: Enjoy a 1-hour walking tour of Albufeira's Old Town and experience its charming cobbled streets, historic architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. Visit iconic landmarks such as the iconic Torre do Relógio (Clock Tower), the Praia dos Pescadores (Fisherman's Beach), the Albufeira Tunnel, and the Albufeira Old Town Square while learning about the town’s rich history and local culture. During your free time, you can wander through the picturesque streets, relax under the sun at the beach, browse the local souvenir shops, and enjoy a delightful lunch.
     
    Marina de Albufeira: On the west side of the old town is the new luxury marina, boasting amazing sea excursions and activities and its own run of restaurants and bars.
    Caves Boat Tour & Dolphin Watching
    Major sights: 
    • Discover the mysterious caves and amazing beaches.
    • Amaze the beautiful Algarve coastline and its majestic rock formations.
    • The boat will depart from the coast to start the dolphins watching.
    Take a cruise along the Algarve coast, between the Albufeira Marina and Carvoeiro beach, on a fantastic boat. We guarantee you a relaxing time with pure emotions; during this cruise you will have the opportunity to discover fantastic caves such as the famous Benagil Cave, and rock formations, the beautiful and unique Praia da Marinha. Praia da Marinha, also known as the Golden Beach, is one of the most emblematic beaches of Portugal, was considered by the Michelin Guide as one of the 10 most beautiful beaches in Europe and as one of the 100 most beautiful beaches in the world. On the return, the boat shifts away from the coast to initiate our dolphin’s search (dolphin sightings are not guaranteed).
     
    TOUR # 4: An Afternoon Beach Walk from our resort to Praia Olhos de Água (Eyes of Water) + Dinner at a traditional Portuguese restaurant
    Praia Olhos de Água (30 min walk from your resort): Enjoy a guided Walk from our resort to Praia Olhos de Água (Eyes of Water) + Lookout point with a picturesque view. Olhos de Água is a delightful resort town situated along the Algarve coast, known for its charming atmosphere, traditional fishing roots, and the unique freshwater springs that emerge on the beach at low tide.
     
     
     
    Then, enjoy a delicious dinner featuring authentic traditional Portuguese dishes.
     

    Note

    • Please READ the itinerary and make sure it suits your interests and "physical ability" before making any booking.
    • You will be invited to a WhatsApp group chat 1 month before the trip. We believe this is a great way to connect, deliver information and updates in real time, and distribute photos during our trip.
    • The itinerary is subject to change at any time without prior notice due to various circumstances including weather conditions.  

    TRAVEL PROTECTION PLANS
    We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive Travel Insurance, including Emergency Medical, Trip Cancellation, and Trip Interruption coverage, to protect the investment you have made in your trip when travelling outside Ontario. Emergency Medical Travel Insurance can generally be purchased any time before departure; however, for maximum protection, Trip Cancellation & Interruption coverage should be purchased as soon as you make your first non-refundable trip payment or deposit.
    If your credit card includes travel insurance, please verify the coverage details, limitations, and exclusions.
    For travel insurance consultation or a quote, please contact us at 416-477-2087.

    LEVEL OF FITNESS
    Physical activity level on this tour: Although a Long Stay does not usually have the rigour of a tour, which involves moving from place to place, a reasonable level of fitness is still required to keep up with the group. You must be able to lift your own luggage, climb at least one flight of stairs (some suites are above and below ground level), walk for at least one hour at a medium-pace (sometimes on uneven surfaces), and board the coaches, trains, and boats unassisted. Therefore, we ask that anyone wanting to travel with us carefully consider whether any PHYSICAL LIMITATIONS prevent you from fully enjoying our trips.
     
    Entry requirements to Portugal
    You don't need a visa for Portugal if you have a Canadian / US passport. Your passport must be valid for 6 months beyond the date of leaving Europe.
    If you do not hold a Canadian or US passport, it is your responsibility to ensure you meet all Entry and Exit requirements, including obtaining any necessary visas.
     
    European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS)
    Visa-exempt travelers (e.g., from Canada, US) can enter the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period using a valid passport. and EETIAS travel authorization will be required from 2026.
    EETIAS Authorization: Mandatory digital, pre-travel registration for visa-exempt nationals, costing €20 (free for under-18 or over-70). 
    ETIAS will start operations in the last quarter of 2026. No action is required from travellers at this point. The European Union will inform about the specific date for the start of ETIAS several months prior to its launch.
     
    What to Expect from a “Long Stay” or “Extended Stay” Travel Experience
    The concept of a “Long Stay” or “Extended Stay” is often misunderstood. It does not mean a daily schedule of guided tours or organized entertainment. There is no full-time itinerary, and guests should not expect daily excursions or activities.
    Instead, this type of travel offers the opportunity to experience life in a new country at your own pace—immersing yourself in the local culture, cuisine, scenery, and way of life. You’ll have the freedom to explore the region independently, and if you wish to join guided experiences, you may choose from optional local tours, either public or private, at your own expense. You are free to create your own rhythm, whether that means renting a car to explore the scenic towns of Southern Portugal or Spain, or simply enjoying unhurried days at the resort—walking along the beach and dining at local seaside cafés. Public transportation, taxis, and Uber are also available for discovering nearby attractions. The true beauty of a long stay lies in its flexibility: the freedom to shape each day as you wish, in a warm and culturally rich setting.
     
    Tour Packages with Flights Included – Liability Disclaimer
    Toronto Fun Tours acts solely as an agent in facilitating group flight bookings and does not operate or manage any airline services. While we specialize in land arrangements, we assist with coordinating group air travel as a courtesy to enhance your overall experience. Toronto Fun Tours is not the beneficiary of any airline booking and assumes no liability for flight schedule changes, delays, cancellations, missed connections, or service interruptions caused by the airline.
    In the event of a flight cancellation or disruption involving a group booking, the airline is responsible for providing alternative arrangements or applicable refunds and must make reasonable efforts to rebook all group members together on an alternative flight. During delays or cancellations, airlines may also provide standards of treatment, including meals, beverages, access to communication, and, when applicable, hotel accommodation for overnight delays, subject to airline policies and applicable regulations. We strongly recommend that all passengers purchase comprehensive travel insurance, including Trip Cancellation & Interruption coverage, to help protect against unforeseen circumstances, additional expenses, or losses that may not be fully covered by the airline.
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    Frequently Asked Questions 

     
    EXPENSES IN PORTUGAL - How affordable is traveling in Portugal?
    Portugal is a more budget-friendly destination than Canada, offering excellent value for money with lower costs for food, accommodations, and transportation, making it an ideal choice for tourists seeking affordability. Here's a breakdown comparing key aspects:
    1) GROCERIES: You have a full kitchen in all your apartment units. So, you can buy groceries from nearby supermarkets and make your meal. Fresh produce, bread, and wine are very affordable; €30-50 can cover a week's worth of basics.
    2) DINING: If you choose to go to a restaurant, you can consider 7-10 EUR for breakfast, 10-12 EUR for Lunch, and 15 to 20 EUR for Dinner. Eating out in Portugal offers better value, with excellent quality for the price.
    3) PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION: Public transport is highly affordable: €2-3 for city buses.
    4) UBER RIDES: The cost of Uber rides in Portugal is generally much cheaper than in Canada, thanks to lower fuel prices, operating costs, and local wages. Portugal’s Uber costs are about 50% lower than those in Canada, making it a more economical option for ride-hailing.
    5) EXCURSIONS/ DAY TRIPS: In Portugal, expect to pay €50–100 for group day trips 

    NOTE: Your expenses will vary based on your travel style, spending habits, planned activities, and the length of your stay. 

    CASH OR CREDIT CARD?
    The short answer is a combination of both!
    Portugal is widely credit card-friendly, with many establishments accepting cards for payments. Hotels, Restaurants, Tour companies, Supermarkets,... all accept credit cards. But cash is useful to cover small expenses (coffee, snacks, taxis, tips, etc.). For one week, a reasonable cash amount is €150. Carry cash in small denominations (€5, €10, €20 bills) for convenience.

    MONEY EXCHANGE:
    It is generally better to exchange some money in Canada to get (a couple of hundred Euros) before you leave! You'll typically get a better exchange rate in Canada! If you need more cash at the destination, you can use your debit or credit card to withdraw euros at ATMs/Banks in Portugal. Withdrawing euros at ATMs in Portugal is NOT the most cost-effective option, but it is certainly the most convenient option. It's best to avoid exchanging money at airports! NOTE: "Multibanco'' ATMs are more reasonable! The "Euronet" ATMs charge very high fees. Avoid them.
    EXCHANGE RATE: You can check the accurate real-time rates on XE (a Foreign exchange company). Canadian Dollars to Euros Exchange Rate https://www.xe.com/currencyconverter/convert/?Amount=1&From=CAD&To=EUR 
     
    RENT A CAR in Algarve:
    When renting a car in the Algarve, Portugal, several reputable companies offer good services. Here are some of the options: Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, Avis, Budget, Drive On Holidays... The average price weekly for a mid-size car is approx. $200/week (when you book in advance). When choosing a rental company, it's essential to check: Customer reviews, Insurance options (whether you need additional coverage), Car availability, Pickup and drop-off locations, Prices, and any hidden fees. It’s also a good idea to book your car in advance, especially in the high season, to ensure better rates and availability.
     
    WALKING IN ALGARVE: In Algarve, strolls through streets often involve hilly terrain. Be prepared for some uphill and downhill paths as part of the region's charm. In villages and nature walks, expect uneven surfaces, cobbled streets, and some uphill and downhill sections. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended!
     
    FOOD QUALITY IN PORTUGAL:
    Food quality in Portugal is often considered exceptional, especially for its freshness, flavor, and affordability, compared to Canada. Here’s a detailed comparison: In Portugal, only about 10% of the food is processed, compared to 20% in Spain, almost 50% in the UK and Canada. Reference: WIKIMEDIA and STATCAN
     

    WEATHER in Algarve, Southern Portugal

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