Mainland Europe’s westernmost nation is a joyful place to experience, with vibrant cities, luscious countryside and splendid beaches, not to mention an incredible food scene and an endearingly laid-back approach to life. This eight-day itinerary connects the country’s two major cities, as well as its most famous wine region and charming towns, via an assortment of scenic train journeys. After living the good life in Porto and the Douro Valley, we’ll hit the tracks south to Aveiro – the Portuguese Venice – and later the capital, Lisbon, as well as the gorgeous hilltop town of Sintra.

America’s history is rich in stories of pioneers heading off to find their fortunes. When they found a bountiful haul, word would get out and “boomtowns” would fill with prospectors, followed by everything from brothels to churches.