10 Days in Lisbon and the Azores

For your second dive, enjoy the crystal waters and interesting marine life on the gentle dive sites around the Ilha Franca. Located less than a mile off the coast, the small islet was formed from an ancient submerged volcano. Diving here you can spot moray eels, sting rays, groupers and octopus as well as an array of nudis.

In the afternoon, head back to your hotel for sundowners or drive back to Ponta Delgada to nibble on petiscos (Portuguese tapas) over live music - the town is renowned for it's buzzing jazz scene (Colégio 27 in particular is a popular haunt).

Driving to the parish village of Sete Cidades, hike to the Vista do Rei (King's View) lookout for spectacular views over the iconic green and blue lakes - one of the seven natural wonders of Portugal. The active inclined can opt to cycle or kayak around the lake or pick a secluded spot by the waters edge to enjoy a picnic.

If you're still feeling adventurous, you can go rock climbing in the Ferraria area before bathing in natural thermal pools. Head to Mosteiros Beach to watch sunset before heading back to your hotel for supper.

Once you have cleared customs, you will be met by your driver and privately transferred to your hotel. The most southerly island in the Azores, Santa Maria enjoys the sunniest climate, and with various beaches and tidal pools, is the the best for swimming.

Take a walk along the coastline, or for those who want to hit the waves, you can surf, water ski and sail from the shores of Praia Formosa.

At Ambrosio you can have exhilrating devil ray encounters while moored in the deep blue, and at the Formigas islets various cetacean species can be spotted from the boat in superb visibility. Located a few miles south-east of Formigas, Dollabarat features a seamount starting at five metres that quickly drops to 30 metres. Hover over the reef to spot dusky groupers and barred hogfish or look out to the open blue for the possibility of sharks and other pelagics.

After an active days diving, unwind with a relaxing spa treatment at your hotel or for those still energised, take a walk in the surrounding countryside before dining on a delicious supper at your hotel.

Once you have cleared customs, you will be met by your private driver and transferred to your hotel. Depending on where you choose to stay, the journey should take no longer than 30 minutes.

Boasting a waterside location and year-round sunshine, Portugal's capital is a myriad of colourful buildings, churches and squares connected by delicate tiles, steep cobblestone streets and lemon-yellow trams. But the real charm lies in the wonderfully laid-back atmosphere. Either dine at the hotel or check our detailed destination Dossier for recommendations on the best restaurants in the city.

Although known for its buzzing nightlife, the bohemian Barrio Alto is home to quirky boutiques and art galleries to explore; you can walk (or catch a tram) up the hill to the ruins of Castelo de São Jorge for city panoramas and wander the Alfama district, the oldest part of the city. Visit Belém to see the Jerónimos Monastery and the iconic Torre de Belém (both UNESCO World Heritage Sites), or head to the riverfront and refuel at the Mercardo da Riberia, a mix match of colourful fresh produce stalls and kiosks run by some of the city's best chefs. Pick a different sunset spot every evening before setting out for supper - we can make reservations at the best restaurants across the city.