(NOTE: Minimum 10 passengers required for this trip. No CC's will be charged for deposit until minimum participation has been met)
Depart USA September 26th to arrive Porto on the 27th
Embark on a sensory journey through the vibrant sights, sounds and flavors of Portugal!
9/27 ~ Arrive Porto. Our drivers will be waiting to transfer us to our hotel
Check-in to our hotel ~ 4* PORTO BAY TEATRO
This is a 4-star hotel in Porto. It is located in the theatre district, right in the historical centre of the city.
Next to the entrance, but with its own access, the Il Basilico restaurant offers Italian comfort food flavours in the bruschettas, tortelloni, pizzas and risottos that find their way to the tables.
This boutique hotel with just 74 rooms, offers a contemporary, natural and comfortable style.
TRIBUNE ROOM - 3 nights
9/28 - Porto Walking Tour
You don't know Portugal without visiting Porto. Its artistic wealth, monuments, the famous Port Wine and unique colors of this city are some of its attractions. This journey through time is punctuated by the iconic medievalism of its Cathedral as well as an entire urban fabric from the 19th century, with a strong British influence, from the time of the great English investors. The stunning architecture displays immaculately intact Art Nouveau notes and a very original use of tile decoration.
Among the buildings designed by Gustave Eiffel, there is also a harmonious mix of contemporary works that exude creativity and beauty. In many neighborhoods it is possible to feel the power of traditions, as is the beautiful example of the wooden boats used to transport grapes to the cellars and which punctuate with a certain charm, the work force and entrepreneurship that is lived in Porto.
But the local people know how to enjoy all these charms, sometimes drinking an extraordinary variety of Port Wines, sometimes resting by Foz do douro at the end of the day, where the facades on the other side of the river and the colors that blend in the horizon expose the beauty of this place.
Included in our tour is a visit to Livraria Lello Library, the most famous bookstore in the world, and the most beautiful in all of Europe!
Livraria Lello is a living gateway to history: through the preservation of the building, the maintenance of its original function as a bookstore, its role as a cultural ambassador, and the cultural dynamics it continues to impart on the city. For over a century, Lello has been an important showcase for Portuguese literature, both nationally and internationally, helping to export Portuguese literature to the rest of the world.
We gain priority access to the bookstore, without needing to wait in line, and exclusive access to the Sala Gemma: the space that Livraria Lello exclusively dedicates to its most precious gems. Rare books, manuscripts, first editions, luxury books, and object books. A privileged place for those seeking the book as an object of art, culture, pleasure, and investment.
Fall in love with this fabulous bookstore and the totally unique spectacle of astonishing interior architecture. It's most famous for its iconic central wooden staircase with its elegant curves and large stained glass windows. The bookstore is also said to have inspired the creation of Hogwarts in the Harry Potter series, attracting travelers from all over the world.
This afternoon, we head to Grahams Cellars for Lunch and a Private Wine Tasting
First, a sumptuous group lunch reservation is waiting for us in the Vinum Restaurant. (lunch will be ordered ala carte and paid for individually)
VINUM Restaurant & Wine Bar is the result of two families and two passions combining to create a unique experience. The Symingtons are a British family with a Portuguese heart. They have been producing Port and Douro wines for more than 130 years.
VINUM is located at Graham’s Port’s fully functioning 19thcentury cellars where generations of famous Port wines have been aged in over 3,200 oak barrels. The main dining room looks directly onto the barrel cellar, with ancient pine beams supported by cast-iron pillars, which date back to 1890. It is an historic and atmospheric setting, which combines the best food the city of Porto has to offer with an immersive wine experience.
Attached to the main dining room is the Atrium – our winter garden – which provides one of Portugal and Europe’s most astoundingly beautiful views, both day and night, onto the ancient, UNESCO World Heritage, city of Porto, the Douro river and the unique Dom Luís I Bridge. Few restaurants in the world offer such an atmosphere and setting.
NEXT UP..... a Private Wine & Port tour & tasting of Graham Cellars
Graham's is featured in the Top 50 World's Best Vineyards ranking that highlights the best wine tourism experiences around the world!
Graham's Port wine cellars were built in 1890 in Vila Nova de Gaia. Here the maritime climate is ideal for aging Graham's Port wines. It has an extraordinary Vintage Port wine cellar and has become a popular destination for Port wine lovers. Enjoy an unforgettable experience at Graham's with a guided tour by one of the experts and a selection of Port wine tastings.
IN THE VINTAGE ROOM: With comfortable armchairs and a calm and peaceful atmosphere, this room is suited for visitors with a bit more time who wish to taste some of the rarest Ports after completing the full winery tour.
- Super Premium Vintage Tasting - 1994 Vintage, 2000 Vintage, and 2016 Vintage.
9/29 - Cruise on the Oldest Douro River Boat
Sail along the Douro River, surrounded by a landscape dominated by the river and the farms where the famous Port Wine is produced.
Lunch will be at the renowned Quinta Nova de Nossa Senhora do Carmo to experience the flavors of Portugal. Come and sail in an unforgettable environment!
A Unique Vineyard with 41 Plots
At the Quinta Nova de Nossa Senhora do Carmo we believe that nature is the origin of great wines. Harvesting in the vineyard is made to measure, respecting the natural ripening of the grapes in each of the 41 traditional plots, in order to produce extraordinary wines with a well-defined character and a perfect balance between elegance and harmony.
With a history spanning over 200 years, Quinta Nova de Nossa Senhora do Carmo occupies over 120 ha of land, and has been listed since the first demarcation of the Douro wine region, in 1756, during the Pombaline era.
The original wine cellar that dates back to 1764 and the 19th century manor house with a chapel (1795) are harmoniously integrated into one of the estate's hills.
Owned by the Portuguese Royal Family until 1725, it became a “new estate” when two estates were merged. Several Portuguese families lived in the estate in the 18th and 19th centuries, during an important period in the agriculture of the Douro, and gave life to the vineyards and wine, fruit orchards, water mills built along the stream that runs through the estate and the old olive grove.
9/30 - Private Transfer Hotel to Train Station
Sit back and relax on this 2hr / 50 min Train ride to Lisbon!
The Portuguese high-speed train Alfa Pendular allows you to travel in comfort and connects the main cities in Portugal. Operated by Portuguese railway lines, it is one of the most convenient ways to travel on the Porto-Lisbon rail route.
In addition to specific services for the Comfort and Tourist classes, you can also enjoy a cafeteria, minibar, meals, free Wi-Fi, audio and video channels, baby changing facilities, WC and reserved and adapted seats for people with reduced mobility.
Private Transfer Lisbon Train Station to Hotel
Check-in to our Hotel - 4* H10 Duque de Loule
Set in a historic building in the city centre, the H10 Duque de Loulé is a four-star superior Boutique Hotel that fuses traditional Portuguese décor with a modern and elegant touch. It offers comfortable rooms, the Azul e Branco Restaurant, two meeting rooms and the Limão Rooftop Bar with spectacular views of Lisbon and the Tagus Estuary.
10/1 - Discoveries Tour in Belém - the Most Historic and Monumental Region of Lisbon
Belém is the most magnificent area of the city and is home to monuments that recall the golden age of discoveries.
From an old fishing village to the home of the Portuguese nobility, Belém saw the rise and fall of the world's first global empire. This beautiful and ancient landmark is on the banks of the Tagus River and tells the story of the beginning of globalization, and of the greatest explorers in history.
Following the course of the Tagus, we will arrive at Torre de Belém, a fortress that served as a prison and starting point for navigators. We continue the tour, contemplating the Monument to the Discoveries and its huge marble map that shows the most famous routes of the great explorers. The visit continues to the Jerónimos Monastery - declared a World Heritage Site - and in its church we can see the graves of Vasco da Gama and Luiz de Camões .
Before finishing, it is essential to stop at the famous Fábrica dos Pasteis de Belém to try this traditional Portuguese delicacy.
Visit the masterpiece of Portuguese architecture: Jerónimos Monastery
Classified as a National Monument and inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list, the Jerónimos Monastery is located in one of the most qualified areas of Lisbon, a historic and monumental setting along the Tagus River, where the Tower and the Cultural Center of Bethlehem.
Symbolically linked to the most important moments in national memory, the monastic ensemble founded by King D. Manuel still preserves, today, in addition to the Manueline church, most of the magnificent convent facilities that contributed to its international fame, including the 16th century cloister, the former Friars' refectory and the Bookshop room.
Next Up..... a Private Tram Ride on one of the iconic Portuguese Trams!
Discovering the history of Lisbon is a unique experience, due to its geography, colors, typical streets and monuments. What if we told you that you have a Cable Car at your disposal to see all this in private?
The most Lisbon way to visit the Portuguese Capital is to do so on one of the city's most characteristic means of transport. We have reserved a traditional tram (cable car) for you, which will take you to see the main points of this city bathed by the Tagus. The sound of the bells and the old lines along which they move allow you to see Lisbon in a unique way.
Embark with us on this journey!
Who's Hungary? Next, we embark on a Gastronomic Walking Tour in Lisbon!
The best way to enjoy a city is to walk among the locals, taste the same foods they eat, visit the same tourist attractions... Live authentic and quality first-person enogastronomic experiences in Portugal. Experiences designed by lovers of the Portuguese gastronomic tradition, thinking of all those who share this passion. Authentic and unforgettable moments that leave lasting memories of your visit to Portugal.
Together, we will explore Alfama, the oldest area of Lisbon... from Alfama, the trip continues through Baixa, where we will visit traditional and historic shops, taste sweets and snacks in places where the locals eat and end the tour by toasting with liqueur. of ginjinha in an old tavern! A unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Portuguese culture, through its gastronomy and wines and relaxed moments chatting at the table, something that truly represents the Portuguese soul!
Tuktuk transfer back to the hotel
10/2 - Today we visit Sintra & Cascais
Sintra is a historic village, considered by UNESCO as a world heritage site, enchanting from the moment you arrive, through the landscapes that surround it. The Palácio da Pena, built to be observed from any point in Parque da Pena, is the result of the creativity of D. Fernando II and is the maximum exponent of 19th century romanticism in Portugal. It's a journey through time that takes us back to the time when King D. Carlos I and Queen D. Amélia lived there. Quinta da Regaleira and Palácio de Seteais, now transformed into a beautiful hotel, maintain the old style that exudes the history of all the reigns it has gone through.
The fishing village of Cascais has reinvented itself and become a refined seaside resort and one of the most sophisticated destinations in the Lisbon area. Located a few kilometers from the mouth of the Tagus, it is located between the sunny bay of Cascais and the majestic Serra de Sintra. The maritime and refined atmosphere, which attracts visitors all year round.
This Afternoon..... we picnic in a Palace Garden for lunch!
In the shadows of the seasons, the tablecloth is spread out. The outdoor table awaits conversations and laughter. Delicacies are nibbled on and stories intertwine. A toast to love and friendship. In this charming setting, the picnic promises moments of outdoor delight, an experience that celebrates the joy of gatherings and the magic of sharing meals amidst breathtaking landscapes. It is the perfect combination of history and gastronomy, a moment that will easily make you travel back in time!
10/3 - This morning, we have a cooking class!
Take part in a fun practical class and discover all the secrets behind the famous and irresistible Pastéis de Nata. Crispy puff pastry is the secret to this deliciousness and that's why we're going to make it from scratch! Appliances and equipment you already have at home will be used, so you can replicate this incredible recipe with your family or friends.
And best of all: at the end of the class, you will taste these divine pastries, accompanied by coffee, tea, or Port wine. Get ready to dive into a sweet world and discover the true pleasure of creating delicious treats in your own kitchen!
This Evening, we partake in a traditional FADO dinner Show!
More than a restaurant, this is an iconic space on the 'fado route'. In this old chapel, full of tiles from the 17th century. XVIII, Fado takes place every night with fado singers of the new generation and consecrated voices of Fado. The atmosphere is informal and the dinner menu covers various flavors of Portuguese cuisine.
It is one of the best kept treasures in the heart of Alfama. A space that dazzles for its decorative beauty with original tiles from the 18th century that cover this former chapel of Palácio D. Rosa. The story goes that King D. José ordered the construction of the palace to meet in this chapel with his Spanish beloved in secret meetings. The Royal Coat of Arms inside proves this historical connection and, nowadays, this seductive and romantic environment gains greater expression through Fado.
10/4 - Today, We Depart for home with incredible memories together of an amazing destination!
TRIP COST: $4399 per person based on Double Occupancy
Single / Triple rates available upon request
Deposit $650 per person (non-refundable) due by 1/30
NOTE: No credit cards will be charged for deposit until the minimum 10 passengers required for the tour is reached.
(trip insurance is recommended to cover your non-refundable deposits)
Second Deposit of $650 per person (non-refundable due by 3/15
Final Payment Due 8/1
OPTIONAL: 3 night Extension to Madeira Island, Portugal available. Please inquire for details & pricing.
To Make your reservations, please click the RESERVATIONS button below. Please NOTE: No credit cards will be charged for deposit until the minimum 10 passengers required for the tour is reached.
OPTIONAL Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance is available for purchase and highly recommended. Travel Insurance Protects You And Your Investment!
You can’t prevent the unexpected from happening (like a global pandemic) before or during your trip, but you can protect your trip investment if it does. Travel insurance can help with the financial impact of these unexpected circumstances, as well as provide assistance in an emergency.