Unveiling the Essence of Portugal
A Farm-To-Table Cultural Immersion
With its irresistible blend of old-world charm, breathtaking scenery, and warm hospitality Portugal beckons. From the enchanting vineyards of the Douro Valley to the vibrant streets of Lisbon, Portugal offers a diverse tapestry of experiences. Join this small group of like-minded individuals on this 8-Day itinerary. Explore historic landmarks, indulge in the nation's renowned culinary delights, from fresh seafood to pastéis de nata. Explore medieval castles in the countryside, cook alongside two of the nation's leading chefs, taste age-old vintage port and wine. If you're a history buff, foodie, or nature lover, this small group tour promises to enchant and inspire you.
Unveiling the Essence of Portugal
An 8-Day Farm-To-Table Cultural Immersion
With its irresistible blend of old-world charm, breathtaking scenery, and warm hospitality Portugal beckons. From the enchanting vineyards of the Douro Valley to the vibrant streets of Lisbon, Portugal offers a diverse tapestry of experiences. Join this small group of like-minded individuals on this 8-Day itinerary. Explore historic landmarks, indulge in the nation's renowned culinary delights, from fresh seafood to pastéis de nata. Explore medieval castles in the countryside, cook alongside two of the nation's leading chefs, taste age-old vintage port and wine. If you're a history buff, foodie, or nature lover, this small group tour promises to enchant and inspire you.
DAY 1
Welcome to Porto
Upon your arrival, you will receive a warm welcome at the airport, along with all the essential documents and assistance you require. Following this, a designated driver will be at your service to transport you to your hotel.
Your accommodations are conveniently located in the downtown area, in close proximity to a variety of restaurants and cultural attractions.
Enjoy the rest of the morning at leisure.
Later today, get ready to embark on a captivating exploration of the mesmerizing City of Porto, a destination that holds an inexplicable allure!
There are certain iconic sites that simply cannot be missed like the S. Bento railway station, adorned with an astonishing 20,000 blue and white glazed tiles or The Cathedral, an architectural marvel. The Ribeira, with its charming riverfront, offers a picturesque backdrop where the heartbeat of the city can be felt. Visit a charming Port wine lodge located on the opposite bank of the Douro River. This experience promises to be both informative and delightful! Indulge in a tasting session, savoring the distinct characteristics that make Port wine truly special.
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In the evening, since it's the first day of your adventure in Portugal, there's no better way to kick off this journey than with a welcome dinner. It's the perfect opportunity to bond with your travel companions and begin making unforgettable memories, all while enjoying a delightful view of the city of Porto!
Day 2
Day trip to Braga & Guimarães
Explore the rich history and heritage of Guimarães and Braga. These two towns offer a wealth of cultural treasures waiting to be discovered! Visit the impressive Guimarães Castle and the magnificent Ducal Palace, where you'll find the statue of King Afonso Henriques, the revered founding father of Portugal. Continue your adventure to Braga, a town of great importance during Roman times when it was known as Bracara Augusta. Marvel at the grandeur of Braga Cathedral, one of Portugal's most remarkable churches, and soak in its rich architectural details. Don't miss the chance to visit the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary, nestled atop a hill and offering stunning panoramic views of the surroundings.
Day 3
Free Morning in Porto - Afternoon Sunset Cruise
Seize this precious free day to fully immerse yourself in the captivating city of Porto, embracing the freedom to explore at your own pace. Delight in a plethora of experiences, from shopping excursions to cultural discoveries, or simply indulging in the art of relaxation at one of Porto's charming cafés.
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Later in the day, embark on a truly unforgettable sunset boat cruise in Porto, where you can immerse yourself in peaceful tranquility! Throughout the cruise, the knowledgeable crew will be delighted to share fascinating insights about the city of Porto, allowing you to discover its rich heritage while you soak in the breathtaking views. As the sun begins to set, it's the perfect moment to raise a toast with a Port wine setting the mood for a magical experience ahead!
Day 4
Douro Valley with Amarante and a Sensational Cooking Class with the Viscountess
Today is time to say goodbye to the unvanquished city and go to the Douro Valley! Spend some time in Amarante a city full of history and tradition, with an iconic bridge, which defense was one of the most striking episodes of the Second French Invasion. All visitors to Amarante will be impressed by the great Serra do Marão rising above the city in a series of majestic landscapes and the river Tâmega, which flows through the heart of the city. Stop at a local green wine estate, to taste this delicious nectar in a Premium tasting accompanied by regional products.
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Immerse yourself in a truly exceptional culinary experience as you explore the Douro Valley and have the privilege of meeting the esteemed Viscountess, who will not only regale you with the captivating history of the estate but also share her family's fascinating and vibrant life story. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey unlike any other as you step into the old kitchens, adorned with a wood-burning stove and weathered pots, and under the guidance of the Viscountess herself, learn the art of crafting an authentic local menu. Once the dishes have been prepared with care and skill, it will be time to savor the fruits of your labor. Indulge in a truly memorable meal, served in one of the estate's elegant dining rooms or al fresco in the picturesque patio, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Douro Valley
Day 5
Day trip to Douro Valley
Prepare yourself for an unforgettable day trip to the world-renowned Douro Valley, a destination of immense natural beauty and cultural significance! Since its designation as a World Heritage Site in 2001, the Douro Valley has captivated visitors with its stunning vistas of sloped and steep vineyards that paint an exquisite picture for all who have the pleasure of beholding them. Your journey will lead you to one of the most esteemed wine estates in the Douro region, a historic winery with roots tracing back to the 17th century, long before the Douro became an established wine region. For generations, this quintessential estate has been under the stewardship of the same family, whose passion for winemaking and olive oil production has endured since the early 20th century.
Indulge in a highly anticipated wine tasting experience. Allow your palate to dance with delight as you sample a selection of five distinct wines, including whites, reds, superior blends, reserve vintages, and the renowned LBV Port. To enhance your experience, enjoy pairing these remarkable wines with a delectable traditional lunch, a feast that perfectly complements the flavors and nuances of the wines.
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Day 6
From Douro Valley to Coimbra via Aveiro & Costa Nova
Bid farewell to the enchanted Douro Valley and head to Coimbra, known as the student's city! Often referred to as the Portuguese Venice, Aveiro is famous for its picturesque canals that wind through the city center. Don't forget to indulge in the iconic "ovos moles" a local sweet made with eggs and sugar, which can be found in various shapes, sold in wooden barrels, or wrapped in a crispy wafer. Next on to Costa Nova, renowned for its brightly colored houses known as Palheiros. Initially used to store fishing equipment or shelter fishermen, these houses began being rented out in the 19th century to beachgoers and nowadays provide an array of beautiful colors to this town.
Next, stop is beautiful Coimbra. Majestically situated on the banks of the Rio Mondego, Coimbra holds a rich historical significance as Portugal's medieval capital for over a century. Coimbra is renowned for its prestigious university, the oldest in Portugal and one of the oldest in Europe. Explore the university campus, including a visit to the Joanine Library, which houses an impressive collection of over 300,000 works dating from the 16th to the 18th centuries, all elegantly displayed in gilt-covered bookcases.
Day 7
Day at Leisure in Coimbra
Today, you'll have a free day to explore the city of Coimbra! There's so much to see and do in Coimbra! Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of the Old Town. Visit the Sé Velha, Coimbra's Romanesque cathedral! Visit the Machado de Castro National Museum, housed in a former bishop's palace, and discover its impressive collection of sculptures, paintings, and decorative arts spanning centuries of Portuguese history. Head to one of the city's many cafes and restaurants to savor local specialties such as bacalhau (salted codfish), pastéis de nata (custard tarts), and the famous roasted suckling pig.
Day 8
LISBOA: THE DYNAMIC CITY OF SEVEN HILLS
Today, after breakfast, is time to say goodbye to Coimbra and make your way to Lisbon the city of the Seven Hills! This is your Project description.