Welcome to the charming Douro Valley, an idyllic region in Portugal that promises a sensory journey for wine and food enthusiasts. Today I'm going to take you on a virtual tour through the rolling vineyards, picturesque landscapes, and fascinating wineries of the Douro Valley. Get ready to imagine the taste of the finest wines, savor traditional cuisine, and even try your hand at a delightful cooking class. This 5-day itinerary is specially crafted for people and groups seeking an unforgettable culinary experience.
Day 1: Arrival in Lisbon
Arrive at your luxury accommodation in the Lisbon. Get settled in and enjoy a free afternoon.
Meet in the early evening with the group for a cocktail.
Day 2: Lisbon - Porto
After breakfast at the hotel, spend the morning on a walking tour of Lisbon before you head out to Porto with a stop in Fatima.
Board the van to for the journey to Porto. The ride is approximately 3 hours and will make a 1 hour stop at Portugal’s Holy City of Fatima. This small agricultural town owes its fame to three shepherd children who, in 1917, saw monthly visions of the Virgin Mary in the Cova da Iria pasture, the last of which brought an estimated 70,000 pilgrims.
Arrive in Porto and check in to hotel and enjoy a free evening,
Day 3: Porto
In the morning, after breakfast, a transfer will pick you up from your hotel for the city tour of Porto with an official tour guide.
In the historic city centre, considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will have plenty of time to explore Lello Bookshop, where Harry Potter books and films were inspired. You will also see São Francisco Church and, right next door, Palácio de Bolsa with incredible granite work and magnificent neo-Arabic influences (entrance not included). The tour will end with a visit and wine tasting at the famous Port Wine Cellars.
While strolling through the city, you will make a few stops at typical establishments to taste some of Porto's best delicacies!
A transfer will take you back to your hotel and the rest of the day is on your own.
Day 4: Take a panoramic tour in Douro
After breakfast and check-out at the hotel, a transfer will take you to Pinhão through Estrada Nacional 222, an amazing road that follows almost the entire course of Douro River in national territory.
Upon arrival in Pinhão, a guide will show you around the small village highlighting the places to get the best views of Douro Valley. This will be followed by a traditional lunch in one of the famous wineries of Douro Valley.
After lunch, you will visit the vineyards and do a wine tasting.
To end the afternoon in beauty, you will take a boat trip on Douro River, where you can enjoy the breathtaking views.
At the end of the day, a transfer will take you to your hotel.
Day 5: Enjoy the best experiences in Douro
After having breakfast at the hotel, you will have free time to relax or to do personal activities.
At lunchtime, you will enjoy one of the best experiences in Douro: a picnic among the vineyards followed by a wine tasting in one of Douro's fantastic wineries. If the weather conditions don't allow the picnic to take place, lunch will be at a typical local restaurant.
At the end of the day, a transfer will take you back to the hotel.
Day 6: Day 5 - End of the tour
All good things come to an end quickly, or do they?
On the last day of your stay in Porto, you decide what to do until you go to the airport.
At the agreed time, a transfer will pick you up to take you to Porto Airport.
Unless you’d like to extend your stay in Porto, or anywhere else in Portugal. We customize to your needs and desires.
Some ideas on extended activities
Day 7: Cooking Class and Market Visit
Immerse yourself in the region's gastronomy with a hands-on cooking class led by a skilled local chef.
Accompany the chef to a vibrant local market, selecting fresh seasonal produce.
Learn to prepare authentic Portuguese dishes and delight in a delicious lunch created by your own culinary skills.
Day 8: Dining with the Locals
Join the locals for lunch or dinner in their home. This dinner menu will be focusing on flavor and texture for an experience that will touch all senses.
There will be served wine from a local wine shop Cave Bombarda and coffee from a selection of small roasteries in Europe. Join Chef Nikolas, who worked in hospitality for most of his life, for a special dinner hosted in a unique and intimate venue. Connect with other guests and enjoy this gourmet experience! (Maximum guests: 8)
Conclusion:
The Douro Valley offers travelers an exquisite blend of wine, food, and natural beauty. This 6-day itinerary (with additional options to extend) provides a perfect balance of wine tastings, gastronomic experiences, and cultural immersion. From the rolling vineyards to the hands-on cooking class, each day offers a unique opportunity to savor the richness of the Douro Valley. Whether it's the flavors of the wines, the warmth of the locals, or the breathtaking landscapes, this culinary and winery tour is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds and your heart.
Bon voyage,
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