Picture a journey in which each day brings a new flavor, a stunning landscape, and a story waiting to unfold. This is Portugal, a country where warm hospitality comes hand in hand with world-class wines and unforgettable meals. Our curated tour offers the chance to travel deeper, connecting you with the heart and soul of three of its most cherished regions: the vibrant streets of Lisbon, the sun-drenched plains of the Alentejo, and the majestic, rolling hills of the Douro Valley.
Forget rushed sightseeing, this is a slow-paced Portugal food and wine tour crafted for those who believe the best way to truly know a place is to taste it, from its bustling markets to its tranquil vineyards.
Days 1 & 2: Lisbon
Your Portuguese story begins in Lisbon, a city built on seven hills, radiating a captivating energy. We will wander through the charismatic Alfama district, where every corner seems to hold a secret, and journey to Belém to taste the one-and-only Pastéis de Belém, the famous creamy custard tart with a recipe guarded for centuries. Feel the city's rhythm on a guided walking tour, discovering its historic squares and scenic viewpoints.
As evening descends, one of the top Lisbon culinary experiences awaits! A delicious dinner accompanied by the soulful, melancholic melodies of a live Fado performance. It’s the perfect immersion into the culture and passion of the capital, setting a welcoming tone for the incredible journey ahead. You will settle in, breathe the fresh Atlantic air, and prepare for the adventures to come.
Day 3: Sintra
Just a short journey from Lisbon lies the enchanting town of Sintra, a real-life fairytale nestled among misty, emerald-green hills. Steeped in history and romance, this UNESCO World Heritage site feels like stepping into another world. The destination is the magnificent Pena Palace, a dazzling kaleidoscope of colour perched high on a rocky peak, offering sweeping views of the forests and coastline below.
After exploring its whimsical halls and terraces, visit a celebrated local estate to enjoy a tasting of exquisite wines and learn about the unique terroir of the Sintra hills. To round off the experience, continue your gourmet travel in Portugal with an indulging signature treat: the Travesseiros sweets, from Piriquita: flaky, warm pastries filled with sweet almond cream, a true taste of Sintra’s charm.
Day 4: Óbidos, Nazaré & Buçaco
On this day, you will head north to continue your Portuguese wine and gastronomy adventure. Follow the breathtaking coastline to explore some of the most picturesque and storied towns. Our first stop is the walled medieval village of Óbidos, a charming labyrinth of whitewashed houses draped in vibrant flowers and winding cobbled lanes. You must taste the famous Ginjinha, a sweet cherry liqueur traditionally served in a delicate chocolate cup, a small but unforgettable taste of local tradition.
From there, we continue to the vibrant fishing town of Nazaré, famous for its towering waves, colorful boats, and strong seafaring heritage. Here, choose a seaside restaurant to savor the freshest catch of the day, expertly grilled and served with a view of the Atlantic’s crashing waves. It is the perfect end to a day steeped in history, tradition, and coastal pleasures!
Day 5: Aveiro
Our journey continues north, but first, you will enjoy a delightful interlude in Aveiro, a city affectionately known as the "Venice of Portugal." You will take time to admire the colorful Moliceiro boats as they glide gracefully through the network of city canals, creating a truly picturesque scene.
A visit here would be incomplete without savoring the city's most famous treasure: the Ovos Moles. This traditional confection, a delicate sweet made from egg yolks and sugar encased in a thin wafer shell, is a true taste of local heritage. This charming stop offers a moment of sweet serenity before we make our way to the vibrant energy of Porto, arriving with plenty of time to settle in for the evening.
Day 6: Porto
Today is dedicated to discovering the rich flavours and vibrant spirit of Porto. Perched on the banks of the Douro River, its historic center is a captivating tapestry of narrow streets, grand plazas, and colorful tiled facades that tell stories of centuries past. To truly connect with the city’s heart and soul, a local guide will lead you on an immersive food walking tour, unveiling hidden culinary gems and sharing the authentic tastes and traditions that make Porto so unique.
In the afternoon, cross the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge to reach Vila Nova de Gaia, home to the legendary Port wine cellars. Here, you can enjoy a fascinating tour followed by a guided tasting, savoring the rich, complex flavors of the fortified wine that has brought Porto worldwide fame - surely, Port Wine is at the top of the best Portuguese wines to try!
Day 7: Guimarães & Amarante
As we make our way towards the majestic Douro Valley, we step back in time with a visit to Guimarães, proudly known as the "birthplace of Portugal." Its beautifully preserved medieval centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a joy to explore, from its formidable castle to its charming historic squares lined with lively cafés. While here, you might like to sample Toucinho do Céu, a rich almond-based dessert that reflects the region’s monastic baking traditions.
Afterwards, you will make a worthy stop in the picturesque town of Amarante, nestled on the banks of the Tâmega River. Known for its romantic atmosphere and devotion to São Gonçalo, Amarante is also famous for its convent sweets and delicate pastries, the perfect treat before ascending into the vineyard-covered hills of the Douro Valley.
Day 8 & 9: Douro Valley
Prepare to be captivated by the Douro Valley, a landscape so spectacular it has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, terraced vineyards are carved into steep hillsides that plunge dramatically to the winding river below, a breathtaking testament to centuries of human effort. We will experience this incredible scenery from the water during a panoramic boat trip on the Douro River, offering a unique perspective of the estates, or quintas, that cling to the slopes.
The following day is dedicated to a deeper immersion, as you visit a prestigious local wine estate. Wander through the vineyards, explore the cellars, and venture on a guided Douro Valley wine tasting experience, where you can try the region's exceptional wines, from robust reds to crisp whites.
Day 10 & 11: Belmonte, Castelo de Vide & Marvão
Our journey turns south, leading us to Belmonte, one of Portugal’s most fascinating historic villages, with a rich Jewish heritage and a commanding castle. As the day ends, you will gather for an exquisite dinner featuring the best of Beira Baixa’s regional gastronomy, a true reflection of its seasonal ingredients.
The next day, we drive through the serene landscapes of the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park to discover Castelo de Vide, an enchanting town with a beautifully preserved old Jewish Quarter and whitewashed houses adorned with colorful flowerpots. A short drive further, the majestic outline of Marvão appears, a fortified village perched on a granite crag. The views from its castle walls are simply stunning, and its traditional restaurants offer hearty, flavorful dishes that celebrate the bounty of the land.
Day 12 & 13: Évora, Estremoz & Monsaraz
Welcome to the Alentejo, a region of vast golden plains, ancient cork oaks, and a peaceful, unhurried pace of life. Our base is Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage city-museum. A walking tour with our local guide will reveal its treasures, from the Roman Temple to the haunting Chapel of Bones.
The following day is devoted to the Alentejo vineyards and wine estates. Visit a local estate where you can wander through the sun-drenched vineyards and learn about the winemaking process. This will be followed by a tasting of the Alentejo’s celebrated full-bodied wines. For lunch, you will find a wonderful local restaurant where you can indulge in the rich, rustic flavors of the region - think black pork, hearty bread, and olive oil - all while enjoying the beautiful vineyard setting.
Day 14 & 15: Return to Lisbon
As the journey nears its end, make your way back towards Lisbon via a scenic coastal route. Drive through the Serra da Arrábida, a stunning natural park where lush green mountains meet the turquoise sea.
This dramatic landscape leads you to the fishing city of Setúbal, a place with a proud maritime identity. Here, you can indulge in the local specialty: Choco Frito, delicious fried cuttlefish, a must-try for any food lover. Setúbal is also famous for its sweet Moscatel wine, and it’s the perfect place to pick up a few bottles to take the taste of Portugal home with you. It's a final, flavorful toast to an incredible journey through the heart of this beautiful country.
Ready To Savor Portugal’s Best?
This is more than a tour, it’s a journey for the senses and the soul. Picture yourself uncorking a vintage Port in the Douro Valley, savoring the freshest seafood by the Atlantic, and wandering through the timeless, cobbled streets of medieval towns. We take care of every detail, so you can fully immerse yourself in the landscapes, flavors, and stories that make Portugal truly unforgettable. This carefully crafted journey offers a seamless blend of vibrant city life, serene countryside, and authentic, mouthwatering culinary traditions waiting to be discovered.
