Douro & Porto: Uncorking Flavors

Day By Day Itinerary

1. Day 1 Arrival in Porto & Private Transfer to Douro

   

   Welcome to the North of Portugal! Upon arrival in Porto, you'll be picked up at the airport and embark on a scenic drive to the Douro Valley for about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Arrive and check in at your hotel in the heart of the Douro Valley. For a more comfortable arrival, we suggest adding early hotel check-in to your reservation.

   *Want to maximize your time in paradise? Consider pre-booking an early check-in during the booking process. This way, you can hit the ground running and start exploring sooner! Don't hesitate to contact our booking agents if you have any questions or need assistance setting this up.

   Suggestion for the Day: A Douro River Adventure

   • Start by checking into your hotel and taking a leisurely stroll to explore the beautiful surroundings. The Douro Valley’s breathtaking landscapes and iconic terraced vineyards set the perfect backdrop for a day of exploration.
   • For a truly memorable experience, embark on a boat trip along the Douro River. Glide through tranquil waters and immerse yourself in the captivating scenery of Portugal’s renowned wine region. As you pass by charming villages and rolling vineyards, you’ll quickly understand why this journey is considered one of the region’s top highlights. [Explore our Douro boat trip offers here].
   • After a day of soaking in the scenic beauty, indulge in a delightful dinner at a local restaurant. Be sure to try regional specialties like "alheira de Mirandela" (a traditional Portuguese sausage), the tender "leitão" (roasted suckling pig), or the ever-classic "bacalhau" (salted codfish). Pair your meal with a glass of exceptional Douro wine to complete this culinary experience.
2. Day 2 Private Wine Tour (Included)

   

   9AM - 5 PM: Private Wine Tour (Included):

   • Explore the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its winding river, charming villages, and postcard-perfect vineyards.
   • Our exclusive tour takes you to two carefully chosen Quintas (wineries) for intimate visits and tastings, revealing the secrets of wine production.
   • Learn from the passionate people behind these prestigious labels.
   • Enjoy a relaxing lunch (not included) at a local restaurant and soak in the valley's beauty.
   • This tour includes luxurious transportation with a knowledgeable guide, visits & tastings at 2 premium wineries, hotel pick-up, in-car Wi-Fi, bottled water, and insurance. 
3. Day 3 Private Sightseeing Tour Douro Valley (Included)

   

   9 AM - 5 PM: Sightseeing Tour Douro Valley (Included): Escape the ordinary and discover the Douro Valley's hidden gems!

   • This tour showcases the region's serenity and beauty, from iconic landmarks to charming corners often missed by visitors. Immerse yourself in the UNESCO World Heritage charm: a winding river, unique vineyards, and picturesque villages.
   • Enjoy a shared Douro River cruise and a relaxing lunch (not included) while soaking in the stunning scenery. 

   This incredible experience includes luxurious transportation with a guide, a Douro Valley sightseeing itinerary, a shared Douro River cruise, hotel pick-up, in-car Wi-Fi, bottled water, and insurance.

4. Day 4 Douro

   

   Suggestion for the Day: Wineries & Douro Villages

   Immerse yourself in the heart of the Douro Valley by visiting some of its most renowned wineries, locally known as "quintas." Here are our top recommendations:

   • Quinta do Naval: Known for its rich history and stunning location, this estate offers insightful tours and tastings of their finest ports.
   • Quinta do Seixo: Famous for its spectacular views and modern winemaking facilities, it's a must-visit for an immersive experience.
   • Quinta da Vega Sicilia: A prestigious winery with an elegant ambiance, perfect for exploring the art of winemaking.

   Explore the Charming Douro Villages

   While touring the wineries, take the time to visit some of the region’s quaint villages. Here are some villages worth exploring:

   • Peso da Régua: A key town in the Douro Valley, it’s known for its riverside beauty and as the gateway to many famous quintas.
   • Pinhão: Surrounded by stunning vineyards, this village is renowned for its picturesque train station decorated with traditional azulejos (tiles).
   • Lamego: A historic town with elegant architecture and the impressive Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios.
   • Mesão Frio: One of the oldest towns in the region, offering breathtaking viewpoints and historic charm.
   • Favaios: Famous for its traditional moscatel wine and welcoming atmosphere.

   This combination of wineries and villages offers the perfect balance of culture, history, and flavor, making your day in the Douro Valley a memorable journey through Portugal’s wine country.

5. Day 5 Check Out from Douro & Private Transfer to Porto

   

   Arrive in Porto and enjoy a seamless transfer from your Douro hotel to your accommodation in Porto (transfers included). Please consider adding early hotel check-in for a more comfortable arrival.

   Suggestion for the day: Downtown Porto

   Start by exploring and walking around downtown Porto and get to know the city's unique highlights! The historic center of Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts a rich tapestry of architectural styles reflecting its 2,000-year history. 

   Don’t Miss:

   • D. Luís I Bridge: This iconic double-decker bridge offers stunning panoramic views of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. Take a walk across the bridge for a unique perspective, or hop on a tram for a thrilling ride.
   • Ribeira District: Explore the heart of Porto's historic center. Wander through the charming Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its colorful houses, narrow streets, and lively atmosphere.
   • Livraria Lello: A haven for bookworms, this historic bookstore boasts a beautiful neo-gothic facade and a grand staircase said to have inspired J.K. Rowling. Be prepared for queues, though!
   • Torre dos Clérigos: Climb the 225 steps of the Clérigos Tower for breathtaking 360-degree views of the city. Don't miss the adjacent Igreja do Clerigos church, known for its baroque architecture.
   • Porto Cathedral (Sé Catedral do Porto): This imposing Romanesque cathedral is the oldest church in Porto. Climb the bell tower for stunning city views and admire the intricate architecture.
   • São Francisco Church: Immerse yourself in the extravagant Baroque style at São Francisco Church. Be sure to marvel at the opulent gilded woodwork and the azulejo tilework within.
   • Majestic Café: Step back in time at the Majestic Café, a Belle Époque gem known for its art nouveau interior and delicious Portuguese pastries.

6. Day 6 Food Tour Porto (Included)

   

   Food Tour Porto (Included): Uncover Porto's hidden culinary gems alongside award-winning food writers! This isn't just a tasting tour - it's a cultural immersion. Explore the vibrant city market, where stories behind local ingredients come alive. 

   • Venture through charming backstreets, discovering "mercearias finas" (fine stores), taverns, and snack bars. Each stop reveals a piece of Porto's everyday culinary magic. The journey concludes with exquisite local pastries, a testament to centuries of sweet tradition.
   • This unique gastronomic adventure promises an unforgettable taste of Porto!
   • Visit 5 spots, among restaurants, taverns, pastry shops, and markets. Tastings may include an array of regional cheeses, cured meats, seasonal fruits, "petiscos", soups, local sandwiches, traditional sweets, wines, spirits beers, and more. These tastings will vary according to availability and day of the week (inform us of any dietary restrictions in advance).
7. Day 7 Small Group Porto Fado Show with Dinner (Included)

   

   19:30 PM - 23:30 PM: Small Group Oporto Fado Show with Dinner (Included): Immerse yourself in the soul of Portugal with a captivating Fado performance!

   • Fado, a musical genre born from the heart of the Portuguese people, tells stories woven into the fabric of history. Its melancholic melodies and poignant lyrics evoke a deep emotional resonance.
   • On this enchanting Fado tour, we'll whisk you away to a genuine Fado house and restaurant. Let a professional guide lead you through the experience.
   • Savor a delicious dinner while talented Fado singers serenade you, their voices carrying the weight of tradition and passion.
8. Day 8 Porto

   

   Suggestion for the day: Explore other highlights in Porto. You can easily walk or catch the metro to visit these places.

   • Capela das Almas: This captivating 18th-century chapel is a visual feast, adorned with thousands of blue and white azulejo tiles depicting scenes from the lives of saints.
   • Mercado do Bolhão: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Porto's bustling Bolhão Market. Explore the stalls overflowing with fresh produce, local delicacies, and Portuguese crafts.
   • Jardins do Palácio de Cristal: Escape the urban buzz and find tranquility in these beautifully landscaped gardens. Explore the pavilions, wander through the serene walkways, and enjoy a moment of peace surrounded by nature.
   • Casa da Música: Witness a symphony of architecture at Casa da Música, a modern concert hall known for its unique and eye-catching design. Take a tour or catch a performance and experience the magic of music in this stunning setting.
   • Serralves Museum & Gardens: Go into the world of modern and contemporary art at this museum. Explore the impressive collection and don't miss the beautifully manicured gardens, a haven for art and nature enthusiasts alike.
   • Vila Nova de Gaia: Venture across the iconic D. Luis I Bridge by tram and explore the neighboring town of Vila Nova de Gaia. Here, you can delve into the world of Port wine with tours and tastings at the many cellars, or simply relax on the waterfront and soak up the beautiful scenery.

    

9. Day 9 Return Flight Home

   

   We've arranged your hotel transfer to ensure a smooth journey to the airport.

   Thank you for choosing us to be your travel companions on this adventure! It's been a pleasure assisting you in creating unforgettable memories. We wish you happy travels and until next time!