Welcome to Porto! Transfer from the airport to our hotel with our private driver/escort and take a little time to unwind and settle in for the next three nights. Let’s meet at the bar for a welcome drink of Port wine with a creamy Portuguese custard tart, before we head down for dinner. Soak up the atmosphere in Porto’s iconic Ribeira district on the banks of the famous Douro River for a sumptuous dinner in a delightful setting.  D

Porto, known for its production of port wine, is a lively and vibrant city set on a great gorge of the River Douro. This morning we explore the city on a walking tour taking in the spectacular Sao Bento train station with its gorgeous blue and white tiled interior, the Baroque Clérigos Church and its imposing bell tower, the Rua das Flores, once one of Porto’s most important streets, with a line of palatial manor houses for the city’s elite, and the famous Arab Hall at the neo-classical Stock Exchange Palace. You’re in for a culinary treat when we visit one of Porto’s oldest and most famous food markets. Sample some of the region’s traditional cuisine at leisure at one or more of its many food stalls. After your lunch break, we will head over to the other side of the river for a visit to the Vila Nova de Gaia, a hub of the Port wine industry, and where some of the most famous cellars are located.  Let’s enjoy a tipple or two, sampling some of the best brands on offer.  Evening at leisure to discover Porto’s lively social and eclectic dining scene. B

An early start this morning to embark on a fabulous full day trip sailing the Douro River between Porto and Pinhao. Breakfast and lunch will be served on board today as well as a wine tasting experience with snacks at a “Quinta”, (an estate). The Alto Douro Wine Region, including the Douro River, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognised for its unique cultural landscape and centuries old wine making traditions.  The terraced vineyards, a testament to human ingenuity, are a major draw, along with the Douro River’s role in transporting wine and the region’s historical significance. The cruise schedule is between 8am start and 9pm finish. B L

We bid farewell to enchanting Porto and head to the famous seaside town of Nazare situated on the Silver Coast of Portugal. The town has evolved from a fishing village to a popular European seaside resort, but where the community continues its strong, deep-rooted traditions, and where local women can occasionally be seen wearing the colourful seven layered skirts at festivals and religious events.  Nazare is also famous for big waves surf and where you can visit Big Wave Point (Praia do Norte) to see the spectacular surfing competitions.  The largest wave ever surfed here measured 28.57 meters, 93.73 feet, ridden by German surfer Sebastian Steudtner in February 2024. Look out for the delicious “Caldeirada”, a very tasty Portuguese Fish Stew.  After lunch we continue south to Obidos, one of the finest examples of a Portuguese walled town.  Gifted to Queen Isabel of Portugal in 1282 on her wedding day, Obidos is one of the most charming and attractive towns of central Portugal.  Discover traditional houses, pretty, cobbled stone streets and an imposing medieval castle.  Obidos is known for its literary heritage, having been nominated a UNESCO Creative City, and for its famous and delicious production of a sour cherry liqueur called “Ginja” - typically served in a small, dark chocolate cup by the street vendors. We continue to Lisbon and check in to our hotel for the next 3 nights.  This evening, we enjoy a drink together at one of the lovely terraces with a view over Lisbon near our hotel followed by an orientation walk of our charming old-world neighbourhood, the Alfama, and dinner.  B D

In the land of great discoveries, enjoy your discovery of this very historic maritime city, and in a most unique way. We will board our own exclusive, iconic vintage tram, with wine tastings and gourmet bites, as well as our own private Fado performance on board the tram. Sail through the historic streets of Lisbon and visit the charming Alfama, Baixa and Chiado neighbourhoods in this very unique way. This afternoon is at your leisure.  Choose what most interests you; from the Mnument of the Dscoveries and the Jeronimos Monastery in Belem, or the immersive Quake Museum, simulating the devasting earthquake that destroyed Lisbon in 1755. The National Blue Tile Museum, the Time Out Market and the Vasco da Gama Tower for views and cocktails. This evening, we head down to As Docas, old restored arsenals and warehouses on the banks of the Tagus River, now serving as vibrant restaurants and bars, where we celebrate the end of a fun filled taste of Portugal trip with a farewell dinner. B D

This morning, one transfer will be provided to the Lisbon airport with your private driver/escort for your flight home. Say Adeus to your fellow trip companions who really wish you would join them in the Algarve!