Portugal

Lisbon, (3 Nights)

Bairro Alto Hotel 5*
Bairro Alto Hotel opened its doors for the first time in 2005, in the building where until 1980 was the Grand Hôtel de L’Europe, a landmark in the national hotel business history. The set of buildings where the hotel is located dates to the 18th-century and it is an area of special interest in Lisbon – more precisely between Bairro Alto and Chiado, two of the most emblematic neighborhoods of the city.
Bairro Alto Hotel, a renowned member of “The Leading Hotels of the World”, is a pioneer in Portugal in the concept of 5-star boutique hotels. A luxury boutique hotel, both cosmopolitan and trendy with a harmonious blend of old and new, that offers an excellent service in an atmosphere of warmth and relaxation. Bairro Alto Hotel has 87 rooms, within 6 different categories (including 22 suites), overlooking either the emblematic Praça Luís de Camões and Bairro Alto, the quiet Rua das Flores or the sunny Rua do Alecrim.
On the top floor of Bairro Alto Hotel you´ll find the BAHR Terrace, awarded as the 4th best hotel-terrace view in the world… a space enjoyed by everyone from tourists, celebrities, and the people of Lisbon.

Douro Valley, (2 Nights)

Quinta São José do Barrilário 5*
Located in Armamar, between Régua and Pinhão, and accessible via National Road 222 – once voted the most beautiful road in the world for its breathtaking scenery – Hotel São José do Barrilário offers more than just a modern wine hotel experience. It offers an immersive and exclusive journey that combines the historic charm of the region with exceptional service in the heart of the Douro!
The hotel’s decor was inspired by wine barrels, with numerous elements connecting us to the region’s rich winemaking tradition, from the beds in the rooms to the lamps in the restaurant! The large windows and glass surfaces create a seamless blend between the indoors and outdoors, enhancing the feeling of space and connection with nature.
The hotel’s rooftop offers a stunning 360 degrees view! Here you will find one of the hotel’s highlights, the infinity pool that blends seamlessly with the landscape, and the pool bar, where light meals and cocktails are served.
With a gastronomic proposal that prioritizes the authentic flavors of the Douro, the restaurant and the dishes of resident Chef Luís Filipe Guedes offer a journey through the traditions of Douro cuisine.

Porto, (3 Nights)

Vila Foz Hotel & Spa 5*
Set in the city’s noblest area, this Old World manor house is at one with both Porto and the sea. The walls of the Manor House tell hundred-year-old stories, beautiful and happy memories of other times. Today, together with the new facilities built to welcome you, these walls tell new stories of comfort and hospitality, always with the ocean on the horizon. The immensity of grand spaces at Vila Foz is balanced by the designer’s liberal use of patterns, warm colors, flowing lines, and soft finishes. Taken together—enormity and nuance, opulence and comfort—these contrasts create an unexpected harmony and allow guests to feel as if they are living in both Old World Portugal and the modern day.
Rooms are large, modern and sophisticated. They combine singular details, inspired by the elegance of the materials used in other parts of the hotel and on the waves of the sea. 68 rooms and suites that prime for comfort. Cozy spaces to fully enjoy a perfect stay with tranquil and rested nights.
The restaurants Vila Foz and Flor de Lis offer authentic, unique, and delicate dishes prepared by the Chef. In the SPA, time slows down and restores our balance. It is a place of experiences and wellness with the excellence of an always attentive and personalized service.

 

Day One – Arrival in Lisbon

Upon your arrival in Lisbon, our driver will warmly welcome you and provide a private transfer to our hotel.

Tonight, indulge in an exclusive welcome dinner.

Accommodations: Bairro Alto Hotel, 5 stars
Meals: Welcome Dinner

 

Day Tw0 – Lisbon and Belem

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel.

This morning, explore Lisbon, one of the oldest capitals of Europe. Lisbon is a city of pastel colors, cobblestone streets, spectacular vistas, and monuments. Discover the historic district of Belém, where we can find many of the most prestigious monuments of the city, including the Jerónimos Monastery (entrance included, subject to availability) and Belém Tower (exterior), both good examples of the 16th century’s Manueline style, and the Monument to the Discoveries (exterior). You will have the opportunity to taste the delicious “Pastéis de Belém”, the typical pastry of Lisbon. Belém also hosts several modern buildings, such as the CCB (Cultural Center of Belém), the futuristic MAAT (the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology) and the Coach Museum, one of the largest collections of royal coaches in the world (entrance included).

Lunch in a local restaurant.

Afternoon at leisure to explore Lisbon on your own.

Accommodations: Bairro Alto Hotel, 5 stars
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

 

Day Three – Sintra

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel.

We begin our journey in the medieval village of Sintra, once a Royal summer residence and a source of inspiration for writers and poets like Lord Byron, who deemed it “the Garden of Eden.” Located at the foot of the mountain that shares its name, Sintra has been a cherished retreat for princes, artists, and writers for centuries.

In the 19th century Sintra became the first center of European Romantic architecture. Ferdinand II turned a ruined monastery into a castle where this new sensitivity was displayed in the use of Gothic, Egyptian, Moorish and Renaissance elements and in the creation of a park blending local and exotic species of trees. Other fine dwellings, built along the same lines in the surrounding serra, created a unique combination of parks and gardens which influenced the development of landscape architecture throughout Europe.

We embark on a small hike around Sintra Nature Park, passing iconic sites like Quinta da Regaleira (entrance included), immersing ourselves in the ancient history that still echoes through these hills. We traverse the lush and vibrant forest of Sintra, connecting with the ever-changing vibes of nature’s renewal. In the village of Sintra, we savor the famous and delectable travesseiros de Sintra (puff pastry with an almond and sweet egg filling), before we enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of Sintra’s most picturesque restaurants.

Accommodations: Bairro Alto Hotel, 5 stars
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

 

Day Four – Coimbra and the Douro Valley

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel.

Leave Lisbon and proceed north, in direction of the Douro Valley. On the way, stop at Coimbra, city of Arts and Letters, one of the oldest university cities in Europe. Coimbra houses the oldest university of Portugal. Visit to the main buildings of the Old University (upon availability), such as the Manueline style chapel with its 18th century organ and the senate room (Sala dos Capelos), the main room of the University. Marvel yourself in one of the most beautiful libraires in the world – the Biblioteca Joanina. Then walk through the narrow streets to admire the Cathedral (overview). Stroll in the oldest part of Coimbra, made of narrow streets that lead to the top of the hill.

Lunch will be served in a local restaurant.

Continue to Douro Valley, and checkin to our beautiful hotel.

Accommodations: Quinta São José do Barrilário, 5 stars
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

 

Day Five – Douro Valley

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel.

Today be amazed by Douro Valley, the first wine region in the world to be demarcated. A UNESCO World Heritage site since 2001, Douro is well known by its landscape, full of vineyards, culture, and natural beauty. Enjoy the view of the Douro Valley and its vineyards from a different perspective, on a small private boat trip at the heart of the Douro. Get to know the simple but enchanting village of Pinhão, in the heart of the vineyards and on the banks of the Douro. Its charming railway station is renowned for the beauty of its azulejos (tiles panels). You will visit one of the typical “quintas” (wine-estate), where, in fact, Port and Douro wines are produced. You will learn about the production of Porto and Douro wines.

Enjoy lunch (with wine pairing) at a local quinta.

Accommodations: Quinta São José do Barrilário, 5 stars
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

 

Day Six – Douro Valley, Vila Real, Amarante, and Porto

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel.

In the morning, discover the superb gardens of the Solar de Mateus, one of the most beautiful Baroque palaces in Portugal. Continue to Amarante, which stands on either side of the Tâmega river. The bridge of Amarante perpetuates the memory of the heroic resistance of the population against the Napoleonic troops which, at the beginning of the 19th century, invaded Portugal.

Lunch at a local restaurant

Continue to Porto, the charming capital of the north of Portugal, renowned for its age-old history and globally acclaimed port wine. This architecturally captivating city, situated at the mouth of the Douro River, has held the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996. Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, is often hailed as the “invincible” city, characterized by a resilient and industrious population that has withstood constraints and attacks throughout its history.

Beyond its monuments, Porto’s charm lies in the distinct personality of the city and its people, beckoning discovery.  We will wander through the streets adorned with typical houses and monuments crafted from granite stone.

Evening at leisure

Accommodations: Vila Foz Hotel & Spa, 5 stars
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Day Seven – Porto

Begin your day with breakfast at our hotel.

Built on the right bank of Douro, Porto offers the contrasts of a city that is both ancient and modern. Visit of its highlights and the typical quarters, with its Baroque churches, the elegant metal bridges, and the wine cellars. Walk through the picturesque Ribeira district, the historic heart of Porto (listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Follow our guide through this authentic neighborhood, meandering along winding streets adorned with colorful facades. Visit the Cais da Ribeira, the quayside of this characterful district, and explore some of the city’s most beautiful sites, such as the Stock Exchange Palace, a historical building with a mix of architectural styles. The highlight is the magnificent Arab room (Salão Árabe).

Lunch at a local restaurant.

Afternoon at leisure to explore Porto on your own.

Accommodations: Vila Foz Hotel & Spa, 5 stars
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

 

Day Eight – Porto, Braga, and Guimarães

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel.

Day tour dedicated to the region of Minho. Start with Guimarães, the cradle of Portuguese nation and, according to tradition, the birthplace of D. Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal. Visit to its historic center which was declared a UNESCO Heritage site, with its intertwined and very well-kept streets and medieval vibe. Highlights are the Castle (exterior) and the Ducal Palace (entrance included). Continue to Braga, episcopal city rich in religious buildings. Explore the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, with its spectacular baroque staircase. It is a symbol of Baroque in the north of the country, made of austere grey granite.

Lunch at a local restaurant

Return to Porto. A tour in Porto would never be complete without a visit to a Port wine cellar. We visit one of the finest, on the other bank of River Douro in Gaia, and learn about its production, storage methods and all the secrets that make this nectar one of the most appreciated in the world.

This evening, enjoy our Zoom Vacations farewell dinner event.

Accommodations: Vila Foz Hotel & Spa, 5 stars
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

 

Day Nine – Departure

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel.

Transfer to the airport for flights home

Accommodations: Vila Foz Hotel & Spa, 5 stars
Meals: Breakfast

End of Services

A tour full of wonderful surprises and unfettered, simple beauty.