Time has seemingly failed to touch some of the hidden corners of Porto, with many of its typical winding alleys full of shops and restaurants looking like a scene straight out of a medieval history book. The city is so soaked in the past that the historic area of Ribeira has been deemed a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Considering the backdrop of wrought-iron balconies full of flowers, the daily washing, and an array of fresh white and blue ‘azulejos’ tiles, you will have the perfect city for aimless wandering. However, the city does have a few key landmarks that are worth a visit, including the elaborately decorated Palacio da Bolsa (the Stock Exchange Palace), the medieval Cathedral, and The Clérigos Tower.

The other big draw for tourists is the tour of the Porto wine cellars at Vila Nova de Gaia on the other side of the Douro River.

The surrounding suburbs of the city are also compelling: Matosinhos offers great seafood eateries and small beaches stretching down the coastline. Foz do Douro is known as the wealthier area, with nightclubs and restaurants just 5 kilometres northwest of Porto, while Amarantes, a small northern town over the Tâmega River, has everything to win your heart: a preserved historic centre, charming architecture, and the warmth of its inhabitants.

Private transfer to Hotel Das Virtudes

Meet our agent at the airport (arrivals hall). He will show you the way to the bus, and introduce you to the city while you relax on the bus on the drive to your hotel.

Check in at Hotel Das Virtudes Rua São Pedro De Miragaia 60, Porto, Portugal

VIEW HOTEL PHOTOS HERE

This hotel warmly welcomes guests in Porto. The friendly staff at the reception desk are happy to answer any questions. Amenities available at the hotel include a baggage storage service and a safe. Wireless internet access is provided in public areas. The hotel offers a number of facilities for guests with disabilities. The hotel has wheelchair-accessible facilities and an elevator. Further services include a babysitting service, a car rental service, a transfer service, room service, a laundry service and a hotel shuttle bus.

Welcome Dinner at éLeBê Entreparedes

The group welcome dinner at the restaurant éLeBê Entreparedes, which offers elegant gastronomy with creative Portuguese flavours, blending tradition and modern touches in dishes like fondue, bacalhau and locally inspired entrees. The interior is sophisticated yet welcoming, with attentive service and a relaxed atmosphere — making it a popular choice for dinners, dates, or special occasions in Porto.

What's included:

Curated set menu per person with drinks

Private Food Tour (3.5 Hours)

Embark on a private tour through the vibrant streets of Porto, immersing yourself in the city's rich culinary tapestry. This exclusive experience includes tastings at three distinct venues, offering a delightful array of local flavors. From traditional dishes to innovative culinary creations, each stop promises a unique and mouthwatering exploration of Porto's gastronomic scene.

Indulge in a variety of delectable foods and drinks at carefully selected locations, showcasing the diverse and authentic tastes that define Portuguese cuisine. As part of this culinary journey, savor the distinct flavors of local wines paired with artisanal bites. Additionally, treat your palate to the richness of Portuguese olive oil through a unique and immersive tasting experience.

Throughout the tour, a knowledgeable guide will share insights into the cultural and historical context of Porto, adding depth to your gastronomic adventure. This private tour promises a personalized and memorable exploration of the city's culinary treasures, leaving you with a lasting appreciation for Porto's diverse and flavorful offerings.

What's included:

• Tuk Tuk w/ Driver

• Expert local guide

• Food and drinks at 3 different venues

Private 1 day-tour to Douro Valley (10 Hours)

Explore the Douro River Valley with this 1-day tour that will take you to the winding, terraced region that produces the country's beloved port wine. 

The Douro region stretches along the river of the same name, about 60 miles inland from the city of Porto, where the Douro River spills into the Atlantic Ocean. Joy-riding through the region you enjoy steep, twisting valleys and tidy terraces as far as the eye can see. 

The Douro Valley is the only place in the world that can legally produce what's called "port wine," thanks to the Marquês de Pombal, who demarcated the region in 1756. Visiting here, you can appreciate just how much hard work it was, and still is, to produce traditional port wine. Generation after generation, rugged farmers gradually turned these hillsides into vast terraces expertly crafted to let grape vines draw water from below and sun from above. To this day, the production of port remains a labor of love, as grapes are still generally picked by hand and crushed the traditional way — by foot — since machines are unable to achieve high-quality results.

A driver will pick you up at your hotel in Porto to take you to Douro Valley. This tour includes a private cruise on the Douro River, and a visit to a local Quinta (Wine Estate), followed by a tasting of some of the best Ports of the region.

The tour ends with your private driver driving you back to your hotel in Porto.

What's included:

• Expert local guide

• Visit to the winery. Wine tasting of Port Wines

• Private cruise on Douro River (1h)

• Vehicle at disposal

• Lunch

Check out from Hotel Das Virtude

Transfer to Lisboa with stops in Nazare and Obidos

After breakfast, meet your driver for a comfortable drive to Lisboa, with stops first in Nazare and later in Obidos.

Private tour of Nazaré (2 Hours) and Óbidos (2 Hours)

Begin your day with a visit to Nazaré, a captivating seaside town where the mighty Atlantic meets dramatic cliffs. Before exploring, take some time to enjoy lunch at your leisure in one of Nazaré’s many coastal restaurants — known for fresh seafood and breathtaking ocean views. Discover the heart of Nazaré with a guided tour through its most iconic sites. Visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré, steeped in legend and spiritual significance, and the Nazaré Fort, where you can witness the sheer force of the Atlantic and learn about the waves that have made this town a world-famous surf destination. Nazaré’s charm lies in its deep connection to the sea, with traditions and stories passed down through generations of fishermen and coastal dwellers.

After lunch, continue to the medieval town of Óbidos, a true gem frozen in time. Enclosed within ancient stone walls, Óbidos is a maze of cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and vibrant bougainvillea. Stroll through this storybook village, where every corner reveals a piece of Portuguese history. Discover artisan shops, charming cafés, and panoramic views from the historic castle that watches over the town. With its romantic atmosphere and timeless charm, Óbidos offers a glimpse into Portugal’s rich past.

After the tour your driver will take you to Lisboa.

What's included:

• Expert local guide in Nazare (2h) and Obidos (2h)

• Private vehicle at your disposal

• Tickets to Nazaré Fort, Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré

Check in at Corpo Santo Lisbon Historical Hotel

VIEW HOTEL PHOTOS HERE

Situated in Lisboa, 400 metres from Chiado, Corpo Santo Lisbon Historical Hotel provides accommodation with on-site dining. This 5-star hotel has a chunk of the historical 14th century Muralha Fernandina, along with views over 17th century noble households.

Corpo Santo Lisbon Historical Hotel offers free WiFi. Rossio is 700 metres from the hotel. All rooms feature air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and Blu-ray player. Guest rooms also include a private bathroom with a bath or shower, free toiletries and a hairdryer. At Corpo Santo Lisbon Historical Hotel every room is fitted with a seating area. Guests at the accommodation can enjoy a continental breakfast.

Dona Maria II National Theatre is 800 metres from Corpo Santo Lisbon Historical Hotel, while Bairro Alto is 800 metres from the property.

What's included:

• Accomodation

• Breakfast

Private City Tour Lisboa (4 Hours)

Immerse yourself in the timeless allure of Lisboa on a private city tour, where the city's seven hills offer breathtaking views over the meandering Rio Tejo. Lisboa's charm is vividly encapsulated in its picturesque landscape of winding cobbled streets, historic ruins, and majestic white-domed cathedrals, each telling a story of the city's rich, centuries-old tapestry.

This bespoke journey is crafted to unfold at your own pace, allowing you to fully absorb the enchanting atmosphere of Portugal's capital. Accompanied by an expert local guide, your tour is customized to suit your personal interests. Explore the labyrinthine alleys of the old Alfama district, revel in the intricate architecture of the Santa Justa elevator, soak up the bohemian vibes of the Bairro Alto neighborhood, or take in the panoramic views from the Graça viewpoint.

As you navigate the charming streets of Lisboa, your guide will enrich your experience with fascinating insights into the city's history and culture. From the vibrant, tile-adorned façades to the echoes of Fado music in the air, each moment of this tour is a brushstroke in the grand painting that is Lisboa. Whether you're a history buff, a cultural enthusiast, or simply in love with beautiful cities, this private city tour promises a deeply personal and unforgettable exploration of Lisboa's most iconic and hidden gems.

What's included:

• Expert local guide

• Tuk Tuk with driver at your disposal

Cooking with a local + visit to Ribeira market (4 hours)

Food is the mirror of local culture, history and traditions. Enjoy a gastronomic adventure through an educational, interactive and delicious cooking lesson. Take with you the tastes of Portugal, so back home you may impress your guests with your new recipes.

Since the secret to elaborate a successful meal starts with the purchase of the basic products, the experience begins with a local chef accompanying you to visit a food market. The chef will guide you through it, unveiling the secrets to purchase the freshest and most seasonal product. Hopping from stall to stall, selecting some of the ingredients you will need for the cooking, interacting with the fishmongers and the busy and bustling market life that will imprint in your memories.

Then, the enthusiastic chef will lead you through the elaboration of a 3-course Portuguese meal, while exchanging knowledge and personal experiences, as well as cooking tips and techniques. To end the experience you will be eating the menu you prepared complemented with great local wines.

• What's included:

  • Visit to a local food market

  • Cooking class

  • Ingredients and drinks included on the menu

Private tour to Belem and Jeronimos Monastery (4 hours)

Embark on an exclusive private tour that takes you through the historical heart of Lisbon, focusing on the iconic district of Belém and the majestic Jeronimos Monastery. Your journey begins with a comfortable pick-up from your accommodation, setting the stage for a personalized exploration of Portugal's age of discoveries. In Belém, witness the grandeur of the Belém Tower and the Padrão dos Descobrimentos, monumental tributes to Portugal's maritime adventures.

The highlight of your tour is the visit to the Jeronimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This architectural masterpiece, a symbol of Portugal's wealth during the Age of Exploration, boasts intricate Manueline decoration, a testament to the skilled artisans of the era. With your knowledgeable guide, delve into the monastery's history, exploring its cloisters and chapels, and learning about the prominent figures buried within its walls, including Vasco da Gama and Luís de Camões.

Your private tour ensures a deep and engaging experience, allowing for flexibility to explore at your own pace. With personalized attention, uncover the stories and secrets that have shaped Belém and the Jeronimos Monastery into symbols of Portuguese identity and pride. This exclusive journey is not just a tour; it's an immersion into the heart of Lisbon's cultural and historical legacy.

What's included:

• Tuk Tuk with driver at your disposal

• Expert local guide

• Tickets to Jeronimos Monastery 

Private day-trip to Sintra and Cascaisn (8 Hours)

Experience an unforgettable private tour through the enchanting landscapes of Sintra and Cascais, where history, nature, and architecture blend into an awe-inspiring experience. In Sintra, a place of mystique and beauty, you will be captivated by the seamless harmony of nature and human creativity. Explore the mystical Pena Park, a botanical treasure trove with a kaleidoscope of plants and secret paths, leading you to the spellbinding Pena National Palace*. This 19th-century romanticist palace, perched atop a hill, offers a glimpse into a fairy-tale world with breathtaking views of the ancient Moorish Castle.

Your adventure continues through the lush Sintra Natural Park, leading to a stunning photo opportunity at the Roca Cape cliffs, Europe’s westernmost point, where the land dramatically meets the Atlantic. Witness the wild beauty of Guincho Beach, an all-year-round hotspot for surf and beach enthusiasts.

Concluding your tour is a scenic drive along the Atlantic coast to Cascais, Portugal's premier resort town, where a blend of maritime heritage and cosmopolitan flair awaits. Stroll along its picturesque bay or relax on its sun-kissed beaches, reflecting on a day filled with majestic sights, rich history, and the captivating allure of Portugal’s coastline. This tour is not just a journey through picturesque towns; it's an immersion into the heart of Portugal's cultural and natural wonders.

What's included:

• Pena Palace ticket

• Expert local guide

• Vehicle at your disposal

*As Pena Palace is located on a hill and is not fully accessible for wheelchair users, guests with mobility concerns would only be able to see the palace from the outside.

Check out of Corpo Santo Hotel 

Transfer to airport

After breakfast, meet your driver for a comfortable transfer to the airport.

Departure from Lisboa, Lisbon Airport

• Alameda das Comunidades Portuguesas, Lisboa, LISBOA, PT, 1700-111

• http://www.ana.pt/pt-PT/Aeroportos/Lisboa/Lisboa/Paginas/HomeLisboa.aspx

Relax and enjoy your flight back home. 

Maybe dreaming of the next trip with A Curated Life?