Family Vacation to Portugal
Saudade is a uniquely Portuguese word to describe a deep longing for something. It’s a sensation with no easy translation, but you can hear it in the soulful voice of a fado musician, detect it in the vibrant colors of mosaics, or even savor it in a glass of sweet port wine. However you perceive it, you’ll already be feeling wistful saudade for your next trip to Portugal before boarding your flight back home.
Saudade is a uniquely Portuguese word to describe a deep longing for something. It’s a sensation with no easy translation, but you can hear it in the soulful voice of a fado musician, detect it in the vibrant colors of mosaics, or even savor it in a glass of sweet port wine. However you perceive it, you’ll already be feeling wistful saudade for your next trip to Portugal before boarding your flight back home.
23–26 May 2024: Porto (3 nights)
26–28 May 2024: Lisboa (2 nights)
28–31 May 2024: Lagos (3 nights)
Local Emergency Contact Portugal: will be provided
Scenset
Your Curator: will be provided or via Scenset app chat
Scenset Emergency Line: will be provided
You can also reach out to us on the Scenset app and we will be happy to help.
Important: If something needs immediate assistance, your local contact is the best person to call first as they are in the same time zone.
The weather in Portugal in the month of May is comfortably warm and sunny, with cool evenings. It's one of the best months to visit Portugal as it marks the end of spring and the early days of summer around the corner.
- You can expect a temperature range: 14–22°C (57–71°F).
US passport holders do not require a tourist visa for Portugal.
Plugs: In Portugal, the standard plug type is Type F, which has two round pins and an additional grounding pin in the middle. Type C plugs, which have two round pins without the grounding pin, are also commonly used. An adapter will be needed to plug devices into the outlets.
Voltage: The electrical voltage is 230 volts, and the frequency is 50 Hz. In the US, the voltage is 120 volts, and the frequency is 60 Hz. Therefore, to use electrical appliances from the US in Portugal, a converter or adapter will be needed to match the voltage and frequency. It's important to note that not all converters are the same, and a suitable one must be chosen for the specific appliances.
The currency in Portugal is Euros.
- Cash is predominantly used in Portugal, and cards are also widely accepted. However, despite being a modern EU country, cards are not accepted everywhere. It is highly advised to carry cash with you.
Tipping is always appreciated, though not obligatory. For drivers, we generally suggest a tip depending on the transfer duration. For guides, we recommend a tip for half-day experiences or a tip for full-day experiences.
Get introduced to the soothing and heartbreaking sound of Fado Portuguese music with this playlist, featuring famous singers. Fado is characterized by mournful tunes and lyrics about life's hardships. Often performed with a guitarra portuguesa, fado is a deeply emotional and soulful style of music.
Here are some helpful Portuguese phrases for your travels:
- 👋 Olá (oh-LAH) - Hello
- 🌞 Bom dia (bong DEE-ah) - Good morning
- 🌅 Boa tarde (BO-ah TAR-deh) - Good afternoon
- 🌚 Boa noite (BO-ah NOY-teh) - Good evening/Good night
- 🙏 Por favor (por fa-VOR) - Please
- 🤗 Obrigado (if you're male) / Obrigada (if you're female) (oh-bree-GAH-doo/dah) - Thank you
- 👍Sim (seem) - Yes
- 👎Não (now) - No
- 🍻 Saúde! (sow-OO-deh) - Cheers! (Literally means "health")
Public Transport
For optimal navigation and access to comprehensive maps and routes using public transport, we suggest downloading Citymapper.
Porto
- Metro: Porto's Metro system is extensive, connecting the airport to the city center and reaching many suburbs. It's clean, efficient, and easy to navigate. Check the Andante card for multiple trips.
- Buses: STCP buses cover the entire city, including areas not serviced by the metro.
- Trams: Experience the historic side of Porto by taking a ride on one of the vintage trams, such as the Line 1 along the river to Foz.
Lisbon
- Metro: Lisbon's Metro is fast, clean, and connects major tourist spots. It operates from early morning until late at night. Make sure to check the map and lines for your destination.
- Trams: The iconic Tram 28 is a must-ride for any visitor, offering a historic route through the city's most picturesque neighborhoods. Be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded trams.
Lagos
- Most places are walking distance as Lagos is a small town. For locations not easily accessible on foot, taking a taxi is the recommended option.
Taxi/ Uber
- Uber: Widely available in Lisbon, Uber is a convenient way to travel, especially late at night when public transport options are limited.
- Bolt: Another popular option in Lisbon, Bolt offers competitive rates and is known for its quick service.
- Taxis are a reliable, albeit more expensive, way to get around. They can be hailed on the street or found at taxi stands.
Here are some of our packing recommendations for your trip to Portugal:
- Clothing: Opt for lightweight and breathable clothing for daytime. Include a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Layers are advisable.
- Comfortable Footwear: Essential for walking on cobbled streets or touring sites.
- Swimwear: Make sure to pack your swimsuit.
- Sun Protection: Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen are must-haves.
- Evening Attire: Pack a smart-casual outfit for dining out or nightlife.
- 🔌 Electrical Adapters: Portugal uses the Europlug (Type C) and the Schuko (Type F) plugs.
- Day Bag: A small backpack or crossbody bag is handy for carrying essentials like water, sunscreen, and your camera while exploring.
Packing reminder! Make sure to bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes, tennis shoes, or sneakers. Portugal's streets are made of beautiful black and white cobblestone, which can make it tricky to walk in anything but comfortable shoes!
Embrace the Portuguese love for a coffee break and use this guide to help you navigate Portugal’s aromatic world of coffee like a local.
Vamos tomar café - let's have a coffee!
- Café (pronounced cah-fé)
A shot of black espresso. This is the most popular coffee drink in Portugal, usually ordered after a meal or during a quick break. This is what you will get if you order a "coffee".
- Galão (pronounced Gah-lo)
A shot of espresso in a tall glass that’s topped up two-thirds of the way with milk. Similar to a latte but, slightly larger and milkier.
- Meia de leite (pronounced May -a de late)
Half coffee and half milk - also similar to a latte.
- Abatanado/americano (pronounced ah-bah-tah-NAH-doo)
Larger coffee with water.
These guidelines are for reference only. Scenset holds no responsibility for travel restrictions. Travelers are responsible for ensuring the right documentation to travel.
Upon arrival at Porto, you will be greeted at the terminal by your English-speaking driver, who will provide a private transfer to your hotel. Your driver will be holding a sign with your name on it.
- Meeting Point: Arrivals hall. Your driver will be holding a sign with your name on it.
- Driver Contact: will be provided
- If you cannot locate your driver in the arrivals hall, please call will be provided.
Booked by Scenset.
The second-biggest Portuguese city is in the midst of a travel renaissance, with an uptick of tourists also bringing new restaurants, bars, cafes, and cultural events. But in a rare instance of having your pastel de nata and eating it too, Porto hasn’t lost its soul that made it so attractive in the first place. The brightly colored buildings, lazy lunches, and riverside wine bars are an ingrained way of life in Porto and simply too good to give up.
We've requested early check-in at your hotel so you can arrive and freshen up after your flight.
Confirmed early check-in is dependent on availability.
Meet your driver at the hotel entrance for your transfer to Graham's Port Lodge.
- Meeting Point: Hotel entrance.
- Driver Contact: will be provided
- Transfer Duration: Around 45 minutes.
- If you cannot locate your driver, please call will be provided.
Booked by Scenset.
Discover Graham's Port Lodge, a historic gem built in 1890 with commanding views of Porto's city center and the iconic two-tier bridge. Begin your adventure with a guided tour through the working cellar, where over 2,000 oak casks and 40 large vats age the exceptional Port wines. Delve into the rich history of the cellar and the intricate production process. End your experience with a classic wine-tasting session, savoring the nuanced flavors of Graham's Ports.
- Includes: Return transfer to the hotel, and tastings.
- Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours
Booked by someone.
After today's tour, you will meet your driver for your transfer back to the hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.
- Driver Contact: will be provided
- You should arrive back to your hotel in the early evening depending on traffic.
Booked by Scenset.
Make your way to Tapabento for dinner tonight.
- Reservation Time: Dinnertime
- Reservation Name: will be provided
- This restaurant is a 20-minute walk from your hotel, or a 10-minute taxi ride.
📍Google Maps Directions
Booked by Scenset.
Here are some of our favorite cocktail & wine bars in Porto.
Why we love it for you: Discover the epitome of luxury at Hotel Torel Avantgarde in Porto, a three-time award-winning 5-star haven ideally situated in the city center, just a 10-minute walk from the enchanting Douro riverside. With an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a scenic garden offering panoramic city views, the hotel offers the perfect stay. The well-appointed rooms feature air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, coffee machines, and stylish bathrooms.
Torel Avantgarde
3x Executive Rooms
Booking References:
9005/2023
9006/2023
9007/2023
- Breakfast included
After breakfast this morning, you will head out for today's exploration of Porto.
This morning you will meet your guide for your walking food tour of Porto.
- Enjoy an enriching walking tour of Porto, where the fusion of cultural exploration and the culinary wonders of Northern Portugal unfolds.
- Guided by a local expert, traverse the historic Ribeira district, wander along the picturesque Douro River, and discover landmarks like the renowned Livraria Lello.
- Immerse yourself in vibrant markets, savoring artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and olives to experience the authentic flavors of the region.
- Sample the iconic Francesinha sandwich with a sip of fine Portuguese wine, and delve into eateries for an array of delightful petiscos.
- End your journey at a pastelaria for the irresistible pastel de nata.
This tour ends in the early afternoon.
- Meeting Point: Hotel lobby in the late morning.
- Guide Name: will be provided
- Guide Contact: will be provided
Booked by Scenset.
Enjoy some time at your leisure before this evening's sunset cruise.
Meet your driver at the hotel lobby for your transfer to this evening's sunset river cruise.
- Meeting Point: Hotel entrance.
- Driver Contact: will be provided
- If you cannot locate your driver, please call will be provided.
Booked by Scenset.
This evening you will head out for a private sunset cruise along the scenic Douro River in Porto, where every moment is a celebration of beauty and tranquility. As you set sail, be captivated by the golden hues of the sun casting a warm glow over the iconic cityscape. Glide beneath historic bridges and past charming riverside neighborhoods, soaking in the breathtaking panoramic views.
- Tapas served on board – Traditional Queijo da Serra (cheese) with red passion fruit jam and nuts, smoked ham, bread, and crackers.
- Duration: 2hrs.
Booked by Scenset.
Meet your driver after your cruise for your transfer to the hotel.
- Meeting Point: Your driver will contact you and confirm the meeting location.
- Driver Contact: will be provided
- If you cannot locate your driver, please call will be provided.
Booked by Scenset.
Torel Avantgarde
3x Executive Room
- Breakfast included
After breakfast this morning, meet your driver for your transfer to Douro Valley.
Meet your driver for your transfer to Douro Valley.
- Meeting Point: Hotel entrance.
- Transfer Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours. You should arrive in Douro in the late morning.
- Driver Contact: will be provided
- If you cannot locate your driver, please call will be provided.
Booked by Scenset.
Arrive in the Douro Valley for an exclusive tour experience with a private guided visit to the prestigious Quinta Nova Wine Estate. Delve into the rich heritage of winemaking as your knowledgeable guide leads you through the estate, unveiling the secrets behind its acclaimed wines. Indulge in a curated wine tasting featuring five premium selections, each awarded an impressive 92 points by both Robert Parker and Wine Spectator.
- Includes: Private guided visit, four-course menu lunch and wine tastings.
- Start Time: Late morning.
- Lunch: Amuse bouche + starter + Main course + dessert with 4 wines.
Private Experience
Booked by a client.
Meet your driver for your transfer back to Porto.
- Driver Contact: will be provided | will be provided
- If you cannot locate your driver, please call will be provided.
Booked by Scenset.
Return to Porto and enjoy the evening at your own leisure.
Enjoy dinner tonight at Blind Restaurante.
- The restaurant is a 30-minute walk from your hotel, or a 20-minute drive.
📍Google Map Directions
Booked Independently.
Torel Avantgarde
3x Executive Room
- Breakfast included
This morning you will check out of your hotel and meet your driver for your journey to Lisbon.
Meet your driver in the hotel lobby for today's journey to Lisbon!
- Meeting Point: Hotel entrance.
- Driver Contact: will be provided | +351 913482952
- If you cannot locate your driver, please call will be provided.
Booked by Scenset.
Arrive in the historic city of Coimbra, home to one of Europe's oldest universities, as you stroll through its charming streets steeped in academic tradition. Discover the cultural and architectural heritage that defines this enchanting destination.
- Here you will enjoy a gastronomic experience that includes; a tour in the city center with several stops to taste local gastronomy such as; rissóis, bolos de bacalhau, cheese and sausages, juices, sparking wine, beer, coffee and conventual sweets.
This tour ends around midday.
Booked by Scenset.
Get back in your car and continue on the road towards Lisbon.
You have the option to stop in Obidos or Belem on the way to your hotel in Lisbon - your driver will check in with you on the day!
Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world, although it was practically rebuilt from scratch after a 1755 earthquake. The only neighborhood to survive was the Alfama district, where cobbled streets and the sounds of fado music recall a nostalgic past. Throughout the rest of Lisbon, new restaurants and bars continue to reinvent the seaside city, often by serving modern takes on traditional tasca cuisine like fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and local wine.
Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Choose the quiet embrace of an early night, or indulge in the allure of Pink Street with a cocktail in hand. Or, for a more melodic encounter, seek out a local bar echoing with the live rhythms of Fado performances.
Enjoy dinner tonight at Cervejaria Ramiro.
- The restaurant is an approx 20-minute walk from your hotel, or 25 minute taxi ride from your hotel.
📍Google Map Directions
Booked Independently.
- Solar dos Presuntos: A high-end Portuguese restaurant with an amazing fish and seafood menu, but also some meats, serving in family-style.
- O Faia: A traditional restaurant where you can experience Fado music, a UNESCO-protected type of singing and performing that is quintessentially Portuguese.
- Should you wish to dine in a Michelin-star restaurant, Eleven and Alma are wonderful choices.
- Insólito: this is Lisbon's best-kept secret, a paradise of serendipity with a view.
- If you are looking for international cuisine, Zambeze is an East African restaurant that will not disappoint
- Oficio Lisboa: serves traditional Portuguese dishes but served up with a modern twist.
- Cervejaria Ramiro: renowned for its exquisite seafood, particularly the fresh crab and prawns. First made popular after a visit from a renowned chef.
- Monte Mar: known for its variety and quality of seafood.
- 100 Maneiras: a contemporary restaurant offering a creative menu with distinct Portuguese flavors.
- Café No Chiado: delight in an urban atmosphere from the XIX century, paired with traditional Portuguese tapas.
- Red Frog Speakeasy Bar: tucked away in the Cais do Sodré district, this speakeasy-style bar offers an extensive cocktail menu and a cozy, intimate atmosphere.
- Park Bar: perched on top of a parking garage in Bairro Alto, Park Bar offers stunning views of the city along with delicious cocktails. It's a great spot to watch the sunset.
- Cinco Lounge: located in the Príncipe Real neighborhood, Cinco Lounge is a chic cocktail bar known for its expertly crafted drinks and elegant ambiance.
Why we love it for you: Situated in the heart of this noble, bohemian, and inspiring city, where tradition meets irreverence at every corner, the Bairro Alto is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, and a pioneer when it comes to 5-star luxury boutique hotels in Portugal.
Bairro Alto
3x Classic Chiado Rooms
Booking References:
will be provided
- Breakfast included
After breakfast this morning, you will meet your guide and driver for this morning's adventure.
Meet your driver outside the hotel for today's transfer.
- Meeting Point: Hotel entrance.
- Guide Contact: Anabela | + 351 9644037965
- If you cannot locate your driver, please call will be provided.
Booked by Scenset.
Meet up with your private guide, and explore the streets of Lisbon by tuk-tuk - the best way to navigate the city.
- Visit Saint George's Castle. Located at one of the highest points of the city, it offers some of the best views of Lisbon.
- Continue to Baixa, an area that became the heart of Lisbon after its destruction in the 1755 earthquake.
- Continue to the enchanted Chiado and visit the famous Elevador de Santa Justa, a remarkable iron elevator built in the late 19th century.
- Go to the Alfama district, the unmistakable soul of the capital. Alfama unfolds through a charming network of slender cobbled streets, with charming traditional old houses and many of Lisbon’s most important historic buildings.
- Duration: 1 hour
- Meeting Point: Your driver will drop you off at the meeting location.
- Guide contact: will be provided
- Includes: x2 TukTuks
Booked by Scenset.
After your Tuk Tuk adventure, you will meet your guide for a dynamic excursion blending history and culinary innovation in Lisbon.
Your tour will end at the Lisbon TimeOut Market, enjoy lunch here!
- Guide name: will be provided
- Guide contact: will be provided
- Meeting Point: Your guide will meet you at the end of your TukTuk experience.
Please note that your guide will be with you for the day. Your guide will accompany you to ensure a seamless experience throughout your activities and will depart once you arrive at your cooking class. If you require any assistance throughout the day, please feel free to reach out to your guide.
Booked By Scenset.
Meet with your driver for your transfer to your tile workshop.
Please note that your guide will be assisting you in coordinating your transfer.
After lunch, meet with your guide and driver for this afternoon's tile workshop.
In the charming Alfama Quarter of Lisbon, experience a tile-making workshop of the traditional azulejos of Portugal. The master craftsman will show you how these tiles are made, after which you can design your tiles and have them go through the kiln and shipped to your home address if you're interested!
- Note: Shipment of tiles is an additional cost to be arranged and settled directly with the workshop.
Booked by Scenset.
After your tile workshop, meet with your driver for your transfer back to the hotel.
- Here you will have approx 45 minutes to freshen up before tonight's cooking class.
Booked by Scenset.
Meet your driver for your transfer to your cooking class.
Booked by Scenset.
Join skilled local chefs as they guide you through the vibrant tapestry of Portuguese flavors and techniques. Set in a charming kitchen, this hands-on experience invites you to master the art of crafting traditional dishes, from savory Bacalhau à Brás. Learn the secrets behind the perfect blend of spices and the cultural significance of each dish, ensuring you not only savor the taste but also understand the story behind every bite.
- This experience is expected to end late at night.
Booked by a participant.
Meet your driver for your transfer to the hotel.
Booked by Scenset.
Bairro Alto
3x Classic Chiado Room
- Breakfast included
This morning you will check out of the hotel and meet your driver for your transfer to the Algarve.
Meet your driver outside the hotel for your private transfer from Lisbon to the Algarve.
- Meeting Point: Hotel entrance.
- Pick Up: Morning
- If you cannot locate your driver, please call will be provided.
- Duration: About 2.5 hours
Booked by Scenset.
The Algarve has been a popular beach destination for European travelers for a long time, and its continued popularity is a testament to what it offers. High-quality restaurants serve spectacular meals, and music plays at beach clubs throughout the day and night. However, even these are surpassed by the Algarve’s beautiful beaches and stunning caves formed by the Atlantic waves.
Upon arrival, check in to your hotel rooms.
The day is free to explore Lagos at your own leisure.
Enjoy dinner tonight at Restaurante dos Artistas.
- The restaurant is a 6-minute walk from your hotel.
📍Google Map Directions
Booked Independently.
Why we love it for you: This former estate on Portugal's most sunny coast lets you unwind in style. From the minimalistic main building to your own boho chic cabana, complete with bathtub, right through to the classic suites in the old estate building. Pick your perfect room to set the scenset for an idyllic vacation. With Batata beach just a 10-minute walk away, you can easily venture to the sandy shores and embrace the coastal beauty, all while staying in the heart of the Old Town.
Casa Mae
2x Standard Premium Rooms
1x Superior Room
Standard & Superior rooms are located in the Jogo de Bola building.
- Breakfast included
After breakfast this morning, meet your guide for today's adventure.
Head out on a gentle exploration of the breathtaking Lagos region in the Algarve through hike. Discover hidden gems along the way, from panoramic viewpoints offering sweeping vistas of the rugged coastline to secluded coves and beaches that invite moments of tranquil contemplation.
- This tour will end in the early afternoon.
- Meeting Point: Hotel lobby in the late morning.
- Guide Name: will be provided | will be provided
- If you cannot locate your guide, please call will be provided.
Booked by Scenset.
Meet your driver in the hotel lobby for your transfer to Benagil caves.
- Meeting Point: Hotel lobby.
If you cannot locate your driver, please call a phone number that will be provided.
Booked by Scenset.
Experience a kayaking adventure along the stunning coastline of Benagil in the Algarve region. As you paddle through the crystal-clear waters, you'll be greeted by the breathtaking beauty of dramatic cliffs, hidden caves, and secluded beaches. The highlight of your journey lies in exploring the iconic Benagil Cave, a natural wonder renowned for its captivating sea cave and the famous sunlight streaming through the ceiling's opening, creating a magical ambiance.
- Clothing recommendation: We recommend swimsuits or clothes that you don't mind getting wet. You can also bring some clothes to change after the experience and your own towel.
- Please bring your own towel.
- Please note: After your briefing, you will be given a waterproof bag to store your mobile phone and other small personal belongings.
Booked by scenset.
Casa Mae
2x Standard Premium Rooms
1x Superior Room
- Breakfast included
Make your way to the Lagos marina, where you'll meet with your crew for the day's catamaran adventure.
This morning, you will head out for your catamaran adventure. Make your own way to the Marina de Lagos, here you will board your catamaran.
Upon arrival, please contact a representative. They will meet you at the entrance gate of the Marina and escort you to the correct pier.
- Meeting Time: Around 10:00 am (please be at the meeting location by 10:00 am).
- Meeting Point: Yachting Lifestyle - Boat Charter & Boat Management, Passeio dos Descobrimentos 1 3, 8600-315 Lagos, Portugal
- Contact: will be provided
- 📍Casa Mãe Hotel to Marina de Lagos
(15 -20 minutes walk from your hotel.)
- If you have any issues locating your skipper, please call will be provided.
Enjoy the ultimate maritime adventure with a private catamaran experience in the enchanting waters of Lagos. Your journey begins as you step aboard a luxurious catamaran, setting the stage for an exclusive and personalized exploration of the Algarve's stunning coastline. With a knowledgeable crew at your service, you'll sail along the rugged cliffs and picturesque beaches that define this coastal haven.
- Enjoy lunch and drinks on board.
- Your catamaran will return to the marina in the late afternoon.
Booked by a user.
Once you are back at the Marina de Lagos, head back to your hotel and enjoy your last night in the Algarve at your own pace.
Enjoy dinner tonight at Adega Marina.
- Reservation Time: Evening
- Reservation Name: will be provided
- Location: The restaurant is a short drive from your hotel. We recommend taking a taxi.
Reserved by Scenset.
Casa Mae
2x Standard Premium Rooms
1x Superior Room
- Breakfast included
Meet your driver this morning for your transfer to Lisbon.
- Meeting Point: Hotel entrance.
- If you cannot locate your driver, please call will be provided.
Booked by Scenset.
