Portugal
From stunning vineyards in the Douro Valley to fairytale palaces, Portugal has it all. Throw in the picture-perfect cities of Porto & Lisbon, and you have the most incredible itinerary in one of Europe's most beautiful countries
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.
Porto | 3 nights | The Yeatman
Algarve | 2 nights | Praia Do Cananal
Lisbon | 2 nights | Bairro Alto
The weather in Portugal in the month of June is warm and sunny, as expected. Daily high temperatures are around 82°F, rarely falling below 75°F or exceeding 93°F. Daily low temperatures are around 65°F, rarely falling below 61°F or exceeding 70°F.
- US passport holders do not require a tourist visa for Portugal.
- Travelers under the age of 12 or with a valid vaccination or recovery certificate demonstrated via the EU Digital COVID Certificate or equivalent are exempt from presenting a negative PCR test upon arrival.
- See more details here.
Restaurants, Bars & Cafés: In Portugal, it's customary to leave a tip in restaurants, cafes, and bars. The standard amount to tip is 5-10% of the total bill, depending on the level of service. Tipping is voluntary, and you should only tip if you feel that the service was good. Some restaurants may include a service charge in the bill, so be sure to check before leaving an additional tip.
Guides & Drivers: For a half-day tour, a good guideline is to tip around €10-€20 per person, and for a full-day tour, €20-€30 per person. For drivers, you can tip around €10-€20 per day. Tipping is a way of showing appreciation for good service, and it's always up to your discretion.
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, whereas in the US, the voltage is 120 volts, and the frequency is 60 Hz. Therefore, if electrical appliances from the US are to be used 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 one must be chosen that is suitable for the specific appliances to be used.
Get introduced to the soothing and heartbreaking sound of Fado Portuguese music with this playlist, featuring famous singers.
Begin your journey through Portugal in the city of Porto.
Pick-up Time: Around midday
Pick-up Location: Porto Airport
Travel Time: About 30 minutes
Meet your english-speaking private driver at the arrivals hall of the Port airport and get on a luxury vehicle to get to your first hotel.
Driver: will be provided
- Tel: will be provided
Booked by scenset.
On your first day in Porto embark on a 'walk and taste' tour of this historic city!
This is the perfect family activity as it has something for everyone, the foodies, the culture buffs, the wine lovers and the kids!
Together with your expert local guide you will visit some of the most important monuments of the historic parishes of Porto - an UNESCO World Heritage site. MArvel at the S. Bento train station, a true neoclassic jewel and the outside of the Clérigos Church and the Cathedral.
Your exclusive foodie stops in charming locations include traditional specialties: cheeses, smoked sausages, cured hams, breads, fruit, olive-oil and gourmet canned fish. To top it all off, visit one of the most prestigious Port Wine cellars and have your first introduction to Port wines!
Start time: afternoon
Meeting location: Hotel lobby
Return time: early evening approximately
Guide: will be provided
Booked by scenset.
On the same day you will get to visit the Lello bookshop, a cultural jewel and inspiration of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter novels.
Built in 1906, this building is recognized as "one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world" as well as an architectural jewel. Your private english-speaking guide will tell you all about its history!
Booked by scenset.
- Barao of Fladgate Restaurant: Barão Fladgate Restaurant enjoys a spectacular location and atmospheric setting in the grounds of Taylor’s Port cellars with magnificent views across the Douro River to the old historic centre of Porto. It offers a contemporary interpretation of traditional cuisine where the accent is on fresh local ingredients and on showcasing the authentic flavors of Portugal.
- Bacalhau Porto: Along the promenade skirting the Douro river, this restaurant is heaven for cod lovers- a staple in Portuguese cuisine.
- Muu Steakhouse: If you enjoy a good cut of meat, you should definitely visit this spot. A local's favorite.
- Casario: If you are dining over sunset, this traditional Portuguese restaurant will give you a great ambience and for the tables at the front of the terrace, a wonderful sunset view.
- The Yeatman Gastronomic Restaurant: Not many restaurants in Porto can claim they have Michelin stars – however the The Yeatman Hotel's flagship has two, plus some of the best views of Porto. The menu here is led by a chef, and their tasting menu focuses heavily on Portuguese cuisine made modern; expect plenty of fish dishes, fresh local vegetables and moreish sauces to add the finishing touch.
Why we love it for you: The Yeatman is a wine hotel in the Historic Port Wine Cellar District in Oporto (Portugal). It is the city’s address of choice for discerning travelers and wine lovers as well as those visiting Oporto and the north of Portugal. Why this hotel? Discreet but attentive service from a knowledgeable and friendly team makes every guest feel welcome and at ease.
Global Winner at the 2020 World Luxury Spa Awards in the category 'Luxury City Hotel Spa', the Caudalie Vinothérapie® Spa at The Yeatman offers a choice of wellbeing and relaxation facilities including a Roman bath, hammam, shower experience and sauna as well as a relaxation area enjoying stunning panoramic views. These have direct access to The Yeatman’s indoor panoramic infinity pool.
Opening Hours:
- Massages and Treatments: Morning to evening
- Indoor Pool & Gym: Morning to evening
By booking through us you get spa credit at the Yeatman!
This is a total credit per room, to be used in one reservation.
- Treatments must be booked in advance with the hotel's Concierge/Spa team or through scenset.
Your second day in Portugal will be all about history, castles and views. Visit Guimarães, known for well-preserved medieval buildings and the hilltop, 10th-century castle, with its sweeping city views.
Your private guide will meet you this morning and they will transport you to Guimarães, a city full of historical memories that has so carefully preserved its heritage and public spaces.
For Portuguese people, Guimarães has a very special symbolic value, for it was where Afonso Henriques began the process that would lead to the foundation of the Kingdom of Portugal.
Pickup time: Morning
Meeting location: Hotel lobby
Start time: Late Morning
Return Transport: Early Afternoon
Guide: will be provided
Booked by scenset.
We are delighted to offer you a private visit and Port tasting for the adults at Graham’s Port Wine Lodge.
The tasting consists of 3 Tawny Ports and 1 glass of Vintage Port.
While the parents are at Graham’s, the guide will go with the 2 kids on a funicular ride at the riverside of Gaia and see the sights.
At the end of the tour you will be reunited at Graham’s and transferred to the hotel.
Pickup time: Afternoon
Meeting location: Hotel lobby
Start time: Afternoon
End time: Early evening
Guide: will be provided
Booked by scenset.
Barão Fladgate Restaurant enjoys a spectacular location and atmospheric setting in the grounds of Taylor’s Port cellars with magnificent views across the Douro River to the old historic centre of Porto. It offers a contemporary interpretation of traditional cuisine where the accent is on fresh local ingredients and on showcasing the authentic flavors of Portugal
Time: Evening
People: 4 pax
Reservation Name: will be provided
Reserved by scenset.
Drinking Port wine in Porto is as unforgettable an experience as drinking Champagne in Paris, but just like venturing out into the Champagne region of France, it’s worth going to the scenset. That would be the terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley, best known for its fortified Port wines, although you’ll also taste red, white, and even green wines. River cruises are the ideal way for traveling between wineries or quintas, taking in the views with a glass in hand.
Quinta da Pacheca is a working winery older than the U.S. The hilltop estate comes with sweeping views of the surrounding valley and guests are invited to explore the vineyards as if members of the house.
Here you will learn the secrets of the Portuguese cuisine in a hands-on cooking class. There is something to do for all members of your party, including safe-cooking activities for kids.
After your cooking session, enjoy a delicious lunch with an exquisite wine pairing.
Pickup time: morning
Meeting location: Hotel Lobby
Start time: late morning
Guide: will be provided
- Lunch included
Booked by scenset.
After the cooking class in the afternoon, get a transfer to the nearby town of Pinhão, considered the “center” of Douro. This is where you will embark for your boat trip.
Sailing on the Douro River is one of the most remarkable experiences when visiting the region. From the jetty in Ferrão or in Ferrão Sul, enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the Douro accompanied by wine tasting and sampling of regional delicacies aboard a luxury boat.
- Included snacks: welcome drink, lemonade, white wine, roasted almonds, olives and cheeses.
Start time: afternoon
End time: afternoon
- Includes: snacks, white wine and lemonade
Booked by scenset.
Your estimated time of arrival at your hotel in Porto is in the evening.
On this special evening, enjoy dinner at UVA by Calém, an exceptional and relaxed space, with a privileged location next to the Douro River. The space features a terrace facing the river and a modern interior, decorated by the renowned architect Paulo Lobo. In the kitchen, chef António Vieira, combines traditional Portuguese flavors with Mediterranean and international dishes.
Address: Avenida Diogo Leite, 344, Vila Nova de Gaia
Phone number: +351224948046
Time: Evening
People: 4 pax
Reservation Name: will be provided
Reserved by scenset.
Today is your travel day in Portugal, going from Porto to the Algarve. Time to head south to Portugal's gold coast!
Check out at midday.
- A late checkout has been requested; confirmation will be provided the day before.
- The hotel will keep your luggage until your departure.
This morning a private English-speaking driver will greet you at the hotel lobby and transport you to the airport for your flight to Faro.
Pickup time: afternoon
Meeting location: Hotel lobby
Estimated arrival time: afternoon
Booked by scenset.
The best way to move within Portugal is to take an hour long flight from Porto to Faro. Your flight has been booked.
Booked by scenset.
On board this aircraft you may carry (per person):
- a small personal bag (40x20x25cm), which must fit under the seat in front of you, and
- a 10kg bag (55x40x20cm) onboard, to be stored in the overhead locker.
In the check area of this airport each person can carry:
- a 20kg Check-in Bag
We have purchased access to fast track & priority boarding for you, to make your travels smooth and easy.
Please find your boarding passes for this flight here:
- A passenger: 3A
- A passenger: 3C
- A passenger: 3D
- A passenger: 3B
A favorite amongst the Portuguese themselves, the Southern Coast of Portugal has it all: wall-to-wall sunshine, laidback vibes, secluded coves, picturesque fishing villages, and stylish resorts.
Your private english speaking driver will greet you at the arrivals hall of the Faro airport and transport you to your next hotel.
Pick-up Time: Late afternoon
Meeting Location: Arrivals Hall
Travel Time: 1.5 hours
Booked by scenset.
Why we love it for you: An absolutely unique location in the middle of a wild natural park. Whether the objective is simply enjoy the stunning coastline of the Algarve or to be active in nature, Praia do Canal Nature Resort offers a vast selection of experiences which will make each stay truly memorable. Expect beautiful sandy beaches great for surfing and swimming and stunning natural landscapes.
- Azeitona: Azeitona restaurant offers Portuguese cuisine with a contemporary twist. The menu is inspired by the products from the Atlantic and the Vicentine Coast, where the best of Algarve’s and Alentejo’s gastronomy get together honouring its unique scenset.
- Zimbro: Zimbro restaurant is a place with a more relaxed atmosphere located close to the hotel’s main pool area, making it the perfect setting for a midday light meal or casual dinner with panoramic views over the Nature Reserve and the Atlantic.
- Medronho: Located in the 'plaza' of the hotel. Enjoy a delightful meal with privileged views and keep up with what’s happening. If you prefer a more secluded place to enjoy an afternoon tea or a cocktail named after the surrounding beaches by a traditional fireplace, Medronho Bar (arbutus) is the place to go.
- O Paulo: Located on the cliff, right next to the Arrifana Fortress, and right above the port of Calheta this restaurant offers a treat for the eyes. With a unique and surprising view, the restaurant's gastronomic responsibility is increased, as those who enjoy it are certainly looking forward to a menu of the same caliber.
- Restaurante da Praia: Located by the sea at Arrifana beach, one of the most emblematic beaches on Costa Cicentina, and has a variety of flavours for you to try.
Get ready for the open waters today, as you will experience the rugged coast of the Algarve by sea.
- Sunscreen
- Swimwear
- Change of clothes
- Anti-nausea pills if you are prone to sea-sickness
Explore the coast of the Algarve by boat today. The tour includes a visit to the amazing Benagil Caves. On this morning excursion you will be able to see the caves from the inside, and should the weather and currents permit, some dolphins that love swimming in the area!
Afterwards you'll enjoy a picnic lunch on the boat and spend the afternoon at leisure in the best swimming spots.
- Includes skipper, fuel, refreshments (water, juices, white wine, and beer) and picnic lunch (various platters of local bites)
Pickup-time: Morning
Meeting location: Hotel Lobby
Boat Tour: Late Morning
Return time: Late Afternoon approximately
Booked by scenset.
Enjoy your afternoon and evening at leisure at your hotel or explore the coast on an independent basis.
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.
Enjoy a morning at leisure at your hotel before checking out and heading to Liscon!
Time to check out from your hotel and head to Lisbon
This afternoon, a quick transfer will get you to the beautiful coastal city of Lisbon.
Your private English-speaking guide will greet you at your hotel and offer you a comfortable ride to your next hotel in Lisbon.
Pick-up Time: midday
Meeting location: Hotel lobby
Estimated Arrival Time: afternoon
Booked by scenset.
- Solar dos Presuntos: A high end Portuguese restaurant with an amazing fish and seafood menu, but also some meats, serving in family-style. A short drive or walk from the hotel.
- O Faia: A traditional restaurant where you can experience Fado music, an UNESCO protected type of singing and performing that is quintessentially Portuguese. A short walk from the hotel.
- Should you wish to dine in a Michelin star restaurant Eleven and Alma are wonderful choices. Alma: A short drive or walk from the hotel. Eleven: A short drive from the hotel.
- Insólito. This is Lisbon's best kept secret, a paradise of serendipity with a view. A short drive or walk from the hotel.
- If you are looking for international cuisine, Zambeze is an east african restaurant that will not disappoint. A short drive from the hotel.
This evening a table was booked for you at Café Luso, a traditional restaurant where you can experience Fado music, an UNESCO protected type of singing and performing that is quintessentially Portuguese.
Address: Tv. da Queimada 10, 1200-365 Lisboa, Portugal
Reserved by scenset.
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.
On your first day in the Lisbon area, take the day to explore the castles of Portugal with your expert guide.
With your expert guide, private transfer to Sintra for the day. This charming UNSESCO town in the foothills of the Serra de Sintra has long been a favorite destination of Portuguese royalty, and it’s known for its many whimsical palaces and villas – including the Pena Palace and the magical garden of Quinta da Regaleira.
Pick-up Time: Morning
Meeting location: Hotel lobby
Start time: Late morning
Entrance to Pena alace: Afternoon
Return transfer: Late afternoon
Guide: will be provided
Includes:
- Entrance to visit Quinta da Regaleira during the morning with your guide.
- Free time for lunch on your own.
- Free time in the town center for souvenir shopping, photos and exploring.
- Transfer to the mountain of Sintra and entrance to visit the impressive Pena Palace. You will get to visit the gardens, exterior and time permitting some of the rooms inside the palace.
Booked by scenset.
This morning pack your bags and check out before the tour. The hotel will be happy to keep your bags while you are exploring Lisbon.
Meet up with your private guide this afternoon as you explore the streets of Lisbon. Your guide will help you become acquainted with the rich cultural history of this city on seven hills by electric tuk tuk.
- 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 on foot to Baixa, an area that became the heart of Lisbon after its destruction in the 1755 earthquake. The Marquês de Pombal took it upon him to have avenues and plazas created and laid out within a grid plan.
- Continue to the enchanted Chiado and visit the famous Elevador de Santa Justa, a remarkable iron elevator built in the late 19th century.
- Go 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.
- Enjoy some free time for lunch downtown before transferring back to your hotel.
Pick-up Time: Morning
Pick-up Location: Hotel Lobby
Guide: will be provided
Booked by scenset.
This afternoon you will bid Portugal Adeus and board a flight back home.
Private transfer to the Lisbon International airport for your flight back home.
Pick-up Time: afternoon
Pick-up Location: Bairro Alto Hotel
Travel Time: 30 minutes
Booked by scenset.
Your flight back home departs in the evening.