Your Trip 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.
29 Sept – 02 Oct 2024: Porto (3 nights)
02 – 05 Oct 2024: Douro Valley (3 nights)
5 – 8 Oct 2024: Lisboa (3 nights)
If you need any assistance while you are traveling, or if you would like to make any changes, reservations or cancellations during your time in Portugal you can contact the following who will be your local contacts during your trip:
DESTINATION
- Local Contact: A local contact person | +351 914468722
Scenset
- Your Curator: will be provided
- Your Traveler Relations Rep: will be provided
- Scenset Emergency Line: +1 (415) 941-0027
Important: Due to the time difference, for small day-to-day things like touring and dining reservations - or emergencies that need immediate assistance - it will be most efficient for you to use the local contacts as they are in the same time zone as you.
WhatsApp: If you don’t have WhatsApp on your phone, we strongly encourage downloading it for free as it makes contacting our local team easier.
The weather in Portugal in the month of September is comfortably warm and sunny, with cool evenings. It's one of the best months to visit Portugal as it marks the height of fall.
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.
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.
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 of the country being visited. 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.
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 for full-day experiences.
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: 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 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 to late 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.
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")
- US passport holders do not require a tourist visa for Portugal.
These guidelines are for reference only. Scenset holds no responsibility for travel restrictions. Travelers are responsible for ensuring the right documentation to travel.
Meet your driver in the arrivals area of the airport, after clearing customs. Upon meeting your driver, you will be transferred to your accommodation.
- Meeting point: Arrivals hall
- Duration: Approximately 30 minutes
- Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please contact the local representative. Contact information will be provided.
Booked by Scenset.
Upon arrival at your hotel, check in and relax. Please note an early check-in has been requested, but cannot be guaranteed.
Tonight, dine at Escama Porto.
- Time: Early evening
- Booked under name: will be provided
- Number of people: 2
- Location: 15-minute taxi ride from your hotel
📍Google Map Directions
If you need to cancel or amend this reservation, please contact the restaurant directly.
Booked by Scenset - to be paid locally.
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.
Spend your first day in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the river, offering beautiful city views, excellent dining, and cultural experiences.
Start with a stroll along the riverbank, enjoying the scenic vistas of Porto. Stop by a local cafe or bakery for a delightful breakfast.
Head to Enoteca 1756 (R. de Serpa Pinto 44B, 4400-307 Vila Nova de Gaia) for a delicious lunch, featuring a great selection of wines and mouth-watering dishes.
Visit the World of Wine (WOW), a cultural district with several museums dedicated to wine, history, and culture. Explore the exhibits and enjoy the variety of restaurants and shops within WOW.
OR
- Visit Livraria Lello, built in 1906, this building is recognized as "one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world" as well as an architectural jewel.
Pro tip buy your ticket online and skip the queue.
- Catch the sunset. From your hotel walk to Miradouro do teleférico. Typically there will be musicians here at sunset just playing in the street and people sat on the grass of the park behind enjoying the views!
Then,
- Walk across the higher part of the bridge Ponte Luis I for some more views and to enjoy the port on the other side.
- 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 chef Ricardo Costa, and his 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.
If you're looking for authentic tapas-style food, consider visiting Portuguese tascas, renowned for their traditional flare and cozy ambiance. Here are a few of our favorites in Porto.
Here are some of our favorite cocktail & wine bars in Porto.
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.
- Suite
- Breakfast included
- Confirmation number will be provided
Booked by Scenset.
Enjoy a spa voucher during your stay as a special perk for using Scenset!
Discover local gastronomy from a whole different angle. In the company of a gourmand expert, we will uncover the secrets of Porto’s delicacies, history, and context. This experience isn’t just a tasting tour, it’s an opportunity to truly connect with the food, the people, and the culture, amidst informal and authentic settings.
- Meeting time: Morning
- Meeting point: Hotel lobby
- Driver / Guide Contact: will be provided
- Duration: Approximately 3 hours
- Inclusions: Guide; Driver; Delicacy tastings at 2 stops (cheese and smoked meat, canned fish)
- Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call will be provided
After your tour, let your driver know if you prefer to stay in the city center, or if you would like to return back to your hotel.
Booked by Scenset.
Indulge in a journey through the fascinating history and production process of port wine during a guided visit at Taylor's Port. Immerse yourself in the atmospheric cellars as you learn about the meticulous craftsmanship behind each bottle, culminating in a memorable tasting session where you can savor the complex aromas and flavors of their exceptional wines.
- Departure Time: Late afternoon
- Tour start time: Early evening
- Duration: Approximately 1.5-2 hours
- Meeting Point: Make your own way to Taylor's for this evening wine tasting. Taylor's is across the street from your hotel and just a three-minute walk away.
- Inclusions: Private Visit; Connoisseur's Tasting (will be provided)
- Contact: If you have any problems, please call will be provided
Booked by Scenset.
After your tasting, walk back to your hotel; the cellar is just in front of The Yeatman.
- Suite
- Breakfast included
Booked by a user.
Today is flexible for you to enjoy time in the Yeatman Spa and leisurely exploration of charming Porto.
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
This is a recommendation only. Costs excluded, to be paid on site.
Enjoy a mix of art, dining, and scenic views as you explore more of Porto.
After your walking tour, head to the Art Block of Miguel Bombarda (Rua de Miguel Bambarda). This area is known for its contemporary art galleries and vibrant atmosphere.
For lunch, you can try one of the local restaurants like OKRA, APURO, or any other nearby eatery.
If you prefer to stay in the city center, consider visiting the TIME OUT Market or TAPA BENTO at São Bento Station for a delicious meal.
Afterward, explore the upper side of the city, including the bustling Santa Catarina Street, known for its shops and cafes.
🏖️ Beach Recommendation:
Walk or take Bus 500, the tram, or a taxi along the river towards the ocean. This scenic route will lead you to Foz, where you can enjoy the coastal views. For lunch, consider dining at PISCA or AL MARE.
Continue your journey to Matosinhos Beach, a popular spot for relaxation and fresh seafood. This area offers a beautiful beach and a variety of dining options to end your day on a high note.
Enjoy your day in Porto!
- Suite
- Breakfast included
Booked by a person.
This morning you will check out of your hotel and meet your driver for your transfer to the Douro Valley.
You will be greeted by an English-speaking driver and transferred in private to the Six Senses in the Douro Valley.
- Meeting time: Late morning
- Meeting point: Hotel lobby
- Drive time: 1.5-2hrs
- Driver: will be provided
- Contact: will be provided
- Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please contact your local contact. will be provided
Booked by Scenset.
Upon arrival at your hotel, check in and relax.
An early check-in has been requested but is not guaranteed. If not available, please feel free to leave your luggage with reception while you explore the area or enjoy lunch.
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.
Explore your hotel and enjoy its amenities at your leisure, including its gardens, spa and outdoor pool with sweeping views of the valley.
- Wine Library and Tastings: Enjoy the self-service wine dispensers to try some of the regions finest – Private wine tastings with the Hotel's Sommelier also available on request (supplemental cost)
- Quinta Bar & Lounge: Settle in with a beverage on the terrace and a slice of the complimentary cake of the day.
This is a recommendation only.
Meet your driver in front of the hotel in the evening for a short transfer to your dinner reservation.
Pick-Up Time: Evening
Location: 10-minute drive from hotel. Roundtrip transportation organized by Scenset and to be paid locally
📍Google Map Directions
The roundtrip transfer to dinner will be charged to your hotel bill upon checkout.
Tonight, dine at Castas e Pratos.
- Time: Evening
- Booked under name: will be provided
- Number of people: 2
- Cancelation Policy: Cancellation within 24 hours notice will cause a fee.
- Location: 10-minute drive from hotel. Roundtrip transportation organized by Scenset and to be paid locally
📍Google Map Directions
In case you need to cancel, please contact the Six Senses concierge
Booked by Six Senses concierge - to be paid locally.
Why we love it for you: Set in the unspoiled, natural landscape of Portugal’s Douro Valley, chosen for the group’s European debut, the 60-bedroomed Six Senses houses the country’s best hotel spa, a reflection of the group’s commitment to wellness; as well as offering a fully immersive experience in the world of Douro wines.
- Quinta River Room
- Breakfast included
Booked by Scenset.
Travel Greener
Six Senses is a leader when it comes to sustainability efforts. Six Senses Douro Valley has protected a 10-acre (4-hectare) woodland on the property, highlighting its commitment to sustaining the environment and beautiful old-growth trees.
Welcome to the land of vinho, the best wine region of Portugal!
This morning meet your driver in the hotel lobby for your private transfer to Quinta Nova.
- Meeting time: Morning
- Meeting point: Hotel lobby
- Drive time: 30 mins
- Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call will be provided.
Booked by Scenset.
Quinta Nova 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. Indulge in an independent lunch at the estate's Terraçu’s restaurant before enjoying a tasting of their finest blends in a scenic location. We have arranged for a tasting of 3 wines with 94+ points from Robert Parker Wine Advocate.
- Inclusions: Round trip transfers; Wine Tasting
Booked by a scenset.
We have reserved a table for lunch for you at Quinta Nova at their restaurant Terraçu’s. Enjoy your meal with a stunning view and harmonized wine pairing.
- Inclusions: Lunch included, 3 courses with wine pairings
Booked by Scenset
After lunch meet your driver for private transfer back to Six Senses.
- Duration: Approx 30min
Booked by Scenset.
Enjoy free time to swim, read a book on the terrace, or enjoy the hotel's facilities.
Tonight, dine at Vale Abraão.
- Time: Evening
- Booked under name: will be provided
- Number of people: 2
- Location: Located on third floor of hotel
Reservation made through hotel concierge. In case you need to cancel, please speak to the Six Senses concierge or front desk directly.
Booked by Six Senses concierge - to be paid locally.
- Quinta River Room
- Breakfast included
Booked by Scenset.
Enjoy the spa this morning.
Reserve some time for the Spa at Six Senses Douro Valley with the following features:
- Indoor pool with underwater sound therapy, color therapy and massage jets
- Vitality Pool
- Cryotherapy
- Nail Bar
- Alchemy Bar
- Consultation Room for Wellness Screenings and Biohacking
- 10 treatment rooms
- Vitality Suite including a regular sauna, infrared sauna, steam room, laconium and herbal sauna
- Fitness Center
- See the Spa Menu for available treatments we can pre-book on your behalf
Recommendation only excluded from pricing
After an afternoon at leisure, enjoy a private evening cruise in the Douro with tapas and wine on board.
This evening, meet your driver for your private transfer to your boat trip.
- Meeting time: Late afternoon
- Meeting point: Hotel lobby
- Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call will be provided.
Booked by Scenset.
Sailing on the Douro River is one of the most remarkable experiences when visiting the region. As you glide along the tranquil waters, you’ll be surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of terraced vineyards, quaint villages, and majestic hillsides that define the Douro Valley.
This luxurious journey offers more than just stunning views; it also includes the opportunity to sample an array of regional delicacies. Onboard a luxury boat, you can savor exquisite local wines, artisanal cheeses, and traditional bread and ham, all while enjoying the serene beauty of the river. This unforgettable voyage encapsulates the essence of the Douro Valley, combining natural splendor with culinary delights.
At the end of the cruise reunite with your driver at the river dock in Pinhão and return to the hotel.
- Start Time: Late afternoon
- Duration: 2 hours
- Inclusions: 2-hour boating experience on luxury vessel "Friendship"; Appetizers (cheese, smoked ham, bread) with white wine, water or beer; Round-trip transfers to/from Six Senses Douro
Booked by scenset.
Reconnect with your driver, for your transfer back to the hotel.
Booked by Scenset.
DOC is a Gourmet restaurant on the Douro River led by a Michelin-starred chef.
- Transportation: This is a drive of about 20min from your hotel and the hotel can assist you in calling a taxi.
Confirmed by Scenset. Dinner and transportation will be provided.
- Quinta River Room
- Breakfast included
Booked by Scenset.
This morning after checking out, meet your driver in the hotel lobby for your private transfer to Lisbon.
- Meeting time: Late morning
- Meeting point: Hotel lobby
- Drive time: 4 hrs
- Driver: will be provided
- Contact: will be provided
- Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call your local contact on will be provided
Booked by Scenset.
Your estimated arrival in Lisbon is in the afternoon. Upon arrival at your hotel, check in—if your room isn't ready, you can leave your bags at the front desk.
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.
Embark on a culinary journey through Lisbon's vibrant streets, starting with the first hour in a tuk-tuk tour. Glide through the city's picturesque neighborhoods as your expert guide unveils the secrets of Lisbon.
Savor iconic Portuguese flavors at local markets, taverns, and bakeries, sampling traditional dishes like pastéis de nata and bacalhau. From historic neighborhoods to hidden gems, experience Lisbon through its diverse and delicious food culture.
- Meeting time: Afternoon
- Meeting point: Hotel lobby
- Guide Contact: will be provided
- Duration: Approx 3hrs - Your tour ends around 6:30 pm in the city center and you'll be able to walk back to your hotel
- Inclusions: Private Guide (4hrs); 1hr of tuk-tuk (with the remainder via 3hr walking tour; Tastings at 2 stops for snacks
- Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call will be provided
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.
- 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 famous 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.
Here are some of our favourite cocktail & rooftop bars:
- 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.
- Chiado Suite
- Breakfast included
- Confirmation number will be provided
Booked by Scenset.
This morning, meet your driver in the hotel lobby and transfer to your cooking class.
- Meeting time: Late morning
- Meeting point: Hotel lobby
- Driver: will be provided
- Contact: will be provided
- Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call your local contact on will be provided
Booked by Scenset.
Discover Lisbon's vibrant food culture alongside your chef host. Enjoy an immersive private cooking class at their home and delve into the heart of Portuguese gastronomy with personalized instruction from your local chef in this intimate setting.
Learn how to prepare a homestyle Portuguese family meal with recipes you will be able to replicate when you are back home. At the end of the class, you will sit to enjoy the fruits of your labor with your chef host!
- Inclusions: Private chef host; 3 starters, 1 main course and 1 dessert; Wine, water, soft drinks and coffee; Round trip transfers
- Local cooking class contact: will be provided
Booked by Scenset.
After your class, meet your driver and be transferred back to your hotel.
- Driver: will be provided
- Contact: will be provided
Booked by Scenset.
Enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at your own leisure.
- Chiado Suite
- Breakfast included
Booked by someone.
Head out to the mountain city of Sintra, just a short drive outside of the city center but seemingly a world away from cosmopolitan Lisbon.
This morning meet your expert guide for your day trip to Sintra. This charming 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. You'll see the city centre and enjoy some free time for lunch at your leisure.
Afternoon After visiting the historic center of Sintra, return through Cabo da Roca (the westernmost point of Europe) and Cascais, for a panoramic tour of the town.
- Meeting time: Morning
- Meeting point: Hotel lobby
- Duration: Approximately 6 hours (estimated arrival back at your hotel)
- Inclusions: Private Guide; Driver; Entry to Palacio da Vila (Sintra National Palace)
- Driver / Guide Contact: will be provided
- Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call will be provided
Booked by Scenset.
Tonight, dine and enjoy a traditional Fado show at Adega Machado.
- Time: Evening
- Booked under name: will be provided
- Number of people: 2
- Location: 5-minute walk from your hotel
📍Google Map Directions
If your plans change, please call Adega Machado directly on (+351) 213 422 282.
Booked by Scenset - to be paid locally.
- Chiado Suite
- Breakfast included
Booked by a person.
After breakfast this morning, you will check out of your hotel and meet your driver for your transfer to the airport.
This morning after breakfast and check-out, meet your driver for your private transfer to the Lisbon airport.
- Meeting time: Late morning
- Meeting point: Hotel lobby
- Drive time: 30 mins
- Driver: will be provided
- Contact: will be provided
- Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call your local contact on will be provided
Booked by Scenset.
Please refer to our terms & conditions here.