A taste of Portugal: culinary journey from Faro to Porto

Faro

Day 1: Welcome to Portugal

Upon arrival at Faro International Airport or after transferring from your arrival airport, check-in at your hotel in Faro and take some time to unwind on the beach after your journey.

If you still have the energy to explore, consider visiting the charming old town of Faro or enjoying a leisurely stroll along Faro Marina. The waterfront offers a variety of cafes and restaurants where you can savor local cuisine. For a taste of regional flavor, head to the Mercado Municipal de Faro to browse fresh produce, local products, and delicious seafood.

Faro - Beja

Day 2: A culinary adventure in Beja

Get ready for a day of delectable discoveries! Your culinary adventure kicks off with a visit to the Herdades dos Grous estate, where you’ll dive into the art of olive painting, explore the wonders of organic farming, and uncover the secrets behind their exquisite wines.

After touring the estate and peeking into the wine cellar, you'll get to savor the estate's own olive oil and wines. Following this flavorful journey, you'll indulge in a delightful traditional picnic lunch, all while soaking in breathtaking views. Cap off your day with a cozy overnight stay in Beja.

Beja

Day 3: Discover food & history in Beja

Dive into the rich history of Beja as you explore its charming historic center and the Beja Castle. After, enjoy a traditional Alentejo lunch at a local tasca, where you can delight in dishes like migas and succulent black pork. For a special treat, be sure to try the renowned "Presunto Bolota," a delectable prosciutto unique to the region.

If you're eager to up your culinary game, consider joining a cooking class to master the art of traditional Alentejo cuisine. Spend your afternoon shopping for unique souvenirs and discovering more of the city's hidden gems. For a touch of tranquility, unwind with a visit to Beja's Botanical Garden, a serene spot cherished by locals.

Beja - Evora

Day 4: Sipping wine in Evora

Hop on a private transfer and head to the enchanting city of Evora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site brimming with history and charm. Spend the morning soaking in the city's unique architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

In the afternoon, treat yourself to a delightful wine tasting and tour at the renowned Cartuxa Winery, where you’ll sip on some of the region's finest wines. If you're short on time or craving a quicker indulgence, swing by Cartuxa’s own wine bar and restaurant, Enoteca da Cartuxa, nestled in the heart of the old town. There, you can pair their exceptional wines with delectable local dishes, making for a perfect blend of flavor and local flair.

Evora

Day 5: A guided food tour savoring local delights

Today, embark on a delicious guided food tour through Evora, where you’ll savor local delights like the creamy pastéis de nata and the sweet pão de rala. If you're hungry for more experiences, you can also explore a cork farm to discover the fascinating cork production process and its connection to the wine industry.

Alternatively, indulge in a second round of wine tasting with another guided tour at a local winery, perfect for deepening your appreciation of the region’s fine wines.

Evora - Belmonte

Day 6: Journey to Belmonte

Set off for Belmonte, with a delicious pitstop in Castelo Branco for a leisurely lunch. Once you've enjoyed your meal, continue on your journey to Belmonte, where you'll have the freedom to explore this charming city at your own pace.

Make sure to drop by a local bakery to sample traditional Portuguese bread and pastries, a true treat for your taste buds. Don’t miss a visit to the fascinating Jewish Museum—Belmonte is unique in Portugal for its thriving Jewish community, offering a rich glimpse into a distinctive cultural heritage.

Belmonte - Pinhão

Day 7: Explore the Duoro wine region

Relax and soak in the stunning landscapes during your private transfer to Pinhao. Once you arrive, dive into the heart of the Douro Valley with a private tour of one of its renowned wine estates, where the world-famous Port Wine is crafted. Delight in a guided wine tasting that showcases the region’s finest vintages, and savor a gourmet dinner that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the wines.

Pinhão - Porto

Day 8: Cruise along the Douro River

Spend another day in the breathtaking Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001. Start with a delightful wine tasting and lunch at Quinta do Crasto Wine Estate, where you’ll savor exceptional wines amidst stunning views.

Afterward, board a traditional Rabelo boat—a classic wooden vessel once used to transport Port Wine to Porto and Gaia—for a scenic one-hour cruise along the river.

For an extra touch of indulgence, consider enjoying dinner at a riverside restaurant, where you can taste regional dishes paired with exquisite Douro Valley wines, all while taking in the picturesque surroundings.

Porto

Day 9: Journey back to Porto for history & wine

Transfer back to Porto, where your day begins with a guided half-day city tour of the UNESCO World Heritage historical center. To elevate your experience, consider adding a foodie twist with insights from local food bloggers.

In the afternoon, dive into one of Porto’s quintessential experiences—a guided tour and tasting at a prestigious Port Wine Cellar along the riverbanks, delving into the rich history of the region. Cap off your day with some leisurely last-minute souvenir shopping, capturing the essence of your unforgettable Porto visit.

Porto

Day 10: Goodbye Portugal

Say farewell to Portugal. Transfer to the airport with plenty of time for your safe flight home!