Sunday

We will greet you Porto and transport you by air conditioned van to your Villa home for the week. After settling in you will enjoy a gourmet meal prepared by Le Cordon Bleu Paris Alum-Chef Walter and the AGA staff.

Monday

After a leisurely breakfast at the villa, we will visit Aveiro – The Portuguese Venice.

We’ll begin our day with a leisurely stroll through the historic center of Aveiro, known for its charming Art Nouveau architecture and colorful facades. This picturesque town is often referred to as the “Portuguese Venice” due to its network of canals and traditional boats.

Next, we’ll enjoy a scenic ride aboard a Moliceiro, the brightly painted wooden boats once used for seaweed harvesting and now beautifully restored for sightseeing. This peaceful boat ride offers a unique view of the city from the water.

Afterward, we’ll rejoin our driver and visit the nearby salt flats, an important part of Aveiro’s cultural and economic heritage. From there, we continue to the Vista Alegre Museum, home of Portugal’s most famous porcelain. The guided tour will offer insight into the brand’s rich history and craftsmanship.

Lunch* will be enjoyed in Costa Nova, a stunning coastal area known for its iconic striped houses — once used by fishermen and now beloved summer homes. These vibrant façades, painted in cheerful colors like pink, green, yellow, and blue, create a truly unforgettable setting.

After a full day of discovery, we’ll return to the villa with wonderful memories of Portugal’s unique coastal charm.

 At the Villa time to relax, have a swim and anticipate the gourmet dinner served by Le Cordon Bleu Paris Alum Chef Walter and the AGA staff.

Tuesday

Porto – The Industrial Capital of Portugal

After wonderful breakfast, today promises to be full of unforgettable experiences. We’ll begin with a guided walking tour through the historic heart of Porto. Highlights include the iconic Torre dos Clérigos, the stunning Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace), the famous Majestic Café, Portugal’s narrowest house, and the beautiful São Bento Train Station, known for its remarkable azulejo tile panels. We’ll also enjoy a private visit to the enchanting Lello Bookstore, one of the inspirations behind J.K. Rowling’s magical world of Harry Potter.

Next, we’ll board our mini-coach and head to the coast for a relaxing lunch with a view at Foz do Douro, where the Douro River meets the Atlantic Ocean.

After lunch*, or ideally just before, we’ll enjoy a private Port wine tasting at the prestigious Graham’s Winery in Vila Nova de Gaia — a perfect way to experience one of Portugal’s most celebrated traditions.

We’ll then return to the villa to rest and reflect on a day well spent in Porto and for another amazing dinner by Le Cordon Bleu Paris Alum Chef Walter and the AGA staff.

Wednesday

After our delicious breakfast, we will head to Guimarães – The Birthplace of Portugal.

Today, we’ll journey back to the 12th century as we explore Guimarães, the city known as the cradle of the Portuguese nation. With its well-preserved medieval architecture and historic atmosphere, Guimarães offers a unique glimpse into the early days of Portugal.

We’re also planning a special cork experience — showcasing the full production process, from the cork oak tree to the final products. It’s a fascinating look at one of Portugal’s most iconic and sustainable industries.

After our time exploring the city’s history and culture, guests will have free time for lunch* at one of Guimarães’ many charming cafés or restaurants. The afternoon is perfect for shopping — the city is known for its mix of local crafts and modern boutiques.

Later, we’ll return to the villa to unwind after another rich and memorable day for a relaxing evening and gourmet dinner by Le Cordon Bleu Paris Alum Chef Walter and the AGA staff.

Thursday

Today, after breakfast we step into one of Portugal’s most ancient cities: Braga, a place where history and spirituality meet. As we walk along its narrow streets, it’s easy to imagine life here centuries ago, with layers of Roman, medieval, and religious heritage surrounding us.

Our morning includes time for early shopping, followed by a visit to Portugal’s oldest cathedral, the iconic Sé de Braga, a cornerstone of the nation’s religious history.

Next, we’ll explore two of the region’s most important sanctuaries. The first includes a ride on a truly unique experience — the world’s last remaining water-powered funicular, a feat of 19th-century engineering still in operation today.

After a scenic lunch* between visits, we’ll make our way to the second sanctuary — this time on foot, climbing the famed staircase that leads to the summit. It’s a bit of a workout, but the views and sense of accomplishment make it more than worthwhile.

We’ll then return to the villa to relax and reflect on the day’s rich cultural and spiritual journey and await our delicious gourmet meal prepared by Le Cordon Bleu Paris Alum Chef Walter and the AGA staff.

Friday

Today after breakfast, we’ll enjoy a more relaxed pace as we explore the breathtaking Douro Valley and the Douro River, the marvel of the North,one of Portugal’s most stunning and historic regions.

Our journey begins in Régua, where we’ll board a beautifully renovated vessel for a scenic cruise up the Douro River to Murças. As we glide along the river, you’ll take in the terraced vineyards and rolling hills that define this UNESCO World Heritage landscape. Onboard, we’ll enjoy a wine tasting featuring selections from the Quinta dos Murças estate, offering a true taste of the Douro region’s viticultural excellence.

Upon arrival at the Murças pontoon, we’ll switch from river to rail, boarding a historic train once used to transport wooden Port wine barrels from private estates down to Porto. This nostalgic ride takes us back to Régua, combining comfort with a touch of history. Lunch*

From Régua, we’ll return to the villa — relaxed, inspired, and filled with the flavors and stories of the Douro, for another amazing dinner by Le Cordon Bleu Paris Alum Chef Walter and the AGA staff.

Saturday

We say goodbye to the Porto region at 8:00 am, with Brown Bag Breakfast in hand, and transport you to the Porto  airport or Porto rail station for your journey home or on to your next destination!

*Indicates meals not included in your Adventure cost.

Itinerary subject to minor changes.