How To Spend 1 Week in Portugal Itinerary
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Your 7 Day Tour of Portugal
Welcome to our itinerary on the best way to spend 7 days in Portugal! Our one-week tour includes some of the country’s most beautiful and interesting destinations, including the vibrant city of Porto, the historic town of Braga, the stunning Douro Valley, and more.
From rich cultural experiences and mouthwatering cuisine to stunning natural landscapes and rich history, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this beautiful country. So, join us as we embark on a journey through Portugal, highlighting the best of what this amazing destination has to offer.
Highlights Include:
What’s Included?
- Exclusive skip-the-line access to all major sites
- English-Speaking Expert Local Guides
- Private tours and luxury vehicles for transfers
- Select Central Luxury Accommodations
- 24-7 Emergency Help
Day 1: Arrival in Porto - Transfer to Amarante
Welcome to Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal! Upon arrival, you will be met by one of our representatives at the airport or railway station and privately transferred to the beautiful town of Amarante. Here, you will be checked into the luxurious Relais Chateaux hotel Casa Da Calçada.
Amarante, which means “to love” in Portuguese, is located in the rich agricultural lands of the Minho region, which is known for producing vinho verde, a unique young semi-sparkling wine. The town is situated along the Tâmega River, which is crossed by the picturesque Ponte São Gonçalo bridge. Today, cafes and restaurants line the river, making the most of the beautiful setting.
After settling into your hotel, you will have the opportunity to dine at the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, where you can enjoy a delicious gourmet meal. We hope you have a wonderful time in Amarante and Porto.
Day 2: Amarante - Excursion To Braga & Guimaraes
After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, you will embark on an excursion to Braga and Guimaraes, known as the “pearls of the north”. Guimaraes was the first capital of Portugal and has a rich history. We will visit its historical center, including the Duques de Bragança Palace, Toural Square, Oliveira Square, the Cathedral, and the pottery center.
Next, we will continue on to Braga, where we will visit the Sameiro Sanctuary and the Church of Bom Jesus, as well as the Cathedral and the old town. Finally, we will make our way to Barcelos, where we will visit the historic old town, the Romanesque Bridge, the archaeological museum, and the Our Lady do Terço Church.
In the afternoon, we will return to Amarante, where you can take a peaceful stroll through the old town, an authentic example of Portuguese style.
Overnight in Amarante.
Day 3: Amarante - Douro Valley
After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, you will meet your private driver and set off for the beautiful Douro Valley. The Douro region is known for its Port wine and its stunning scenery. In Regua, we will take a scenic river cruise to marvel at the millions of vineyards that blanket the mountains, creating a landscape that has earned a place on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. We will also visit the Mateus 18th-century palace.
In the afternoon, we will check into the Quinta Nova Luxury Winery House, the first wine hotel in Portugal. This renovated 19th-century manor house offers 11 charming rooms with panoramic views of the vineyard and river, all decorated in period style and providing maximum comfort.
The hotel’s grounds include gardens and terraces, a pool nestled among the vineyards, a chapel, a pergola-covered terrace, access to a wine bar, a winter garden, and fruit orchards. There are also many historical sites and unique places to explore. The Quinta Nova Luxury Winery House offers a range of wine-related activities and tours, as well as pedestrian footpaths and other options, all with breathtaking views.
Overnight in Quinta Nova.
Day 4: Douro Valley
Start the day with breakfast at a local café or restaurant. Some options for local cuisine include fresh pastries and bread from the region, such as “pão de ló” (sponge cake), “pão de Deus” (bread of God), and “broa” (cornbread). You can also try some traditional Portuguese dishes, such as “caldo verde” (kale soup), “ovos mexidos” (scrambled eggs), and “toucinho do céu” (bacon and eggs with sweet bread). Wash it all down with a cup of strong Portuguese coffee.
Take a boat tour along the Douro River, passing through the heart of the wine region. You can choose from a variety of boat tours, from small, intimate boats to larger river cruisers.
The boat will travel through the stunning scenery of the valley, passing by the terraced vineyards that line the riverbanks. You will have the opportunity to see some of the region’s most famous wineries and quintas (estates), as well as the historic villages and towns along the river. The boat will stop at one or more of these locations, allowing you to explore further on foot.
You will also have the chance to see some of the region’s natural beauty, including the lush forests and rolling hills that surround the river.
Stop at a winery along the river & take a tour of the facilities
There are many wineries to choose from in the Douro Valley, each with its own unique character and wines.
Some options include the Quinta do Vale Meão, known for its elegant red wines; the Quinta do Vallado, with its centuries-old vineyards; and the Quinta da Pacheca, a family-run estate with a rich history. During the tour, you will learn about the history and traditions of the region and the wine-making process.
You will also have the opportunity to sample some of the wines produced at the winery, either as part of a guided tasting or on your own. Depending on the winery, you may also have the chance to visit the vineyards, the cellar, and the aging rooms, getting a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process.
Evening Meal in Duoro Valley
For dinner, visit a luxury restaurant in the Douro Valley and continue to sample the region’s wines, paired with delicious dishes made with local ingredients.
Some options for fine dining in the area include the Restaurante Quinta do Vallado, with its sophisticated cuisine and stunning views of the valley; the Restaurante Quinta do Tedo, offering traditional Portuguese dishes with a modern twist; and the Restaurante Solar do Vinho do Porto, with its elegant setting and extensive wine list.
Some typical dishes you might enjoy at these restaurants include “bacalhau” (cod), “arroz de pato” (duck rice), and “frango no churrasco” (grilled chicken). Be sure to save room for dessert, as the region is known for its delicious pastries and sweets, such as “pudim abade de priscos” (caramel custard) and “queijadas de vinho” (wine cheese tarts).
Day 5: Douro Valley - Porto
Meet your private driver and return to Porto for an interesting city tour of the second-most important city of Portugal. Porto has recently been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s easy to see why. During this tour, we will visit some of the city’s most popular attractions, including Boavista, the Foz area by the sea, St. Francis Church, the Stock Exchange Palace, Mouzinho da Silveira Street, Sao Bento Railway Station, and the Cathedral.
A visit to Porto wouldn’t be complete without a Port wine tasting in Vilanova da Gaia, the other side of the Douro River where some of the most famous Port wine brands, such as Sandeman, have their cellars. After crossing the Luis I Bridge, we will return to Porto at the end of our tour.
In the afternoon, we will embark on a 50-minute “6 Bridges” cruise, which will give you the opportunity to admire the old city of Porto, with its typical houses and the lively atmosphere of the Ribeira district, while enjoying the architecture of the bridges that connect the two river banks. This is a great way to get a different perspective on the city and see some of its hidden gems.
At the end of the cruise, you will have the rest of the evening free to explore Porto on your own. You can visit some of the city’s museums and galleries, shop for souvenirs, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll along the river and take in the sights and sounds of the city.
Check-in hotel Relais Chateaux The Yeatman for your overnight stay in Porto.
Day 6: Aveiro Day Trip
Meet your private driver in the morning and make the short 45-minute journey to Aveiro, “The Venice of Portugal”.
Take a tour of the city’s historic center, visiting some of its most notable landmarks. Highlights of the tour may include the Gothic-style Aveiro Cathedral, with its beautiful stained-glass windows and intricate carvings; the iconic Art Nouveau-style railway station, a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage; and the Municipal Garden, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city where you can enjoy the lush greenery and beautiful flowers.
You may also have the opportunity to see some of the city’s historic buildings, such as the old town hall, the imposing Aveiro Palace, and the Aveiro Museum, which offers a fascinating insight into the history and culture of the region.
Enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch at a local restaurant. You will have the chance to try some of the region’s famous seafood dishes, such as fresh-caught fish and shellfish, as well as other specialties, such as “caldeirada” (a hearty fish stew).
In the afternoon, take a boat tour of the Ria de Aveiro, a network of canals and lagoons that is a unique feature of the city. As you glide through the waterways, you will have the opportunity to see some of the beautiful landscapes and wildlife of the region, such as the reeds and marshes that line the shores, the seabirds that make their home here, and the colorful “moliceiros” (traditional boats used to harvest seaweed).
You may also get a glimpse of the city’s historic salt pans, which have been used for centuries to produce the famous Aveiro salt. The boat tour will give you a different perspective on the city and its surroundings, allowing you to appreciate the beauty and tranquility of this unique environment.
Return to Porto in the evening, with plenty of time to rest and relax before your next day of adventures.
Day 7: Porto Cathedral & Ribeira District Tour
Start the day with breakfast at a local café or bakery in the city center. You will have the opportunity to try some of Porto’s famous pastries and breads, such as the “francesinha” (a sandwich filled with ham, sausage, and steak), the “bolinho de bacalhau” (codfish fritters), and the “toucinho do céu” (a rich almond-based dessert).
Take a guided tour of Porto’s historic center, visiting some of its most iconic landmarks. Highlights of the tour may include the São Francisco Church, with its stunning gilded interior and elaborate woodcarvings; the Clérigos Tower, a towering Baroque-style monument that offers panoramic views of the city; and the Palácio da Bolsa, a 19th-century neoclassical building that now houses a museum and conference center.
You may also have the opportunity to see some of the city’s historic squares, such as the Praça da Ribeira, the Praça do Infante, and the Praça dos Leões, as well as the many charming streets and alleyways that make up the old city center. The tour will provide you with a fascinating insight into the history, culture, and architecture of Porto.
A guided tour of Porto Cathedral is a fascinating experience that will allow you to learn more about the history and architecture of this iconic building. As you explore the cathedral, your knowledgeable guide will provide you with interesting information about its construction and the various artistic elements that can be found inside.
One of the highlights of a guided tour of Porto Cathedral is the opportunity to climb to the top of the cathedral’s bell tower. From here, you will have stunning views of the city and the surrounding area. Your guide will also point out important landmarks and historical sites, providing you with a deeper understanding of the city’s rich history. Additionally, you may have the opportunity to visit some of the cathedral’s hidden corners and secret passages, providing a unique and insider’s look at this beautiful building.
Walking Tour of The Ribeira District
A walking tour of the Ribeira district is a great way to discover the history and charm of this vibrant area of Porto. As you stroll through the narrow streets and alleyways with your knowledgeable guide, you will have the opportunity to see some of the district’s most famous landmarks and hidden gems.
One of the highlights of a walking tour of the Ribeira district is the opportunity to visit the Mercado do Bolhão, Porto’s historic covered market. Here, you will have the chance to see the market’s colorful stalls, filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, and other local produce. Your guide will also provide you with information about the market’s history and its importance to the local community.
Another highlight of a walking tour of the Ribeira district is the chance to explore the beautiful São Francisco Church. This Baroque-style church, which dates back to the 14th century, is known for its ornate gold decorations and stunning stained glass windows. Your guide will provide you with interesting information about the church’s history and architecture, as well as the various artworks and treasures that can be found inside.
In addition to these highlights, your walking tour of the Ribeira district may also include visits to other notable sites, such as the Porto City Hall and the charming Praça da Ribeira. These and other attractions will provide you with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the history, culture, and beauty of the Ribeira district and the city of Porto.
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If you are interested in creating a bespoke version of this itinerary to suit your specific interests and preferences, we would be happy to assist you. As experts in Portugal travel, we have the knowledge and experience to help you plan the perfect trip, whether you are looking for cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or simply a relaxing getaway.
Simply complete our contact form to discuss your specific travel plans with our team and to learn more about how we can help you create a truly memorable and personalized trip to Portugal.
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