Familiarization Trip: Porto and the Douro Valley
7
Days
Experience the highlights and the hidden gems of Northern Portugal on this small-group immersive familiarization tour. Explore the itinerary below!
Pricing per person for a twin share is $675, travel advisors only.
Highlights
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5-Star Stay at the Altis Porto
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Douro Valley Vineyard Safari
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Minho Region Exploration
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Day Trip to Fatima and Coimbra
Itinerary Details
Day 1 - 7
International Arrival
Transfer from Airport to Hotel
Transportation To and From Excursions
Transfer from Hotel to Airport
International Departure
6 Nights
Porto
Porto, nestled along the picturesque Douro River, is a city steeped in history and renowned for its distinctive charm. Its UNESCO-listed historic center, Ribeira, is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings adorned with azulejo tiles, showcasing a blend of medieval and Baroque architecture. Dominating the skyline is the imposing Sé Cathedral, a Romanesque masterpiece offering panoramic views of the city. Porto is inseparable from its connection to port wine, produced in the nearby Douro Valley. Visitors can explore the wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia, across the river, where aged barrels of port line the waterfront warehouses. The city's gastronomy is equally enticing, with bustling markets like Mercado do Bolhão offering fresh produce and local delicacies. A stroll along the riverbanks of the Douro unveils Porto's industrial past, with historical bridges such as the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge linking Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia. Nearby, the Palácio da Bolsa impresses with its opulent interior, a testament to Porto's prosperous trading history. Art and culture thrive in Porto, evident in landmarks like Livraria Lello, a stunning bookstore renowned for its neo-Gothic façade and intricate wooden interiors. Modern architecture also leaves its mark, with the Casa da Música concert hall standing out as a contemporary marvel. Porto's charm lies not only in its architecture and history but also in its vibrant spirit and warm hospitality, making it a captivating destination for travelers seeking a blend of tradition, innovation, and cultural richness.
Included activities
Saturday, November 9 | Depart the USA
Depart the United States bound for Porto! Airfare to be arranged separately.
Sunday, November 10 | Arrive in Porto
As you arrive in Porto, hop aboard your airport transfer and take in the first views of Porto en route to our hotel, the 5-star Altis Porto. Relax, explore the hotel on a site inspection, and enjoy a welcome dinner together to toast to a wonderful week ahead!
Monday, November 11 | Experience Porto
After breakfast at the hotel, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby for a morning tour of historic Porto. It wouldn’t be the highlights of Porto without a visit to a port wine cellar! Enjoy a tasting and a luncheon. The afternoon’s activities include a hotel sight inspection and free time to wander Porto’s winding streets and beautiful riverfront—may we suggest dinner overlooking the water?
Tuesday, November 12 | Douro Valley Vineyard Safari
Enjoy breakfast before embarking on an unforgettable journey to Portugal’s iconic Douro Valley wine region! Hop in a 4x4 vehicle and traverse some off-road routes to experience this stunning UNESCO World Heritage site—quite literally—off the beaten path. Along the way you’ll savor wine tastings, a picnic, and soak in some breathtaking views of the Portuguese countryside. After we return to Porto, enjoy free time for dinner and perhaps a glass of port now that you’re a true connoisseur!
Wednesday, November 13 | Minho Discovery
In the morning, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby for your full-day excursion to the Minho region of northwest Portugal. Known for its rich heritage, natural beauty, and religious holy sites, you’ll embark on a cultural deep dive exploring Braga and Guimaraes. Castles, sanctuaries, and a delicious lunch await, all led by a knowledgeable guide. After traveling back to Porto, you can relax and enjoy dinner at your own pace.
Thursday, November 14 | Divine Monuments and Academic Marvels
Your regional exploration continues after breakfast with an immersive and educational day trip to Fatima and Coimbra. The Sanctuary of Fatima is one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world, and whether you're religious or not, a visit to the basilica can be a spiritual experience for anyone. Next, you’ll explore nearby Coimbra—home to one of Europe’s oldest universities, founded in 1290! Don’t miss the stunning Joanina Library, the home of thousands of rare books and manuscripts. Once back in Porto, enjoy one last night with your travel companions with a farewell dinner and Fado show.
Friday, November 15 | Tchau, Porto!
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before your private transfer takes you to the Porto airport, armed with memories made, knowledge gained, and reinvigorated to continue to develop your FIT Europe business.
Inclusions
Includes
- 5 nights at a 5-star hotel
- 10 meals
- Private coach and driver for daily excursions
- Guided tours as per itinerary
- Entry fees as per itinerary
Not Included
- International airfare
- Meals, unless listed on itinerary
- Tips for drivers, guides, and other services
- Supplements or optional tours as listed
- Visa, passport, and entry/exit fees
- Travel protection (highly recommended)