Slow Travel in Portugal: Wellness & Food in the Douro Valley

LIKE A PORTO RESIDENT

When you arrive or depart, take advantage of your time in Porto to explore the city privately, with a local resident who knows the city like the back of their hand. On foot, you'll discover everyday modern Porto. There's no preset itinerary, your guide will plan your route according to each individual's desires and interests. It's a fun and enjoyable way to spend a few hours living like a Porto native.

Optional

VISIT TO QUINTA NOVA WINERY

The wines of Quinta Nova, a beautiful 18th-century wine estate converted into a small boutique hotel. They are a result of the region's grape varieties and production methods, which combine the best of tradition with modern wine-making processes. Alongside the production of Port and Douro wines, the property has also developed the production of olive oil and other traditional gourmet products. The itinerary includes a visit to the estate, a wine tasting, and lunch.

Optional - Half day

IF YOU HAVE A FEW EXTRA DAYS...

Should you have the time, we suggest that you extend your Portuguese escape by one or more nights.

Porto - As the second-largest city in the country, Porto has ong since been in Lisbon's shadow, but it's a gem for visitors who love authenticity and sincerity. As the European capital of culture in 2001, it took advantage of this status to change its image: renovated facades, modernised transport, restored gardens... without losing its popular identity, like its tripe (a local speciality) sellers and laundry hanging from the balconies. The city's imperfections are endearing. An Art Nouveau building might be next to a Baroque building, which is in turn next to a dilapidated house. Porto is proud; proud of its merchant and liberal past.

Coimbra - The first Portuguese university, the 'Universidade de Coimbra', was built here, and is one of the oldest in Europe. A monumental city with narrow streets, squares, stairs and medieval arches, Coimbra was also the birthplace of the first six kings of Portugal. It is home to an interesting medieval centre with a particularly student-centric atmosphere. Experience: In the evening, listen to a fado show (at the Diligencia Bar or 'A Capella', an authentic 14th-century chapel) - lose track of time in the Praça do Comerico shops - walk along the left bank after dark...