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Portugal: A Culinary & Cultural Journey with Carlos Silva & Old Lisbon

Portugal: A Culinary & Cultural Journey with Carlos Silva & Old Lisbon image

Vidago, Douro Valley and Porto / September 2026

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Trip Overview

Portugal: A Culinary & Cultural Journey with Carlos Silva & Old Lisbon

Join us for an unforgettable hosted journey through Portugal, guided by Carlos Silva, founder of Miami’s beloved Old Lisbon restaurant group. This immersive experience is Carlos’s personal invitation to his home country—an opportunity to share the flavors, traditions, and inspirations that shaped both his upbringing and the culinary philosophy behind Old Lisbon. Designed for his loyal guests and their friends, this thoughtfully curated adventure blends authentic Portuguese cuisine, exceptional wines, and meaningful cultural encounters into one seamless, inclusive experience.

Our journey begins in Lisbon, where Portugal’s rich history, vibrant neighborhoods, and iconic food scene set the stage. Traveling north to Porto, we’ll explore the landscapes, towns, and traditions that define the heart of the country Carlos calls home. Along the way, guests will indulge in regional specialties, enjoy carefully selected wine experiences, and dine in places that reflect the soul of Portuguese cooking—from rustic classics to refined local favorites—all brought to life through Carlos’s personal stories and connections.

More than a food tour, this is a cultural immersion. Expect moments of discovery through art, history, music, and daily life as we move through this extraordinary country together. On the penultimate day, we will visit the city of Guimarães, which is where Portugal was born, with its historic center classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. By the time we arrive in Porto, guests won’t just have tasted Portugal—they’ll have experienced it through the eyes of a native son, gaining a deeper understanding of the roots, passion, and authenticity that define both Portugal and the Old Lisbon brand.

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Welcome Message

Step into a land where elegance meets authenticity, and every moment tells a story worth savoring. From the grandeur of Vidago Palace to the sunlit terraces of the Douro Valley and the charm of Porto’s riverfront, this journey reveals the beating heart and living soul of Portugal. Harvest grapes beneath golden September skies, dine in restaurants guided by Michelin-starred chefs, and cruise along the serene Douro, each experience thoughtfully curated to celebrate the country’s timeless beauty and rich traditions. 

Portugal Magnífica is more than a vacation; it’s an experience of heritage, flavor, and the art of travel itself.

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Inclusions

Accommodations

2x Nights at the Palácio Ludovice Wine Experience Hotel - Comfort Rooms

2x Nights at Vidago Palace - Privilege

2x Nights at Vintage Hotel Douro - Standard River View

2x Nights at Hotel Forte do Cais Autograph Collection - River View Rooms

Culinary Inclusions:

  • Daily Breakfast

  • Sunday, September 13th - Lunch at Porto Santa Maria

  • Sunday, September 13th - Dinner At Pateo - Bairro do Avillez

  • Monday, September 14th - Light Lunch at Marquês de Marialva

  • Monday, September 14th - Dinner at Vidago Palace with Wine Pairing

  • Tuesday, September 15th - Lunch at Avessada Farm

  • Wednesday, September 16th - Lunch at Quinta do Crasto

  • Thursday, September 17th - Lunch at Quinta do Seixo

  • Friday, September 18th - Lunch at Gruta do Ermitão

  • Saturday, September 19th - Cooking Show with Lunch at Pop Up Workshops

  • Saturday, September 19th - Fado Dinner at RC Restaurant

Cultural Inclusions:

  • Saturday, September 12th - Wine Tasting at Palacio Ludovice Wine Experience Hotel

  • Sunday, September 13th - Visit National Palace of Pena (Guide and Headphones Included)

  • Tuesday, September 15th - Avessada Harvest Program

    • Grape Harvesting and Stomping

    • Typical Regional Lunch

    • Wine Tasting at Museum / Winery

  • Wednesday, September 16th - Guided Visit of Mateus Palace

  • Thursday, September 17th - Douro Valley River Cruise with Guide

    • Guided Winery Tour & Port Tasting

  • Friday, September 18th - Sightseeing in Guimarães, where Carlos grew up

    • Visit to the historic center of Guimarães with guide

      • Guimarães Castle, St. Michael's Chapel

      • Palace of the Dukes of Bragança

  • Saturday, September 19th - Cooking Show with Lunch

Group Round Trip Airport Transfer, Hotel, & Sightseeing Activities Transfers

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Pricing & Booking Link:

Sharing Package Price: $6,850.00

$300.00 deposit due at booking to save your spot

Single Package Price: $8,615.00

$300.00 deposit due at booking to save your spot

Booking Link

Term & Conditions:

At time of booking, a $300.00 deposit is due to secure your place. The next deposit is 35% due February 9th, 2026. If cancellation is made prior to final balance payment, 75% of deposits paid to date are non-refundable.

Final Balance due 100 days prior to travel.

Once all funds have been collected in full, no refunds will be given.

Due to strict booking policies, we recommend that all clients explore securing travel insurance.

Forms of Payment:

We accept all major credit cards but they will incur a processing fee (2.9% Visa/Mastercard) (3.5% AMEX)

Journey Highlights

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At a glance

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Trip Overview

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Welcome Message

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Inclusions

September 12 - Arrival

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Arrival Into Lisbon

Upon Arrival, Meet & Greet with Golf Inspired Portugal Representative

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Transfer to Hotel

Approx. 15 mins

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Check-In at Palácio Ludovice Wine Experience Hotel

Room typeClassic
Experience the charm of Lisbon at Palácio Ludovice Wine Experience Hotel, where history meets luxury. Enjoy breathtaking city views and indulge in curated local wines at the hotel’s wine bar. The hotel’s prime location keeps you close to iconic sights, while unique wine tasting events elevate your stay.
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Wine Tasting at Palácio Ludovice Wine Experience Hotel

Time5:30pm
Experience the Palácio Ludovice Wine Experience Hotel, where luxury meets history in a beautifully restored palace. Enjoy breathtaking views of Lisbon and indulge in a unique wine experience with carefully curated local selections. The rooftop terrace provides a perfect setting for stunning sunsets, blending modern comfort with classic charm.
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Dinner at Your Leisure

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Overnight in Lisbon

September 13 - Lisbon

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Breakfast at Hotel

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Transfer to Palacio da Pena

Approx. 1hr

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National Palace of Pena

Guide and Headphones Included

The National Palace of Pena is a masterpiece of Romanticist architecture, showcasing vibrant colors and intricate tilework. Visitors can explore its lush gardens and enjoy breathtaking views of the Sintra mountains. This historic site serves as a royal summer residence, offering a glimpse into Portugal's regal past.

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Lunch at Porto Santa Maria

Time12:30pm
Porto Santa Maria offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, making it a delightful dining destination. Guests can enjoy fresh seafood dishes crafted from local ingredients, complemented by a diverse selection of regional wines. The welcoming atmosphere and friendly service enhance the overall experience, making it a must-visit spot near Guincho beach.
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Return to Lisbon

Approx. 90mins

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Pateo - Bairro do Avillez

Time9:30pm
Pateo - Bairro do Avillez offers a vibrant atmosphere that celebrates Portuguese culture, complemented by a diverse menu of traditional dishes with a modern twist. Guests can enjoy fresh, locally sourced ingredients while dining in an inviting outdoor area or watching the chefs in the open kitchen.
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Overnight in Lisbon

September 14 - Transfer to Vidago

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Breakfast at Hotel

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Check-Out at Palácio Ludovice Wine Experience Hotel

Check out10:15am
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Transfer to Vidago Palace Hotel

Approx. 4hrs

Stop along the way for a restroom break / coffee and sandwich.

Time1:00pm
At Marquês de Marialva, experience authentic Portuguese cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients and traditional recipes. Enjoy beautifully presented dishes paired with a unique selection of regional wines, making each meal a delightful journey through local flavors.
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Check-in at Vidago Palace Hotel

Room typePrivilege
Experience the elegance of Vidago Palace Hotel, a historic royal retreat dating back to 1910. Enjoy the luxurious spa with therapeutic mineral baths, and unwind in beautifully landscaped gardens. The exceptional golf course and on-site fine dining restaurant featuring local cuisine make it a perfect getaway.
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Dinner in Vidago with Wine Pairing

Time7:30pm
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Overnight in Vidago

September 15 - Full Day Harvest Program in Vidago

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Grape Harvest, Wine Tasting, and Local Lunch in Favaios

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Transfer to Wine Producer in Avessada Farm.

DepartureVidago Palace Hotel
DestinationWine producer in Favaios
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Favaios Harvest Program

Time11:30am
Duration1 hour 15 minutes
Start of the activity with the delivery of scissors, gloves, a basket, and a hat to work in the grape harvest. This activity is only available in the month of September.
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Group Photos with Musical Entertainment

Time for group photos with musical entertainment.
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Typical Lunch on Thursday

Time1:00pm
Typical lunch on Thursday as part of the harvest program.
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Grape Treading in the Press

Grape treading in the press. This activity is only available in the month of September.
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Wine Tasting at Museum/Winery

Wine tasting at the museum/winery.
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Transfer to Vidago Palace Hotel

DepartureFavaios
DestinationVidago Palace Hotel
Transfer to the Vidago Palace Hotel. Free time to have a relax Spa.
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Dinner & Evening at Leisure

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Overnight at Vidago

September 16 - Douro Valley Arrival, Mateus Palace & Winery Lunch

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Transfer to Douro Valley, Mateus Palace Visit, Winery Lunch

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Breakfast at Hotel

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Check-Out at Vidago Palace

Check out9:00am
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Guided Visit of Mateus Palace

Time10:30am

During the transfer to the Douro Valley, a guided visit of the Mateus Palace. This beautiful Palace has an interesting history worth learning about, and its facade appears on the famous pink wine “Mateus”, continuing to be the best-selling wine worldwide.

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Lunch at Quinta do Crasto

Time1:30pm

After the visit, a lunch will be held at Quinta do Crasto. Guided visit to the cellar and transfer to the hotel.

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Transfer to Vintage Hotel

Approx. 1hr

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Check-In at The Vintage House Hotel, Douro

Room typeStandard River View
Experience the charm of The Vintage House Hotel, set against the stunning backdrop of the Douro Valley. Enjoy local vineyards and wine tours just steps away, while the hotel's historic architecture immerses you in the region's culture. Relax by the outdoor pool or savor regional dishes at the on-site restaurant.
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Dinner & Evening at Leisure

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Overnight at The Vintage Hotel

September 17 - Douro Valley Cruise and Estate Dinners

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Private Douro Cruise, Estate Dinners

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Breakfast at Hotel

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Private Douro Cruise - Walk from Hotel

DepartureHotel11:00am
DestinationDouro River Cruise

Transfer to a private cruise for around 2 hours, with light bites and wine.

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Private Cruise

Time11:30am

Enjoy a 2 hour guided river cruise with light bites and wine.

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Lunch at Quinta do Seixo

Time2:00pm
Quinta do Seixo offers breathtaking views of the Douro Valley and is renowned for its award-winning wines. Guests can enjoy guided tours that delve into the wine-making process, complemented by interactive education sessions. This modern winery, set in a UNESCO World Heritage site, harmoniously blends architecture with its stunning surroundings.
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Guided Tour & Port Tasting

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Dinner & Evening at Leisure

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Overnight at The Vintage Hotel

September 18 - Transfer to Porto

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Breakfast at Hotel

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Check-Out at The Vintage Hotel

Check out8:30am
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Transfer to Guimarães , medieval city where Carlos was born Portugal.

Departure8:45am
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Guided Tour Starting at R. de Dona Teresa 513

Time10:45am

The historic center is a delightful spot in Guimarães, known for its charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere. This location offers a unique glimpse into local history, with quaint streets and traditional culture. Situated near UNESCO World Heritage sites, it’s an inviting place to explore.

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Visit Outside Palace Duques de Bragança

Time11:20am
The Palace Duques de Bragança captivates visitors with its stunning medieval architecture and rich history as a symbol of Portuguese nobility. Explore a beautifully curated museum filled with art and artifacts, including rare tapestries and antique furniture. Enjoy the impressive views of Guimarães from the palace grounds, all while experiencing the charm of this 15th-century landmark.
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Bus Will Meet at Rua do Rei do Pegu Prior to Departure

Rua do Rei do Pegu
Time1:25pm
Largo da República do Brasil 34 is a charming square in Guimarães, showcasing vibrant surroundings and historic architecture that reflects local culture. Its relaxing atmosphere is ideal for leisurely walks, and its central location provides easy access to unique shops and eateries, making it a delightful spot to explore.
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Departure to Gruta do Ermitão – Penha Montain

Departure1:35pm
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Picnic Lunch at Gruta do Ermitão - Penha Mountain

Time2:00pm
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Departure to Hotel

Departure5:00pm
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Dinner & Evening at Leisure

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Check-In to Forte de Gaia, Autograph Collection

Room typeRiver View Rooms
Experience the Forte de Gaia, Autograph Collection, where stunning views of the Douro River and Porto skyline await. Enjoy stylish, modern accommodations and indulge in on-site dining featuring local cuisine. With exclusive wine tasting experiences and a historic building, this destination offers a unique blend of luxury and culture.
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Overnight at Forte de Gaia Autograph Collection

September 19 - Optional Activities and Experiences in Porto

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Explore Porto with Optional Activities and Dining

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Breakfast at Hotel

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Visit the World of Discover's

Visit the world of Discover's.
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Visit Alfandega Space

Visit Alfandega Space with various digital wall exhibitions.
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Visit Serralves Museum of Art and Paintings

Visit museums of art and paintings.
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Visit Lello Library

Visit Lello library.
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Visit Bolsa Palace

Visit Bolsa Palace.
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Bike Rides Along the Seaside and Riverside Promenade

Bike rides along the seaside and riverside promenade.
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Lunch / Cooking Show at Pop Up Workshops

Time11:45am
Experience the unique flavors at Pop Up Workshops, where innovation meets local cuisine. Enjoy a casual atmosphere while indulging in seasonal dishes crafted from fresh ingredients. Engage in culinary workshops that connect you with local chefs and artists for a memorable dining experience.
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Transfer from Hotel to Restaurante RC

Departure7:00pm
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Fado Dinner at Restaurante RC

Time8:00pm
Restaurante RC in Porto delights with a diverse menu of traditional Portuguese cuisine. Its welcoming ambiance and focus on quality service create a memorable dining experience. With fresh, local ingredients and an impressive selection of regional wines, it promises a taste of Portugal in every bite.
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Transfer to Forte de Gaia

Departure10:30pm
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Overnight at Forte de Gaia Autograph Collection.

September 20 - Transfer to Porto airport

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Departure Transfer from Porto to Airport

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Breakfast at Hotel

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Check-Out at Forte de Gaia Autograph Collection.

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Transfer to Porto airport

DeparturePorto
DestinationPorto airport
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Depart for Home

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Map

1. Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal

2. National Palace of Pena

Estrada da Pena, 2710-609 Sintra, Portugal

3. Vidago Palace Hotel

Parque de Vidago, Apartado 16, 5425-307 Vidago, Portugal

4. Mateus Palace

Mateus, 5000-291 Vila Real, Portugal

5. Quinta do Crasto

Quinta do Crasto, 5060-063, Portugal

6. The Vintage House Hotel, Douro

Lugar da Ponte, 5085-034 Pinhão, Portugal

7. Quinta do Seixo

Quinta Vale de Abraão, 5100-758 Samodães, Portugal

8. Guimarães Castle

R. de Dona Teresa 513, 4800 Guimarães, Portugal

9. Gruta do Ermitão

R. da Penha, 4810 Infantas, Portugal

10. Forte de Gaia, Autograph Collection

R. de Serpa Pinto 60, 4400-307 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal