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.
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.
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
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
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)
Upon Arrival, Meet & Greet with Golf Inspired Portugal Representative
Approx. 15 mins
Approx. 1hr
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.
Approx. 90mins
Approx. 4hrs
Stop along the way for a restroom break / coffee and sandwich.
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.
After the visit, a lunch will be held at Quinta do Crasto. Guided visit to the cellar and transfer to the hotel.
Approx. 1hr
Transfer to a private cruise for around 2 hours, with light bites and wine.
Enjoy a 2 hour guided river cruise with light bites and wine.
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.