About your itinerary
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Don't forget that if something isn't quite right we can make changes to the itinerary.
As promised, I am delighted to enclose your revised itinerary with your new dates starting on the 2nd August, and departing back home on the 12th.
You will see your deposit link attached and I can then go ahead and get everything confirmed. It is such a pleasure to be working with you & your family again, and cannot wait to provide dreamy getaways for you all!
Best travels,
Maria Gardner 
Your Itinerary In Detail
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This itinerary has been tailor-made for you. No two itineraries are the same and we are always able to make changes if something isn't quite right.
Saturday 11th May 2024
Welcome to Porto
Welcome to Porto
Private Vehicle from Porto Francisco Airport to PortoBay Flores
Private Vehicle from Porto Francisco Airport to PortoBay Flores
Upon your arrival at Lisbon's International Airport, you will be greeted by your driver who will invite you into your private vehicle and take you into the heart of the city where you will enjoy 3 nights in style.
PortoBay Flores for 3 nights
PortoBay Flores for 3 nights
PortoBay Flores is a luxurious boutique hotel located in the heart of Lisbon, Portugal. Housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century palace, the hotel seamlessly blends historic charm with modern elegance.
Upon entering PortoBay Flores, guests are greeted by a grand lobby adorned with ornate chandeliers, marble floors, and intricate architectural details. The hotel's interior design is a harmonious mix of classic and contemporary elements, featuring plush furnishings, rich fabrics, and tasteful artwork.
For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, PortoBay Flores offers a range of wellness facilities, including a spa with a sauna, steam room, and treatment rooms. Guests can also take a dip in the hotel's rooftop swimming pool, surrounded by lush gardens and panoramic views of the city.
Your room: Classic Double
PortoBay Flores offers a truly luxurious experience in its double rooms. The rooms are elegantly designed with a contemporary touch, featuring high-end furnishings and luxurious amenities.
Porto | Highlights
Porto | Highlights
Porto, also known as Oporto, is a vibrant and historic city located in northwest Portugal. Here are some highlights and points of interest in Porto:
Ribeira District: This UNESCO World Heritage site is located along the Douro River and is known for its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and lively atmosphere. It's a great place to explore on foot, with plenty of cafes, shops, and restaurants.
Dom Luís I Bridge: This iconic double-deck iron bridge spans the Douro River, connecting Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. You can walk across the upper deck for panoramic views of the city and river.
Livraria Lello: Often considered one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, Livraria Lello is known for its stunning architecture, intricate woodwork, and grand staircase. It's a must-visit for book lovers and those interested in architectural marvels.
São Bento Railway Station: Famous for its intricate azulejo tilework, São Bento is a historic train station in the city center. The blue and white tiles depict scenes from Portuguese history and add to the station's charm.
Clerigos Tower and Church: The Clerigos Tower is one of Porto's tallest structures and offers panoramic views of the city from the top. Adjacent to the tower is the Clerigos Church, an impressive baroque church with a beautiful interior.
Port Wine Cellars: Vila Nova de Gaia, located across the river from Porto, is home to numerous port wine cellars. Take a tour to learn about the production process and enjoy tastings of the famous Portuguese port wine.
Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto): This medieval cathedral is one of the oldest in Portugal and features a mix of architectural styles, including Romanesque and Gothic. The terrace offers stunning views of the city.
Foz do Douro: This coastal area at the mouth of the Douro River offers beautiful beaches, seaside promenades, and the opportunity to enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants.
Palácio da Bolsa: A neoclassical building that served as the Stock Exchange, Palácio da Bolsa is known for its opulent interiors, including the Arabian Hall. Guided tours provide insights into the history of the building.
Porto's Street Art: Porto has a thriving street art scene, with colorful murals and graffiti adorning many buildings. Take a stroll through neighborhoods like Ribeira and Foz to discover the city's urban art.
These are just a few of the highlights in Porto, a city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
Porto | Best Restaurants
Porto | Best Restaurants
Porto boasts a diverse and vibrant culinary scene, offering a range of dining options from traditional Portuguese dishes to contemporary cuisine.
DOP – Chef Rui Paula:
Address: Largo São Domingos 18, 4050-545 Porto, Portugal
Cantinho do Avillez:
Address: Rua Mouzinho da Silveira 166, 4050-416 Porto, Portugal
Antiqvvm:
Address: Estrada da Circunvalação 10500, 4100-180 Porto, Portugal
O Gaveto:
Address: Rua Roberto Ivens 826, 4450-249 Matosinhos, Portugal
The Yeatman – Michelin Star Restaurant:
Address: Rua do Choupelo, (Santa Marinha), 4400-088 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
Cafeína:
Address: Rua do Padrão 100, 4150-559 Porto, Portugal
Casa de Chá da Boa Nova – Chef Rui Paula:
Address: Avenida da Liberdade, 4450-718 Leça da Palmeira, Portugal
Pedro Lemos:
Address: Rua do Padre Luís Cabral 974, 4150-463 Porto, Portugal
Largo do Paco:
Address: Largo do Paço, 6, 4600-017 Amarante, Portugal
Camafeu:
Address: Rua da Picaria 51, 4050-477 Porto, Portugal
These restaurants offer a variety of dining experiences, from fine dining to more casual settings, and showcase the diverse flavors of Portuguese cuisine.
Monday 13th May 2024
Porto: 3-Hour Food and Wine Tasting | Private
Porto: 3-Hour Food and Wine Tasting | Private
Experience the flavors of Porto on a food and wine-tasting tour. Indulge in regional delicacies such as custard tarts and codfish cakes while learning about the cultural significance of Port wine. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this tour will take you through charming neighborhoods and historic taverns, providing interesting facts about Portuguese cuisine along the way. Satisfy your appetite and immerse yourself in the culinary traditions of Porto.
Tuesday 14th May 2024
Douro Valley Wine Tour | Small Group
Douro Valley Wine Tour | Small Group
Join this premium full-day tour from Porto and experience the breathtaking landscapes of the Douro Valley, a UNESCO-listed site. With a small group, explore charming villages and wineries to learn about the region's rich winemaking heritage. Cruise along the scenic Douro River, indulge in guided wine tastings and savor a traditional Portuguese lunch paired with Douro DOC wines. Immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of the Douro Valley, and enjoy personalized attention from your guide due to the small group size. Round-trip transfers from your Porto hotel are included for your convenience.
Wednesday 15th May 2024
Train from Porto to Lisbon
Train from Porto to Lisbon
Welcome to Lisbon
Welcome to Lisbon
Seven cinematic hillsides overlooking the Rio Tejo cradle Lisbon's postcard-perfect panorama of cobbled alleyways, ancient ruins and white-domed cathedrals – a captivating scene crafted over centuries.
Lisbon's trademark seven hills are spread across the cityscape like lofty guardians of colour and history. Capped by a collection of terraces known as miradouros (viewpoints), a must-see web of no-filter-necessary views over Lisbon, the Tejo and beyond is formed. Our favourite miradouros – Portas do Sol, São Pedro de Alcântara, da Graça, da Senhora do Monte, Santa Luzia and, of course, Castelo de São Jorge – all offer stunning spots to get your bearings and while away afternoons over bica (espresso), elegant glasses of Touriga Nacional or refreshing pitchers of sangria, while rubbernecking the city's stupendous horizons.
Valverde Hotel - Relais & Chateaux for 3 nights
Valverde Hotel - Relais & Chateaux for 3 nights
Valverde is hidden behind a discreet door on Avenue da Liberdade, in one of the most exclusive areas of Lisbon. All the more charming for its hidden character, the hotel evokes the air of a stately townhouse with its perfectly polished design.
The deep colours that shade the walls contrast with the bright tones of the fabrics and cushions. A clever mix of retro details and antiques, vintage furniture and art prints extends from the entrance to the rooms. With high ceilings and exposed plumbing, the quasi-industrial ambience of the restaurant, O Sítio, belies the intimate dining experience.
Enjoy exquisite Portuguese cuisine to which chef Carla Sousa adds a delightful Cape Verdean touch.
Your room: Deluxe Garden Room
Your Deluxe Garden Room holds elegant and sober decor throughout, with a lovely view of the gardens below. Your ensuite bathroom either invites you into your bathtub or walk-in shower with stunning luxury amenities that you would expect from a 5* luxury boutique hotel, making it a perfect stay for short city breaks!
Lisbon | Highlights
Lisbon | Highlights
Lisbon | Best Restaurants
Lisbon | Best Restaurants
There’s no better place to wander cobbled streets and snack on local delights than Lisbon. This city keeps things chill. The restaurants won’t ever usher you out to allow for another table, encouraging you to order more if you fancy it later. The museums will make you want to stay there for hours. The pastel de natas will have you eating three of them in a row. The Portuguese capital is one of our faves not only because of its rich culture, delicious restaurants and great bars, but because it’s so pretty to walk through. The sights, the architecture! We just love it.
Here are just some of the best restaurants to keep an eye out for during your time in the city.
BAHR
The Bairro Alto Hotel is one of the best hotels in Lisbon, and while hotel restaurants can be hit or miss, BAHR is a triumph. The decor – all curved ceilings, cosy corners and oversized wooden bar – is immediately welcoming, but some diners may prefer to skip the interiors and instead dine on the terrace, with a view of the city and Tagus river. Either way, your attention will soon be drawn back in by the menu headed up by chef Bruno Rochas which features a twist on classic Portuguese cuisine, resulting in dishes such as garlicky grilled squid with runner beans and turnip, raw beef ‘pica-pau’ taco with just a hint of pineapple and buttery wild turbot with green kale sauce and chorizo – the latter of which comes highly recommended.
O Velho Eurico
Walking into O Velho Eurico almost feels like you’ve stumbled upon a local secret; but my goodness, what a find. The cosy restaurant, hidden in a corner on the way to São Jorge Castle, is filled to the brim every night with locals keen to enjoy a twist on classic Portuguese dishes. The menu has some mainstays, such as bacalhau à brás (a classic dish made from shreds of salted cod, onions and thinly chopped fried potatoes) and bolo lêve do chambão (beef shank sando), but dishes are updated or changed relatively recently; on my most recent visit, I was particularly taken with the squirty fries (topped with cheese and a tomato-based gravy) and choco alhado (cuttlefish and garlic).
Belcanto
Recently awarded number 46 on the annual list of the World's 50 Best Restaurants, Belcanto was the first restaurant in Lisbon to earn two Michelin stars. Chef Jose Avillez is practically a celebrity in Lisbon, so expectations are high – and Belcanto doesn't disappoint. Interiors are chic and grand, without feeling stuffy. Meanwhile, service is impeccable; the wait staff are friendly but not overbearing, and share information about each dish without disturbing your evening.
Diners can choose from three tasting menus, or a la carte – but the former is the real treat. The Evolution menu combines Portuguese flavours with new textures; expect plump scarlet shrimp served in a curry sauce with apple, delicate minced squid housed in incredibly crunchy roasted chicken skin and perfectly-cooked crispy suckling pig with puffed potatoes, all served with impeccable Portuguese wines, should you opt for the wine pairing.
Ofício Tasco Atípico
The newly-reopened Ofício is so popular with locals that it’s booked up weeks in advance, but it’s well worth trying to get hold of a table to sample the inventive cuisine and soak up the fun atmosphere. The menu has more ‘must-try dishes’ than most in the city; the Alheira sausage croquette, which hides a runny quail’s egg at its centre like a Portuguese version of a scotch egg, is impeccable, while crispy crackling and stuffed spider crab from the Algarve shouldn’t be missed. No meal is complete, though, without a slice (or whole, if you can manage it) of the cheese tart; a dense, slightly sweet and entirely creamy dessert dreamt up during the second lockdown by chef Hugo Candeias. Despite the fact that they're full to the brim with diners, staff will be only too happy to talk passionately about the flavours and ingredients in the dishes, or share a wine pairing recommendation – make the most of their knowledge and pick their brains as they bring your plates.
BouBou’s
Opened in 2018 by couple Agnes and Alexis Bourrat, BouBou’s is a family affair – Alexis’ sister Charlie Bourrat hand-picks wines for the restaurant, while his other sister Louise heads up the kitchen, bringing her rebellious, experimental style to BouBou’s. The result is a fun, casual fine dining restaurant in arguably the most food-focused district in Lisbon.
If tasting menus are your thing, this one is truly impeccable. Dishes are varied, fun and full of flavour, with a focus on seasonal produce and zero waste. The restaurant isn’t vegetarian, but there’s a tendency to lean toward veggie-heavy dishes – expect sweet potato served with coconut tiger milk and kaffir lime, and a nori taco with kimchi rice and glazed seitan – although it’s one of the few times checking out the menu beforehand isn’t advised, so you can be pleasantly surprised by each dish. The wine pairing is also highly recommended; our sommelier carefully talked us through every glass (all Portuguese, of course), and each was more delicious than the last.
Trinca
There’s something incredibly satisfying about wandering the streets of a new city and finding a great eatery, and this little-known secret is one I’m only too willing to share. Hidden away on a residential street in the Anjos area of Lisbon, Trinca is a modern small plates restaurant in a traditional building. Serving up world dishes heavily inspired by South American, Japanese and, of course, Portuguese cuisines, diners can expect dishes such as prawn ceviche, vindaloo pork ribs and Katsu sandos. The wine selection is also excellent, and the friendly and passionate staff help to make an evening here feel like a night with friends, even if you’re solo dining.
Casa Reîa
Is there a better setting for a restaurant than the beachfront? While the city has endless foodie options, there's something extra special about dining with the sound of the waves, and this new opening has taken that sunshine feeling and enhanced it, with rattan furniture, friendly staff and fresh flavours. Start with oysters (of course), and move on to sharing plates; zucchini baba-ganoush with mint and raspberries, Seabass sashimi with green apple, celery and fennel and a green summer salad with nectarines, yellow zucchini and smoked chickpeas. The seafood rice, with juicy prawns and chunks of octopus, is the stand-out dish on the menu from chefs Dario Costa and Udi Barkan and Pedro Henrique Lima. Best of all, the restaurant spills onto the sands, so you can head towards the water after your meal with a cocktail in hand.
Prado
Prado is the Portuguese word for “meadow”, and the restaurant applies a local focus on everything they serve thanks to partnerships with local farmers, fishermen and wine producers. This means their menu is proudly 100 per cent Portuguese and features dishes such as pumpkin with whey and toasted butter, fish with lobster emulsion and brioche with white port and chocolate. Before joining Prado, Chef António Galapito worked with hometown hero Nuno Mendes and brings a versatile and varied passion for food that's evident in the menu and beautifully-presented dishes. Ideally you'll want to bring a few friends so that you can sample them all and soak the creative, hip and fun atmosphere as part of a crowd – plus indulge in a bottle of wine or two, with help from the knowledgable sommelier.
Cervejaria Ramiro
When Anthony Bourdain visited Ramiro in 2013 during filming for his show No Reservations, he turned the local cervejaria (beer bar) into a must-visit restaurant for tourists and locals. Despite the name, Ramiro serves up truly incredible seafood, including lobster, prawns and crab – all served by the kilogram (and therefore best enjoyed with a larger group). Most diners skip dessert and instead opt for a Prego – a beef sandwich served with mustard – which is, to this day, the best I’ve ever tasted in Lisbon. The restaurant covers three floors, but you should expect to queue before you manage to score a table.
ALMA
Executive chef Henrique Sa Pessoa heads up the menu at double Michelin-starred ALMA, and diners can expect an international twist on Portuguese cuisine, making this a favourite of local foodies. The restaurant initially opened in Santos in 2009 and catapulted chef Henrique to stardom via TV and cookbooks – six years later it moved to Chiado, and ALMA is still shining bright seven years on. Dishes are first and foremost inspired by Henrique's life in Lisbon, with flavours from his travels around the world coming into the mix. Diners can choose between fixed menus ‘coast to coast’, using Portuguese fish, or ‘soul’, inspired by the chef's classics – or for those who'd rather choose, there's an a la carte menu. Housed in a former warehouse that was formerly one of the oldest bookshops in the world, this is a restaurant that truly feels like an experience, and certainly one for the bucket list.
Thursday 16th May 2024
Lisbon Walking Tour | Private
Lisbon Walking Tour | Private
Join your Guide on an exploration of one of Europe's most stunning cities.
Begin by visiting the revered Belem Tower, a 16th-century gem, and the Jeronimos Monastery, the city's most prominent landmark, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This monastery serves as a testament to Portugal's prosperity and influence during the Age of Discovery.
Next, marvel at the striking Monument of Discoveries, erected in honor of Henry the Navigator, a key figure in the success of Portuguese explorations in the 15th century. This majestic monument stands proudly at the Belem marina, a starting point for many of the country's explorers. Conclude the tour by indulging in the delectable Pasteis de Nata or de Belém, renowned Portuguese pastries.
Saturday 18th May 2024
Train from Lisbon Oriente to Faro Central Station
Train from Lisbon Oriente to Faro Central Station
Today after your final morning in Lisbon, it will be time to check-out and head for your next adventure! Make your way to Lisbon's Oriente Station where you will board a high-speed bullet train to Faro, for your beach bliss stay for some relaxation and family time. I have upgraded you all to business class for extra comfort.
Proposed Train Times:
Departs: 10:14AM, Lisbon Oriente
Arrives: 1:30PM, Faro Central Station
Class: Business
Welcome to the Algarve
Welcome to the Algarve
Soaring cliffs, sea caves, golden beaches, scalloped bays and sandy islands are just a few reasons the Algarve is a must-do on your trip to Portugal. Surrounded on two sides by the Atlantic, it's a paradise for surfers, especially along the refreshingly undeveloped west coast.
Private Vehicle from Faro Station to Pine Cliffs Hotel, a Luxury Collection Resort
Private Vehicle from Faro Station to Pine Cliffs Hotel, a Luxury Collection Resort
Upon your arrival in Faro's International Airport, you will be greeted by one of our friendly drivers who will invite you into your private transfer and drive you 40 minutes from the Airport to the exceptional 5* Pine Cliffs Resort, ready for a beautiful beachfront stay in bliss.
Pine Cliffs Hotel, a Luxury Collection Resort for 5 nights
Pine Cliffs Hotel, a Luxury Collection Resort for 5 nights
Treat yourself to a matchless vacation at the mesmerizing Pine Cliffs Hotel, a Luxury Collection Resort, Algarve in Albufeira. This iconic, 5-star cliff-top retreat is located above Portugal's famous beach, Praia da Falésia, and boasts stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
With a Moorish-influenced decor, this hotel's newly-renovated guest rooms teem with exquisite, indigenous details, plush beds and spa-inspired bathrooms. Each hotel room boasts a private balcony with views of Algarve's red cliffs overlooking the ocean or beautifully manicured gardens.
The resort's exceptional amenities include a 9- hole golf course, a tennis club, a revitalizing spa, 8 swimming pools, an up-to-date fitness center and a variety of fine dining options. Families love our fantastic kid's facilities including Porto Pirata, the biggest kids club in the region. Whether in Albufeira, Portugal for business or for pleasure, Pine Cliffs Hotel, a Luxury Collection Resort, Algarve wants to make your stay a flawless 5-star experience.
Your room: Deluxe Ocean View
1 x Deluxe Queen, 1 x Deluxe Twin (2 Rooms)
Inspired Moorish influences meet exceptional amenities in your Deluxe Room, which invites you to savor the resort’s singular setting from your furnished balcony. Home to two cushioned lounge chairs and a coffee table, it features romantic panoramas of the manicured resort grounds or the azure Atlantic Ocean.
Sliding glass doors lead inside, where the Portuguese terracotta tile floor is topped with refined wood furnishings. In the seemingly separate sitting area, a plush chair and brightly hued pillows complement locally inspired artwork.
Your gracious bathroom features an indulgent walk-in rainforest shower, separate bathtub, hairdryer, and magnifying mirror. Custom-blended Luxury Collection bath amenities along with a plush bathrobe and slippers add to the opulent experience.
Thursday 23rd May 2024
Private Vehicle from Pine Cliffs Hotel, a Luxury Collection Resort to Faro
Private Vehicle from Pine Cliffs Hotel, a Luxury Collection Resort to Faro
This morning is your final morning in the beautiful sunny Algarve. After your last day, you will be collected from your hotel and taken back to Faro's International Airport in enough time for your flight home.
What's Included
Your itinerary includes
- Private Transfers to/from Airports & Faro Station
- Beautiful 5* Accommodations throughout
- 2 x Rooms throughout
- All breakfasts included
- Stunning Private Tours throughout
- Train Journey from Lisbon to Faro
- Business Class Upgrade included
- Complimentary Slide & Splash Tickets
- 24/7 emergency concierge service
Your itinerary excludes
- International flights
- Optional Tours
- Transfer to Lisbon Train Station
- Lunches & Dinners in accommodations
- Food & Drinks unless specified in excursions
- Travel Insurance
- Resort Fees / City Taxes
- Visas (if applicable)
- Gratuities
Important Information
Travel Advice
It is important to seek independent and up-to-date advice when travelling to any foreign country. Many of our customers ask us to keep them up-to-date on the existing legal position regarding LGBT rights in the country to which they are travelling. You can find up-to-date details on our website under the country which you are travelling to. They are provided as a guide only and laws can change frequently. You should seek advice from the relevant authorities and embassies before travel (if applicable).
Travel Insurance and Terms and Conditions
It is a condition of booking with Out Of Office that you have adequate insurance cover for your trip at the time of booking. Please also ensure you have referred to our terms and conditions which can be found at www.outofoffice.com/terms-and-conditions. Please note that as each booking is tailor-made for you we only confirm the itinerary once we have received a deposit. There is a small chance that availability on some items quoted may change. If this is the case we will book similar accommodation and let you know.