4-Day Northern Portugal Luxury Itinerary: Douro Valley & Porto

Morning: Arrive at Six Senses Douro Valley, a meticulously restored 19th-century manor surrounded by lush vineyards overlooking the iconic Douro River. Upon check-in, enjoy a welcome drink of locally sourced herbal infusions, setting the tone for a tranquil and rejuvenating stay.

Afternoon: Begin your journey of relaxation with a personalized spa session at the award-winning Six Senses Spa. Each treatment is crafted to rejuvenate the mind and body, using locally sourced botanicals and advanced wellness techniques. Unwind in the serene ambiance and indulge in signature treatments designed to release stress, restore balance and renew your energy.

Evening: Dinner in the Summer Garden – Delight in an exquisite, farm-to-table dining experience crafted by Executive Chef Nuno Matos. Known for his focus on sustainability and wellness, Chef Matos brings a sophisticated culinary artistry to each dish. He highlights the essence of the Douro Valley by using seasonal, local ingredients, creatively prepared to bring out the vibrant flavors of the region. Set amid the verdant gardens, this intimate dining experience is a beautiful fusion of nature and culinary expertise, offering a memorable and luxurious start to your stay.

Morning: Begin your day with a hands-on tile-making workshop, an immersive experience where you can create your own version of Portugal’s famed azulejos. Learn from local artisans about the history and techniques of this craft, while creating a beautiful souvenir to commemorate your journey.

Midday: Spend time relaxing and exploring the hotel grounds. Bask in the beauty of the Six Senses infinity pool, which blends seamlessly with the surrounding vineyards and offers stunning panoramic views. Take a leisurely stroll through the hotel’s beautifully landscaped gardens, or enjoy some quiet moments on your private terrace, soaking in the tranquility of the Douro Valley.

Late afternoon & evening: Private wine tour and dinner in the vineyards – Embark on an intimate tour of the Six Senses vineyards with a private guide, delving into the unique terroir of the Douro region. Learn about the winemaking process, from the vine to the bottle, and sample a selection of the region’s finest wines. Afterward, enjoy an enchanting dinner in the vineyards, curated by Chef Nuno Matos. The multi-course menu showcases Douro-inspired flavors, expertly paired with select wines from the estate. As the sun sets over the vineyards, this exclusive dining experience offers a captivating blend of nature, luxury and culinary artistry.

Morning: Transfer to The Yeatman Hotel in Porto, a luxurious retreat renowned for its world-class service and sweeping views of the city. Check into your suite, designed to reflect Portugal’s rich wine heritage, with unique furnishings, plush bedding and a private balcony overlooking Porto’s iconic rooftops and the Douro River.

Afternoon: Embark on a private guided tour of Porto, where your guide will take you to the city’s most storied locations, sharing insights into Porto’s rich history and vibrant culture. Highlights include the São Bento Railway Station known for its stunning blue-and-white azulejo tiles depicting historic scenes, and the Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most enchanting bookstores. Wander through narrow streets lined with charming shops and hidden gems, and soak in the romantic ambiance of Porto’s old town.

Evening: Michelin-starred dinner with Chef Ricardo Costa – Enjoy a gastronomic experience at The Yeatman’s two Michelin-starred restaurant, where Chef Ricardo Costa presents a contemporary tasting menu inspired by Portuguese flavors. Each dish is an artful interpretation of traditional recipes, featuring local, seasonal ingredients prepared with refined technique and creativity. Paired with exceptional Portuguese wines, this meal offers a deep dive into the sophisticated culinary heritage of Portugal.

Morning: Begin with a private port wine tour and tasting at one of Vila Nova de Gaia’s, prestigious port cellars. During this exclusive experience, you’ll learn about the legacy and production of port wine, the region’s most celebrated export, and sample a curated selection of aged vintages, guided by an expert sommelier.

Afternoon: Stroll through the colorful Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its narrow, winding streets and traditional houses overlooking the river. For lunch, enjoy one of Porto’s most famous dishes, the francesinha. This hearty sandwich, layered with meats, cheese and a rich beer-based sauce, is a must-try local specialty that offers an authentic taste of Porto’s cuisine.

Evening: Luxury sunset yacht cruise with dinner on the Douro River – Conclude your journey with a private sunset cruise on a luxury yacht. As you sail along the Douro River, Porto’s historic skyline and bridges create a breathtaking backdrop against the setting sun. During the cruise, enjoy a specially prepared dinner on board, featuring a selection of gourmet dishes and fine wines. As the lights of Porto begin to twinkle, this luxurious dining experience on the river will be a truly unforgettable final evening in Northern Portugal.