Embark on a captivating journey through Portugal with us! Discover the vibrant sights, indulge in the exquisite flavors, and revel in the unforgettable experiences of our recent adventure. From where to dine to the most enchanting places to stay and must-explore hidden gems, we’re sharing all the details of our incredible trip. Get ready to be inspired by the magic of Portugal!
An Unforgettable 20-Year Anniversary Adventure: Exploring the Magic of Portugal
To celebrate two incredible decades of marriage, Brandon and I recently embarked on a dream two-week journey across Portugal. This wasn’t just any trip; it was a heartfelt celebration of our enduring love, set against the backdrop of one of Europe’s most captivating countries. We immersed ourselves in five distinct regions of Portugal, and with each new landscape and cultural encounter, we found ourselves falling deeper in love with its warm people, the remarkably fresh cuisine, the world-class wines, and the diverse, breathtaking scenery. Portugal truly captured our hearts, becoming an unforgettable chapter in our shared story.
Our adventure was a vibrant tapestry of experiences: we walked countless steps through ancient cities, savored exquisite dishes at several Michelin-starred restaurants, challenged ourselves with hikes along some of the most stunning trails imaginable, and embarked on a delightful wine-tasting odyssey that spanned the country. Every moment was a blend of exhilarating fun and delicious memories, creating a collection of cherished moments we will hold dear forever. In this comprehensive guide, I aim to provide you with an intimate overview of each region we explored, highlighting our favorite moments, specific recommendations, and unique insights from our time there. Should you have any questions after reading, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below; I’d be delighted to share more details.
For a visual feast and to truly see the places we stayed, explored, and dined, be sure to check out my dedicated Portugal Instagram Story Highlight. It’s packed with video footage and location tags to help you visualize your own Portuguese escape.
A Culinary and Oenological Paradise: Savoring Portugal’s Flavors
Portugal is a country that reveres food and wine with an almost unmatched passion, a sentiment Brandon and I wholeheartedly share. You can only imagine the sheer delight we experienced! From bustling city markets to quaint village eateries, conversations often revolved around the day’s fresh catch, the season’s best produce, or the perfect wine pairing. It was, without a doubt, a true foodie’s dream trip. We were particularly charmed by their reverence for daily fresh-baked bread and the simplicity of their sandwiches – my bread-loving heart was in pure bliss throughout our entire stay! Every dish we sampled across Portugal, from the simplest snack to the most elaborate Michelin-starred creation, was characterized by its incredible freshness, vibrant flavors, and the palpable love with which it was prepared. This deep connection to gastronomy made every meal a memorable event, truly elevating our understanding and appreciation of Portuguese culture.
Smart Packing for a Seamless Portuguese Journey
As seasoned travelers, we always prioritize efficiency, and for our 16-day Portuguese adventure, we exclusively carried on our bags. I’m thrilled to report that our packing strategy was absolutely flawless! We meticulously planned our wardrobes, ensuring every item packed was worn, and successfully mixed and matched outfits, allowing us to wear many pieces multiple times throughout the trip. This approach not only saved us time at airports but also offered unparalleled flexibility as we moved between diverse regions and activities, from city explorations to scenic hikes and elegant dinners. For those planning a similar trip, smart packing is key to maximizing your experience without the burden of heavy luggage. To see exactly what I brought along, and to get inspiration for your own travel capsule wardrobe, be sure to check out my LTK Post where I’ve linked every item I packed for our two weeks in Portugal.
Porto: A Charming Introduction to Portugal’s Soul
Our Portuguese odyssey commenced in the captivating city of Porto, a place brimming with old-world charm and vibrant character. We spent our days happily wandering through its enchanting, often steep, streets, admiring the intricate details of historic buildings adorned with stunning azulejo tiles. The majestic Douro River, flowing gracefully alongside the city, provided a picturesque backdrop to our explorations. It was here, amidst Porto’s lively atmosphere, that we savored our very first – and arguably the best – Pastel de Nata. These beloved Portuguese custard tarts, found throughout the country, feature a deliciously flaky puff pastry crust embracing a smooth, creamy egg custard, baked until caramelized to perfection on top. They’re typically bite-sized, and we highly recommend a sprinkle of cinnamon and/or powdered sugar before enjoying them with a shot of espresso or a small glass of Port. Truly, deliciosa!
Where We Stayed and Dined in Porto
Our home in Porto was the elegant Le Monumental Palace, a sanctuary of luxury that truly enhanced our city experience. We particularly cherished the vibrant atmosphere at their Bar Americain, where we enjoyed exquisite food, expertly crafted cocktails, and engaging live music. The croque monsieur, elevated with a black truffle créme, was so exceptional it felt life-changing! Mornings were a delight at Le Monument Restaurant, where we indulged in a stunning breakfast buffet that perfectly prepared us for a day of exploration.
A Michelin-Starred Experience: Euskalduna Studio
One of the absolute highlights of our culinary journey in Porto was an unforgettable meal at Euskalduna Studio. This one-Michelin-starred restaurant captivated us with its ingenious service and wonderfully delicious “moments.” In all the Michelin establishments we visited in Portugal, each dish or course was referred to as a “moment,” a concept that deeply resonated with me. With my own passion for creating recipes that lead to delicious moments shared with loved ones, this philosophy echoed my beliefs, making each cherished experience at these restaurants even more profound.
Discovering Port Wine at Graham’s Lodge
Another truly memorable experience in Porto was a delightful tour, port tasting, and lunch at Graham’s Lodge, perched gracefully along the Douro River. We delved into the rich history of Port wine, marveling at bottles still aging from as far back as 1868, before savoring a selection of their finest Ports. While we hadn’t previously considered ourselves ardent fans of sweet dessert wines, preferring to end our meals with a traditional dessert, we were eager to expand our palates. The tasting was incredibly informative, teaching us about the diverse varieties of Port and how to pair them effectively with appetizers, desserts, or simply to enjoy on their own. Following the tasting, we indulged in a dreamy four-hour lunch at Vinum, the lodge’s restaurant. Seated at a table overlooking the serene Douro River on a perfectly beautiful day, we savored every bite, sip, and second of the stunning setting and panoramic views, creating a truly idyllic memory.
Douro Valley: Riverside Serenity and Exquisite Wines
Leaving the bustling streets of Porto behind, we journeyed inland to the serene and breathtaking Douro Valley, a region globally celebrated for its dramatic terraced vineyards and world-renowned wines. Our haven here was the exquisite Six Senses Douro Valley, a truly enchanting retreat. Our days unfolded in a blissful rhythm, enjoying the resort’s luxurious amenities, embarking on invigorating hikes along the gorgeous riverside, discovering local wines through insightful tastings, gracefully boating down the tranquil Douro River, and indulging in some of the most amazing food we encountered throughout our trip. The Six Senses proved to be an oasis of relaxation and discovery, offering an immersive experience in the heart of Portugal’s wine country.
Resort Life and Culinary Delights at Six Senses
The Six Senses Douro Valley exceeded all expectations, offering an abundance of experiences designed for wellness and indulgence. We absolutely adored our leisurely breakfasts on the terrace each morning, a ritual that commenced with freshly squeezed juices, an inspiring array of pastries, innovative caffeine creations, and an abundance of local fresh fruits. These delightful beginnings were often followed by savory, fueling dishes such as smashed pea toast topped with local greens or baked eggs nestled atop fresh roasted tomatoes and herbs, served with house-baked toast. Every bite was an experience in itself, a perfect and delicious way to energize for the day ahead! Beyond the dining, we reveled in lounging by the pristine pool, unwinding in the tranquil spa, engaging in lively conversations with fellow guests at the daily wine tastings, and savoring an authentic Northern Portugal dinner at Cozinha do Douro one memorable evening.
Hiking and Nature’s Embrace with a Special Companion
One morning, we set out for a refreshing five-mile hike winding up and along the picturesque Douro River. Much to our delight, one of the Six Senses’ resident dogs, a spirited nearly 16-year-old named Aqua, unexpectedly joined us. Although her adventurous spirit worried me a few times along the way, she proved to be an excellent hiking companion, keeping pace and adding an element of spontaneous joy to our trek. Having Aqua tag along made the experience even more special. The hike offered us unparalleled views of the valley from above, providing a unique perspective and allowing us to learn so much about the rich history and agricultural development of this magnificent wine region. Later, one blissful afternoon, we had the pleasure of gently floating down the Douro River on a scenic boat tour, admiring the stunning landscape and terraced vineyards from the serene vantage point of the water. The Douro Valley is truly a breathtaking region, a testament to both natural beauty and the industrious spirit that shapes its remarkable wines.
Culinary Delights and Wine Wisdom
A culinary highlight of our Douro Valley stay was undoubtedly our meal at DOC Restaurant, another distinguished Michelin-starred establishment. The dining experience here was incredibly exciting, with each “moment” (dish) proving to be more creative and utterly delicious than the last – a difficult feat to achieve, given it was love at first bite! We particularly enjoyed getting to know the servers at DOC; their engaging personalities brought a wonderful warmth to an otherwise elegant and formal environment, adding an extra layer of charm to our evening.
One of our primary motivations for visiting the Douro Valley was to deepen our understanding of the region’s unique wines and the broader Portuguese wine landscape. We certainly achieved this goal! We made sure to fit in three highly thoughtful and educational wine tastings, allowing us to truly discover the diverse varietals and identify those we enjoyed most. The excitement of being able to ship several bottles back home was immense, especially since many of the exceptional wines we savored are not available for purchase in the United States. This opportunity to bring a taste of Portugal back with us was a truly special souvenir.
Lisbon: A City of Seven Hills, Gastronomy, and Vibrant Culture
Upon arriving in Lisbon, Portugal’s charismatic capital, our focus immediately shifted to its incredible food scene and spectacular panoramic views. We eagerly strolled for miles through the historic, hilly streets, allowing ourselves to be led by curiosity and the tantalizing aromas emanating from every corner, tasting every delicious bite along the way. Lisbon truly is a vibrant city, pulsating with an immense sense of pride in its rich history and an unwavering passion for the future. The city’s undulating topography, while challenging at times, rewarded us with stunning vistas around every turn, making each uphill climb worth the effort. The energy of Lisbon is infectious, a captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern dynamism that makes it an endlessly fascinating destination.
Michelin-Starred Dining in the Capital
Our time in Lisbon was punctuated by two truly amazing dinner experiences, each earning a coveted Michelin star. First, we indulged at Belcanto, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant that masterfully crafted a sophisticated and scrumptious experience. As they served us each “moment,” we were taken on a delicious journey, exploring the evolution of Portuguese cuisine through time. It was an absolutely beautiful and deeply special meal, where artistry and flavor combined seamlessly to tell a captivating story.
We also dined at LOCO Restaurant, which holds one Michelin star. Despite being wonderfully full, I genuinely wished this meal would never end! Every “moment” was executed with such thoughtfulness and was incredibly delicious. A unique aspect of LOCO that we particularly enjoyed was its open kitchen concept. Throughout the meal, each chef would personally bring out a dish, introduce themselves, and eloquently share the vision and immense effort that went into preparing the culinary masterpiece they were proudly serving. I often liken the experience of dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant to attending one of your favorite concerts: you become utterly engrossed in each dish, or “song.” When the meal or concert approaches its end, you feel a tinge of sadness, but then they reappear with more delightful creations or beloved encores, leaving you completely satisfied and brimming with exhilarating memories. LOCO perfectly embodied this analogy.
A Flavorful Tuk-Tuk Food Adventure
Beyond fine dining, we wholeheartedly embraced Lisbon’s vibrant street food culture by embarking on an exhilarating food crawl in a tuk-tuk, led by our fantastic local foodie guide, Leonor. Her passion for Lisbon’s gastronomic offerings was infectious and truly enhanced our experience. We savored a delightful array of local specialties, fitting in as much as we possibly could! This included the iconic marinated pork sandwiches known as A Bifana, perfectly paired with mini beers, and invigorating shots of Ginjinha, a sweet cherry liqueur. Our feast continued with incredibly fresh seafood dishes, a selection of artisanal Portuguese cheeses, flavorful sausages, and a variety of irresistible pastries, amongst many other treats. It was an experience overflowing with fun and so much deliciousness! To say we left Lisbon full would be a massive understatement – we departed with hearts full of sweet memories and bellies full of incredible food, truly satisfied by the city’s culinary embrace.
The Azores: Atlantic Gem of Natural Wonders and Unforgettable Moments
From the mainland’s vibrant energy, we took a short flight to the mystical Azores Islands, choosing the stunning São Miguel Island as our base. Our time on this verdant paradise far exceeded our imaginations, captivating us with its dramatic landscapes and serene beauty. Conveniently situated almost halfway between Portugal and the United States, we’re already envisioning a return trip, this time bringing our children to share in its wonders. During our exhilarating three days on the island, we covered an impressive 30 miles on foot, indulging in incredible local foods, sailing the surrounding azure seas, and soaking in some of the most spectacular sunsets we’d ever witnessed. Above all, we cherished every moment of quiet, quality time we spent together in this extraordinary setting, a perfect blend of adventure and peaceful connection.
Epic Hikes Through Pristine Landscapes
No sooner had we landed than we eagerly changed into our hiking gear and set off on our inaugural trek to witness the famous Salto do Cabrito waterfall. The sight was absolutely breathtaking, offering just a taste of the stunning landscapes and sensory delights that lay ahead. The following morning, we embarked on a hike through an astonishing variety of terrains, ascending to a mountaintop that concealed the pristine, protected waters of Lagoa do Fogo, one of Portugal’s Seven Wonders. And indeed, it lived up to its name! We walked for miles, filled with wonder at the thought of a lake cradled atop a mountain, until it suddenly appeared out of nowhere – a crystal-clear, deep blue expanse surrounded by vibrant, lush vegetation. It was a truly wondrous sight. On our third morning, we undertook yet another incredible hike, winding through hidden lakes and lagoons and circumnavigating Sete Cidades (“seven cities” in Portuguese). This hike, once again, left us breathless, both literally from the exertion and visually from the sheer beauty. As avid hiking enthusiasts, we could not have asked for a more perfect few days of challenging and spectacular trails across the island.
Farm-to-Table Delights and “Happy Cow” Cheeses
The food on São Miguel Island was a revelation: incredibly fresh, bursting with flavor, and prepared with immense local pride. We had the distinct pleasure of dining at Quinta dos Sabores, which operates out of a family’s charming home and farm. They graciously welcome food enthusiasts like us, treating guests like an extension of their own family while serving exquisite farm-to-table dishes crafted from exceptionally fresh ingredients sourced directly from their farm and the island. It was a truly unique and heartwarming experience to tour their verdant gardens and bustling farm, and to chat with the passionate staff about their dedication to exceptional food and warm hospitality. The deep connection to the land and its bounty was palpable.
The Azores are renowned for their “happy cows,” and as you drive or hike across the island, it becomes immediately clear why they’re so content! These cows are exceptionally well cared for, grazing across the most beautiful, rolling lands with constant ocean views and enjoying incredibly mild weather year-round. And I can attest, these happy cows produce some of the finest milk, which in turn creates the most delicious yogurts and cheeses. We indulged in a memorable cheese tasting at a local cheese shop in Ponta Delgada and were profoundly impressed by the intricate methods of cheese making and aging. Now back home, I’m on a determined mission to locate all the Azorean cheeses I can find. If I can’t source them locally, I just might have to import them, as they were, without exaggeration, some of the best cheeses we have ever tasted.
Magical Sunset Sailing and Dolphin Encounters
One of our absolute favorite moments in the Azores was a captivating sunset sailboat tour around the island. It offered a unique vantage point to take in the breathtaking beauty of the Atlantic waters and the dramatic São Miguel Island coastline. Our charming captains prepared and served us a delectable spread of Azorean specialties to snack on as we sailed, adding another layer of local flavor to the experience. The sunset itself was a stunner – truly one of the most beautiful we have ever witnessed, painting the sky in fiery hues of orange and purple. However, the unexpected arrival of a playful pod of dolphins, gracefully swimming up to and around our sailboat, completely stole the show. I was moved to tears as we watched them swim and frolic around the boat for a glorious hour. Their majestic presence and effortless joy created an utterly magical and profoundly memorable experience, etching itself deeply into our hearts.
Sustainable Luxury at Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort
Our stay at the Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort was absolutely wonderful! The accommodations struck a perfect balance, best described as luxuriously rustic, if such a term exists. Perched elegantly on a cliff, the resort offered mesmerizing views of a volcanic black sand beach below and sweeping panoramas of the island and the vast sea. Each day, the resort thoughtfully packed us the most adorable and delicious picnic boxes, filled with energizing goodies and tasty Azorean specialties. These were incredibly appreciated during our daily hiking adventures, fueling us through miles of exploration. We savored several fantastic breakfasts, enjoyed refreshing cocktails, and indulged in exquisite dinners on their beautiful outdoor patio. As we dined, our conversations often drifted to dreams of returning to the Azores as a family as soon as possible, a testament to the resort’s enduring charm and the island’s captivating allure.
Algarve: Coastal Bliss and Relaxed Exploration
Our final four days in Portugal were spent in the glorious Algarve region, a coastal paradise known for its stunning cliffs and golden beaches. We chose to stay at the magnificent Vila Vita Parc Resort, with a grand plan to fully embrace relaxation and luxuriate in a state of utter laziness. After all, the preceding legs of our journey had been incredibly busy and active! However, as anyone who knows us can attest, we are inherently active people who find immense joy in exploring and creating fun memories together. So, inevitably, that’s precisely what we ended up doing during our time in Algarve – a perfect blend of indulgent relaxation and spontaneous adventure.
Resort Life: Dining, Activities, and Indulgences
The Vila Vita Parc Resort offered such an array of fantastic restaurants and engaging activities right on its expansive property that resistance was futile! Our days often began by sleeping in, followed by late and leisurely breakfasts, always accompanied by a beautiful view. We’d then seek out something active to do, whether it was an invigorating hike along the dramatic coastline, a spirited game of tennis, a round of golf, or a peaceful walk along the pristine beach. After our morning exertions, we would settle into the adults-only pool area for refreshing cocktails and truly delicious lunches. Our go-to favorites included generous salads, creative pizzas, mouth-watering shrimp tacos, and the absolute best rustic fries served with a rich truffle aioli for dipping – truly our lunch faves! The afternoons were often spent reading poolside for a bit before transitioning to a captivating wine tasting in their remarkable underground wine cave, indulging in rejuvenating massages at their gorgeous spa, or simply finding a comfortable table for a competitive round of Nerts, our current favorite card game. Every aspect of the resort was designed for delightful indulgence.
A Humorous Escape: Finding Our Quiet Corner
Every restaurant at Vila Vita Parc was top-notch, allowing us the pleasure of dining at a different one each night. One evening, we visited Mizu Teppanyaki for an exquisite Japanese meal, savoring one of the best eel unagi dishes we’d ever experienced. Another night, we dined on the enchanting terrace of Giardino, enjoying house-made pastas under the spell of a rare and super cool strawberry moonrise. Then, on our actual 20th wedding anniversary, we celebrated at Ocean Restaurant, the resort’s two-Michelin-starred gem, which serves creative dishes beautifully inspired by the chef’s global travels.
Now, for a humorous anecdote: one night, we were eagerly anticipating dinner at the resort’s popular Portuguese restaurant, Adega, where we had a beautiful table reserved with a view of the water fountains. Let me pause to preface this story: our entire trip thus far had been wonderfully kid-free, and honestly, it was quite refreshing. Of course, we missed our own children and were eager to return home to the beautiful loudness and craziness that comes with a bustling family, but we weren’t quite ready just yet. 😉 So, upon being seated at our table at Adega, we looked around and noticed… kids everywhere! Babies crying, toddlers giggling, teens engrossed in TikToks. Brandon and I exchanged a glance, and in complete, unspoken agreement, immediately got up to politely inform the hostess that we would be seeking a quieter restaurant with fewer kiddos. Laughing at ourselves, here we were – a couple married for 20 years with four “loud” kids back home – effectively running from a restaurant full of children! It was hilariously “us.” Fortunately, the resort was expansive and offered several adults-only spaces, allowing us to find a quaint patio table at another restaurant to enjoy one of our final dinners of the trip in peaceful serenity. 😉
Celebrating Two Decades: Our Anniversary Day in Algarve
Our 20th wedding anniversary day in Algarve was truly special and perfectly curated for us. We started with a long, invigorating morning hike along the magnificent cliffs, taking in the dramatic coastal scenery. This was followed by the smoothest, most blissful massages at the Vila Vita spa, a perfect indulgence. The afternoon saw us sailing on a private yacht, gracefully exploring the stunning coastline and discovering famous sea caves. Our day culminated in a sublime dinner at Ocean Restaurant, marking a truly memorable and romantic celebration of two decades together. Every moment felt just right, a beautiful testament to our journey.
A Quick Taste of Madrid: Spanish Flavors on the Way Home
Our European adventure concluded with a brief but impactful stop in Madrid, Spain, serving as our entry and exit point for the trip. We were incredibly fortunate to have just under 24 hours in the vibrant Spanish capital, and we made every moment count, determined to explore and eat as much as humanly possible – and we certainly did! We landed in Madrid around 9 PM from Algarve and immediately dove into a late-night tapas crawl that lasted until 1 AM. The next morning, we rose early to embark on a delightful bakery and more tapas crawl, savoring every bite right up until we absolutely had to head to the airport for our flight home.
Late-Night Tapas and Morning Delights
Our whirlwind culinary tour of Madrid allowed us to indulge in an incredible variety of Spanish delights. We savored succulent olives, rich cheeses, crispy patatas bravas (fried potatoes with a spicy sauce), garlicky gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), a classic tortilla Española (Spanish omelet), hearty jamón Ibérico bocadillo (cured Iberian ham sandwich), creamy croquettes, flavorful sausages, sweet churros, and flaky napolitanas (chocolate or crème-filled pastries), alongside so much more! We instantly fell in love with Madrid’s vibrant energy and its unparalleled culinary scene. Our brief encounter only deepened our desire to return soon and truly experience all the city has to offer, promising a longer, more in-depth exploration of its culture, history, and, of course, its magnificent food.
Portugal, A Love Story: Cherished Memories and Future Adventures
Whew, what an absolutely incredible journey! Portugal truly felt like pure magic, weaving a spell of enchantment over us with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. We will forever cherish the extraordinary experiences, the unforgettable tastes that danced on our palates, the precious memories forged, and the invaluable quality time we shared together throughout this magnificent country. Our hearts are overflowing with love for Portugal, and one thing is certain: we will be back! This trip was not just a celebration of our twenty years together, but the beginning of a lifelong love affair with Portugal itself.
xoxo,
