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Eat Smart in Portugal

October 18 to 26, 2026
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2026 Eat Smart Culinary and Cultural Tour to Portugal

Experience Portugal through its most authentic expression—its cuisine. Join us for an immersive journey that brings you to the heart of Portuguese culture, guided by the flavors, traditions, and stories that define this remarkable country. Savor an extraordinary range of regional specialties in the places where they were born, from coastal classics to countryside comfort dishes. Step into the kitchen for a hands-on cooking class that reveals the techniques and secrets behind Portugal’s most beloved recipes. Along the way, enjoy engaging culinary talks and vibrant market visits, where you’ll explore the herbs, spices, and essential ingredients that shape Portuguese cookery. Between tastings and culinary adventures, you’ll also experience Portugal’s iconic cultural landmarks—with time built in to shop, relax, and soak in the rhythm of daily life. You’ll return home with a deeper understanding of Portugal’s culinary heritage and a profound appreciation for the history and culture woven into every dish.

Culinary & Cultural Highlights

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At a glance

Day 1 - Arrival in Lisbon and Hotel Check-In

18-Oct-2026

Arrive in Lisbon and Settle Into Hotel

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Arrival in Lisbon

Upon arrival at Lisbon Airport, you will meet your guide and be transferred to your hotel. The group transfer is included for your convenience.

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Portugal Boutique Hotel - Lisbon

Check inSunday, Oct 18, 2026
Check outTuesday, Oct 20, 2026

In the heart of Lisbon, next to Rossio and Baixa Pombalina, only five minutes from Comércio Square and the Tagus River, and with St. George’s Castle only a hillside away, guests staying at the Portugal Boutique get to explore the city from its very heart. With 53 comfortable rooms, the Portugal Boutique Hotel offers its guests an excellent service that sets it apart from the rest, making each stay a unique and unforgettable experience. With its unique design this boutique hotel is a true homage to Lisbon by the renowned interior design architect Cristina Santos Silva.

Day 2 - Lisbon City Tour

19-Oct-2026
Day 2 - Lisbon City Tour image

Explore Lisbon's Markets and Heritage Sites

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Visit Mercado da Ribeira

After breakfast, we slip into the vibrant heart of Lisbon’s culinary world: Mercado da Ribeira. Crowned by its stately clocktower and graceful oriental dome, this historic market has anchored the Cais do Sodré district for centuries.

Originally inaugurated in 1882—and once celebrated as one of Europe’s great fish markets—today its 10,000 square meters unfold into a dazzling tapestry of color and flavor. Expect gleaming seafood counters, fragrant flowers, jewel‑bright produce, and an irresistible array of artisanal bites crafted by some of Lisbon’s most exciting culinary talents.

It’s a feast for the senses and a beautifully immersive window into the city’s gastronomic soul.

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Lunch at Mercado da Ribeira

We will enjoy a leisurely lunch in the Mercado da Ribeira.
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Lisbon City Tour

After lunch, we begin an elegant sweep through Lisbon’s most storied landmarks. Our city tour opens at the majestic Praça do Comércio, where golden arcades frame sweeping river views, before continuing to the lively rhythm of Rossio Square, the historic heart of Lisbon’s social life.

From there, we step into the city’s UNESCO‑listed treasures, including the breathtaking Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, a masterpiece of Manueline architecture. Inside, we pause at the tombs of Vasco da Gama and Luís de Camões, two icons of Portugal’s Age of Discovery and literary heritage.

We conclude at the iconic Belém Tower, rising gracefully over the Tagus—a symbol of exploration, artistry, and Portugal’s enduring maritime spirit.

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Pasteis de Belém Bakery Visit

Next, we make a delicious stop at the legendary Pastéis de Belém bakery—home of Lisbon’s original custard tarts. While parts of the building are currently under restoration, the ovens continue to turn out the same warm, silky pastries that have captivated visitors since 1837. We’ll step inside to savor these iconic treats fresh from the source.

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Welcome Dinner at A Gina

We close our first day in Lisbon with a warm Welcome Dinner at A Gina, a beloved local restaurant known for its heartfelt hospitality and classic Portuguese flavors. It’s an inviting, relaxed setting—perfect for settling in, sharing stories, and savoring the spirit of Lisbon together.

Day 3 - Lisbon to Evora, Cork Forest Tour with Lunch

20-Oct-2026
Day 3 - Lisbon to Evora, Cork Forest Tour with Lunch image

Explore Evora's Heritage and Gastronomy

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Lisbon to Evora

After breakfast, we set out for Évora, a jewel in the heart of the Alentejo. Nestled between Lisbon and the Spanish borderlands of Estremadura, this museum‑city—designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986—unfolds layers of history dating back to Roman times.

Évora flourished in the 16th century, when Portuguese royalty made it their home, leaving behind a legacy of whitewashed houses, intricate tiles, wrought‑iron balconies, and sun‑drenched squares.

The Alentejo region is also celebrated for one of Portugal’s richest culinary traditions—deeply rooted in the Mediterranean diet and renowned for its soulful, rustic flavors. It’s a place where history, architecture, and gastronomy come together beautifully.

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Cork Forest and Farm Tour

We continue into the Alentejo countryside for a beautifully immersive visit to a cork forest and working farm, where you’ll discover the remarkable world of cork harvesting—an ancient craft that sustains both local communities and the surrounding ecosystem. As you stroll beneath the majestic cork oak trees, you’ll witness a landscape found almost nowhere else on earth, alive with biodiversity and shaped by centuries of stewardship.

After this enriching experience, we gather for a regional lunch featuring the soulful flavors of the Alentejo—an ideal moment to savor the land’s bounty and reflect on the natural wonders you’ve just explored.

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Afternoon at Leisure

Return to the hotel to unwind and take advantage of the property's services.

Check inTuesday, Oct 20, 2026
Check outWednesday, Oct 21, 2026
Experience the charm of Moura House, situated in the heart of Évora, where historic sites are just a stroll away. Enjoy the blend of traditional Portuguese decor and modern comforts in cozy accommodations. With stunning city views and a peaceful garden, it’s an inviting retreat enhanced by personalized service.

Day 4 - Evora to Obidos and Alvados

21-Oct-2026
Day 4 - Evora to Obidos and Alvados image

Medieval Obidos, Cooking Lesson, and Alvados Stay

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Evora to Obidos and Alvados

After breakfast, we depart Évora and make our way to the enchanting medieval town of Óbidos, a storybook village wrapped in ancient walls and filled with winding cobblestone lanes. Here, you’ll have time to explore at your own pace—discovering whitewashed houses trimmed with bright bougainvillea, charming artisan shops, and hidden corners that feel untouched by time.

Enjoy lunch at leisure in one of Óbidos’ inviting cafés before we continue our journey toward Alvados.

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Cooking lesson at Emotional Hotel

Enjoy a cooking lesson and dinner at the renowned Emotional Hotel in Alvados. Immerse yourself in the local culinary traditions as you learn from expert chefs, crafting authentic dishes using fresh, regional ingredients. After the hands-on experience, savor the delicious meal you've prepared in the hotel's charming dining area, surrounded by a warm and inviting atmosphere. This unique experience not only tantalizes your taste buds but also creates lasting memories in a truly special setting.

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Dinner at Emotional Hotel

Dinner at Emotional Hotel in Alvados.
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Cooking and Nature Emotional Hotel - Alvados

Rua Asseguia das Lages no 181, Alvados, Portugal 2480-032
Check inWednesday, Oct 21, 2026
Check outFriday, Oct 23, 2026
An intimate nature-inspired design hotel with an innovative concept, Cooking and Nature Emotional Hotel has 12 unforgettable rooms surrounded by the exceptional natural landscape of the Serra D'Aire and Candeeiros.

Day 5 - Alvados to Alcobaça to Nazaré to Alvados

22-Oct-2026
Day 5 - Alvados to Alcobaça to Nazaré to Alvados image
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Visit Alcobaça and Nazare

After breakfast, we depart Alvados for the charming town of Alcobaça, where a gentle river, graceful bridges, and a welcoming historic center set the scene. Here we explore the magnificent 12th‑century Mosteiro de Santa Maria de Alcobaça, one of Portugal’s most extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Sites, renowned for its soaring architecture and timeless serenity.

We then continue to Nazaré, a once‑quiet fishing village now celebrated for its dramatic coastal viewpoints and authentic maritime spirit. We’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, savoring fresh regional flavors, before visiting the lively Mercado Municipal.

Afterward, we return to Alvados, carrying with us the beauty and stories of Portugal’s Silver Coast.

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Dinner in local restaurant.

Dinner in local restaurant in Alvados

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Overnight Emotional Hotel

Overnight at Emotional Hotel in Alvados.

Day 6 - Alvados to Coimbra and Porto

23-Oct-2026
Day 6 - Alvados to Coimbra and Porto image

Travel from Alvados to Porto via Coimbra

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Alvados to Coimbra to Porto

After breakfast, we depart Alvados and travel north toward Porto, pausing en route to explore Coimbra, Portugal’s storied “City of Knowledge.” Home to one of the world’s oldest universities, Coimbra blends academic grandeur with medieval charm, offering a glimpse into the intellectual heart of the country.

After our visit, we continue to Porto for check‑in at the Porto Ribeira Carris Hotel, where you’ll have time to unwind before dinner at a local restaurant. The evening is yours to settle into the rhythm of Portugal’s northern capital.

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Hotel Carris Porto Ribeira - Porto, Portugal

Rua do Infante D Henrique 1, Porto, Portugal 4050-296
Check inFriday, Oct 23, 2026
Check outMonday, Oct 26, 2026
Modern hotel in the heart of Porto's old town, next to Alfandega Congress Centre and Douro river 20 minutes from the airport.

Day 7 - Discovering Porto

24-Oct-2026
Day 7 - Discovering Porto image

Explore Porto's Markets and Port Wine Tradition

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Excursion to Bolhão Market

After breakfast, we begin our day with an excursion to Mercado do Bolhão, Porto’s beloved 1914 market and a vibrant symbol of the city’s soul. Set in the heart of downtown, Bolhão captures the essence of Porto with its lively stalls, warm vendors, and an irresistible array of fresh fish, meats, fruits, flowers, and colorful local specialties.

This historic market is more than a place to shop—it’s a window into daily life in Porto, where tradition, flavor, and community come together under one iconic roof.

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Lunch-on-the-go in Porto

We will then enjoy 'lunch-on-the-go,' with stops to taste the delicacies of this city in the hidden local restaurants and mouth-watering bakeries.
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Port Wine Production Experience

In the afternoon, we delve into one of Porto’s most cherished traditions with a visit to a historic Port wine facility. Here, you’ll uncover the rich story of Port—from the sun‑drenched vineyards of the Douro to the centuries‑old techniques that shape each bottle.

A guided tour leads us through atmospheric cellars lined with aging barrels, where you’ll learn how time, wood, and craftsmanship come together to create Port’s signature depth and character.

We conclude with a curated tasting, savoring a selection of distinctive Port styles and appreciating the artistry behind this iconic Portuguese wine.

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Dinner on own

Dinner on own.
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Hotel Porto Carris Ribeira

Overnight at hotel Porto Carris Ribeira in Porto.

Day 8 - Porto to Douro Valley and Return

25-Oct-2026
Day 8 - Porto to Douro Valley and Return image

Douro Valley River Cruise and Farewell Dinner

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Douro Valley River Cruise

This morning, we board our Douro Valley river cruise and glide upstream toward Régua, entering one of Portugal’s most enchanting landscapes. This is a land shaped by centuries of tradition—a mystical valley where terraced vineyards cling to the hillsides and nature and humanity exist in perfect harmony.

The Douro was the world’s first officially demarcated wine region, internationally celebrated for its extraordinary wines and enduring craftsmanship. Here, ancient practices still thrive: harvests gathered by hand, grapes crushed by foot, and generations of knowledge passed down with care.

As we sail through this breathtaking scenery, you’ll feel the deep connection between the land, its people, and the timeless art of winemaking.

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Breakfast and Lunch on Board

Breakfast and lunch will be served on board the boat.
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Free Time in Régua

We enjoy some free time in Régua before boarding the train back to Porto for our Farewell Dinner. Take a leisurely stroll along the shimmering Douro River, browse charming local shops, or settle into a riverside café with a glass of the region’s celebrated Port wine.

The terraced vineyards rising above the valley create unforgettable views—perfect for capturing the final moments of our time in the Douro.

This gentle interlude offers a chance to savor the landscape, the culture, and the quiet beauty of the valley before we gather in Porto for a memorable Farewell Dinner to celebrate our journey together.

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Hotel Carris Porto Ribeira - Porto, Portugal

Rua do Infante D Henrique 1, Porto, Portugal 4050-296
Check inFriday, Oct 23, 2026
Check outMonday, Oct 26, 2026
Overnight at hotel Porto Carris Ribeira in Porto.

Day 9 - Depart for Airport

26-Oct-2026
Day 9 - Depart for Airport image

Departure from Porto and Tour End

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Depart for Porto Airport

After breakfast at the hotel we will depart for the Porto airport to connect with our international flights. The program includes the group transfer.

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Map

1. Portugal Boutique Hotel - Lisbon

Rua João das Regras 4, 1100-294 Lisboa, Portugal

2. Mercado da Ribeira (Time Out Market)

Av. 24 de Julho 49, 1200-479 Lisboa, Portugal

3. Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

Praça do Império 1400-206 Lisboa, Portugal

4. Belém Tower (Torre de Belém)

Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa, Portugal

5. Pasteis de Belém

R. de Belém 84-92, 1300-085 Lisboa, Portugal

6. Convento do Espinheiro Hotel

Convento do Espinheiro, Évora 7005-839, Portugal

7. Óbidos (Historic Town)

Óbidos, Portugal

8. Cooking and Nature Emotional Hotel - Alvados

Rua Asseguia das Lages no 181, Alvados, Portugal 2480-032

9. Mosteiro de Alcobaça

Praça 25 de Abril, 2460-018 Alcobaça, Portugal

10. Nazaré (Mercado Municipal)

Av. Vieira Guimarães, 2450-110 Nazaré, Portugal

11. Coimbra (University Area)

Largo da Porta Férrea, 3000-447 Coimbra, Portugal

12. Hotel Carris Porto Ribeira

Rua do Infante D Henrique 1, Porto, Portugal 4050-296

13. Mercado do Bolhão

Rua Formosa 214, 4000-214 Porto, Portugal

14. Douro Valley (Régua)

Régua, Portugal

15. Porto Airport (Aeroporto Francisco Sá Carneiro)

4470-558 Maia, Portugal

Tour Details

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Tour Details

Tour Cost with 10 participants

Price Per Person - 5997 € converted to USD at time of final payment.

Single Supplement - 500 € converted to USD at time of final payment.

Payment: A non-refundable deposit of $2000 US per person is required upon booking. To request a Reservation Form and pay the deposit, please contact us at susan@eatsmartguides.com or call 608-285-2390. 

Final Payment: Due 45 days prior to departure.

Cancellation and Refund: If a written notice of cancellation is received from passenger 46-90 days or more prior to departure, all advance deposits will be refunded. If cancellation is made 45 – 30 days before departure, the cancellation charge is 35% of the tour cost. If cancellation is made 29 – 15 days before departure, the cancellation charge is 75% of the tour cost. If cancellation is made 14 – 1 days before departure, the cancellation charge is 100% of the tour cost.​

Included Services:

• Group airport transfers

• Land transportation by air-conditioned vehicle

• Professional English-speaking guide throughout the tour

• Services of tour leaders Joan Peterson and Susan Chwae

• Entrance fees to museums and historical sites included in the group day tours

• All cooking and wine demos, lunches and dinners, unless specified

• 1 soft drink, tea, or coffee during lunch and dinner

• Bottled water (available on the motor coach and at lunch and dinner)

• Copy of culinary guidebook, Eat Smart in Portugal, by Ronnie Hess and Joan Peterson

Services not included:

• International flights*

• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages during lunch and dinner unless specified in the itinerary

• Tips for guide and driver

• Tips for porters at hotels

• Tips for wait staff

General Notes:

• On this tour there is moderate walking on uneven surfaces, so you will want to pack good walking shoes. 

* Tour leader and travel advisor, Susan Chwae (based in US), can help you obtain international flights and trip insurance.