Portugal | Douro, Serra da Estrela & Porto

Visit three fabulous locations in Northern Portugal with this amazing deal to Douro, Serra da Estrela and Porto! 

What's Included?

Why we love this deal:

• Explore Portugal's gorgeous northern region: 2 nights Douro Valley, a wine region recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, 2 nights in the mountains of Serra da Estrela and 3 nights in charming Porto.
• Head north to explore the stunning Douro Valley (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) stopping at the many "Quintas", wineries, orchards and vineyards along the way tasting the Port and DOC Douro wines, olive oil, almonds and honey that are produced in the region.
• Take a leisurely drive into Pinhão and cross the Douro river towards Peso da Régua to take in the breathtaking 360° views of the landscape, often considered one of the most beautiful roadways not only in Portugal, but in the world, as it sits right alongside the riverbed so you’re at the same level as the water
• Spend a few nights taking in the breathtaking views of the Serra da Estrela mountain region, perfect for hiking or even skiing in the winter months.
• With a rich historical and cultural heritage, charming neighborhoods, tasty Port wines, and romantic riverside views, Porto is a city that begs to be discovered; explore the city's UNESCO World Heritage historical center, visit the emblematic monuments, Baroque churches and towers and pop into the famous Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores.
• Breakfast may be included during your stay, depending on the accommodation selected.

About the Destination:

Serra da Estrela

The Serra da Estrela is the highest mountain range in mainland Portugal and an excellent destination for anyone interested in exploring Portuguese nature and the countryside. Reaching over 1,990 meters (6,529ft) high, most people get to the top via car, but many like to trek parts of the mountain on foot. Dotted with charming villages and covered in breathtaking natural landscapes, this part of Portugal is full of unique culture and unparalleled sights. Green meadows, rocky peaks reaching high into the sky, lagoons mirroring the vastness of the mountains, glacial valleys, and blankets of white snow during cooler seasons. This Bio Reserve invites you to take a long walk into its magnificent mountains. Depending on the timing of your visit, you can venture into one of the marked walking routes, off-road BTT routes which leave Covilhã and Fundão, hit the slopes for a day of skiing or you can venture into climbing the ghost wall of the Zêzere glacial valley or Covão da Ametade.

Douro Valley

With three World Heritage Sites recognized by UNESCO, there is no shortage of reasons to visit the Douro Valley, one of the most stunning landscapes in all of Portugal. Following the river Douro upstream, you reach the Alto Douro Wine Region. This is a land of traditions, a place of enchantment and mysticism, a great stretch of land where Nature reigns in perfect harmony with the inhabitants that have shaped the valley slopes and organized the land into vineyards. Each of these vineyards can be accessed by winding roads that pattern the landscape. There has been evidence of wine production for more than two thousand years in the region but it was only in 1756 that the Demarcated Douro Region was created and wine production in the region was organized and became internationally recognized. 

The course of the Douro river winds through the valley, carving its way through the rock and rushing towards the sea. The construction of dams has made the river navigable and nowadays cruise liners are a common sight. In the wine region, the train follows the Douro river along with the majority of its stretch, giving its passengers a privileged view of the stunning landscape.

Porto

The New York Times says: "From its stunning Beaux-Arts station to its cool bars serving Porto's signature drink, this charming city combines the best of old and new." Porto is indeed a city of endless charms that combine a rich history, old buildings covered in colorful azulejos (hand-painted tiles), modern architecture, a picturesque riverfront, and a high-spirited atmosphere that celebrates the joy of life.

Built along the hillsides overlooking the mouth of the Douro river, Porto is a registered UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the Porto wine, produced exclusively in the Douro Valley. Portugal's second-largest metropolis has many interesting places to visit and things to do. Go on a boat cruise on the Douro River and marvel at its stunning landscape. With an outstanding urban landscape and a 2,000-year history, what a great place to wander around its alley-woven medieval city center. Visit the extravagant baroque churches and stroll along Ribeira with its picturesque houses and lively atmosphere. Admire one of the most beautiful libraries in Europe- Livraria Lello.