A Family Adventure in Portugal
Trip highlights
- Spot dolphins frolicking in the Algarve
- Sharpen your board skills with a private surf lesson
- Take a Portuguese cooking class
- Get hands-on with in a tile painting workshop
- Enjoy a luxurious chocolate tasting in Porto
- Bike through Porto's beautiful parks and gardens
Bespoke trips with Jacada
We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:
- Luxury accommodation throughout
- Private transfers
- Private tours and experiences
- Full support from your travel designer and concierge
- Help with restaurant recommendations and reservations
- Days 1–4 The Algarve
- Days 4–8 Lisbon
- Days 8–11 Porto
- Days 1–4 The Algarve
- Days 4–8 Lisbon
- Days 8–11 Porto
Itinerary in detail
Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.
Three nights in the Algarve
Sitting right at the foot of the country, the Algarve is one of Portugal’s most popular coastal destinations and home to some of its loveliest beaches. West of Faro you’ll find golden sands and hidden coves, with the coastline getting wilder the further west you head. This is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy life by the sea.
Where you could stay
Algarve
Overview
Perched above the blue Atlantic and surrounded by evergreen gardens and fronted by a beautiful stretch of sandy beach, Vila Joya is striking family-run boutique resort.
There are just 22 rooms and expansive suites, each unique and with direct sea views, and casual, luxurious interiors of light, warm tones, natural materials and fine examples of Portuguese craftsmanship. Each room also includes a terrace or balcony, some with direct access to the garden.
At lunchtime and dinnertime, the terrace becomes a dining space under Dieter Koschina, patron at Vila Joya for over 25 years, winning two Michelin stars and becoming one of Portugal’s most highly decorated chefs. Fine dining is central to the Vila Joya experience and indeed the reason many people stay here again and again. There are also lighter bites at the Pool Restaurant. Indulgence continues at the fabulous spa which focuses on water, air and light.
→ Find out moreMake it mine
Wildlife
Surfing
Dolphins and seabirds boat experience
Discover the Algarve’s marine wildlife in their natural habitat, looking out for common and bottlenose dolphins. Other cetaceans like the Risso’s dolphin and the striped dolphin are occasionally spotted as well as orcas and minke whales. You’ll also have the chance to spot a variety of seabirds, hammer sharks and turtles.
Private surf class
Portugal is blessed with a rugged coastline along the wild Atlantic, making it one of the most sought after surf destinations in the world. Enjoy a private class with an experienced surf school, starting in the morning on the sand before venturing out into the surf to learn the tricks of the trade. The perfect excursion for beginners and more experienced surfers too.
Four nights in Lisbon
Europe’s second oldest capital, Lisbon is an effortlessly elegant city, full of old-world charm. Weaving their way through a pretty patchwork of colourful houses and heavy washing lines are the city’s trams, the favoured mode of transport of Lisbonites and a great way to hop between the different districts.
Lisbon has plenty to offer, with a plethora of museums and galleries as well as beautiful buildings covered in iconic azulejo tiles. The city is built on seven hills, each one offering spectacular views over the city and the River Tajo. It is also known for its lively restaurant scene and there are plenty of places to stop, sip a coffee and savour a Portuguese custard tart while watching the world go by.
Where you could stay
Lisbon
Highlights
- 4 restaurants and lounges
- In room dining options
- 2 swimming pools (outdoor and indoor)
- Spa
- Fitness centre
- Rooftop running track
- Pilates studio
Overview
Located in the heart of the Lisbon, at the top of one of the city’s famous seven hills, the Four Seasons Hotel Ritz offers spectacular views across the city and river.
282 rooms and suites are beautifully decorated with 18th-century style furnishings as well as tapestries, painting and sculptures by contemporary Portuguese artists. Most rooms come with a private balcony overlooking the hotel gardens, Eduardo VII Park or the River Tajo so you can enjoy bird’s-eye-views and wonderful sunsets over the city’s rooftops.
One of Lisbon‘s gastronomic gems, the Verandah restaurant serves fresher-than-fresh seafood caught from the nearby Atlantic Ocean and boasts an impressive wine cellar. For those with a keen interest in cooking, the hotel can arrange tastings, visits to the fish market and cooking classes. There is a also a sushi bar for fresh, healthy bites.
Named after the famous Portuguese artist, Jose Almada Negreiros, the hotel lounge is a favourite haunt for guests and locals alike. The centrepiece of the Ritz bar is Pedro Leitao’s piano, which has been signed by world-famous artists. Take a seat under one of the hand-made Centauros tapestries or head out onto the terrace to drink in the views.
There is a spa featuring an indoor pool and treatment rooms for when you want to completely unwind, as well as a rooftop fitness centre and running track for those who like an active start to their day.
There are 60 pieces of art throughout the hotel and privatley guided tours can be arranged for guests to learn more about them and their history.
→ Find out moreAlentejo
Overview
Surrounded by a stunning 17-acre estate of umbrella pines, cork trees, wild sand dunes, wildflowers, rice fields and a stretch of pristine, white-sand beach, Sublime Comporta is a fabulous contemporary retreat a little over an hour from Lisbon.
There are 14 white, minimalist, rustic bedrooms spread between the main building and a nearby annex, as well as a selection of beautiful 2, 3 and 5 bedroom ‘cabana’ villas.
The chic restaurant, Sem Porta, celebrates seasonal local produce and producers in a relaxed, modern setting. Think fresh oysters and sea bass with herbs and vegetables from the organic twinned with wonderful regional wine. There’s also a cocktail bar as well as another drinks venue by the swimming pool.
Activities in the surrounding areas include horse-back riding on the dunes, fields and deserted beaches of Comporta, picnics on private lakes, excursions out with a local fisherman, wine tasting and excursions to discover Portugal’s only resident dolphin community, though sitting back and relaxing is the order of the day here. Sublime Comporta’s spa offers a wide variety of treatments in indoor and outdoor treatment rooms, a sauna, steam bath and a heated indoor pool with all organic products.
→ Find out moreLisbon
Highlights
- 87 rooms in total
- 5 suites
- Restaurant and terrace BAHR
- Some rooms have balconies
- Historic downtown location
- Massage room
- Sauna and steam room
- Gym
- Amazing views of Lisbon and the Tagus River
Overview
Bairro Alto, a beautiful boutique hotel, is nestled in the historic downtown heart of Lisbon and combines style, bohemia and sophistication all with the classic charm of a different time. You’ll find it sandwiched between the bohemian Bairro Alto and the chic Chiado district, within easy reach of all the city’s sights.
With just 87 rooms and suites, the hotel has an intimate feel. There are 3 types of room to choose from, ranging from single to prestige Chiado. All rooms include main square or city views, and combine classic materials with the contemporary touch. The 5 suites are bright and spacious, with rooms looking out over the city of Lisbon and the Tagus River – some featuring private balconies from which to admire the views.
After showcasing the best that Portuguese food has to offer around the world, Chef Nuno Mendes has returned to his hometown to oversee the restaurant BAHR and terrace. Here you will enjoy modern and creative cuisine with a focus on Portuguese flavours. For sublime views, head to the top-floor terrace and enjoy a drink as the sun goes down and the city twinkles in the evening light. Or, for a re-invigoration of the senses, relax with a massage or head to the hotel’s steam room to let your skin breathe.
→ Find out moreExplore Lisbon and surrounds
Lisbon city highlights
A private tour will allow you to learn more about Portugal’s capital, home to many civilizations through the centuries including the Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Moors. Visit the Castle of Saint Jorge and the area of Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest quarter. The 15th and 16th centuries were the golden era of the maritime in Portugal, transforming Lisbon into an opulent centre of a vast empire. See the monuments in the area of Belem and visit the traditional commerce zones of the city, as well as the Baixa and Chiado neighbourhoods.
Tile-painting workshop
Today you’ll visit the small family-run winery of Quinta de Sant’Ana where a local artist will be on hand to teach you all the skills you need to paint your own tiles. After you’ve let your creativity run riot, go on a guided visit to the vineyards and tuck into a picnic. Quinta de Sant’Ana boasts national grape varieties as well as some international grapes. The moderate climate makes for deliciously concentrated and complex reds.
Visit Sintra, Cascais and Estoril
In Sintra, hundreds of years of history and culture await. Find yourself surrounded by old houses now converted into quaint stores and traditional pastry shops. You’ll visit the 19th-century Pena Palace, an incredible combination of architectural styles, colours and shapes with luxuriant gardens. Cascais is a coastal town, once a small fishing village, that became popular with artists and writers thanks to its idyllic scenery. You will also have time to explore the town of Estoril.
A Portuguese cooking class
Make your way to the LX Factory where you will learn the secrets to preparing a traditional Portuguese meal with your hosts at Kiss the Cook. They will make sure your wine glass is always full as they walk you through a starter and main dish, explaining the importance of each ingredient. Of course, you’ll get to enjoy what you cook, along with a seemingly endless supply of bread, olive oil and cheese. The kitchen is located in an old textile warehouse that has been transformed into a hub for local artisans, chefs and designers.
Three nights in Porto
Portugal’s second city, Porto, is one of Europe’s most charming. Built on a steep riverbank, a jumble of colourful medieval houses hug the calm waters of the Douro River where wooden boats bob on the surface. Locals seem to spill out of its cafes and bars, more often than not with a glass of the wine that gave the city its name.
Where you could stay
Porto
Highlights
- 109 rooms and suites
- Rooftop swimming pool
- Spa
- Two gourmet restaurants
Overview
This hotel was the family home of the Yeatmans, the British owners of a large port business. A hillside position on the banks of the River Douro in the heart of Vila Nova de Gaia and next to ancient port houses puts the hotel in a prime position for epic views and interesting activities.
The decor is classic and elegant, in keeping with the family’s heritage. The 109 rooms and suites feature antique artefacts and pictures from different Portuguese wine producers, opening out onto private balconies overlooking the river and the city’s historic centre. Be immersed in the city’s culture in the ADF Suite, where the bed head is an original barrel top and the domed oak ceiling mimics the enormous oak barrels used in wine production.
A highlight of a stay at The Yeatman is dining at the two gourmet restaurants. Enjoy imaginative cuisine where the traditional flavours are reinterpreted and presented immaculately. The restaurant is bright and airy and offers spectacular views over the river. There’s a comprehensive list of Portuguese wines and food and wine pairing menus take you on a journey through Portugal’s diverse and varied wine regions.
Relax and unwind at the hotel spa which offers a range of rejuvenating treatments, using natural ingredients from the surrounding vineyards. There is also an indoor and outdoor rooftop pool – take a dip in the evening and admire the twinkling lights of the city laid out before you.
→ Find out morePorto
Overview
Indulge in sophisticated luxury amid elegant surroundings at InterContinental Porto – Palacio das Cardosas in the centre of Porto. The exquisitely restored interiors speak of the palace’s grand past.
The 105 charming and spacious rooms and suites offer views out over peaceful enclosed gardens, Liberdade Square and the Clerigos Tower. The design is contemporary, making for comfortable inner-city havens. Chic suites boast living rooms, and balconies with views out over the Porto skyline.
Dine in style at Astoria Restaurant, where the menu features traditional Mediterranean and Portuguese cuisine with modern flourishes. Local, seasonal ingredients ensure the richness of the traditional flavours is preserved. As the sun goes down sip on cocktails and port wines in the elegantly stylish Cardosas Bar. Styled on a British library, this is also where you’ll find an indulgent afternoon tea.
When you are not out exploring the fascinating city, relax with a spa treatment or two, or fit in a work out in the fitness centre.
→ Find out moreExclusive tours for your family in Porto
Porto city tour
This tour is a great introduction to Porto’s colourful history, with mediaeval relics, soaring bell towers, extravagant baroque churches and stately beaux-arts buildings piled on top of one another. Visit landmarks such as the Stock Exchange Palace, the Church of Saint Francis, the Cathedral and Lello Bookstore in the historic Ribera district – one of the most ornate bookstores in the world with carved wooden ceilings and stained glass roof.
Chocolate tasting experience
Indulge your sweet tooth with a decadent chocolate tasting experience. Make your way to Arcádia Chocolate Store in the heart of Porto. Owned by the Bastos family since 1933, Arcádia is especially well-known for its “cat’s tongue chocolates’. Witness the unfolding process of the chocolate and enjoying a tasting served with a delicious glass of port.
City and garden bike tour
Meet your bike escort and head out to discover the city’s diversity. You will learn about urban history and discover green areas of this waterfront city. Explore palaces, opulent cottages, city parks and museums along the way. Some of the sites you will visit include the Teófilo Garden, City Park, Garden of the Passeio Alegre, Carlos Alberto’s Garden, Casa da Musica (Music House) and Crystal Palace.
Old town boat tour
Discover Porto’s old town, bridges and historic landscapes from the river. Make your way to the Douro Marina Port where you will meet the crew, board a boat and set out onto the river. From the water you’ll see mediaeval relics, soaring bell towers, baroque churches and beaux-arts buildings clustered beneath the sun. Enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch and selected refreshments on board.
The tour guides and drivers in Portugal went above and beyond to make sure we had a great time. To taking photos , suggesting wines to try and restaurant suggestions at lunch. We had several adult children on the trip and all of them loved the array of tours geared toward their likes. Marta and Hanna had suggested stores that…
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your adventure
How it works
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- Sit back and relax while we plan a bespoke itinerary for you.
Why book with Jacada
Personalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.
Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant Concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.
Positive Impact
We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.