Porto, Madeira & Pico: Wine Affair

Day By Day Itinerary

1. Day 1Arrival in Madeira Island

   Welcome to Madeira! Transfer to your hotel (included). For a more comfortable arrival, we suggest adding early check-in to your hotel. Enjoy the warm weather on this paradise-like island that is known as the Island of Eternal Summer. Madeira is an oasis in the middle of the Atlantic, and you'll see why as soon as you set foot here.

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Stroll around Funchal’s historical streets: Funchal is the vibrant capital city of Madeira, an archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean and an autonomous region of Portugal. Nestled between the hills and the sea, Funchal is known for its picturesque setting, rich history, and lively atmosphere.
     • Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers' Market)
     • Sé Cathedral
     • Santa Clara Convent
     • Museu de Arte Sacra (Museum of Sacred Art)
     • Blandy's Wine Lodge
     • Zona Velha (Old Town)
     • Praça do Município (Municipal Square)
     • Fortaleza de São Tiago (São Tiago Fort)
     • Marina and Waterfront
2. Day 2Half-Day Food & Wine Walking Tour in Funchal (Included)

   • Half-Day Food & Wine Walking Tour in Funchal (Included): Starting at 09:45 AM in downtown Funchal, explore the captivating history and flavors of Funchal on our food & wine tour, immersing yourself in Madeira's culture and wines. Delight in authentic regional delicacies at an innovative venue preserving tradition. Indulge in the exquisite chocolates of a local factory and sample highly acclaimed wines at a renowned producer's estate. Savor Madeira's finest cookies and sweets at a traditional factory. Experience local favorites like black scabbard fillet sandwiches at a traditional bar. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Funchal's bustling farmer's market, offering fresh produce and seafood. Discover the essence of Madeiran cuisine at a charming restaurant in the old town. Conclude your journey at "Armazém do Mercado," a modern haven for coffee, tea, wine, and music (pick-up not included).
3. Day 3Safari + Madeira Table Wine Tasting & Snacks (Included)

   • Safari + Madeira Table Wine Tasting & Snacks (Included): Starting at 2:00 PM embark on a scenic journey to Serra d'Água Valley, a stunning destination on the west side of the island. Ascend to the Encumeada pass, 1000m above sea level, for breathtaking views of Ribeira Brava and São Vicente. Descend through the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest, exploring hidden tracks in our iconic Land Rover with an open roof. Experience the charm of Lameiros village before indulging in a tasting of unique Madeira Table Wines amidst the northern vineyards (pick-up included at your hotel).
4. Day 4Arrival in Porto

   Welcome to Porto! As soon as you arrive here, you'll be transferred to your hotel (transfers included). You should consider adding early check-in to your hotel reservation for a more comfortable arrival.

   • Suggestion for the day: Explore downtown Porto and get to know the city's unique highlights! These are some that you can't miss:
     • D. Luís I Bridge: This iconic double-decker bridge offers stunning panoramic views of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. Take a walk across the bridge for a unique perspective, or hop on a tram for a thrilling ride.
     • Ribeira District: Explore the heart of Porto's historic center. Wander through the charming Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its colorful houses, narrow streets, and lively atmosphere.
     • Livraria Lello: A haven for bookworms, this historic bookstore boasts a beautiful neo-gothic facade and a grand staircase said to have inspired J.K. Rowling. Be prepared for queues, though!
     • Torre dos Clérigos: Climb the 225 steps of the Clérigos Tower for breathtaking 360-degree views of the city. Don't miss the adjacent Igreja do Clerigos church, known for its baroque architecture.
     • Porto Cathedral (Sé Catedral do Porto): This imposing Romanesque cathedral is the oldest church in Porto. Climb the bell tower for stunning city views and admire the intricate architecture.
     • São Francisco Church: Immerse yourself in the extravagant Baroque style at São Francisco Church. Be sure to marvel at the opulent gilded woodwork and the azulejo tilework within.
     • Majestic Café: Step back in time at the Majestic Café, a Belle Époque gem known for its art nouveau interior and delicious Portuguese pastries.
     • Try a Traditional Francesinha! Imagine a toasted sandwich bursting with steak, sausage, ham & melty cheese in an incredibly tasty sauce. A rich, slightly spicy sauce tops it all off. It's a Porto must-eat!
5. Day 5A Day in Douro with Lunch (Included)

   • A Day in Douro with Lunch (Included): Immerse yourself in the magic of the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Towering mountains, winding rivers, and rich traditions create a breathtaking landscape. Visit the iconic Shrine of Our Lady of Remedies in Lamego, a testament to the region's faith and culture. No Douro Valley experience is complete without a taste of its world-famous Port wine. Relax on a scenic cruise in Pinhão and savor delicious local wines. Join us for a full-day adventure, departing daily at 9:00 AM. Includes guided tour, lunch, wine tasting, and a panoramic cruise. Don't miss this unforgettable journey! (Pick-up not included).
6. Day 6Fado & Wine Tour (Included)

   • Fado & Wine Tour (Included): Unwind on our enchanting Wine & Fado Tour, led by a local guide. Meander through historic cafes, hidden wine havens, and charming taverns, savoring Portugal's soul on a plate. Indulge in local wines paired with delicious bites, from Vinho Verde to Alentejo DOC. The evening culminates in a captivating 1-hour Fado performance, where haunting melodies serenade you. Uncover Porto's hidden gems and experience the city's heartbeat through wine, music, and culture. This unforgettable journey creates memories to last a lifetime! (Starting at 3:30 PM, pick-up not included).
7. Day 7Arrival in Pico Island

   The magnificent Pico Island welcomes you! Be transferred to your hotel (transfers included) and start exploring. Consider adding early check-in to your reservation for more comfort upon arrival.

   • Suggestions for the day:
     • Walk around the town: Madalena is a charming town with a relaxed atmosphere. Explore the cobblestone streets, visit the Santa Maria Madalena Church, and admire the traditional Azorean architecture.
     • Whale Watching Tour: Embark on an unforgettable whale-watching tour departing from Madalena Harbor. Spot dolphins, whales, and other marine life in their natural habitat. To schedule your whale-watching trip, please click here.
8. Day 8Pico Wine Day Tour (Included)

   • Pico Wine Day Tour (Included): Explore Pico Island's volcanic landscapes and world-famous wines on this immersive tour.  Travel back in time through villages built with volcanic stone.  Delve into the UNESCO-listed Pico Wine Culture, visiting wineries, museums, and interpretation centers. Expert guides will lead you through tastings of Pico's unique wines, allowing you to experience their aroma, color, taste, and texture.  Savor a delicious lunch featuring fresh local products.  This unforgettable journey awakens all five senses! (Pick-up not included).
9. Day 9Pico Wine Tasting (Included)

   From 12:00 - 14:00 PM: Tasting of 3 Wines in Solar Terra Brum

   Embark on an unforgettable journey through the exquisite vineyards of Pico Island with Art of Wine, a premier wine tourism experience led by the passionate and knowledgeable Fábio Rocha. With a distinguished background in Food Engineering and a Master’s degree in Viticulture and Enology, Fábio has honed his craft in renowned wine regions around the world. His extensive international experience has culminated in the creation of Art of Wine, where he brings the unique flavors and rich heritage of Azorean wines to life.

   Join Fábio on a captivating exploration of Pico Island's winemaking traditions. Witness the art of wine production from vine to bottle as you tour picturesque vineyards, savor exclusive tastings, and engage in insightful discussions. Fábio’s deep connections with local producers and tourist entities ensure an authentic and enriching experience that celebrates the essence of Azorean viticulture.

10. Day 10Arrival in São Miguel Island

    Stay in São Miguel island for the final part of your trip. Be transferred to your hotel (transfers included) and start exploring the island.

    • Suggestions for the day:
      • Explore downtown Ponta Delgada on foot! Make sure to check the following spots (or schedule a guided walking tour around the city here):
        • Portas da Cidade 
        • Portas do Mar
        • Local churches like Matriz and Convento de Nossa Senhora da Esperança 
        • Farmers' Market (Mercado da Graça)
        • Local products and cheese stores like Rei dos Queijos or Príncipe dos Queijos
        • Pineapple Plantations in Fajã de Baixo 
      • Schedule a half-day tour to Furnas and relax at the hot thermal pools! You can schedule this tour here.
11. Day 11Free Day for Personal Activities (São Miguel Island)

    Suggestions for the day:

    • Schedule a Full-Day Tour to Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo to discover some of the best spots and lakes on the island! Click here to book this tour.
12. Day 12Return Flight Home

    Thank you for choosing Azores Getaways! We look forward to the opportunity to explore more destinations together in the future. Have a safe and pleasant journey back home!