Guide to plan your honeymoon

Getting hitched is the most socially accepted reason on the planet to ditch work and undertake your longest, most splurge-iest trip ever. But before you dive head first into checking off the items on your travel bucket list, take a few minutes to consider the practical stuff, because the trip of your dreams won’t just magically appear by itself.

Source: Lonely Planet 

In fact, lousy hotels, missed flights, lacklustre meals and inhospitable weather can significantly hamper a happy holiday, essentially flushing your hard-earned money down the toilet. And while we can’t read crystal balls or do rain dances, we can assure you that proper planning will undoubtedly put the odds in your favour of enjoying the getaway of your dreams.

Timing is everything

You’ve dutifully set aside your collection of vacation days — now it’s time to work out how to spend them on your honeymoon. It’s important to weigh the time you’ve allotted for your adventure against your destination of choice, and make sure that your trip is spent travelling, not transiting.

With two or three weeks, you’ll have a more generous amount of time to take a crack at a faraway destination and overcome the exhaustion of a long-haul journey and/or jet lag. But a week-long holiday, say, is never well served by spending two full days hoofing it from one continent to another, only to turn around a few days later and repeat the gruelling trek back.

The other major timing consideration has to do with seasonality. Tacking your honeymoon on at the end of your already-set wedding date might preclude travel to certain destinations simply due to the time of year. Large areas of the Caribbean, for example, are prone to hurricanes during the months of September and October. Other destinations have annual monsoons – like Thailand, which has two different curtains of rains that sweep across the kingdom during the latter half of the year.

It’s best to educate yourself on the high and low seasons of your preferred honeymooning locales. Prices, of course, increase with a rise in demand during the months with the most favourable climate and during busy periods such as school holidays (when desirable hotels can also become scarce). Low seasons, on the other hand — or better yet, ’shoulder’ or ‘green’ seasons — can be a worthy option if you want to see more bang for your buck at the expense of rolling the dice weather-wise.

How to build a multi-stop honeymoon

As the architect of your own multi-stop trip, you might want to think of your honeymoon as a novel; the action on your vacation should swell and ebb accordingly. Think of the beginning of the trip as the initiation phase — you’re adjusting to a new world (maybe getting over jet lag) and want to ease into the action as it gradually builds. The middle section of the honeymoon is where the plot thickens. Your pulse quickens with adventure sports, or late urban nights exploring. Then, with the end of the story in sight, the last section of the holiday is when the jets cool — a denouement of sorts when you once again slow your pace. It’s the beach in Bahia after Rio and São Paulo, the Amalfi villa at the end of Tuscany and Rome, or the ryokan in Hakone when you’re wrapping up Kyoto and Tokyo. You need an airbag at the end of the trip, so you feel revitalised by the holiday, not desperately needing another.

Picking hotels

Now, with your storybook itinerary you’re going to have to slot in hotels. These should play out in tandem with the pace at each stage of your trip, but you need to slightly trick your future self. Every accommodation option selected should build upon the previous choice. The human mind can’t help but judge, and when you arrive at lodging number two you won’t be able to ignore the instinct to compare it to your accommodation the night before. So, in order to essentially feel like you’re winning at travel, each hotel must get progressively better — or maintain the quality of the previous stay — culminating in your big splurge at the end, which nicely coincides with your itinerary’s finale. The last slice of the vacation is the happy ever after – just like you and your spouse after the wedding.

Honeymoon planning timeline

One year before honeymoon: Dream. Think about where you’ve always wanted to go to celebrate your marriage, and get inspired by guidebooks, magazines and websites.

Nine months before your honeymoon: If you’re budgeting your holiday in tandem with your wedding, you’ll likely know at this point what funds you’re hoping to allocate to your trip and can compare your budget against that dream list of destinations.

Six months before your honeymoon: Properly slot in your travel dates after calibrating for personal commitments and taking into account the optimal time – as you deem it – for visiting your destination of choice.

Four months before your honeymoon (or earlier): Cement the foundations of your plans, scouting airplane tickets, booking must-have items on your checklist (hotels, visa, park permits), and firming up a version – in very broad strokes – of what your itinerary might look like (which days in which destination for multi-stop trips).

Two months before your wedding (note wedding, and not necessarily honeymoon): If you’ve decided to ask your guests to help you fund your dream trip, now is the time to create an online registry detailing tangible activities to be undertaken at a gradation of price points to suit your wedding guests’ varying budgets.

One month before your honeymoon: The internet enables the world to move a million miles a minute, so once you begin the 30-day countdown you can take to your social platforms to snoop for upcoming events and trending bars, and even find friends that might be criss-crossing your itinerary.

FORT FAIAL, MADEIRA ISLAND

The island of Madeira is constituted as a romantic spot for nature also being as perfect as destination for honeymoon.
Recently, the Spanish tour operator Condé Nast Traveler recognized a spot on the island as one of the 40 most beautiful sunsets in the world - the Fort Faial on Penha Eagle. 

This fort is located on the north coast, an unforgettable sunset spot, revealing that this should be assessed whenever possible, as there are sunsets that are worth more than thousand words.

PORTUGAL IN LOVE: HONEYMOON IN THE SOUTH AND MADEIRA

Câmara de Lobos, Madeira

With this romantic program by TravelTailors you will discover the most romantic and secret places of Portugal, in South and Madeira: hotels, palaces, gardens and beaches. It offers you intimate hotels and fine dining. It suggests other activities ideal for two, like cooking classes, SPA and walks; it´s perfect for an incomparable honeymoon in Portugal!

DAY 1: LISBON

Castle of São Jorge

Arrival in Lisbon. 
Lisbon is one of the most fascinating cities in Europe! With blue skies almost all year round and a mild winter, Lisbon offers breathtaking panoramas of the city and the river, a picturesque setting where old trams take us from the narrow cobbled streets up to the excellent new hotels in broad boulevards, fabulous shopping opportunities of brand name and a fantastic nightlife. The old blends with the sophistication of the 21st century.
Alfama and the Castle give you a historic Journey to the Arab and medieval times. In the areas of Chiado, Bairro Alto and Príncipe Real, you can find some of the trendiest restaurants and bars in Lisbon. During the day, the streets are filled with animated crowds strolling around the museums, the shops, the art galleries, the cafes or grocery stores that sell gourmet products. From the Baixa to the Marquês de Pombal Square, there are theaters, train stations, esplanades and alleys to take a walk in. In Belém, lies the majestic Jerónimos Monastery, the famous Tower of Belém, the Cultural Centre and the many museums and gardens that surround them. It is imperative to sample the delicious Pastéis de Belém!

Around 8.30 pm: suggestion for dinner in a charming restaurant in Lisbon. 
The TravelTailors´ recommendation occupies a pleasant courtyard and a romantic flowered pateo. It presents a true and authentic cuisine, which seeks to recover the traditional flavors, giving them a creative touch, courtesy of the chef. Intimate atmosphere, impeccable service and a balanced offer of wines.

Lisbon by night : suggestion of esplanade LE CHAT and disco BBC.
Located opposite the National Museum of Ancient Art, LE CHAT is literally a terrace bar facing the Tagus, with fantastic views over the city and river. It had already worked as a terrace, having reopened in this new version, in which the architecture of the space is a glass cube, in October 2010. During the day it serves light meals, and you can have lunch or tea in the beautiful and sunny terrace, which is kept warm in winter and comfortable with heaters and blankets. Also noteworthy is the menu of cocktails , very varied and original.
The Bar Lounge BBC has a refined and relaxed environment, with a privileged view over the River Tagus. The program always has the latest news from the dance floor from Thursday to Saturday. Good music and good atmosphere make the BBC a reference of Lisbon´s night.

Accommodation at the hotel of the selected category.

DAY 2: LISBON - SINTRA - CASCAIS

Pena Palace

Visit to Sintra: Castle, palaces and gardens. 
The beautiful town of Sintra is entirely filled with magic and splendor: a romantic realm where majestic palaces, a fairytale castle, royal mansions and fascinating properties emerge in the midst of hills and lush forests. Characterized by its unique charm and serenity, the village offers an amazing beauty of scenery, with its vast rocky mountains, dense vegetation and pristine beaches. Designated Mountain of the Moon by the Celts and Mons Lunae by the Romans, the mystical mountains of Sintra also cover a vast natural park that stretches to the coast of Cascais. After tasting a sweet travesseiro of Sintra in the emblematic pastry shop Periquita, visit the most romantic monuments of Sintra, like the Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle, the Capuchos´Convent, the Regaleira and the Monserrate Palaces. We suggest you descend these forest surrounded streets in a horse carriage, all the way to the center.

Around 12.30 pm: suggestion of lunch in romantic restaurant, in Sintra. 
Our suggestion goes to one of the oldest restaurants in Sintra, giving you a good meal of regional Portuguese dishes or French flavors, with a quiet and family atmosphere. Correct and friendly service. List of selected wines. 

Journey to Cascais. 
Cascais, traditionally a small fishing port, is today a lively and cosmopolitan city that still retains its aristocratic air. We recommend a walk along its streets that have shops of excellent quality or a moment's rest on the many esplanades that exist here. The beaches continue to be one of the biggest reasons of attraction, and you can choose between those that are in the sheltered bay of the town, or even those a bit further away in the Guincho area (already integrated in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park) that offer excellent conditions for surfing and windsurfing. The Boca do Inferno (Mouth of Hell), an indentation of the coast surrounded by steep cliffs and caves, remains a natural curiosity that attracts many visitors to see the force of the sea.

Around 8.30 pm: suggestion for dinner in panoramic restaurant, in Cascais. 

TravelTailors suggests a restaurant with a magnificent view, located in Boca do Inferno. It is a gourmetrestaurant of reference, with Portuguese and Mediterranean influenced cuisine. 

Accommodation at the hotel of the selected category.

DAY 3: LISBON - ÉVORA

Temple of Diana

Journey to Évora. 
Évora is one of the most emblematic Portuguese cities. Its beautiful historic center has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Places of unavoidable visit are its imposing Cathedral, built between 1186 and 1204, the notorious Roman Temple (popularly dubbed the Temple of Diana), built between the I and III centuries AD, the Church of São Francisco and its famous Chapel of Bones, the beautiful Lóios Church (15th century), or the Palace of D. Manuel. The nearly 20 churches and monasteries of the city denote their religious and historical significance. A very local and central attraction is the famous Praça do Giraldo, with Arabian-style arches and a fountain dating from 1571, a meeting place for all generations, animation and special performances. Leave the worries of the modern world, and embrace the charm of Évora, Alentejo's most romantic city!

Suggestion: cooking class. 
In one of the finest hotel properties in the city, you can learn to cook the most delicious delicacies. The magic of Alentejo´s cuisine is to create, with simple and traditional products, dishes where the taste and the pleasure of eating is a cultural act.

From 12:30: suggestion for lunch in an Alentejo inspired restaurant, in Évora. 
Embark on a unique culinary journey and taste the traditional flavors of the local cuisine, which blend harmoniously with Mediterranean cuisine. Housed in an old cellar used by the monks, this is a gourmetrestaurant that provides a unique experience in an elegant setting filled with rich cultural heritage. 

Relaxing activity in SPA.
We offer you an experience in what was considered the best SPA in Portugal. It is a perfect retreat with a luxurious atmosphere, in a place where the most modern therapies meet story. From the quality of the treatments, to the wonderful view of the relaxation room and the indoor pool, everything is designed to provide tranquility and rejuvenation of mind, body and soul. This SPA is installed in a luxury hotel, fascinating for its history and its authentic charm, considered national patrimony.
Some proposals:
Body Exfoliation with salts and oils 25min. | Eye-Lift 25min. | Aromatic Back Massage 30min. 

Around 8.30 pm: suggestion for dinner in a traditional restaurant, in Évora. 
This is admittedly one of the great "temples" of Portuguese cuisine. As a spreader of Alentejo´s cuisine, it has been deeply engaged in the task, collecting recipes from the region, some of which have almost disappeared, and resurfaced here accompanied by an excellent list of Alentejo´s wine. 

Accommodation at the hotel of the selected category.

DAY 4: ÉVORA - CASTELO DE VIDE AND MARVÃO - PORTALEGRE

Castelo de Vide

Journey to Castelo de Vide. 
Castelo de Vide is a beautiful village in Alentejo, on a hill in Serra de São Mamede, a place graced by beauty. The flowered white houses of the village that goes up and down the hill, crowned by the castle, traverses itself with years of history and a quite ancient occupation, since in the area there are several megalithic legacies such as the Menhir of Meada. There are several monuments and places of interest in the village, especially the top of the Castle and the beautiful scenery, but also the Jewry , one of the most important and well preserved examples of the Jewish presence in Portugal dating from the 13th century. It is also preserved here one of the largest estates of civil architecture from the Gothic period. In the majestic Square D. Pedro V, you can find the Church of São João Baptista, the Hospital, the Main Church, the Town Hall and several stately and emblazoned mansions that breathe history.

Journey to Marvão. 
Very near to the Spanish border, at the highest point of the beautiful Serra de São Mamede, lies the charming village of Marvão in an environment of peace of mind and tranquility, surrounded by walls of the 13th and the 17th century.

From 12:30: suggestion for lunch in a traditional Alentejo food restaurant, in Marvão. 
With the Alentejo region being renowned for the richness and variety of its excellent cuisine, we propose you to savor a delicious menu with flavors faithful to bread and olive oil, aromatic herbs, and to the taste of coriander and pennyroyal, in Dogfish´s Alhada and Alentejo´s Pork: varied tastes that should be well accompanied with good, traditional Alentejo wines, as well as the flavor of regional sausages and cheeses. And if your appetite persists, be sure to taste the conventual desserts, like the Toucinho do Céu or Sericaia with Elvas´ Plums. 

Visit to Marvão. 
By visiting Marvão, one has to make sure to visit history itself, that runs through these narrow streets of Alentejo architecture, Gothic and Manueline heritage, as well as medieval testimonies of other times, marked in the typical local granite. The Castle and the imposing walls of the 13th century are unforgettable monuments of the village, but Marvão has more to offer, like the 15th century Parish Church, the ancient Church of Santa Maria, now an interesting municipal museum, housing archaeological and ethnological collections from the region. From the top of Marvão one has breathtaking views across the surrounding area, highlighting points such as the Watchtowew or the Pousada de Santa Maria.

Journey to Portalegre. 
Located in the Serra de São Mamede, near the border with Spain, Portalegre had a strategic position in the defense of the territory during the Middle Ages. The 17th and 18th centuries have left a strong baroque character in the city that still remains in some monuments, like the Church of São Lourenço, and the stately homes with examples such as the Yellow Palace, the Palace of the Falcons or the Achioli Palace, that still keep the crests of the families that lived there. Other attractions are the Convent of Santo Agostinho, Convent of São Bernardo, the jesuit Convent of São Sebastião, occupied by the Portalegre´s Manufacture of Tapestries or the Palace Castel-Branco, that recalls the contribution of the textile industry towards the development of the city.

Around 8.30 pm: suggestion for dinner in a signature cuisine restaurant, in Portalegre. 
Three miles from Portalegre, the restaurant that we suggest is a temple of Alentejo cuisine with a hint of innovation, with a creative chefin charge. Small space, warm and very correct, with a terrace for warm days [/ i].

Overnight at the hotel of the selected category.

DAY 5: PORTALEGRE - VILA VIÇOSA - MONSARAZ
Journey to Vila Viçosa. 

Ducal Palace

Suggestion: visit to the Ducal Palace. 
The Ducal Palace is isolated and emphasized on the so-called Terreiro do Paço, at the foot of the Castle´s hill. Opposite of it is the Church of Agostinhos, and near you can find the Bishop's Palace and the Convent of Chagas. Built in the 16th century, this palace was largely benefited during the 17th century and served as a royal residence.

From 12:30: suggestion for lunch in traditional Alentejo food restaurant, in Alandroal. 
This is a restaurant created with originality. It seeks to recreate a courtyard, according to the architecture of the rural hills of Alentejo, within all the rural environment. In addition to the specialties, be sure to try the typical regional desserts. 

Journey to Monsaraz. 
Monsaraz is a medieval town, the oldest in the municipality of Reguengos de Monsaraz and it has evidence of settlements since prehistoric times. In 1157 it was conquered from the Moors by Geraldo Geraldes The Fearless, in 1167 donated to the Templars and in 1319 to the Order of Christ. For centuries, the Castle of Monsaraz played an important role as a sentinel of the Guadiana River, watching the border with Spain. Besides all the historical, architectural and social patrimony, Monsaraz is surrounded by a wonderful landscape, and from the top of its castle, you can see it in all its splendor.

Suggestion: boat ride on the Alqueva. 
Enjoy a boat ride on the great lake of Alqueva, from the Monsaraz harbor, allowing to overlook the riverside villages, castles and all that the nature of Alentejo has to offer.

Around 8.30 pm: suggestion for dinner in panoramic restaurant, in Portel. 
This panoramic restaurant is located on the waters of the Great Lake, the Alqueva Dam. A quiet place, of serene waters and green hills dotted with white houses. The restaurant integrates itself within the landscape, featuring a modern line and a sensational terrace. The kitchen is typical of Alentejo, but with a touch of sophistication. 

Accommodation at the hotel of the selected category.

DAY 6: ALCÁCER DO SAL - LISBON

Alcácer do Sal

Journey to Alcácer do Sal 
Located south of the district of Setúbal, the municipality of Alcácer do Sal rises over the tranquil River Sado, which mirrors the white of the houses that line the entire marginal. It is from the river that many families take their livelihood from, along with agriculture. The serene surrounding landscape rewards us with its marshlands, its plains, but especially with the unique riches of the Sado Estuary and all of its fauna and flora. It is impossible to miss the food, rich in river fish dishes, Alentejo flavors and pinenut candy, one of the essential ingredients by these margins.

Journey to Comporta. 
We leave back the mountains, pine forests and undulating carpet of rice fields of the Natural Reserve of the Sado Estuary - a winter resort for the families of birds that come here to make their nests. The beaches here are beautiful, stretching for miles of white sand washed by calm waters, where you can´t help feel like resting.

From 12:30: suggestion for lunch in traditional Portuguese restaurant, in Comporta. 
Halfway through Comporta and Carvalhal, on the road connecting the two towns and their beaches, the restaurant proposed by TravelTailors makes its bet on traditional cuisine. Specializing in charcoal-grilled fish, this house offers a warm and friendly atmosphere. 

Suggestion: horseback riding on the beach of Comporta. 
An invigorating horseback ride on the beach of Comporta, natural reserve of the Sado Estuary with the Atlantic Ocean always present, for one hour, will certainly be nice!

Journey to Portinho Arrábida, through ferry from Setúbal. 
The lush Natural Park offers a continuum of unforgettable images and is the ideal setting for a walk for two. This coastline provides you with white sandy beaches lined with dunes and cliffs for miles. Revel in the grandeur of the Serra da Arrábida, its beaches and its natural park.

Suggestion: beach at Portinho da Arrábida. 
Enjoy the exceptional beauty of the scenery and turquoise water (but be careful! cold) of Portinho da Arrábida.

Journey to Lisbon. 
Crossing the April 25th Bridge, you will have one of the most spectacular panoramas of Lisbon.

Around 8.30 pm: suggestion for dinner in an author´s cuisine restaurant, in Bairro Alto.
This chefis one of the most talented of today and is now investing in Lisbon. The restaurant, painted white, is well lit. Everyday there is a new menu, that the chefbuilds as he wanders the aisles of the old Mercado da Ribeira, seeing what's on the stalls of vegetables, seafood and fish, meats and fruits. A major concern is to create new tasting menus, with seven / eight different proposals. 

Suggested night out: Foxtrot. 
Foxtrot is one of the oldest bars in Lisbon, full of rooms and small nooks, in a recreation of the ambience of the bars from the end of the century, within the concept of an English pub. It is visited by politicians of São Bento and also young people, being an option for a drink after work. After a refurbishment, it kept the same Art Deco style but won an outdoor garden, to allow for better enjoyment of summer nights.

Accommodation at the hotel of the selected category.

DAY 7: LISBON, CITY OF DESTINATION OR EXTENSION TO FUNCHAL (MADEIRA)

Journey to the city of destination or extension to Funchal.

Funchal, Madeira

In the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, Madeira Island rises dramatically from the sea, with its rocky cliffs and mountains intersected by deep valleys. The fertile volcanic soil and mild climate bring an abundance of paradise, giving Madeira the nickname Island of Flowers. In the 19th century, the rich and famous spent the winter here. Today, a new generation turns to Madeira for brisk walks in rugged mountainous terrain, its virgin forests and unspoiled nature as well as adventures like deep-sea fishing, diving and paragliding. The city of Funchal is set in a magnificent natural amphitheater facing the Atlantic, contrasting with the towering mountains. Situated in the south of the island of Madeira, off the sunniest coast implanted in the middle of banana plantations and beautiful gardens, Funchal is a fresh and relaxed city during the day and vibrant and eclectic at night, offering multiple leisure activities. You can visit the magnificent gardens, shop, wander through its picturesque streets and squares with Portuguese cobblestone pavements or simply enjoy the pleasant moments of rest in one of the esplanades of the central cafes. It pays to know the various museums and city monuments.

Around 12.30 pm: lunch at the suggestion of fusion cuisine restaurant in Funchal. 

This restaurant belongs to one of the best hotels in Madeira but it�s by intrinsic quality and appropriate right that it´s worth one, or more, visits. The large and broad windows let you enjoy a magnificent view of the outside. The menu appeals to a fusion cuisine, not forgetting the local specialties that are sure to make your mouth water. 

Visit to the Botanical and Monte Palace gardens.

The Botanical Garden is one of the most famous in Madeira and is located on the Bom Sucesso Estate, with wonderful views over the city of Funchal. This estate was built in 1881 by the Reid family, who created the garden as their private park. Today the property belongs to the Regional Government and is open to the public. The garden covers an area of 80,000 m2 and houses a fascinating collection of species of plants, flowers and exotic birds as well as an area of research and conservation. Besides all these attractive features, the Botanical Garden also has a Museum of Natural History and a cable car that connects it to the Monte, which is another noteworthy attraction.

The Monte Palace Tropical Garden is located atop a beautiful hill with breathtaking views over the bay of Funchal. The Monte Palace was once a place of historical importance, since it was an 18th century upscale hotel that hosted many important guests. The Berardo Foundation turned this property into a beautiful museum and garden. Here you will find exotic plants and flowers of many continents and also animals such as ducks, white and black swans, peacocks, chickens and Koi carps. It is an unforgettable experience to take a walk in this beautiful garden. 

Suggestion: Levada do Caldeirão Verde, pedestrian walk. 
A levada is a path next to a water channel and is typically Madeiran. Madeira has dozens of flows in the heart of its laurel forest. This route, which starts at Forest Park of Queimadas (Santana) and ends in Caldeirão Verde, has a length of 6 km and an altitude of 990 meters. The Shelter House of Queimadas is honored in keeping the original characteristics of the typical houses of Santana and, from here, if you don�t stop to admire the stupendous views over Santana and São Jorge, you will take about an hour and a half to complete the route. This trail is extremely rich in its landscape adorned by waterfalls, flora and fauna.

Suggestion: relaxation activity in a SPA, in Funchal. 
Try a dip in a 360º panoramic pool or have a vino therapy session. This spa offers varied programs of relaxation and beauty. Some proposals:

Exfoliation with grape seeds: 30ms. | Wine bath: 30ms. | Anti-stress Massage: 60ms.

Around 8.30 pm: suggestion for dinner in a signature cuisine restaurant, in Funchal. 
A known chef, with extensive knowledge of international cuisines, composed this project where an opportunity for locals and visitors to travel through this fascinating world is provided. This is a restaurant based on naturally rice rich recipes from around the world, that will be a requirement for the preparation of the dishes. The sea view is simply splendid.

Overnight at the hotel of the selected category.

DAY 8: FUNCHAL (CITY OF DESTINATION)

Journey to the city of destination.

Portugal In Love: Honeymoon in the Center and North

This TravelTailors' romantic program takes you to discover the most romantic secret places of Portugal, northbound: hotels, palaces, rivers and gardens in the Douro, Buçaco, Aveiro and Oporto. It proposes wonderful hotels and intimate fine dining options, suggesting ideal activities for two as well, such as boat trips, SPA and sweets' tastings; perfect for an incomparable honeymoon!

http://www.travel-tailors.com/detalhado.php?i=287

DAY 1: PORTO

Arrival in Porto. 
Porto is a charming town, situated on the slopes of the Douro River and very near to its mouth. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, thanks to its beautiful monuments and historic buildings such as the imposing Cathedral or the Tower of Clerics, Porto is the second largest city of Portugal and has superb views over the river and the world famous Port Wine Cellars on the opposite bank, in Vila Nova de Gaia. The city provides a harmonious synthesis of ancient and contemporary attractions. Perched on top of hills and clinging to cliffs, attractive buildings, bridges and lamps guard the Douro River for centuries. Fiercely proud of their heritage, the citizens of this merchant town have invested their blood and sweat on their commerce and wine. Porto is a city ready for work and ready for fun. Nightclubs and restaurants mingle with cathedrals, churches and museums in narrow alleys and broad avenues. There are many cafes around the city, where you can relax after climbing the many hills of Porto. On the rooftops there are red tiles and the facades are often tiled. The city of Porto is very compact, which is great to do some exploring on foot, as long as you don't mind making an effort going uphill.

Until 18h30: Visit to the cellars of Porto and wine tasting. 
Port Wine is a fortified wine of world fame, produced exclusively from grapes from the Douro Wine Region, about 100 km east of Porto. The wine took the name of Porto, but it's on the opposite bank of the Douro in Gaia, that are installed fifteen cellars, greater temples of this nectar. The visit includes tastings of different varieties .

Around 20h30: suggestion for dinner in a signature cuisine restaurant, in Porto. 
Conceived from the restoration of an early 20th century house, the sober and refined decoration of this TravelTailors' proposal has yet the boldness of contemporary interior architecture, which translates into a sophisticated and exclusive environment, combined with a modern, stylish and cosmopolitan gastronomic offer. An exceptional location with unique features in Porto. 

Porto by night : a suggestion for an evening out at Galerias de Paris and the Gare Club. 
There's something alive in the evenings at Porto. Accustomed to having polarized fun, the city has never seen so much connection between its offer. The inhabitants walk proudly - they have recovered the city's night. We descend to the axis of Clérigos, the biggest dynamo of the revived Porto night. On the Street of Galeria de Paris, the hottest, there are already several bars. Casa do Livro is one of them. On the parallel street, Cândido dos Reis, Plano B lives since 2006. There are also other bars and even stores like Mezzanine or Take Me.

Overnight at the hotel of the selected category.

DAY 2: PORTO - RÉGUA - VILA REAL - LAMEGO

Régua

9h20: suggestion of a train ride to Peso da Régua (approximate duration: 2h00). 
This train journey allows you to continue to enjoy a breathtaking landscape, largely thanks to the relentless hard work and care of local people. Delight yourself in the view, as the train winds along the Douro River!

Suggestion: sailing journey in the Douro River. 
The enjoyment is even greater, in a rabelo boat. Leave the port of Régua and go to Pinhão, with tasting of a typical snack on board.

Around 12h30: lunch in a signature cuisine restaurant, in Peso da Régua. 
This is a modern and sophisticated space, opposite the river Douro, which includes a restaurant and aWinebar , in a refined and young environment. The cuisine combines traditional flavors with national and international trends, without forgetting the strong ties to the wines of the oldest demarcated region in the world. The various suggestions can be accompanied by a glass of wine from the Douro Region. But what is really fascinating here is the fantastic view over the River! 

Journey to Vila Real. 
Vila Real is a beautiful and pleasant city, where one's gaze is lost in the mountains that surround it. Those who visit Vila Real will not cease to be amazed at the sight of numerous coats of arms, that bring glory to the facades of many buildings. The city seal, engraved with a sword and a bat, summarizes the history of its first count. The first town charter of Vila Real was granted by D. Dinis, in 1289.

Visit to Casa de Mateus and its gardens, in Vila Real. 
The Casa de Mateus, built in the first half of the 17th century, is a Baroque building composed of two lateral bodies connected by two perpendicular wings. According to some authors, Nicolau Nasoni may have had some intervention in the palace. The architectural ensemble is completed by the House's Chapel, the New Cellar (now converted to a temporary exhibition room), the Barrão (an old barn), and especially the magnificent French styled gardens of boxwood. The leafy garden that surrounds the manor, beyond its reflecting pool and areas of boxwood, also has an area of intense farming and orchards, whose products (wines, jams and jellies) can be purchased by visitors. 

Suggestion: wine tasting on an estate, Lamego. 
It has always been the family's dream of creating a unique space, where wine tourism would be privileged and wine would be divulged as a Douro bastion. It was in 2009 that the doors of this rustic and luxurious unit were opened. On the estate, the decor combines many pieces of classic furniture with contemporary, resulting in a beautiful and welcoming space. Here we can taste the fantastic wines.

Around 20h30: suggestion for lunch in a signature cuisine, in Peso da Régua.
Simultaneously a restaurant / Winebar and lounge , it's located in a railway warehouse, in the middle of the Douro region. The cuisine is modern and creative, based on the flavors of Douro. You can taste wines accompanied by gourmet products.

Overnight at the hotel of the selected category.

DAY 3: LAMEGO - BUÇACO

Hotel Palace Bussaco

Suggestion: SPA relaxation activity in Lamego. 
Among valleys and plains, where the River Douro meanders, there is an estate installed in a 19th century manor, now a modern space in a bucolic setting, which combines the best of the two sides. Here is a place where you can find tranquility, luxury and privacy of a thermal SPA with a steam room, sauna or herbal, or simply enjoy and relax on the water beds or in the magnificent indoor heated swimming pool with water jets of different intensities. It offers two complete lines of treatment.

We recommend:
Face Treatment: Total Mesosystem 1h25m. | Body Treatment: 2h10m ytsara saat purifying ritual. 

Journey to Buçaco, through Serra do Montemuro and Arouca. 
No matter how many mountains you see, you'll never forget the majesty of these 360º views!

Around 12h30: lunch at a regional cuisine restaurant, in Vale de Cambra. 
This is the only restaurant in the region that is decorated with the taste of the mountains and the smell of the sea. Located 11 km from the Serra de Freita, this restaurant boasts a magnificent view over Vale de Cambra. A meal here is a routine getaway due to most of its proposals, in terms of location, decor, service and cuisine. Each dish is carefully prepared and presented, basing itself on quality products.

Suggestion: Walk through the Arouca Geopark. 
The Arouca Geopark, corresponding to the administrative area of the municipality of Arouca, is recognized for its exceptional geological heritage of international importance, with particular emphasis on the giant Canelas' trilobites, for the Pedras Parideiras of Castanheira and the Vale of Paiva's ichnofossils.

Journey to Buçaco. 
A broad and majestic forest, the Serra do Buçaco is a true botanical garden where you can find about 700 native and exotic species, protected by a 17th century papal decree that threatened with excommunication whoever caused them harm.

Visit to the Hotel PALACE BUSSACO. 
The hotel PALACE BUSSACO is rated as one of the most beautiful historic hotels of the world, located in the Forest of Buçaco, it was designed in the late 19th century by the Italian architect Luigi Manini. Classified as a Property of Public Interest in 1996, it's integrated in an architectural and landscaping group that is considered unique. The architecture of the palace is characterized by a mix of elements gathered in monuments like the Tower of Belém, the Jerónimos Monastery or the Convent of Christ in Tomar, and its interior is decorated with tile panels, paintings and frescoes, depicting the Portuguese discoveries.
The hotel is lavishly furnished, the rooms are ample and have a breathtaking view. A romantic ex-libris ! 

Around 20h30: suggestion for dinner in a signature cuisine restaurant, in Buçaco. 
There are places that we have to visit at least once in our lifetime. The best of this restaurant is the environment, the refinement and rarity of the place. On the wine list we find great Portuguese wines, including Buçaco ones. For an evening that should be memorable!

Overnight at the hotel of the selected category.

DAY 4: BUÇACO - AVEIRO - PORTO

Moliceiro boat

Suggestion: guided tour of the Mata of Buçaco.

The Mata do Buçaco currently occupies approximately 105 hectares and has one of the finest European dendrologist collections, with about 250 species of trees and shrubs and many notable examples. It is one of the richest National Forests when it comes to natural, architectural and cultural heritage, and it can essentially be divided into three landscape units: Arboretum, Gardens and Valley of the Ferns and Relic Forest. In addition to the mysticism of the crystal clear waters and lush arboretum, MNB carries a wide diversity of animals that often, silently, go unnoticed. 

Journey to Aveiro. 
Ria's capital, a vast lagoon basin where the fresh waters of the river Vouga mingle with the sea waters, Aveiro, cut through by water streets where the colorful Moliceiro boats slide, is one of the most interesting cities of the Portuguese coast. From the Center channel, there are two routes: on the Left Bank, the graceful Art Nouveau buildings, the Fish Market, the Beira Mar neighborhood; on the Right Bank, are the Museum of Aveiro, in the Convent of Jesus, monuments and churches.

Around 12h30: lunch at a regional cuisine restaurant, in Aveiro. 
In a region where fresh fish is abundant, our suggestion goes towards a restaurant with well known and plentiful cooking, in which the highlights are national and regional dishes, cooked with excellency and fondness.

Moliceiro boat ride. 
Next to the Rossio, there are various types of anchored vessels, aboard which is possible to cruise the Ria, enjoying the saline formations, islands whose only inhabitants are ducks and other migratory birds, meandering channels and wide lagoons, where houses and trees are reflected in curious mirror play. Riding a Moliceiro boat is the most romantic option to discover the City of Water . 

Visit to the factory of soft eggs. 
Famous Portuguese sweets, in barrels or wafers, the Aveiro soft eggs should be very sweet and very yellow in color. In the Sweet Shop, their history is revealed and you can taste the monastic delicacies. Visitors can participate in the filling and cutting of this specialty. 

Journey to Porto. 

Around 20h30: Suggestion for dinner at a fusion cuisine restaurant, in Porto.
The TravelTailors' recommendation is located literally over the sea, on the beautiful beach of Ourigo, in the cosmopolitan area of Foz. The cuisine, varied and creative, ranges from sushi to Italian specialties, although essentially, the Mediterranean nature is predominant. The space is cleverly sophisticated, integrating itself fully into the landscape, with large wide windows overlooking the sea. The terrace allows you to take even greater advantage of the superb location, as well as the bar that functions on the outside.

Overnight at the hotel of the selected category.

DAY 5: PORTO - CITY OF DESTINATION

Journey to the city of destination.

Portugal in love: honeymoon in the South and Madeira

With this romantic program by TravelTailors you will discover the most romantic and secret places of Portugal, in South and Madeira: hotels, palaces, gardens and beaches. It offers you intimate hotels and fine dining. It suggests other activities ideal for two, like cooking classes, SPA and walks; it's perfect for an incomparable honeymoon in Portugal!

More information here

Portugal In Love - Honeymoon in the Center and North

This TravelTailors' romantic program takes you to discover the most romantic secret places of Portugal, northbound: hotels, palaces, rivers and gardens in the Douro, Buçaco, Aveiro and Oporto. It proposes wonderful hotels and intimate fine dining options, suggesting ideal activities for two as well, such as boat trips, SPA and sweets' tastings; perfect for an incomparable honeymoon!

More information here

Portugal In Love - Honeymoon in the Center and North

This TravelTailors' romantic program takes you to discover the most romantic secret places of Portugal, northbound: hotels, palaces, rivers and gardens in the Douro, Buçaco, Aveiro and Oporto. It proposes wonderful hotels and intimate fine dining options, suggesting ideal activities for two as well, such as boat trips, SPA and sweets' tastings; perfect for an incomparable honeymoon!

More information here

Portugal In Love - Honeymoon in the Center and North

This TravelTailors' romantic program takes you to discover the most romantic secret places of Portugal, northbound: hotels, palaces, rivers and gardens in the Douro, Buçaco, Aveiro and Oporto. It proposes wonderful hotels and intimate fine dining options, suggesting ideal activities for two as well, such as boat trips, SPA and sweets' tastings; perfect for an incomparable honeymoon.

More information here

Portugal in love: honeymoon in the South and Madeira 8 days

With this romantic program by TravelTailors you will discover themost romantic and secret places of Portugal, in South and Madeira: hotels, palaces, gardens and beaches. It offers you intimate hotels and fine dining. It suggests other activities ideal for two, like cooking classes, SPA and walks; it´s perfect for an incomparable honeymoon in Portugal!

More information here

May we create a wedding list for our honeymoon trip?

Yes. You just have to choose your trip, and let us know that you've included it in your wedding gift list. Each guest when contributing for the honeymoon trip, receives an allusive card that will be delivered on the day of the wedding. Besides that, you will receive regularly a detailed list with the indication of the names of the participant guests and the total amounts.

FAQ here

Portugal in love: honeymoon in the South and Madeira - 8 days

With this romantic program by TravelTailors you will discover the most romantic and secret places of Portugal, in South and Madeira: hotels, palaces, gardens and beaches. It offers you intimate hotels and fine dining. It suggests other activities ideal for two, like cooking classes, SPA and walks; it´s perfect for an incomparable honeymoon in Portugal!

More information