Portugal with Friends

ART JOURNEYS

Traditional historic facade in Porto dec

Three women friends traveling in Porto Portugal

A Cultural Journey to Lisbon, Porto & Alentejo!
Voyage to discover Portuguese Art, Crafts & Gastronomy

Embark on an inspiring, leisurely and profound journey through Portugal, exclusively designed for an intimate group of women. Explore the vibrant cities of Lisbon and Porto, where the energy of urban life meets rich cultural heritage. Venture into the heart of Alentejo, a region celebrated for its enduring Portuguese craft traditions. This is a slow, sensory journey guided by passionate local artisans and historians. Witness the exquisite craftsmanship of azulejos, the iconic hand-painted tiles that depict Portugal's colorful history and culture. Each tile is a canvas, blending Moorish and Baroque influences into intricate designs. Then, explore traditional weaving, detailed embroidery, and unique cork creations. Each crafted piece is a celebration of the country's diverse artistic expressions, mirroring the landscapes and stories of its people.

Slow down and explore the captivating charm of Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of Alentejo, rich in history and artisanal crafts and centuries-old traditions. Stroll through ancient streets, marveling at historical wonders like a Roman temple and medieval cathedral. Delight in the region's artisanal heritage, from intricate textiles and pottery craftsmanship in Corval, the capital of Portuguese pottery, to the art of sustainable cork production, emblematic of Portugal's natural craftsmanship. The journey culminates in the medieval allure of Monsaraz, offering panoramic views and a taste of local wines, capturing the essence of Portugal's cultural and artistic spirit.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Portugal, a veritable feast for the senses. Savor the exquisite flavors of top-rated cuisine at a Michelin-starred restaurant, where the art of fine dining is taken to new heights. Enjoy carefully chosen restaurants where traditional Portuguese dishes are masterfully reimagined. Participate in an interactive cooking class with local chefs to uncover the secrets of authentic Portuguese cuisine. Each meal is a celebration of rich, local flavors, paired exquisitely with hand-selected wines that echo the diverse landscapes of Portugal.

Optional Extension: Discover the enchanting Douro Valley, a region steeped in viticultural tradition and natural beauty. Cruise along the serene Douro River and embrace the breathtaking landscapes that have shaped both the culture and the character of this illustrious wine region. Wander through lush vineyards that terrace the rolling hillsides, visit historic wineries where time-honored methods meet modern innovation, and savor the unique flavors of the valley's world-renowned wines. The Douro Valley (2 hours from Porto) is available as an extension from May 19-22.

Throughout the journey, experience Portugal's artistic heritage with a special focus on the influential women who have shaped its history and beauty. Explore museums showcasing female artists, admire dazzling palaces once home to influential queens, uncover hidden historical sites and wander through lush gardens. In Lisbon, our guide Estela specializes in women's history, and will offer us unique insights into the lives and impact of female figures in Portuguese culture. In Porto, our highly-rated guide Susana is deeply versed in Portuguese art and culture as an author of several books, including one on the iconic Portuguese azulejos (tiles). Together, these personable guides will bring art to life and allow you to deepen your knowledge of art history, artisanal crafts and the enduring legacy of women in Portuguese culture.

azulejos tiles on the facade of capela das almas an royalty

PORTUGAL WITH FRIENDS

Lisbon, Porto & Alentejo

May 11-19 2024

Save my spot!

Highlights of the journey

Quleuz

Palace

Michelin Star
Restaurants

Live Fado
Concert

Serralves Museum
of Contemporary Art

Boutiques & artisanal craft markets

Azulejo (tile) painting class

Evora,

UNESCO World Heritage City

Porto Wine
Tasting

Weaving and pottery, & cork traditions in Alentejo

Cultural
Landscape of Sintra

Ajuda Palace

Pastel de nata class (Portuguese tart)

Crown Jewels

of Portugal

..and more!

9 Magnificent Days of Private Tours & Experiences with Lauren & Experts
All Art Experiences, Private Museum Tours and Museum Tickets
All transportation in Portugal (Lisbon to Evora, Evora to Porto, a combination of trains and private vans)
Transportation to museums and planned activities
Round-trip transportation to airport (if arriving & departing on designated flights with fellow art explorers)
Daily Meals: the majority of meals are included with some free evenings to explore on your own (breakfast with hotel booking)
Multi-course gastronomic dining experience at a Michelin star restaurant

Immersive experiences with friendly, local experts
Wine tasting at a boutique vineyard in Alentejo
Port tasting in Porto
Private Pastry or Cooking Class
Private Tile Painting Class
Artisanal Craft Workshops/Activities in Alentejo: Cork production, Textiles/Weaving, Pottery demonstration
Live Fado concert
Live Portuguese lesson in preparation for the journey
Live art history lesson in preparation for the journey taught by Lauren
Taxes, tips and fees on all the above
Time to relax, shop and enjoy
A Special Gift at the conclusion of the journey
Memories to last a lifetime!

Hotel Accommodation:
In order to offer the most flexible cancellation policy possible during these unpredictable times, each individual will book her own hotel room. Individual hotel bookings are allow for late cancellations (up to 48 hours in most cases) and optional room sharing with fellow travelers. Guests may choose hand-selected and highly-rated boutique hotels (see next tab), or another accommodation nearby. Clear instructions on how to book each hotel will be shared with all trip participants.

Prices range from $150-280 per night for 4 and 5 star accommodation (single occupancy).

Round-trip airfare to Portugal from the U.S.
Any additional meals not listed in the itinerary (the majority of meals are included with some free evenings to explore on your own )
Taxis and Ubers beyond itinerary specifications (transportation for organized activities is included)

Hotel Accommodation:
In order to offer the most flexible cancellation policy possible during these unpredictable times, each individual will book her own hotel room. Individual hotel bookings are allow for late cancellations (up to 48 hours in most cases) and optional room sharing with fellow travelers. Guests may choose hand-selected hotels, or another accommodation nearby. Clear instructions on how to book each hotel will be shared with all trip participants.
Browns Central Hotel, Lisbon, 4 Star Boutique Hotel, May 11-14,
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Lisbon, Browns Central Hotel is a perfect blend of historical charm and contemporary design. Set in an 18th-century building, this 4-star hotel has been meticulously renovated to align with modern design trends. Starting at $280 per night, it offers guests the luxury of location and design. Each of its 84 air-conditioned rooms boasts a unique decoration, featuring elements from world-renowned designers like Charles and Ray Eames, BestLite, Arne Jacobsen, Eero Saarinen, and Artemide. The rooms, with their wooden floors and contemporary furniture, also include marble private bathrooms. Modern amenities such as a Smeg Kettle, Nespresso coffee machine, Bluetooth MediaHub system, and a flat-screen Smart TV ensure a comfortable stay. Free WiFi available throughout the hotel adds to the convenience, making Browns Central Hotel an ideal choice for those seeking a central, stylish, and comfortable stay in Lisbon.
The Noble House, Évora (Alentejo), 4 Star Boutique Hotel, May 14-16
Embrace the historical elegance of Évora at The Noble House - by Unlock Hotels. This exquisitely refurbished hotel combines the rich history and Alentejo tradition with a modern twist, and starts at $150 per night. Located just 2 minutes’ walk from the Roman Temple and Évora Cathedral, in the old town, it stands as a testament to the region's cultural heritage. The Noble House accentuates its historical roots with features like the Roman wall, traditional tiles, and vaulted ceilings. Its central location in the UNESCO World Heritage city makes it a perfect choice for travelers keen on exploring the historic charm of Évora. The hotel's fusion of history and contemporary luxury provides guests with an authentic and comfortable experience in the heart of Alentejo.
Torel Avantgarde, Porto, 5 Star Boutique Hotel, May 16-19
Step into the artistic and cultural world of the 1930s and 1940s at Torel Avantgarde in Porto. This 5-star, award-winning boutique hotel, starting at $280 per night, is an embodiment of avant-garde elegance. Inspired by the Avantgarde years, the hotel's design celebrates Portugal through its art, design, and craftsmanship. The collaboration of prestigious Portuguese artists, artisans, and interior designers has transformed this place into a living piece of art. Located in the center of Porto, Torel Avantgarde not only offers beautiful views but also immerses its guests in a truly avant-garde atmosphere. It's a destination for those who appreciate art, elegance, and a touch of Portuguese flair in their accommodation.

MEET YOUR GUIDE

Lauren Jimerson, PhD

Art Historian and licensed French Guide

Founder of Art With Friends, Lauren Jimerson is an art historian specializing in modern women artists. She holds a PhD from Rutgers University, an MA from the Courtauld Institute, and a BA from Cornell University. Her research has benefited from grants including a Fulbright fellowship. "She is the author of the recently published book, Painting Her Pleasure: Three Women Artists and the Nude in Avant-Garde Paris, released by Manchester University Press in 2023. Licensed as a French National Guide, Lauren has fifteen years of experience leading scholarly tours in Paris, Rome, and beyond.

Luxurious Accommodation

Share unforgettable moments and build lasting bonds by staying with fellow guests. For ultimate flexibility in these unpredictable times, you have the liberty to choose your own room, booking directly with our handpicked, luxurious boutique hotels. At Art with Friends, we prioritize your experience over business incentives, ensuring every hotel choice aligns with your highest expectations. Create memories, tailored to you.

Connect with an intimate community of like-minded,
art & culture loving people!

Thank you for crafting such a remarkable journey that I will cherish forever. It was a perfect blend of beauty, tranquility, and seamless travel.

The trip was nothing short of nine days of heaven. The experience was absolutely gorgeous and so wonderfully different from anything I've experienced before. Every moment was amazing, and I can't thank you enough for creating such a unique and exceptional experience. It truly felt like I was in heaven.

Julie

Limited availability
Secure your spot today!

9 Day Premium Art Journey to Lisbon, Porto & Alentejo!

May 11-19, 2024 $6,550

Promotion: $200 off if you've taken an Art with Friends course

This exclusive & intimate trip is limited to 8 women.

Optional Douro Valley Extension May 19-23.

Portugal, here I come!

Non-refundable deposit $500 at time of booking. Full payment due March 15th 2024.
We understand the unpredictable nature of our times and have worked assiduously to offer the most flexible cancellation policy possible.
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