What do guests say about Portugal: Family, Culture, Wine & Cooking?

42 guests have reviewed this trip since 2019. All of them gave it 5 stars.

What do guests write about most?

Cooking in people's homes. Guests cook and eat with Portuguese families in their own kitchens, and many write that they felt part of the family from the first evening.

Which places do guests visit?

Guests write about Porto, fishing villages, the mountains and the Douro Valley. They travel by small bus, by four wheel drive and by boat.

Is it only cooking?

No. 21 of the 42 reviews talk about wine, and port wine most of all.

Do guests come back?

22 reviews talk about coming back, or about a trip they already took with us.

Who goes on this trip?

The reviews are from couples (11), friends (19), solo travelers (5) and families (5).

Where do these reviews come from?

Guests wrote them in our guest book at the end of the trip (1) and through our website (41). Every review on this page links to its own page.

Counted from all 42 reviews of this trip. Newest review: October 2026. See the itinerary.

Reviews of This Trip

"Wayne S."

This was our first CDV, not knowing what to expect, we were completely amazed with the experience. Awesome people, new friends, great food & wine and an incrediblely knowledgeable and genuine guide.

"Completely amazed with the experience."

This was our first CDV, not knowing what to expect, we were completely amazed with the experience. Awesome people, new friends, great food & wine and an incrediblely knowledgeable and genuine guide.

"Great vacation"

Everything is thoughtfully planned out to give you the best local experience.

"One of our best vacation"

We meet a great group of people from other guest to host. We saw beautiful places, laughed a lot, ate great food and enjoyed the wine.

"It feels like traveling with friends"

This is the easiest way to really experience the culture of an area. The activities are so personal being hosted by locals sharing their lifestyle. The itinerary is easy for the travelers.

"A meaningful and amazing experience!"

What could be better than an immersive travel experience filled with warm hospitality, beautiful people, incredible food, music and wine tasting- all nourishment for the soul!

"Porto Fabulous"

As a first timer I couldn't have been more impressed. So well thought out, covered all the bases for any interest a tourist might have. The food was soooo good. Can't wait to enjoy trip #2.

"Always Over The Top"

Portugal is a country of families, food, fun, wine and especially port.

"Porto May 2025"

What a wonderful time in Portugal with CDV. We didn't go to any of the touristy places; we spent time being immersed in the culture and cuisine of Portugal. Staff was so caring and genuine.

"Discovering what Culture Discovery means"

My wife and I had a wonderful time in and around Porto with the CDV hosts and guests. We were given the chance to learn what makes Porto so special as Portugal’s premier city.

"A warm welcome to Portugal"

The Culinary Vacation in Portugal was truly an immersive experience. Sharing this experience with a great group of friendly people made this a unique, fun, and enriching adventure.

"Not just Hype"

Not just hype! After 4 Culture Discovery trips we can HONESTLY say we are part of their family and have made lifelong friendships with the people we’ve met. Can’t wait for the next “family” vacation!

"Portuguese culture & Perspective"

Extraordinarily constructed and flawlessly executed vacation in Porto and surrounding villages & countryside. The excursions were fun & interesting. The cooking, cuisine and wine were superlative.

"Like no other, Friends become Family"

This was our secone CDV trip. We traveled withfriends we met in Amalifi to Portugal this time. Again, exceed our expectations for food, wine, and amazing experiences.

"Portugal Experience"

Beautiful Country, warm inviting people, lots of off the beaten path activities!

"Amazing Experience"

Cooking, eating, participating in unique experiences, and making new friends.

"Fabulous experience!"

This was truly one of the best vacations I’ve ever taken. Wonderful experiences every day with hosts and drivers who treated us like beloved family. Amazing adventures daily. Great food and wine.

"Stellar!!"

Once again, a truly awesome experience.

"Porto Time"

What an amazing time and with such great people. Marta, Ines, Vitor, Maria, Ricardo and of course Minna were just so wonderful to be around and made sure that we all had fun.

"Amazing"

Love, family, spontaneity, Laughter

"Maybe the best trip EVER"

We fell in love with northern Portugal and its lovely people. I was completely blown away by the natural beauty and the love we felt when spending time with our CDV family.

Reviews 1 to 30 of 42 for this trip.

Reviews of All Our Trips