May 12 to May 18, 2026

A Cook's Tour of Lisbon with David Leite and The One

Hotel Accommodations:

• 6 nights at the 4-Star BessaHotel Liberdade in Lisbon

  • Room size: no less than 269 feet²

  • Breakfast served daily 

Experiences: 

• Cooking Classes with Renowned Chefs - Discover the rich flavors of Portuguese cuisine through hands-on cooking classes led by acclaimed local chefs.  From traditional dishes to modern interpretations, enjoy an immersive culinary experience in intimate settings, perfect for food lovers seeking authenticity and gourmet inspiration. 

• Market Experience - Embark on a culinary journey that begins at the local market, where you'll shop for fresh, seasonal ingredients alongside a knowledgeable chef.  Then head into the kitchen to prepare traditional Portuguese dishes. 

• Pastel de Nata Masterclass - Step behind the scenes and discover the secrets of Portugal’s beloved custard tart during this hands-on Pastel de Nata masterclass guided by a local pastry chef. 

• Access to Pastéis de Belém - Enjoy exclusive access to Pastéis de Belém, where you’ll uncover the secrets of Portugal’s iconic custard tart with a private behind-the-scenes visit and warm pastries straight from the oven.

• Wine Tasting and Olive Oil Tasting -  Savor a day in Alentejo with a private wine tasting, a seasonal farm-to-table lunch, and an artisanal olive oil tasting, set amid the region’s rolling vineyards and golden plains.

• Private Tours - Belém & Alentejo

• Dinners at Lisbon’s Legendary Dining Spots - Indulge in the soul of Lisbon with unforgettable dinners at the city’s legendary dining spots, where storied history meets contemporary flair.  Every evening promises a delicious dive into Lisbon’s culinary heritage and vibrant ambiance.

Other Inclusions:

Services of an English-speaking professional guide.

Airport transfer services on arrival and departure.

Transfer services to and from tours/activities (unless a meeting point is specified)

14 Meals (6 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches and 6 Dinners).

About David:

David Leite is the publisher of the website Leite's Culinaria, which has won three James Beard awards. He is the author of "Notes on a Banana: A Memoir" as well as "The New Portuguese Table: Exciting Flavors from Europe's Western Coast," which won the 2010 IACP First Book/Julia Child Award. His writing has appeared in publications such as The New York Times, Martha Stewart Living, Saveur, Bon Appetit, Gourmet, Food & Wine, Pastry Art & Design, Food Arts, the Los Angeles Times, the Chicago Sun-Times, The Washington Post and the Charlotte Observer.

David's awards include a 2008 James Beard Award for Newspaper Feature Writing Without Recipes, a 2006 and 2007 James Beard Award for best website, a 2006 Bert Greene Award for Food Journalism, and the Association of Food Journalists awards in 2006 and 2007.

Nestled along Lisbon’s prestigious Avenida da Liberdade, BessaHotel Liberdade is an elegant fusion of contemporary design and timeless charm. With its sleek, modern interiors accented by rich textures and bespoke furnishings, this hotel offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city. Guests are invited to unwind in beautifully appointed rooms with private balconies, indulge in Mediterranean-inspired cuisine at Tabik Restaurant, or relax by the serene indoor pool and wellness area. Perfectly positioned for exploring Lisbon’s cultural treasures and high-end boutiques, BessaHotel Liberdade embodies understated luxury and warm Portuguese hospitality at its finest.

• Check-in at 3:00 pm

• Check-out at 12:00 pm

• Breakfast included daily

Welcome to Lisbon, Portugal's vibrant capital. Lisbon marries traditional heritage with striking modernism. From its historic center to the lively neighborhoods of Bairro Alto and Alfama, the city is a postcard of emotions. Explore one of the oldest cities in the World that welcomes you to Portugal with the warmth hospitality of its people, culture and heritage.

Private transfer services are available for you upon arrival. Once you touch down in Lisbon, collect your luggage, than make your way to the Starbucks in the arrivals hall where you will find a driver holding a sign with your name. The driver will bring you to your home away from home, BessaHotel Liberdade, for the next 6 nights.

Tonight enjoy your welcome dinner at Sacramento Restaurant in the Chiado Neighborhood. Within the restaurant’s striking 18th-century vaulted interiors—where contemporary elegance meets old-world charm—you will be treated to an exquisite multi-course dinner showcasing the best of modern Portuguese cuisine. Each dish is artfully prepared with premium local ingredients and paired with exceptional regional wines. As conversation flows over candlelight and curated flavors, this intimate experience sets the perfect tone for a journey steeped in taste, tradition, and discovery.

On The Menu:

Starter

• couvert + goat cheese with berries jam

Main (options)

• fresh tuna steak

• roasted cod with corn bread

• grilled Iberian pork loin

• chicken supreme

Dessert (options)

• chocolate mousse

• egg pudding

Discover Belém's rich history and culture along the Tagus River in Lisbon, Portugal. Admire the iconic Belém Tower and majestic Jerónimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Take a scenic stroll along the riverfront, passing the Discoveries Monument. Enjoy a private behind-the-scenes tour of the iconic Pastéis de Belém, where Lisbon’s legendary custard tarts have been handmade since 1837—complete with exclusive tastings fresh from the oven. (Entrances to monuments NOT included)

In the evening participate in a hands-on cooking class for dinner at Cooking Lisbon School! Cook the most traditional Portuguese recipes with our team of professional, local chefs. Our enthusiastic chefs will lead you through the elaboration of a 4-course Portuguese meal, which you will cook while exchanging experiences with your small group, sharing laughter, wine and local food to nibble on throughout the cooking lesson. Of course, you’ll be handed a set of printed recipes where you can jot down notes while you cook! To end the experience you will be eating the menu you prepared complemented with great local wines. This hands-on cooking class is guided in English by our local, trained chefs, who will engage you in a true Portuguese gastronomic adventure, sharing with you all their knowledge and personal experiences, as well as cooking tips and techniques.

On The Menu: cod pataniscas / octopus rice / pork cheeks in the oven / drunken pears

Visit one of Setúbal’s lively local markets, Livramento, where colorful stalls brim with fresh seafood, regional produce, and artisanal products. Then, join a local chef for a hands-on cooking experience, turning the day’s ingredients into a delicious Portuguese meal enjoyed together.

On The Menu: Baked almonds with flor de sal / roasted tomatoes with fresh sheep cheese and oregano / sea bass with lime zest / torta de Azeitáo and strawberries

Tonight enjoy a special dinner at one of Lisbon's iconic restaurants, Cantinho do Avillez. Located in Lisbon’s charming Chiado district. Blending the traditional with the modern, this welcoming restaurant by chef José Avillez celebrates Portuguese cuisine infused with global influences drawn from his travels. With a menu that evolves from visit to visit and a warm, cheerful atmosphere, it’s a true taste of contemporary Lisbon dining.

On The Menu:

Starters

• mafra bread, cornbread and homemade toast tomato paste

• truffle butter and olives

• "peixinhos da horta" deep-fried green beans with lemon salt and tartar sauce

• beef carpaccio with watercress and aged sheep cheese

Main (options)

• codfish cakes with tomato rice

• roasted free range chicken leg with piri-piri, green salad and white rice

Dessert

• old-fashioned bread pudding with lemon sorbet

This is the best way to get to know the Portuguese gastronomy and a huge part of our culture. We will meet at Lisbon Cooking Academy facilities where we will cook our own dinner. The menu will vary according to the available products at the market, however you can count with a starter, a main course and a dessert. During the class, we will share with you all the tips and secrets about the recipes and in the end, we will eat our own food paired with red and white wine or soft drinks. Wine and snacks will be available during the class: some people say the best way to cook is with a glass of wine in your hand!

On The Menu: Clams bolhao pato / pica pau / frango na púcara / lamb option / orange rolled cake

If you are looking for an adventurous day in Portugal, filled with captivating elements; you will fall in love with the Alentejo. You will start this exciting experience in one of the Alentejo region’s best wineries, for an unforgettable Portuguese lunch paired with the finest of locally produced wines. After this, experience the rich flavors of the Alentejo region with an olive oil tasting on an olive oil estate. Explore the olive groves with your farm visit and sample locally produced olive oils in a serene rural setting.

Points of Interest:

• Local Winery (Tapada de Coelheiros): Alentejo is a Portuguese region that is known for wine production and for being home to some of Portugal’s best wineries. Here you can enjoy a tasting experience of a variety of local wine products, as well as a delicious Portuguese meal.

• Olive Oil Estate (Mainova): The Alentejo Region produces exceptional olive oils that you will be able to sample.

Enjoy dinner at Pap’Açôrda, one of Lisbon’s most celebrated restaurants, now located on the upper floor of the Time Out Market. Once a beloved institution in Bairro Alto, Pap’Açôrda continues to honor Portuguese culinary tradition with refined dishes, exceptional ingredients, and timeless flavor, all served in a beautifully designed, riverfront setting that blends sophistication with the restaurant’s signature warmth.

On The Menu:

Starters

• Codfish salad

• Clams

• Mini patties (pasteis de massa tenra)

Main

• Açorda de gambas

• Borrego (lamb) rice

Dessert (options)

• Chocolate mousse

• Tangerine pudding

Step into the elegant world of Nat’elier, where the iconic pastel de nata is elevated to an art form. In this exclusive masterclass, guided by the master pastry chef and David's former teacher João Batalha, guests are immersed in the secrets behind Lisbon’s most beloved delicacy. From the delicate layers of buttery, flaky pastry to the silky, custard-rich center, every step is a sensory journey. Enjoy a cup of coffee while you savor them fresh from the oven, still warm, with sweeping views of Lisbon’s charming streets. This is not just a culinary workshop—it’s a celebration of tradition, craftsmanship, and indulgence.

Meeting Point: Nat'elier, R. de Santa Justa 87, 1100-581 Lisboa, Portugal

End your Portuguese culinary journey with a memorable farewell dinner at Lapa Palace, a 19th-century mansion perched on one of Lisbon’s most exclusive hillsides. Once a private residence for nobility, the palace today stands as a symbol of timeless elegance, surrounded by lush subtropical gardens and offering panoramic views over the Tagus River. In this refined setting, enjoy a farewell dinner in an intimate private dining room that celebrates the flavors, traditions, and moments shared throughout your journey. As you savor each dish, take a moment to reflect on the experiences, friendships, and inspiration gathered along the way—memories and recipes to carry home long after the trip ends.

On The Menu:

Starter

• duck pie with dried fruit and muscatel aromas

• red-cabbage salad with apple and pistachio, truffle-oil vinaigrette

Main

• baked grouper fillet with vinho verde sauce, spinach and beetroot puree

Dessert

• puffed chocolate lingot and hazelnut cream, vanilla ice cream and caramel tuile, coffee and mignardises

Bid "Adeus" to Lisbon, as you return home, after 7 days of exploring Portugal's culinary heritage.

Private transfer services are available on your departure. Meet your driver in the lobby of the hotel and they will bring you to the Lisbon airport for your flight home.

Terms and Conditions

1. Liability Waiver

By submitting this form and participating in any tour, excursion, activity, or travel program arranged by Sagres Vacations, you acknowledge and agree to the following:

• Assumption of Risk: Participation in travel activities involves inherent risks, including but not limited to accidents, injuries, illnesses, death, property damage, theft, and delays. These risks may arise from natural causes, acts of third parties, transportation issues, or other unforeseen events. You voluntarily assume all such risks and agree to travel at your own risk.

• Release of Liability: You, on behalf of yourself, your heirs, successors, assigns, and legal representatives, hereby release, discharge, and hold harmless Sagres Vacations, its employees, agents, affiliates, contractors, and any third-party providers (collectively, the "Released Parties") from any and all claims, liabilities, damages, costs, or expenses, including reasonable attorney's fees, arising from or related to your participation in the trip.

• Indemnification: You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold the Released Parties harmless from and against any and all claims, damages, liabilities, costs, or expenses (including attorney's fees) arising out of or related to your participation, conduct, or actions during the trip.

• Force Majeure: Sagres Vacations shall not be held liable for any failure to perform or delays caused by events beyond its reasonable control, including but not limited to natural disasters, pandemics, government restrictions, acts of war, terrorism, strikes, or other extraordinary circumstances.

2. Covid-19 Waiver

Sagres Vacations is not responsible for any additional expenses or losses arising from any Covid-19-related event, including but not limited to testing positive, mandatory quarantines, changes in travel plans, cancellations, additional accommodations, or flight modifications. All related expenses are the sole responsibility of the traveler.

3. Cancellations and Refunds

• More than 91 Days Before Departure: Your $1,000.00 per person deposit is non-refundable. All deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable. Deposits cannot be applied to any other program, service, persons, or future registration. 

• 90-0 Days Before Departure: 100% of the land and/or cruise price total will be retained.

• Early Payment Cancellation Fees: If a client pays the full trip cost before the final payment deadline and subsequently cancels, a 5.5% administrative fee will be applied to the total amount paid above the non-refundable $1,000.00 deposit.

• Airline Tickets: All airline tickets are 100% non-refundable once paid in full. Clients are encouraged to purchase refundable airfare or travel insurance for protection.

4. Revision and Changes to Itinerary

A handling fee of $75.00 per transaction will be charged for any revisions or changes made after a deposit has been received. Changes to departure dates or itineraries may result in cancellation fees as outlined in Section 3.

5. Travel Insurance

Sagres Vacations strongly recommends that all travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance to protect against unforeseen events, including but not limited to:

•  Trip cancellations or interruptions

•  Medical emergencies and evacuation

•  Lost, damaged, or delayed baggage

•  Supplier defaults or bankruptcy

•  Covid-19-related expenses

By submitting this form, you confirm either:

• You have purchased travel insurance and assume full responsibility for claims, or

• You decline the purchase of travel insurance and assume full responsibility for all financial losses, risks, and liabilities arising from your decision.

• You hereby release Sagres Vacations and its agents from all claims related to travel disruptions, cancellations, or emergencies.

6. Photography and Marketing Consent

During tours, excursions, or other activities, Sagres Vacations staff or representatives may take photographs or videos for promotional and marketing purposes. By participating, you grant Sagres Vacations the irrevocable right to use, edit, and distribute these materials in any format, without further compensation or approval.

7. Passports, Visas, and Documentation

Passports: All travelers must possess a valid passport with an expiration date of at least six (6) months beyond the conclusion of their trip.

Visas: Travelers are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas, permits, or travel documentation required for entry into their destinations.

Failure to Comply: Sagres Vacations is not liable for any travel disruptions, cancellations, or additional costs arising from a client's failure to obtain proper documentation.

8. Payments

A $1,000.00 non-refundable deposit per person is required at the time of booking to secure reservations. Some itineraries may require a higher deposit, in which case you will be notified. 

 Final Payments:

•  Due 90 Days Before Departure

•  Due 120 Days Before Departure for all cruise programs.

For bookings made within 90 days of departure, full payment is required at the time of booking.

Credit Card Fees: All credit card payments are subject to the terms outlined in the cancellation policy (see Section 3).

9.  Payments and Chargebacks

• Failure to make the final payment by the indicated due date will result in cancellation of the booking and all its services including but not limited to hotel, transfers, meals, and all other tour and experiences on the itinerary. In addition, Sagres Vacations may impose additional cancellation charges for any experience and/or tour that requires additional deposit.

• Failed Payments: Clients are responsible for ensuring that all payment methods including checks and account details, are accurate. If a payment fails due to insufficient funds, incorrect account information, or a returned check, a $75 fee will be charged for each failed payment.

• Refund Errors: Sagres Vacations will not be liable for refund errors caused by client providing incorrect account numbers, routing information, or payment details.

• Chargebacks: If a client initiates a chargeback and Sagres Vacations prevails in disputing the claim, the following will apply:

The client will be responsible for all fees, costs, and administrative expenses incurred by Sagres Vacations in disputing the chargeback.

The client will forfeit any eligibility for refunds related to the disputed charge.

The client will be prohibited from rebooking any future travel programs with Sagres Vacations.

10. Force Majeure and Unforeseen Circumstances

Sagres Vacations shall not be held liable for any delays, cancellations, or changes caused by events outside its reasonable control, including but not limited to acts of God, pandemics, government mandates, political instability, or weather conditions. In such cases, Sagres Vacations reserves the right to modify itineraries, provide alternative arrangements, or issue credits where possible.

11. Acknowledgment and Agreement

By submitting this form, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agreed to the terms and conditions stated herein, including:

• The Liability Waiver (Section 1)

• The Covid-19 Waiver (Section 2)

• The Cancellations and Refund Policy (Section 3)

• The acknowledgment of Travel Insurance options (Section 5)

• The Failed Payments and Chargebacks policy (Section 9)

You further agree to release and hold harmless Sagres Vacations and all associated parties from any and all claims, damages, or liabilities that may arise from your participation in the travel program.

Tourism Tax

Please note, some European Cities may charge a Touristic Tax imposed directly by each city and not included in the price of your Itinerary.  This Tax ranges from 1 Euro to 2 Euros per night, per person and may be paid directly at the Hotel by the traveler. The Touristic tax is imposed directly from each City and Country and may be subject to change, please inquire directly with the hotel on the specific touristic tax.

Disclaimer: Tour and Itinerary Changes

Please note, changes to actual tour schedule and itinerary may occur due to external factors such a weather, traffic, mobility restrictions for customers and local city and regional events that may be happening in the general area of the tour and others. Sagres Vacations will continue to prioritize Customer Safety when making any changes to itinerary and/or land components within the tour. Sagres Vacations will inform all our customers of any changes and will do all possible to maintain the original schedule and ensure the highest quality tour experience for all our customers.