This Thanksgiving, we traded turkey for pastéis de nata and set off on an unforgettable adventure through Lisbon, Portugal. From the moment we landed, the city welcomed us with festive lights, rich history, and warm hospitality at the elegant Aurea Museum Hotel. We explored Lisbon by Tuk Tuk, tasting legendary pastries, wandering historic neighborhoods, and marveling at iconic sites like Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery. Day trips took us to the fairytale palaces of Sintra, the seaside cliffs of Cabo da Roca, and the charming streets of Óbidos.

We celebrated the season with festive markets, soothing spa visits, and even matching azulejo-inspired tattoos. From handcrafted tiles to panoramic views atop Christ the King, every moment blended culture, cuisine, and connection. Lisbon gifted us a Thanksgiving we’ll never forget—one filled with warmth, wonder, and wanderlust.

Porto greeted us with the kind of charm that lingers long after you’ve left—a city where every cobblestone street, every sip of wine, and every bite of flaky Jesuita pastry felt like a love letter to the senses. From the moment we landed, the race was on. With just over an hour to navigate baggage claim, secure our rental car, and make it to our much-anticipated food and wine tour, time was not on our side. But in Porto, even the chaos felt like part of the adventure.

The city unfolded before us in layers—historic markets brimming with local delicacies, riverside strolls bathed in golden light, and glasses of crisp Vinho Verde that seemed to taste better with every sip. We lost ourselves in the vibrant energy of Bolhão Market, discovered the magic of perfectly paired cheese and quince jam, and learned that sometimes, the best way to experience a place is through its flavors.

But Porto wasn’t just about indulgence—it was about discovery.