Kimkim Trip Reviews for Portugal

In every location we had great guides and drivers who made it a fun, informative and entertaining adventure. The accommodations , tours, meals and entertainment were above expectations. The high points were staying in a monastery in Alcobaça, the Douro valley tour and Pacheco winery, Porto—it was all wonderful. Great guides Nuno and John and drivers Manuel and Joao (sp?). A wonderful Portugal experience. Thanks, Joao and Kim Kim!

Our trip to Portugal was organised by Adam- he did a fantastic job! The Zoom catch up before our trip began gave us the opportunity to run through our itinerary and ask any questions. The tours that we had booked were fun and hassle free. When we had a tour cancelled, we were notified promptly and offered something similar. Our drivers were punctual ,friendly, and knowledgeable. The hotels we stayed in were unique and definitely suited our style. Communication with the team at kimkim was efficient and we were kept in the loop at all times. I was hesitant to use a travel company as I usually organise our travel myself but not knowing much about Portugal and wanting a stress free end to our holiday, I decided to take a leap of faith with kimkim. It definitely paid off and I would not hesitate to recommend the team at kimkim if you are looking for a tailor made travel itinerary.

Hotel Review

Heritage Avenida Liberdade

Lisboa

Beautifully restored hotel, great location. Rooms were spacious and facilities excellent. Breakfast was excellent with lots of choices. Pastel de Nata available to nibble on all day!

Authenticity & Character

beautiful decor

Location

easy walking to restaurants and sights

Staff

helpful and friendly

Cleanliness & Comfort

comfortable beds and fluffy towels

Activity Review

Sintra Day Trip with Visit to Pena Palace

Lisbon

Filipa was a great guide. Punctual, friendly, and knowledgeable. She was able to keep one step ahead when there was traffic issues in Sintra and kept us updated with arrival times, etc. The Pena Palace was stunning, lots to see and beautiful surroundings.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

friendly and knowledgeable

Transport

very clean vehicle with good air conditioning

I think overall the trip was really well planned. Joao was very available and even helped arrange a gift for my son for his birthday. I would have preferred to stay in Cascais rather then Lisbon and just take trips day to Lisbon sites from Cascais as one night in Cascais felt too short-was a very lovely place. Evo and Carlos were both excellent drivers, super friendly, and great with my kids! They both went above and beyond. Carlos even parked at the airport to help us with our luggage and was patient with us when we overslept! Everyone was very nice. The only issue I had was at Cascade wellness resort with the showers not draining properly. My main feedback would be I wish there was more transparancy in the individual cost of each items rather then being bundled together. The cooking class, boat tours, winery were all wonderful. Sara did a fantastic job with the walking tour of Porto. Joao and his team were always very available on what's app whenever we had a question. Overall, I really appreciated the seamlessness of the trip!

Hotel Reviews

Hotel Cascais Miragem

Cascais

Very very nice hotel! Wish we could have spent more time here.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Front desk staff seemed a bit confused.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Britania Art Deco

Lisbon

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Condes de Azevedo Palace

Porto

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Cascade Wellness Resort

Lagos

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

rooms were a bit run down

Activity Reviews

Two-Hour Private River Cruise in the Picturesque city of Porto

Porto

Stunning views. Wish we had known there would be little food on this as by the time we ended and got back was almost 10 pm and we were starving.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Unveil the Fairytale Villa of Sintra with a Private Driver Service

Portugal

Carlos did an amazing job with this tour and catered to our preferences.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Indulge in Elegance on a Guided Winery Tour Infused with Tastings and a Delicious Lunch

Portugal

This winery was absolutely beautiful!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Farewell

Lisbon Int. Airport (LIS)

Carlos did a wonderful job picking us up on time and giving us tricks for getting through the crazy Lisbon airport.

Embark on a Flavorful Cooking Class with a Meal at the Farm

Portugal

It was really nice how they catered to our vegetarian preferences. Food was yummy and was a fun experience!

Quality of Experience

Food

I still think of my trip, review my pictures, and share stories with anyone that'll listen! The attention to the details by Tiago was extraordinary. The app we received had all the details we needed for our trip, a fantastic online tool and reference instead of carrying paper records. I made the mistake of looking for answers online for a couple of specific thing, that had I thought about it, Tiago would have given me the answers. One: how to dress in Portugal? The site I visited was way off, and when I mentioned to Tiago, he sweetly gave the truth about how to dress for each location on our itinerary. Porto was our first stop, and what a beautiful city. We ventured down south to the Algarve and returned to Lisbon for our departure home. The Douro Valley, Guimaraes, Tomar, Evora, Lagos, Tavira, and so many other stops. We had 14 beautiful days in Portugal, it's a beautiful country, with lovely people, and fantastic food. And it's all thanks to the expertise and love Tiago has for his country. I'm so glad I didn't travel or plan blindly, I may have missed all the beauty Tiago exposed to us, We plan on going back....soon. Even hopes to find a second home in Lagos.

Hotel Reviews

NH Collection Porto Batalha

Porto

In the heart of Porto, a stylish boutique hotel, comfortable accommodations, lovely breakfast, and friendly and helpful staff. Shower was not great, had to worry about water running out of the shower stall, design was not smart.

Authenticity & Character

Charming, well designed. Elevators in all of Portugal are way too small.

Location

Everything was either uphill, or downhill from here. A lot of walking, but we got tons of steps in.

Staff

Classy, friendly, engaging, sweet people.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Stunning. Room was spotless and well cared for.

Casa dos Ofícios Hotel

Tomar

Vasco was so special. What a pleasant young man! When he explained his name was like Vasco da Gama, I misunderstood and thought he was actually a descendant! What great laughs we had at my expense. Great sleep at night. We did it all. Restaurants nearby, great stores, the history here is abundant. The staff friendly, delicious breakfast. The shower here was the best of all the hotels we stayed.

Authenticity & Character

Charming

Location

Near to restaurants and shopping. Some traveling, if you like walking, that too! More hilly roads to climb and descend

Staff

Engaged, kind, helpful

Cleanliness & Comfort

Focus and beauty, comfort, and peace.

MouraSuites Hotel

Largo da Porta de Moura, 7000-647 Évora, Portugal

The photos on their website show the more glamorous rooms. Ours was small, but comfortable. It wasn't bad, but not beyond the average.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Marina Rio

Lagos

Location, location, location. At the Marina, but our room faced the bus terminal in the back, Luckily, we didn't spend too much time in our room. The staff were kind, professional, and helpful.

Authenticity & Character

Small breakfast room. Ramps on both sides of the entry were long and steep. They did have a power seat lift. The stairs were a lot to climb into a hotel. Just not a good design. Pay to park at the corner, convenient.

Location

It was at one end of the Marina, but the local attractions, restaurants, and shops were close. Very touristy and crowded when we were there. We weren't unhappy to leave and move to the next location.

Staff

Good service.

Cleanliness & Comfort

You could hear the noise in the halls. Weird design. It felt stark and cold. No warmth to the design. Oh, and get this. Not a single trash can at the entrance, lobby, or restaurant. The public restrooms were hidden behind a camouflaged door in the wall. Trying too hard to be cool.

Hotel Britania Art Deco

Lisbon

OMG! The best of all the hotels. Don't get me wrong, every hotel that was selected for our trip was classic, different, and comfortable. I just pointed out certain 'observations' on which they could approve. But Hotel Britania was a true historic and awesome hotel. Omar, Patric, Jose, and the dining room staff were so kind, engaged, and made our stay so memorable. We will be coming back here.

Authenticity & Character

Such wonderful dedication to retaining the character and history.

Location

Close to shopping, restaurants, and high end shopping.

Staff

Loved them all! Wish I had gotten the names of the others we met there.

Cleanliness & Comfort

You will love this place. Here too, the elevator is tiny.

Activity Reviews

Rabelo Boat Tour

Portugal

Wild boat ride. The two person boat team were great!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Visit to a Cork grove or olive oil Estate

Portugal

What a pleasant surprise on a tour focused on landmarks and history, an Olive Grove Visit. The beauty of the Olive Trees, especially the one that well over 2,000 years old.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Azulejo Tile Workshop

Lisbon

I wish I was more artistically inclined. Some in the class were more talented. But it was still a great time, and we brought home our own creations,

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

We took an Uber here.

Our trip to Portugal was amazing. Everything worked as a charm, except one thing, otherwise Coraima would get a 5 star review for sure. In Lisbon, the hotel was great, in the city center and close walking distance to everything. All trips booked in Lisbon were excellent. A transfer from Lisbon to Porto was very professional, Cesar contacted us ahead of time, pinpointed a pick up spot and was waiting for us there 10 min before. He stopped in Obidos and Nazare and arrived in Porto to our hotel. Now the hotel chosen by Coraima in Porto was gorgeous, but outside of city center and required 20 min ride by Uber or Taxi to any meeting point we had. Everything else that Coraima did was excellent, the location of this hotel in Porto is the only reason why she did not get the 5 star. However, she did prepare a video of how to use kimkim app, very helpful. All other tours and transfers worked perfectly. Our previous Italy trip through kimkim was better than amazing due to concierge services of Italian kimkim rep. This time we did not have this, Coraima was the point of contact and she was in kimkim office in USA (different time zone). I think the hotel issue would not be there if local Portuguese agent booked it, not USA agent from kimkim office in Colorado. I am a Canadian, booking in high US dollars only because of kimkim local contacts. I would come back to kimkim only if next time I have a local agent doing all the bookings and have a local concierge for the quick resolution in local time zone, should the issue come up.

Hotel Reviews

Lisbon Wine Hotel

Lisbon

Awesome hotel, even better location, walking distance to everywhere you want to be. Service is out of this world, custom omelet for breakfast. On the negative side, the bar is very expensive and not consistent. The same drink was 15 and next time 19 euro, where in restaurant 50 meters away was 7 euro. Also the hotel in in pedestrian only zone, so required 50-100 meters walk for a taxi pick up, drugging your luggage. Still, I would not hesitate to stay there again.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Pestana Douro Riverside

Porto

This ultra modern hotel is gorgeous, has beautiful river views, pool and spa. It is perfect if you need rest and relaxation. But if you are a tourist visiting Porto for the first time, it is outside of city center, 20 min cab or uber ride and has nothing around it. You are contained to eat and drink there.

Authenticity & Character

Ultra modern

Location

It is outside of city center.

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Private Pena Palace & Sintra Village Half Day Trip

Lisbon

Fantastic trip, great guide. The restaurant of the main road that the guide had suggested as authentic was the most expensive meal we had in Portugal.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Private Food Walk

Porto

Ana was incredible, made this experience to remember.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Private Tuk-Tuk Experience Along the 28 Tram Route

Lisbon

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Private transfer from {{start_location}} to {{end_location}} with stops in Óbidos and Nazaré

Portugal

Cesar was excellent, punctual, on time, helpful, wearing a suit and a tie. His car was clean, had water and luxurious. Only one misstep, he talked too much about his family values, making it difficult to concentrate on something else. Otherwise, flawless.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Private City Highlights Walk

Porto

I can't tell much about it as my wife was robbed at the start of this tour. Our guide Ana was amazing though, went with us to police station and otherwise gave us comfort.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

The trip included all the stops we were hoping for. Every guide Bernardo, Nuno and Joao was fantastic. The drivers were fabulous as well. As we expressed specific interests the guides adapted where they could to allow us those additional experiences and also giving recommendations for our free day and other things to try
Overall a fabulous trip and everyone was beyond expectations

Hotel Review

Montebelo Mosteiro de Alcobaça Historic Hotel

Alcobaça

Staying at the Montebelo Mosteiro de Alcobaça Historic Hotel was such a unique experience. Everyone loved the charm of the old monastery, and it definitely stood out as a highlight. It exceeded our expectations in every way. The other accommodations were also more than adequate, clean, and friendly, meeting the diverse needs and financial abilities of our group perfectly.

Activity Reviews

Discover Lisbon’s Historic Center – 8-Hour Guided Walking Tour

Lisbon

Attempting an eight-hour guided walking tour in Lisbon's Historic Center can sound daunting, but our guide made it incredibly engaging. He was flexible with the group's needs, allowing for breaks and personal exploration, like when one of our members wanted to venture up a tower. It truly felt tailored to us, enriching our experience immensely.

Seamless Discovery - The Ultimate Douro Valley Experience with Private Driver Service

Portugal

Our trip through the Douro Valley with a private driver was an unforgettable experience. The vineyard lunch was beyond spectacular, and even though we fell behind schedule, the accommodating staff and our gracious driver ensured it was stress-free. Missing the wine tasting would have been a shame, but everything worked out beautifully.

We were not long into planning our 5 week independent trip in Spain and Portugal when we became overwhelmed with all of the options for sights to see, tours to take, accommodation to book and modes of travel. We quickly realised that we needed some local expert assistance, and we contacted KimKim travel through their on-line portal. It was the best decision we could possibly have made!!

We provided KimKim with information about ourselves and our interests and the experiences we might like, with a rough outline of the places we wanted to go to. KimKim assigned us to Raquel Aceituno who is a Travel Specialist with Espiritu Travel in Spain. Right from the start, Raquel ‘got us’! She interpreted our needs perfectly and she came back with an itinerary that required very little tweaking to get it to just what we wanted! She added suggestions that only a person with local knowledge would know about. She recommended accommodations that were in terrific locations. For example, the Hotel Casa Morisca in Granada has remarkable views of The Alhambra and the surrounding hills and is with doubt one of the best we have stayed in. Raquel organised enriching walking tours for us and we particularly enjoyed the walking/foodie tours!! The walking tours satisfied our need for local and historical information and the foodie ones that also included tapas or pinxtos tastings left our tummy’s full and sated. All of the tour guides were extremely knowledgeable with great senses of humour and we enjoyed being in their company. The private transfer with Jesus from Granada to Seville was Raquel’s suggestion and we loved visiting Ronda en route. The driver, Jesus, gave us a lot of tips for driving in Spain along the way! Another outstanding guide was Paulo Pires who picked us up from our hotel in Lisbon and we visited Belem then Pena Palace in Sintra. We enjoyed a delicious lunch of Bacalhau à Brás at his family restaurant. Paulo was great company, and shared a lot of information with us and we followed some of his tips for the rest of our time in Portugal.

Communicating on-line was easier than we thought it would be, and taking into account the time difference between Australia and Spain, we found that Raquel replied to all of our queries in a very timely manner. Raquel quite clearly has a very good understanding of people and loves her job and it showed in the itinerary she prepared for us and the way she communicated with us. We also loved having the Trip Plan app whilst travelling and we felt confident that any urgent issues would be dealt with almost immediately.

Without a doubt, connecting with Raquel significantly enhanced our travel experience, providing us with memorable and enjoyable activities throughout our journey.

Thank you so much Raquel for your attention to detail, hard work and wisdom!

Hotel Reviews

Hotel Cortezo

Madrid

The hotel is in a good central location yet is very quiet at night. The buffet breakfast was ample and varied. The desk staff were very pleasant and helpful.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Altis Prime Hotel de Apartamentos

Lisbon

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Abba Comillas Golf Apartments

Comillas

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Sercotel Coliseo

Bilbao

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Casa Morisca

Granada

This was our favourite hotel of our 5 week trip. We loved the view from our room of the Alhambra and the large bathroom. The lady who made me "dos huevos fritos" for breakfast each day is a really lovely person!

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Casa Bonay

Barcelona

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Inglaterra

Seville

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Mondego

Coimbra

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Feel Porto Stylish Flats

Porto

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Pousada de Viana do Castelo

Viana do Castelo

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

NH Collection León Plaza Mayor

León

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Aparthotel Los Girasoles

Zaragoza

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Train Seville to Córdoba, Guided Visit of Córdoba, Train Córdoba to Seville

Seville

We really enjoyed this full day excursion and it was easy to navigate the train travel from Seville to Cordoba. Our tour guide, shared her enthusiasm for Cordoba and her extensive knowledge of Moorish occupation in Spain. Visiting the Mezquita was one of our trip highlights.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Lisbon Fado Dinner Experience

Portugal

This was great night with delicious food and wine! We could not eat all of the food! The waiters were pleasant. The walk up the hill was challenging but the effort was worth it.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Tapas Culinary Experience

Madrid

We thoroughly enjoyed this tapas tour! The guide introduced us to some tapa that we might not otherwise have chosen and the company of other people was fun! The food was plentiful as was the drinks. It was a great night.

Quality of Experience

Food

All of it!

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Guided Visit of Alhambra & Generalife Gardens

Portugal

Our tour guide was terrific and her passion for The Alhambra shows. The gardens and the building are beautiful and we loved out visit.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Boat Excursion Inside Benagil Caves

Portugal

It was lovely to be out on the ocean on the catamaran. Even though the weather was cold & windy we had a great time and we got quite close to the coastline at times. The staff were very pleasant and the simple but fresh lunch was tasty and satisfying.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Private Day Excursion: Sintra, Cascais & Estoril

Portugal

This was our best tour of our trip. Paulo is one fabulous tour guide and we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves in his company. (I mean who doesn't connect with a man who loves spreadsheets!) His knowledge about Portugal is immense and he answered all of our questions. We had a great lunch at his family restaurant where we were greeted like family and had the best meal of our trip - the famous Bacalhau à Brás. It was a thoroughly and enjoyable day!

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Highlights of Old Madrid Walk

Madrid

It was pouring with rain when we did this walking tour with Megan but she was completely unphased by that and we walked on regardless. It was a great introduction to Spain & Madrid and we really enjoyed it.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Tapas & Flamenco

Granada

Our guide combined a walk of hilly Granada with local history, tapa tasting and flamenco. We liked going into the local bars and trying tapa but I could not eat some of it due to my dietary requirements. We got to the Flamenco quite late and were placed at the back of the room and we did not have a very good view of the dancers' feet. We did not realise that we were to eat after the Flamenco at 10.00 pm. We were too tired by then so said farewell to the guide and went to bed.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Private Transfer {{start_location}} to {{end_location}} via Ronda & the White Villages

Portugal

Jesus is a real gentleman and a lovely man! He is warm and kind and funny and we had a great day with him. He gave us some very useful driving tips .

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Private Guided Visit of Seville

Seville

We loved our guided tour of Seville and seeing the Alcazar was a real treat.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Guided Tuk-Tuk Tour

Portugal

We are so glad we took this tuk tuk tour rather than try to walk it ourselves. We saw so much more that we would have if we had walked and the hills are exhausting. Our guide was knowledgeable and very friendly.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Lisbon Roots, Food & Cultural Walk

Portugal

This was a really enjoyable tour. We not only enjoyed some great food and good wine, but we also explored the labyrinth of streets in the Alfama District; something we would not have had the courage to do on our own for fear of getting lost!

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Guided Visit of Historic Coimbra

Coimbra

We loved this guided tour and the walk up the hill was made easy with the information stops. It was great that our tour guide is local and is actually a student at the University so we learnt a lot about the customs of the University and about Coimbra itself.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Guided Visit of Porto by Tuk Tuk

Porto

After some initial mix up with the location of the driver, the tour of Porto was really good and we even stopped for a shot of coffee on the route!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Guided Visit of Barcelona & Sagrada Familia

Barcelona

Our final guided tour of our 5 week journey in Spain & Portugal did not disappoint. Our driver was enthusiastic and engaged and the narration of our sights was entertaining. The itinerary was well planned and visiting the amazing Sagrada Familia was a tour highlight!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

The Best of Pintxos Gastronomy Experience

Bilbao

This was another fabulous experience and the tour guide was young and vibrant and full of enthusiasm for the pintxos of Bilbao. We went to some interesting places tucked away in local Plazas that we would otherwise have missed. The food was plentiful and delicious and the wines were fabulous and also plentiful. I really appreciated the effort that was made to cater for my food allergies.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Racquel, your valuable input in helping design an experience for our group of six was outstanding, and attention to detail was spot on. I the lead in this group couldn't thank you more for all of your time and assistance YOU gave to me. This trip was everything we had hoped for: A complete mixture of events, educational, beautiful excursions, and a bit of added free time between our events. Memories for all to last a lifetime.
Our day trip to Sintra was made special because of our guide Paulo Pires and his wonderful attention to details. He took us on a journey from pick up to drop off. He made us all feel like family and added a special Anniversary Celebration at the end of the day for a couple in our group. They will remember this anniversary FOREVER!
All of our guides were very good, pleasant and helpful with ideas. The walking tours filled us with history and on the excursions with more history, fun events and breathtaking scenery
Our hotels were wonderful, located in Lisbon and Porto allowing easy walking access to the cities. Vivienda Miranda in Lagos was exceptional for the amazing seaside setting. Staying there and not leaving would be easy, it's mesmerizing!

Hotel Reviews

Portugal Boutique City Hotel

Lisbon

Hotel and rooms are very beautiful and clean. The staff is wonderful and accommodating. Leo at the front desk was appreciated by my husband for a very helpful map outlined by Leo! The breakfast was spectacular and the outdoor area to sit at night was wonderful being with a group of six!

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Pousada Porto - Rua das Flores

Porto

This hotel is located in the center of a very busy street, which has pluses and minuses. If being transported from the airport to the hotel you must pull your luggage up a steep hill to get to the hotel. Restricted times for traffic on this street. Rooms are accommodating but small in comparison to the two other hotels we stayed. There is no outside area to sit which we appreciated as a group of six. The rooms have less amenities than we found typical in our other hotels. Overall, this is a very nice hotel but, in a comparison, not the favorite of the three we stayed.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Vivenda Miranda

Lagos

If you stay here, you will be amazed at the setting, the views, the outdoor areas to sit, relax, swim, spa, restaurant. You do not need to leave unless you want to. The staff do everything they can to make you feel special and meet your needs. If we were to pick a resort setting to get away and relax and be pampered, this hotel would be top of the list. We are a group of six on our trip to Portugal and not one in the group had a complaint. We did go out sightseeing on one of our days in Lagos, but 4 of our group said no thank you, we are not leaving here!! That speaks volumes

Authenticity & Character

The splendor of the setting, words do not describe

Location

A great retreat from hustle and bustle after a very busy first part of the trip. Perfect ending!

Staff

Very accommodating.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Meliá Lisboa Aeroporto

Lisbon

Our last night preflight staying at this airport hotel exceeded our expectations. Airport hotels do not have these same amenities and dining from our experiences. Very clean and well appointed, great staff.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Private Day Excursion: Sintra, Cascais & Estoril

Portugal

Paulo Pires our guide made this excursion one not to be forgotten!! His knowledge, personality, engagement is exceptional. If we were to do any other excursions, we would seek Paulo out to guide us and make us feel as though we are off on a journey with a friend. We need to add his wife, Anita, as he calls the beautiful one, is equally a spectacular person and you feel the warmth of true Portuguese people. We had our lunch at her restaurant, and you will not be hungry when you are done eating!! Exceptional couple and family!

Quality of Experience

PAULO!

Food

lots of wonderful tasting food, and full stomachs, and of course the wine!

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Safe driver!

Private Guided Visit of Porto

Porto

Our guide Celia was well versed in the history of Porto, made our walk a bit easier by knowing the streets to take. Porto as is Lisbon hills and cobblestone. She offered suggestions for the rest of our evening, where to eat more local, and a great Farmers Market that we went to the next day and which roads to take back to the hotel. We ate on the Riverfront and took the Funicular (cheated on the walk up the hill) to the top. Plus, a fun experience, never have been on one before. After many days of Lisbon and Porto walks, it was a welcome treat to not walk the hill.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Get to Know Lisbon with a Local

Lisbon

Alex was a tremendous asset to our understanding of the history of Lisbon and took the time to allow each person in our group to be involved. He slowed the trip a bit when needed for rest period. When we completed our tour, he surprised us with a treat of Ginji, our first tasting,

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

ALEX!!!

Transport

No transport all on foot.

Day Excursion to Douro Valley: Wine Tasting & River Cruise

Porto

Pedro had a wonderful line up of events for our day trip to the Douro Valley. This excursion is a must, a completely different experience and set of scenery. Small town stop for coffee/pastry onto our boat ride down the river, and off to two wineries'. One a large venue and one a small venue. Each beautiful. The lunch and people we met at the small winery gave you the feeling of the love that goes into the wine making process. The lunch was delicious and once again, lots of food.

Quality of Experience

Very full day from Porto to the Valley, from coffee and pastries to our first winery, off to a spectacular lunch at a small winery.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Pedro was a great guide, but he does drive a bit too fast for the very Curvey roads in Douro Valley. He had the six of us on the edge of our seats. He said no accidents in 10 years, know the roads, but that did not make the ride less scary.

Transport

Very comfortable Van

Catamaran Trip to Benagil Caves

Portugal

We have been on Catamarans before, so we had an expectation of the type of boat we would be going on, but this boat was not quite what we were expecting. That being said, we enjoyed the trip, staff very knowledgeable and willing to answer questions for those seeking information. The ride and scenery we saw was amazing, looking back at the cliffs from the water is awesome. The lunch served was exceptional for serving on a boat. The staff a thumbs up.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

4X4 Algarve Sunset Experience

Portugal

I hate to do this review, but it is necessary. The jeep, not a jeep but rather a very old 1976 Nissan, dirty, and seating unacceptable. There were seats in second row for 3 tight fit, and 4 more of us had to sit in the rear, step up on a small plastic step he put on ground for us, as you hit your head leaning over to get into the back, and sit facing each other with no view out the windows, and knees touching each other. 8 people in the vehicle and one driver, Daniel, who did his best based on what he was given to drive us. He said the other two jeeps were in the shop. The vehicle emitted fumes, so you could not close windows, and you still smelled it. The people in the very rear could not hear anything the guide was sharing. The trip description did not mirror what we received. We were to have wine, Chorizo and bread when we sat for the sunset. We did not receive any of this, and when we returned to the hotel, I asked Daniel and he said no bread ever on Sunday, because the bakery was not open, and he did not know why his boss did not send him the wine. Honestly, I thought maybe our planned trip was subbed out to another company, but he said no. I, being the lead in this group of six, had very angry travelers, and all requesting money back for this excursion. I do not know what happened, but it was a sad that the last part of the trip had been wonderful until this excursion. They all wished they never got into the vehicle and remained at our beautiful hotel. We would like feedback on this situation. Thank you

Quality of Experience

Everything,

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Daniel shared knowledge, but only the person in the front seat next to him could hear.

Transport

Not for people, unkept, old, dirty, noisy, smelly, bouncy ride to leave your back sore.

The vast majority of the trip was absolutely amazing! We weren’t thrilled with the Olissippo hotel in Lisbon or the tuktuk tour in Lisbon but the rest of the trip was fantastic and an amazing experience. Other tours were super fun and immersive and the other hotels were very hospitable and felt like a nice vacation.

Hotel Reviews

Olissippo Castelo Hotel

Lisboa

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

The Editory Garden Porto Hotel

Porto

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Cascade Wellness Resort

Lagos

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Guided Tuk-Tuk Tour

Portugal

Our guide mostly took us to photo spots, we felt we missed seeing a lot of the city and actual sites people go to in Lisbon. Compared to walking tours in other cities we didn’t feel like we got a very personal /immersive tour just driving around. The streets in Lisbon are also very bumpy so it became very uncomfortable as the guide would zip through the streets of Lisbon.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Secret Porto Walking Experience

Porto

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Private Douro Valley Excursion with Wine Tastings, Local Lunch & Rabelo River Cruise

Porto

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Algarve Kayaking Trip to Benagil Caves

Portugal

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Cooking Class at a Lisbon Culinary School

Portugal

Quality of Experience

It gives you a variety of Portuguese recipes to take home but isn’t actually much cooking or what I imagined for a “class”

Guides, Drivers and Staff

João · Jun 4
I was very happy with the way the trip turned out especially since we started planning it very late. I don't remember when in April we actually got paired with Joao but we wanted to travel in late May so he didnt have much time to put something together and we changed our minds a few times! He did a great job with lodging, especially the Grand Real Villa Italia in Cascais and the Britania Art Deco in Lisbon. Both were in great locations so that we could walk around both cities!
He hired very good drivers - they were on time , knowledgeable and very friendly. They also could recommend places to eat and things to see in each location.
In Lisbon we did the side car tour of the city, which my entire family agrees was the best way to see Lisbon! The company was Bike By My Side and they were excellent! They were very passionate about Lisbon and Portugal and spoke English very well!
In Porto, we a gastronomic tour. That tour was ok. The guide Sara was very good, but the choices of food were not. We were expecting more items that were truly Portugese - we had a charcuterie board, bifana sandwich(which is Portugese) and then olive oil tasting and chocolate.
In Cascais we visited the village Sintra and did the Pena Palace hotel. The grounds of the Palace are extraordinary and worth touring. The palace was very crowded and if you have seen one palace in Europe you have seen them all. I would do the grounds skip the palace.
Joao had many other suggestions for us but we wanted to do our own exploring, so those were the onlyntours we did.
Joao and his team were always available via Whatsapp. They would respond right away!
I would definitely use him again!
Monica

Hotel Reviews

Hotel Britania Art Deco

Lisbon

Good location, helpful staff, great breakfast and a decanter of port in your room

Authenticity & Character

Location

could walk anywhere and great shoppping close by

Staff

Helpful in heading us in the right direction when we first got to Lisbon. Always had a smile

Cleanliness & Comfort

Grande Real Villa Italia

Cascais

beautiful ocean view, large rooms, pool is beautiful large breakfast

Activity Reviews

Unveil the Fairytale Villa of Sintra with a Private Driver Service

Portugal

grounds are gorgeous but the castle is overbooked and if you have been in one european castle you have been in allof them

Transport

Driver drove us around the mountain and to Cape Roca in Colares which is most western point of the European continent

Ride Through Time: Lisbon & Belém by Sidecar on a 3h tour

Lisbon

Only way to do a city tour in Lisbon! Very safe! Guides were very knowledgeable and fun! They were all Portugese natives and were passionate about their country1

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Exploring Porto's Rich History on an Exclusive Gastronomic Tour Through Time

Porto

Guide was good but the food was not very good. Charcuterie board, bifina sandwich, cod cakes and olive oil tasting and chocolate tasting

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Pedro was fantastic. We had an amazing trip filled with flawless execution and little surprises to help us celebrate our 25th anniversary. Highly recommend Pedro and his team.

Pedro has been an incredible asset to our wonderful trip to Portugal! From the beginning in the planning stages and all through the process, this vacation has been wonderful. We were treated to first class private transportation services that were on time, personable and highly informative, especially Carlos. The Mercedes vans were new and very comfortable. The tours that Pedro organized for us were incredible as well as each hotel stay. Overall, our 12 day adventure was over the top exceptional! Thank you!

Pedro was awesome! He organized an amazing trip for us and kept in close contact with us daily throughout our vacation.

Carlos drove for us several days and also served as a guide and did a great job. He is very knowledgeable and has a great sense of humor.

Overall a great trip. The hotels they picked out were just what we were looking for. The food tour was very underwhelming. Sarah was nice, but the food was probably the worst we had the whole time we were there and was just charcuterie and bifana which are pretty much everywhere.
All the drivers were great and professional. We really enjoyed Pepe.
I feel like there were some communication issues with our local specialist and he wasn't understanding what we were looking for. We ended up on a very touristy trip and usually we like to do off the beaten path a bit.
Our favorite tour was sidecar tour of Lisbon and that we found on our own. It was also difficult as we planned only 6 weeks out and the time change and Portuguese holidays made communication a bit difficult.

Hotel Reviews

Grande Real Villa Italia

Cascais

great staff great location

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Britania Art Deco

Lisbon

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Exploring Porto's Rich History on an Exclusive Gastronomic Tour Through Time

Porto

We learned some intersting history, but the food was nothing special.

Quality of Experience

variety of food, restaurants and more information

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Unveil the Fairytale Villa of Sintra with a Private Driver Service

Portugal

sintra was beautiful. I would like to explore it a bit differently. The pena palace grounds were amazing but inside was ridiculously crowded and hot you could not move and it was nothing you haven't seen before in a castle. Also we had asked about staying in Sintra and were really discourage to do so, but I think it might have been nice to be there when all the tourists left.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

We could write a book about our wonderful trip to Portugal -- but, don't worry, I'll just give you a summary of the experience.

First our specialist, Tiago: Smart, responsiveness, and knowledgeable. That would be enough. But he was also really warm and personable. Just plain nice. We had the good fortune of getting to know him a bit better because he served as our driver and guide on a day tour to Sintra and Cascais. When I am working with people in business, I sometimes run across a person who has "sparkle" -- a brightness and an intelligence that makes ever interaction great. Tiago has "sparkle".

Second our trip: Too many wonderful moments to mention -- but here are just a few:

Porto: Walking around this wonderful city was charming and great exercise (lots of steps and hills). We absolutely adored the views, the history, the shops. Had a wonderful dinner nearby at 5 Oceanos.

Douro Valley (drive and river tour): Simply gorgeous. We were late arriving for our scheduled boat departure -- but Tiago hopped right on it and rescheduled us. Problem solved. Unparalleled views of the vineyards along the river.

Tomar: What a beautiful and charming location. The accommodations were delightful and the main square was a postcard come to life.

Evora: More Portuguese friendliness and charm. We particularly enjoyed our hotel here -- the MouraSuites -- and the visits to the Chapel of Bones, the Palace Gardens, and again working are way around the city streets.

Olive Oil Making Tour: A true highlight of the trip where Joao took us through the history of his families small olive oil business that he is keeping alive through passion and ingenuity. A master class in a tour that was educational, engaging and well worth the time. If you enjoy intelligent people with incredible passion and storytelling skills, please go!

Lagos: Bustling and fun. We spent time in the Algarve looking for property -- and may have found something right in Porto de Mos in Lagos. That says it all!

Benagil Caves boat tour: Visually stunning with amazing crew, including "Lady Di" and the boat captain. Fun! Do it!

Sagres and Salema day trip: Wonderful history and views.

Lisbon: Truly a diverse, friendly and beautiful place. We could not have been more pleased with the staff at our the Hotel Britania -- shout outs to Omar, Jose, Patrick as well as all of the people who made and served us the incredibly breakfast daily.

Day trip to Sintra and Caiscais: While it was crowded, we were treated to a day with Tiago -- who was full of knowledge and knew exactly how to maximize our time to get a flavor for this amazing place. The specialty pastries in Sintra were absolutely delicisious.

OK -- perhaps I did right a book. But that is because we were captivated by Portugal -- it's beauty, charm, friendliness.

Muito obrigado!

Hotel Reviews

NH Collection Porto Batalha

Porto

Great central location and comfortable suites. A few minor maintenance issues with bathrooms that were quickly addressed by staff.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Casa dos Ofícios Hotel

Tomar

Charm, charm, charm. Friendliness galore.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

MouraSuites Hotel

Largo da Porta de Moura, 7000-647 Évora, Portugal

Probably our favorite hotel during our 2 week visit. Beautifully designed, wonderful breakfast, gracious staff.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Marina Rio

Lagos

Perfect location on the Marina for our time in Lagos.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Britania Art Deco

Lisbon

The staff was amazing -- and this old hotel has character dripping from the walls. LOVED IT!

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Omar, Patrick, Jose, and the desk and kitchen staff -- 5 star!

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Rabelo Boat Tour

Portugal

We loved the tour for seeing the beautiful scenery. Only thing keeping it from five stars was the lack of any narration of the experience by the tour operator.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Visit to a Cork grove or olive oil Estate

Portugal

Joao was amazing in telling the very special story of his family's olive oil estate. The discussion encompassed a lesson in the making of olive oil, the challenges of retaining a small traditional business vs when competing with the super large agriculture firms, how to taste olive oil (aroma, flavor, etc.) From my perspective, as a marketing professional, the branding of the product was fascinating! A highlight of the trip!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Azulejo Tile Workshop

Lisbon

Great to appreciate the history and importance of tiles in Portugal and truly appreciate the craft. Loved that we walked away with tangible, self-made tiles that will forever serve as reminders of this memorable experience.

Quality of Experience

It was very helpful to have the hotels close to all the attractions as we were able to walk everywhere. All the guides are super friendly and knowledgeable. We enjoyed our trip thoroughly! The only suggestion I would make for future visitors is during the Douro Valley trip. It would be great if the tour guide were able to stop at the scenic attractions, allowing us to take pictures. We saw the beautiful valley but did not stop to take pictures of the valley, only saw from the car.

Helena really was amazing and I loved the trip she planned for my family and I in Portugal. We visited Porto, Lisbon and Algarve. Just a few comments: I would have liked a little more communication after I paid the trip fees. I didn't realize I was supposed to download a travel app (which I wasn't able to do while I was in Europe for some reason), but thankfully my husband was able to do so. I also didn't realize that I never received detailed itinerary (like times and places to meet for excursions), so we actually missed the first excursion planned and I was a bit stressed out. This was a miscommunication and while I take some blame for not understanding the process as a first time Kim Kim user, it would have been nice to have more communication about this. Also, it would have been nice to know a 24/7 phone number for Kim Kim ahead of time in case of emergency...it took us some time to find numbers/emails while frantic about the itinerary when we first arrived after a long trip of travel to the destination.

One of the 3 hotels I stayed at needed significant renovations (which was agreed to by the staff) and the service was lacking for a 5 star hotel. Also, a second excursion was cancelled due to a prearranged bicycle race that shut down the roads (you would think that the excursion provider would have notified the travel agency ahead of time about this).

However, enough about the critiques...this trip was truly amazing and one that I will never forget in my lifetime and my family members agree. I would definitely use Kim Kim again for my next trip and I would definitely use Helena again for my future planning. We Loved the hotel in Lisbon and Porto and the excursions and transportation planned were awesome picks! I truly want to thank Helena for everything.

Hotel Reviews

Cascade Wellness Resort

Lagos

Not to the standards of a 5 star hotel. The 2 bedroom apartments needed renovation. The first room they booked us in was extremely dirty. Cigarette butts on the stairwell from the patio going to the roof top. Stains on the carpet and the chairs and couch. The entire apartment needed updating (which staff admitted to). Location was decent.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Near amazing water views and walking paths (not beaches or direct access to the water though)

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

The rooms

Pestana Porto - A Brasileira

Porto

Great location. Wonderful hotel. I would stay here again.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Pousada de Lisboa, Praça do Comércio - Monument Hotel

Lisbon

Amazing hotel. Amazing breakfast. Great steakhouse (Rib). Great location. Wonderful staff.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Sintra Heritage Hike: Hidden Secrets

Portugal

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Car was a little small for our group so we were cramped

Guided Tuk-Tuk Tour

Portugal

It was really great as it followed the Tram 28 destinations...but I do feel like we missed quite a bit of the city. Could have been longer and cover more areas.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

We just returned from a fantastic family vacation to Lisbon and the Algarve, and we can’t thank Pedro and Pepe from All Around Portugal enough! From start to finish, everything was seamless—thoughtfully planned, well-paced, and filled with memorable experiences. Their professionalism and warmth made us feel welcome and well taken care of every step of the way. Highly recommended for anyone looking to explore Portugal with ease!

Catarina is one of the best travel agents I have had . She was very knowledgeable and very invested in our trip planning process . She was always open to our suggestions and had clear answers to our questions . She is extremely personable and very willing to help . She welcomed us in person when we started our trip in Lisbon and was always reachable on text and call. Thank you Catarina for helping us create these beautiful memories.
I would highly recommend having her as your agent .

Hotel Reviews

Vila Galé Lagos

Lagos

Authenticity & Character

Location

I

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Exe Essenzia Porto

Porto

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Eurostars Lisboa Parque

Lisbon

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Review

FD Tour of Sintra - Cabo da Roca - Cascais & Estoril

Portugal

Our guide was very thorough and knowledgeable and personable. We thoroughly enjoyed her tour and company

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Marisa and the whole team were fantastic. We booked a one week trip thru Portugal for two adults and two kids (9 & 5).

They listened, asked great questions, and developed a great iternery for the week in two places. There were no surprises and we ended up the perfect balanced low-key trip with kids.

My favorite part...they communicated early and often. I would highly recommend Marisa and her team.