Portugal 2025 – Ensemble Iberica

October 15th - 23nd, 2025

Price $4,375

Details to be announced on Jan 15, 2025

Experience the Soul of Portugal: Fado, Food, and Wine

Step into the heart of Portuguese culture with fado, a deeply emotional urban folk music born in the streets and taverns of Lisbon in the 19th century. Often called “The Blues of Portugal,” fado is characterized by its mournful melodies and poetic lyrics, weaving stories of the sea, life’s struggles, and the nostalgia of bygone days.

Now is your chance to experience fado in its birthplace, the ancient city of Lisbon, performed by world-class artists Rodrigo Costa Felix and Francisco Moreira, alongside Ensemble Iberica’s Beau Bledsoe, Ezgi Karakus, Erin McGrane, and Jeff Freling (of Victor & Penny). Adding a fresh, captivating twist, guest artist George Carver infuses fado with unique American influences.

“Ensemble Iberica, Thank you all for the beautiful trip to Turkey. I can't say enough other than it is in the top 5 of my life travels. The leaders, fellow travelers, music, the country and it's history, all are unsurpassable. A unique journey"

"I loved the experience, music, and meeting people with interests and appreciation in common. I'm looking forward to more concerts, and more trips with Ensemble Iberica!"

"A heartfelt "Thank you" to Erin, Beau, Jeff, and Brendan for a fantastic trip to Ireland! You were so responsive to all of our questions ahead of departure. When we arrived, you and the team had thought through every angle, leading to a genuinely memorable experience. The music was always stellar, and the last evening was one for the books! We hope to see you on a future adventure with Ensemble Iberica."

"This was a great trip. I experienced so much more of the people and history and beauty of Turkey than I ever would have found on my own. Thank you to Ensemble Iberica for putting this together. If you want to see beauty, go with artists."

"We went on our second trip with Ensemble Iberica in October. These trips are well-planned with every detail explored and experienced before guests are taken overseas. The food, music venues, cultural events are excellent, and all the hosts and guides are kind, compassionate, and highly competent. We will definitely travel with Ensemble Iberica again."

"We have had wonderful times on the Ensemble Iberica trips we have taken to Ireland, New York City, & Turkey! They make sure we stay in great hotels, eat at great restaurants, they are sure to provide us with great tour guides to take us sightseeing, & they find talented musicians to entertain us! We hope to go on more trips with them!"

"Beau and George were amazing care givers. I felt like I personally mattered; the group felt like a family not a cattle drive. Even if someone doesn't know about fado, the experience and travel is just as important as the love of that genre of music. Human connection through travel, shared experience, wine, food and music. Laughter and love for all.”

Welcome to Lisbon: A Night of Culture, Cuisine & Fado

Arrive in Lisbon and settle into the elegant HOTEL do CHIADO, nestled in the charming Bairro Alto, offering breathtaking views of São Jorge Castle and the River Tagus.

Begin your journey with a rooftop cocktail reception, where you’ll take in the best view in Lisbon while getting to know your fellow travelers. Then, indulge in a three-course traditional Portuguese dinner in our private dining room, prepared exclusively for our group.

Adding a touch of magic, Beau Bledsoe will bring along his Portuguese guitar to introduce you to fado, the soulful music that defines Portugal. He’ll share insights into its history and significance, setting the stage for the musical adventures ahead.

For those craving more, Beau and Rodrigo Costa Felix will guide you to explore Lisbon’s iconic fado clubs, where the city’s passion and music come alive in unforgettable late-night performances.

Discover Lisbon: History, Charm & Fado

Start your day with a walking tour of the Alfama neighborhood, led by none other than fado singer Rodrigo Costa Felix. Explore the winding streets and vibrant history of Lisbon’s oldest district, where fado was born.

After lunch (on your own), we’ll visit the iconic Castle of São Jorge, a magnificent Moorish fortress perched high above the city, offering panoramic views of Lisbon and the Tagus River.

As night falls, prepare for an unforgettable evening at the legendary fado house Mesa de Frades, housed in a stunning 18th-century chapel adorned with exquisite Portuguese tiles. Enjoy a lavish dinner paired with plenty of local wines, as the soulful sounds of fado fill the air.

Dinner begins at 8:30 PM, and you’re invited to stay for the final, intimate fado set at 1:00 AM, where Rodrigo Costa Felix will perform alongside the local musicians for a truly authentic experience.

An Exclusive Night of Fado at Fado ao Carmo

Experience an unforgettable evening at Fado ao Carmo, one of Lisbon’s most authentic and intimate fado houses, personally arranged by the renowned Rodrigo Costa Felix. Nestled next to the historic Carmo Convent, this hidden gem is where the city’s best fado musicians and singers gather to perform and celebrate their craft.

Enjoy an exquisite dinner paired with fine Portuguese wines as the soulful sounds of fado fill the air, creating an atmosphere both captivating and timeless. With its warm ambiance and exceptional music, Fado ao Carmo offers a rare and genuine glimpse into Lisbon’s rich musical heritage.

Journey to Oporto: Scenic Views, History & River Cruise

Embark on a comfortable three-hour train ride through Portugal’s stunning landscapes as we make our way to Oporto, a city steeped in history and charm.

Upon arrival, check in to the elegant Oca Oriental Porto Hotel, perfectly located in the heart of Oporto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In the afternoon, step aboard a traditional Rabelo Boat for a leisurely cruise on the Douro River. Take in the breathtaking views of Oporto’s iconic architecture and bridges while enjoying live music, light appetizers and drinks, making this a truly relaxing and scenic experience.

A Spectacular Journey Through the Douro Valley

Embark on a breathtaking day trip through the Douro Valley, home to the world’s most exquisite Port Wines and some of Portugal’s most stunning scenery.

For lunch, indulge in a tasting menu at the renowned DOC Restaurant, celebrated as one of the most idyllic dining experiences in Portugal. Nestled along the tranquil River Douro, this exceptional restaurant offers magnificent views of lush vineyards cascading down the hillsides.

Award-winning Chef Rui Paula combines the finest locally-sourced, certified ingredients with innovative techniques to create a culinary experience that’s as unforgettable as the landscape

An Exclusive Evening at O Fado in Oporto

Join us for an extraordinary night at O Fado, one of Oporto’s most celebrated fado houses, where the soul of Portugal comes alive through its rich musical heritage. This special evening has been thoughtfully curated by the gifted Francisco Moreira, ensuring an unforgettable cultural and culinary experience.

Known for its intimate ambiance and world-class performances, O Fado offers an unparalleled setting to immerse yourself in the haunting beauty of fado music. Adding to the magic of the night will be a performance by acclaimed Austin songwriter George Carver, accompanied by Beau Bledsoe and Ezgi Karakus.

The evening includes a delightful dinner and a selection of fine wines, perfectly paired to enhance the emotional depth and timeless allure of fado. Join us for this rare opportunity to experience the true essence of Portugal’s musical tradition in one of Oporto’s finest venues

Trip is strictly limited to 27 people.

Participants will need to be able to walk moderate distances unassisted, climb stairs, and manage uneven surfaces.

Schedule and activities may slightly change if unforeseen circumstances arise.

Arrange your own flight. Flights are not included in the cost of the trip.

How it works

Reserve your spot with a $500 deposit refundable until 90 days prior to departure. Pay deposit here.

Pay remaining balance 90 days before date of departure. Financing available through Affirm. Pay in full here.

You will be contacted for an orientation/meet and greet a few weeks before departure and given a detailed travel itinerary with recommendations, detailed time frames and transportation information to and from the airports.

October 15th - 23nd, 2025

Price $4,375

Details to be announced on Jan 15, 2025

How it works

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