Discover the culinary heart of Porto on this immersive local market tour and cooking class. Explore the vibrant Mercado do Bolhão, engaging with vendors and sampling regional delicacies. Opt to actively participate in a hands-on cooking session, or simply observe the preparation of traditional Portuguese dishes. Either way, you’ll dive deep into the city’s rich gastronomic heritage, learning about its history and products. Refreshing beverages and the opportunity to savor the fruits of your labor make this an experience not to be missed. What secrets of Porto’s cuisine will you uncover?
Key Points
- 4-hour local market tour and hands-on cooking class in Porto, Portugal, providing insights into Portuguese culinary history and traditions.
- Guided visit to the authentic Mercado do Bolhão municipal market, including interaction with vendors and sampling of regional delicacies.
- Choice between a hands-on cooking class or observation of dish preparation, immersing participants in local culinary culture.
- Inclusion of beverages and samples of Portuguese specialties, such as olives, lupines, and sausages.
- Limited participation size of 10 people, ensuring a personalized and interactive experience.
Tour Details
This 4-hour local market tour and cooking class provides a guided visit to an authentic municipal market, offering insights into Portuguese history and products.
Participants can choose to either actively engage in a hands-on cooking class or simply observe the preparation of a traditional Portuguese dish, such as cod.
The tour involves walking to the market and kitchen, with a short 5-minute metro ride.
Children and teenagers have limited participation, and the experience isn’t suitable for vegetarians or those who are lactose intolerant.
The tour starts at the scheduled time, and the group is limited to 10 participants, making it a more intimate and personalized experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Porto.
Inclusions
The tour includes a guided visit to the local market, where participants can engage in a hands-on cooking class or simply observe the preparation of a traditional Portuguese dish, such as cod.
Plus, the experience provides samples of various Portuguese delicacies, including olives, lupines, sausages, Alheira with mayonnaise, and the iconic Pastel de Nata.
Throughout the tour, participants can enjoy water, juices, local wine, and espresso. The inclusion of these authentic Portuguese food and drink items allows participants to fully enjoy the local culinary culture and experience the flavors that make this destination so unique.
Important Information
Although it’s a rain or shine activity, the tour involves walking to the market and kitchen, which is a 5-minute metro ride away.
Children and teenagers have limited participation, and the experience isn’t suitable for vegetarians or those who are lactose intolerant.
This tour is designed for those who can comfortably walk and participate in the activities.
Rain or shine: The tour goes on regardless of the weather, so be prepared with appropriate clothing.
Walking required: Participants will need to walk to the market and kitchen, which is a short metro ride away.
Limited participation for kids: Children and teenagers may have restricted involvement in the cooking class.
Dietary restrictions: Vegetarians and those with lactose intolerance may not be able to fully enjoy the included food items.
Logistics
Participants meet at the Mercado do Bolhão, in front of the main fountain, to start the tour at the scheduled time without any exceptions. The tour is limited to 10 participants.
Meeting Point | Tour Start | Participants Limit |
---|---|---|
Mercado do Bolhão In front of main fountain |
Scheduled time No exceptions |
10 |
The short metro ride to the cooking kitchen is included in the tour. While children and teenagers have limited participation, the market visit and cooking class are suitable for all ages, rain or shine.
More Great Tours NearbyBooking and Policies
This tour is likely to sell out, so it’s best to reserve your spot now and pay later.
There’s a 24-hour free cancellation policy for a full refund if your plans change.
When booking, you can expect the following:
- Cost: $97.98 per person
- Reserve now, pay later
- 24-hour free cancellation for full refund
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to explore the local market and learn how to cook a traditional Portuguese dish. Book your tour now and get ready for an unforgettable culinary adventure in Porto.
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Guided Market Visit
The guided market visit takes participants on an immersive exploration of the authentic Mercado do Bolhão, where they’ll uncover the rich history and diverse offerings of this vibrant municipal market.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, visitors will wander through the stalls, learning about the origins and significance of the various Portuguese products on display, from fresh produce and cured meats to traditional handicrafts.
The market visit provides an opportunity to engage with the vendors, sample unique regional delicacies, and gain a deeper appreciation for the culture and traditions that have shaped this iconic landmark.
This hands-on experience sets the stage for the cooking class that follows, where participants can put their newfound knowledge to the test.
Hands-on Cooking Class
After the guided market visit, participants typically head to the cooking class portion of the experience.
Here, they’ll don their aprons and gather around the well-equipped kitchen, ready to learn the secrets behind crafting a traditional Portuguese dish – the beloved Cod.
During the hands-on cooking class, guests will:
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Prepare the Cod dish step-by-step under the watchful eye of an experienced local chef.
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Learn techniques for working with this iconic Portuguese ingredient, including proper seasoning, cooking methods, and presentation.
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Have the opportunity to ask questions and gain insights into the cultural significance and preparation of this national culinary treasure.
Traditional Portuguese Dish
Participants get to showcase their culinary skills by preparing a classic Portuguese dish – the beloved Cod, a staple ingredient in the country’s cuisine.
During the hands-on cooking class, they’ll learn traditional techniques for preparing this versatile fish. The chef will guide them through every step, from seasoning the Cod to combining it with complementary flavors.
By the end of the class, you will have crafted a delectable Portuguese Cod dish, complete with side accompaniments like potatoes and greens.
This immersive experience allows guests to not only savor the final product but also gain a deeper appreciation for the rich culinary heritage of Portugal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Dishes Will We Learn to Cook During the Class?
During the class, you will learn to cook 1 traditional Portuguese dish, specifically a Cod dish. The cooking class or show cooking allows hands-on preparation or observation of this single Portuguese specialty.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Cooking Class?
The tour is not suitable for vegetarians or those with lactose intolerance, as the included food items contain meat and dairy products. Participants with specific dietary needs should consider an alternative cooking class.
Can We Take the Recipes Home After the Class?
Participants can’t take home the recipes from the cooking class. The focus is on the hands-on experience of preparing the traditional Portuguese dish together during the class. Recipes aren’t provided after the experience.
Is There a Discount for Booking in a Group?
Yes, there is a group discount available. According to the information provided, the tour cost is $97.98 per person, but the booking policies indicate that discounts may apply for group bookings. Customers should inquire about group rates when making their reservation.
Do We Receive a Certificate Upon Completion of the Cooking Class?
No, participants do not receive a certificate upon completion of the cooking class. The focus is on the hands-on cooking experience and learning about traditional Portuguese cuisine, not on providing formal certification.
Recap
This immersive Porto experience offers a unique opportunity to discover the city’s vibrant culinary culture.
Explore the historic Mercado do Bolhão, engage with local vendors, and learn about traditional Portuguese ingredients and dishes.
Whether you choose to participate in a hands-on cooking class or observe the preparation of iconic regional fare, you’ll deepen your appreciation for Porto’s rich gastronomic heritage.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Shopping Tours in Porto
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