11-Day Portugal Journey: Porto, Lisbon & Douro Valley
Discover Portugal's essential cities and scenic wine region, thoughtfully planned for two.
Duration: 11 days
Region: North
From 4950 EUR per person
Overview
This 11-day Northern Portugal itinerary is designed for a couple seeking a comprehensive exploration of the region's highlights. Beginning with your arrival in Lisbon, you will immediately transfer north to the serene Douro Valley for wine estate visits and a private river cruise. The journey continues to the vibrant city of Porto, exploring its historic center, Port wine cellars, and culinary scene. Subsequent visits to Coimbra, Sintra, and Óbidos will reveal Portugal's diverse cultural and historical landscapes, concluding back in Lisbon. This trip emphasizes comfortable transitions and curated local experiences.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1 — Arrival in Lisbon, Transfer to Douro Valley
Upon arrival in Lisbon, a private driver will meet you for a direct transfer to the Douro Valley. Settle into your selected accommodation amidst the vineyards, followed by a welcome dinner, providing an opportunity to relax after your journey.
- Direct transfer from Lisbon Airport to Douro Valley accommodation
- Travel through the Portuguese countryside, observing the scenery
- Check into your hotel within the Douro Valley vineyards
- Enjoy a welcome dinner showcasing local cuisine and wines
Day 2 — Douro Valley Estates & River Cruise
Explore Port wine production with visits to traditional quintas. Learn about winemaking processes and participate in tastings. A private boat trip on the Douro River offers views of the terraced vineyards from the water.
- Visit a Douro quinta to understand winemaking traditions
- Taste Port and DOC Douro wines during a guided session
- Take a private boat trip on the Douro River for vineyard views
- Access scenic viewpoints for panoramic valley perspectives
Day 3 — Douro Train to Porto & City Introduction
Start the day with final views of the Douro Valley before a private transfer to Pinhão train station. A train journey to Porto provides a different perspective of the river. Your driver will meet you in Porto with your luggage, facilitating transfer to your hotel, followed by an initial city overview.
- Experience a train journey from Pinhão to Porto, alongside the river
- Observe the Douro River landscape from a lower vantage point
- Receive a seamless transfer to your Porto hotel
- Begin an introductory exploration of Porto's urban areas
Day 4 — Porto Landmarks & Port Wine Cellars
Continue exploring Porto, focusing on its historic center, riverside areas, and main landmarks. Cross to Vila Nova de Gaia for a Port wine tasting experience.
- Walk through Ribeira district, adjacent to the Douro River
- See the Dom Luís I Bridge, connecting Porto and Gaia
- Visit a traditional Port wine cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia
- Participate in a Port wine tasting, learning about its history
Day 5 — Porto's Culture & Cuisine
Further discover Porto's notable azulejo-tiled stations, architectural details, and local markets. Engage with the city's artistic character and experience its culinary offerings.
- Admire the azulejo tile work at São Bento Railway Station
- Ascend Clérigos Tower for city views over Porto
- Navigate Porto's city center, finding local spots
- Engage in a curated culinary experience, tasting local dishes
Day 6 — Porto Exploration, Optional Aveiro Visit
This day allows for independent exploration of Porto, revisiting sites or discovering new areas. Alternatively, an optional excursion to Aveiro is available, known as the 'Portuguese Venice,' where moliceiro boats navigate canals. This choice combines urban discovery with a coastal town's charm.
- Wander through Porto's Ribeira district and its riverside activities
- Discover less-known neighborhoods in Porto, including local cafes
- Explore the Foz do Douro coastline at your own pace
- Consider an optional trip to Aveiro for a moliceiro boat ride
Day 7 — Coimbra's Academia, Fátima & Cascais Arrival
Travel south from Porto, including a visit to Coimbra, known for its university, and the Sanctuary of Fátima. The day concludes with arrival and check-in to your accommodation in Cascais.
- Explore the historic University of Coimbra campus
- View the ornate Biblioteca Joanina, an example of baroque architecture
- Experience the atmosphere of the Sanctuary of Fátima
- Arrive in Cascais and complete hotel check-in
Day 8 — Lisbon's Maritime History & Old Quarters
Explore Lisbon's historical context, starting with the Belém district, recognized for its Age of Discoveries monuments. Continue with a tour through the Alfama district, Lisbon's oldest neighborhood.
- Observe Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- See Belém Tower, a historical symbol of Portuguese exploration
- Taste Pastéis de Belém, traditional Portuguese pastries
- Walk through the historic Alfama district, Lisbon's oldest area
Day 9 — Sintra's Palaces & Atlantic Coast
Visit Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, noted for its palaces and gardens. Conclude the day with views of the Atlantic coastline.
- Explore the distinct architecture of Pena Palace
- Discover the gardens and tunnels at Quinta da Regaleira
- Visit Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, for ocean views
- Relax in Cascais, a Portuguese fishing village
Day 10 — Medieval Óbidos & Nazaré's Cliffs
Discover Óbidos, a medieval village enclosed by walls. Proceed to Nazaré, a fishing village recognized for its large waves and clifftop vistas.
- Wander through the historic, walled town of Óbidos
- Taste Ginja de Óbidos, a local cherry liqueur
- Observe views from Nazaré's cliffs overlooking the Atlantic
- Learn about Nazaré's renowned big waves
Day 11 — Departure from Lisbon Airport
After a stay in Portugal, enjoy a final breakfast at your airport hotel. Your private driver will provide a transfer to Lisbon Airport for your departure.
- Enjoy a final Portuguese breakfast
- Receive a private transfer to Lisbon Airport (LIS)
- Depart with memories of Portugal's landscapes and culture