10-Day Grand Discovery of Portugal: Lisbon, Porto & the Douro Valley

Overview

Welcome to Portugal. This curated 10-day private journey brings together the country's most iconic landscapes, rich historic heritage, and exceptional regional flavors at an unhurried, comfortable pace. From the vibrant avenues of Lisbon and the romantic hills of Sintra to the terraced hillsides of the Douro Valley and the historic heart of Porto, you will enjoy dedicated door-to-door service in premium comfort.

Highlights

• Personal airport meet and greet by your dedicated private driver
• Scenic introductory drive along Lisbon's grand boulevards
• Smooth check-in at your selected central Lisbon hotel
• Free time for a relaxed evening and dinner on your own
• Admire the intricate Manueline architecture of Jeronimos Monastery and the Monument to the Discoveries
• Private tuk tuk experience through the Old Town of Lisbon (1 hour)
• Enjoy a scenic riverside stop by Belem Tower and learn about its storied past
• Sample warm Portuguese custard tarts at the renowned Pasteis de Belem bakery
• Wander the cobbled alleys of Alfama and take in sweeping views from Eduardo VII Park
• Explore the colorful romanticist architecture and lush gardens of Pena Palace

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Lisbon & Welcome to Portugal
   Your private driver greets you warmly upon arrival at Lisbon Airport to begin your Portuguese journey. Enjoy a scenic introductory drive through Lisbon's grand boulevards before checking into your hotel, with the evening free to unwind and enjoy dinner on your own.
2. Day 2 — Lisbon Historic Highlights & Belem District
   Spend a splendid day discovering the maritime splendor and historic quarters of Portugal's capital city. In the morning, explore the historic district of Belem before heading into the historic heart of Alfama and the city center for a balanced overview of local life. Part of the day is spent on a private tuk tuk experience through the Old Town, weaving through the narrow lanes of Alfama and Mouraria for about an hour.
3. Day 3 — Fairytale Sintra, Cabo da Roca & Cascais
   Journey along the scenic Atlantic coast into the romantic forested hills of Sintra, celebrated for its whimsical royal retreats. After touring the iconic Pena Palace and charming village center, continue past rugged sea cliffs and elegant coastal resort towns.
4. Day 4 — Historic Evora & Alentejo Heritage Day Trip
   Head eastward across the rolling plains of the Alentejo region to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Evora. Discover millennia of history spanning Roman ruins and medieval monuments, complemented by the vast surrounding plains and cork oak landscapes.
5. Day 5 — Scenic Transfer to Porto via Obidos and Nazare
   Travel between Lisbon and Porto with two rewarding stops along the way. Explore the medieval walls and cobbled lanes of Obidos, with time to taste its traditional ginjinha liqueur, then continue to Nazare for clifftop Atlantic views, its lighthouse, colourful fishing boats, and authentic coastal character before arriving in Porto and settling into the hotel.
6. Day 6 — The Historic Charms of Porto
   Dedicate the day to discovering the dramatic architecture, vibrant culture, and timeless charm of Porto. Wander along the riverbank in the historic Ribeira district and marvel at the city's finest architectural gems without any rushed pace.
7. Day 7 — Douro Valley a vineyard & River Cruise
   Embark on an unforgettable excursion into the terraced landscapes of the UNESCO-listed Douro Valley. In the morning, savor the scenery during a private 1-hour boat trip on the Douro River, followed in the afternoon by an authentic wine tasting at a traditional family-run estate. Today belongs to the Douro Valley, where terraced vineyards drop down to the river. In the morning you step aboard a private 1-hour boat trip on the Douro, seeing the valley from the water. Back on land, the drive follows the panoramic roads above Pinhao and Peso da Regua, stopping at the best viewpoints. In the afternoon a family run quinta welcomes you for a Douro wine tasting, with time to walk the vines before the day closes.
8. Day 8 — Cradle of the Nation: Braga & Guimaraes
   Explore the northern cradle of the Portuguese nation on a captivating journey through Guimaraes and Braga. Discover medieval castles, ancient religious landmarks, and atmospheric cobbled historic centers steeped in national pride.
9. Day 9 — Relaxed Private Transfer to Lisbon with a Stop in Aveiro
   Continue through central Portugal with a stop in Aveiro, known for its canals, colourful moliceiro boats and Art Nouveau facades, followed by the striped wooden houses of Costa Nova by the Atlantic.
10. Day 10 — Departure from Lisbon
    Enjoy a leisurely morning in Lisbon before your private driver arrives at your hotel to assist with your luggage. Relax in comfort as you are transferred directly to Lisbon Airport for your journey home.

What is included

• Private English-speaking driver-guide
• Black Mercedes-Benz vehicle (E-Class, V-Class, or Sprinter based on group size)
• All ground transport between cities and on tour days
• Door-to-door pickups and drop-offs at hotels and airports
• Bottled water and Wi-Fi in the vehicle
• Personalized planning by Portugal Magik travel designers

Not included

• Hotel accommodation (we recommend properties on request)
• Flights to and from Portugal
• Meals and drinks (suggestions provided by your driver)
• Museum and monument entrance fees
• Travel insurance

Who this trip suits

Travellers who prefer a private, fully planned Portugal journey with a driver-guide handling every transfer.

Frequently asked questions