A Timeless Family Journey Through Portugal: Lisbon, Porto & the Douro Valley

Overview

Dear Margaret, we are delighted to craft this bespoke 10-day itinerary for you and your four grown children, designed to create cherished memories and avoid the crowds of typical bus tours. Your personalized journey will unveil the beauty and heritage of Portugal, allowing for a relaxed pace and immersive experiences tailored to your family's interests, all while accommodating your flight arrangements from both Phoenix and Charlotte. We understand your concerns about costs, and this proposal highlights the exceptional value and unique experiences a private tour offers.

Highlights

• Seamless private transfer from Lisbon Airport to your hotel
• Afternoon at leisure to relax and settle into your hotels
• Gentle introduction to Lisbon with a riverside stroll
• Evening free for dinner on your own at a local restaurant
• Discover the grand Jeronimos Monastery in Belem
• Private tuk tuk experience through the Old Town of Lisbon (1 hour)
• Marvel at the historic Belem Tower along the Tagus River
• Savor an authentic Pasteis de Belem custard tart experience
• Wander through the labyrinthine streets of the ancient Alfama district
• Explore the vibrant and romantic Pena Palace in Sintra

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Lisbon & Riverside Charm
   Welcome to Lisbon! Upon arrival, your private driver will meet you for a seamless transfer to your hotel. After settling in, enjoy a gentle introduction to the city with a leisurely afternoon along the Tagus River, followed by free time to unwind and anticipate the adventures ahead.
2. Day 2 — Lisbon's Maritime Heritage & Historic Alfama
   Explore Lisbon's iconic maritime quarter, Belem, with its impressive monuments to Portugal's Age of Discoveries, followed by a visit to the historic Alfama district, the city's oldest quarter. Enjoy a tasting of the famous Pasteis de Belem and soak in the city's authentic atmosphere. 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 — Sintra's Romantic Palaces & Atlantic Coastline
   Journey into the enchanting hills of Sintra, an UNESCO World Heritage site, to discover its fairy-tale Pena Palace. Continue to the dramatic cliffs of Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, and conclude your day exploring the charming coastal town of Cascais.
4. Day 4 — Evora UNESCO Heritage & Relaxed Alentejo Winery Day
   Today, venture into the Alentejo region to the historic city of Evora, another UNESCO World Heritage site.
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 — Porto's Historic Heart & Riverside Views
   Immerse yourselves in the captivating history and vibrant atmosphere of Porto. Discover the iconic Sao Bento train station, explore the lively Ribeira district along the Douro River, and admire the majestic Dom Luis I Bridge, connecting Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia.
7. Day 7 — Douro Valley's a vineyard & River Cruise
   Embark on a breathtaking journey through the Douro Valley, an UNESCO World Heritage landscape of terraced a vineyard. In the morning, enjoy a private 1-hour boat trip on the Douro River, offering unparalleled views of the scenery. In the afternoon, indulge in a wine tasting at a family-run quinta, savoring the region's Port wines.
8. Day 8 — Braga's Sanctuaries & Guimaraes' Birthplace
   Explore the historical and spiritual heart of Northern Portugal. Visit Braga, known for its religious sanctuaries, including the Bom Jesus do Monte with its iconic baroque staircase. Continue to Guimaraes, the birthplace of Portugal, and wander through its well-preserved medieval town center.
9. Day 9 — Aveiro's Canals & Costa Nova's Striped Houses
   Journey to the picturesque coastal towns south of Porto. Explore Aveiro, often called the 'Venice of Portugal,' with its charming canals and colorful Moliceiro boats. Continue to Costa Nova, famous for its iconic striped fishermen's houses, before enjoying a relaxed afternoon and evening back in Porto.
10. Day 10 — Departure from Porto
    Enjoy a final Portuguese breakfast and some leisure time before your private driver transfers you to Porto Airport for your departure, concluding your memorable family journey through Portugal.

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