Enchanting Portugal: Porto, the Douro Valley, Coastal Ericeira & Lisbon

Overview

Thoughtfully paced for your family vacation and wedding celebration, this bespoke journey blends Portugal's timeless northern heritage, romantic coastal landscapes, and vibrant capital. From the terraced hillsides of the Douro Valley to the historic charm of Porto, Ericeira, Sintra, and Lisbon, each day is crafted with private Mercedes-Benz transportation and dedicated local expertise, including 3 days on your own at Ericeira.

Highlights

• Warm private airport meet and greet with direct transfer to your hotel
• Panoramic introduction to Porto's striking bridges and hillside topography
• Gentle walk through the historic Ribeira riverfront district
• Evening at leisure to unwind and enjoy dinner on your own
• Admire the intricate azulejo tile murals inside Sao Bento Station
• Take in the soaring facade of the iconic Clerigos Tower and historic centre
• Enjoy expansive panoramic views from scenic city miradouros
• Scenic coastal drive through the elegant oceanfront neighbourhood of Foz
• Scenic drive through the steep sculpted terraces of the Douro Valley
• Morning private 1-hour boat trip gliding along the serene Douro River

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Porto & Riverside Welcome
   Welcome to Portugal. Upon arrival at Porto Airport, your private driver will meet you at the arrivals hall and escort your family to your hotel for check-in. In the afternoon, enjoy a gentle introductory drive and orientation stroll along the historic riverfront, followed by free time for dinner on your own.
2. Day 2 — Historic Porto & Oceanfront Vistas
   Discover the vibrant cultural tapestry of Porto on a dedicated private city tour. Explore the historic centre, marvel at the ornate tilework of Sao Bento Railway Station, admire the Clerigos Tower, and take in the panoramic Atlantic vistas from the picturesque Foz coastal district.
3. Day 3 — Douro Valley River Cruise & Wine Tasting
   Venture inland to the breathtaking Douro Valley, the world's oldest demarcated wine region. In the morning, embark on a private 1-hour boat trip on the Douro River aboard a traditional wooden vessel, followed in the afternoon by a curated wine tasting at a family-run quinta.
4. Day 4 — Journey to Ericeira via Walled Obidos
   Depart Porto and journey southward toward the Atlantic coast and Ericeira. Along the route, stop in the fairy-tale medieval walled town of Obidos to stroll cobbled alleys and sample traditional ginjinha in a chocolate cup, before arriving at your seaside resort in Ericeira.
5. Day 5 — Coastal Relaxation in Ericeira / On your own
   Spend a delightful day dedicated to the upcoming wedding festivities and the soothing ocean atmosphere of Ericeira. Take time to relax by the resort pool, stroll along the ocean bluffs, or discover the charm of the nearby traditional fishing village at your own leisure.
6. Day 6 — Wedding Celebrations in Ericeira / On your own
   Enjoy a relaxed and memorable day celebrating with family and friends at the resort. Take advantage of the tranquil coastal setting, ocean breezes, and festive wedding gatherings surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery.
7. Day 7 — Post-Wedding Coastal Leisure / On your own
   Savour a slow-paced morning following the wedding festivities. Relax at the resort, take a restorative seaside walk, and soak in the serene Atlantic coastal ambiance with your family at your own rhythm throughout the day.
8. Day 8 — Depart Ericeira: Mafra Palace & Intro Lisbon
   Bid farewell to the coastal charms of Ericeira and begin your journey toward the capital, stopping to discover the monumental National Palace of Mafra, one of Portugal's most opulent Baroque masterpieces. Your scenic route continues offering an unforgettable introduction to the Lisbon area. Arrive in the capital to check in to your hotel, leaving your evening free to stroll the illuminated avenues and savor dinner at your leisure.
9. Day 9 — Belem & Historic Lisbon Quarters
   Immerse yourselves in the rich history and timeless beauty of Lisbon. In the morning, admire the Manueline majesty of Jeronimos Monastery, photograph the iconic Belem Tower, and savour authentic warm pasteis de nata, followed by an afternoon exploring the historic quarters of Baixa and the atmospheric labyrinth of Alfama. 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.
10. Day 10 — Fairy-Tale Sintra & Pena Palace, Cabo da Roca and Cascais
    Embark on an enchanting journey through the forested hills of Sintra, beginning with a visit to the vibrant, fairy-tale Pena Palace perched high above the Atlantic coastline. Afterward, wander the charming cobbled alleys of Sintra historic village to sample local delicacies like sweet travesseiros and queijadas. Your scenic adventure continues along the dramatic ocean road to Cabo da Roca, mainland Europe’s westernmost point, before concluding amidst the sophisticated seaside charm and palm-fringed bays of Cascais.
11. Day 11 — Farewell Lisbon & Departure
    After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning at your hotel before your private driver arrives for your comfortable departure transfer to Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport. Board your flight home carrying wonderful memories of your family trip across 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