Golden Portugal: 9-Day Journey from Lisbon to Porto & the Douro Valley

Overview

Welcome to Portugal for an exclusive nine-day private journey through the country's most iconic historic treasures, dramatic coastlines, and verdant wine country. Thoughtfully curated for your party of nine, this seamless experience blends cultural discovery with relaxed scenic drives led by your dedicated private driver/guide. From the romantic palaces of Sintra and the medieval ramparts of Evora to the terraced a vineyard of the Douro Valley, every day has been crafted to create unforgettable memories.

Highlights

• Personalized meet and greet upon arrival at Lisbon Airport
• Panoramic orientation drive taking in Lisbon's grand avenues
• Scenic stop at historic belvederes overlooking the city rooftops
• Evening at leisure to unwind and enjoy dinner on your own
• Admire the intricate Manueline architecture of Jeronimos Monastery
• Riverside stop by the historic Belem Tower and Monument to the Discoveries
• Warm pastel de nata tasting at the world-famous Pasteis de Belem
• Wander through the atmospheric streets of Alfama and take in the Parque Eduardo VII viewpoint
• Guided visit to the vibrant fairy-tale heights of Pena Palace
• Explore the romantic cobbled streets of Sintra's historic village

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival, Meet & Greet and Lisbon Orientation
   Arrive at Lisbon Airport where your dedicated driver/guide warmly greets you for a relaxed introduction to Portugal's luminous capital. Enjoy a panoramic orientation drive through scenic avenues and sweeping viewpoints before a relaxed afternoon settling into your hotel and enjoying dinner at your own pace.
2. Day 2 — Discovering Lisbon & Historic Belem
   Dedicate the morning to the historic Belem waterfront to admire the monumental architecture of the Age of Discoveries, followed by a tasting of warm custard tarts at the iconic bakery. In the afternoon, head up to Parque Eduardo VII for sweeping city panoramas before wandering the cobblestone lanes of charming Alfama.
3. Day 3 — Sintra, Cabo da Roca & Cascais
   Journey into the verdant Serra de Sintra to visit the whimsical Pena Palace, crowning the peaks above romantic wooded hillsides. Continue through the forested landscape down to the dramatic Atlantic cliffs of Cabo da Roca before winding along the scenic coastal road to the traditional seaside charm of Cascais.
4. Day 4 — Evora & Historic Monsaraz
   Travel eastward into the sweeping golden plains of the Alentejo region to explore the UNESCO World Heritage town of Evora. Discover millennia of history from Roman pillars to the Chapel of Bones, then journey onward to the hilltop fortified village of Monsaraz overlooking the Alqueva Lake, complete with an exclusive regional wine tasting.
5. Day 5 — Knights Templar: Tomar & Almourol
   Delve into centuries of chivalric lore with a scenic drive to the Tagus River, viewing the fairytale water fortress of Almourol Castle. Continue to Tomar to explore the legendary Convent of Christ, marvelling at its world-famous Manueline Window and serene Renaissance cloisters.
6. Day 6 — Relaxed Private Transfer to Porto
   Begin your journey north toward Porto, stopping first within the fortified ramparts of medieval Obidos to sample traditional ginjinha served in chocolate cups. Continue to the Atlantic coast at Nazare to admire panoramic ocean vistas from the Sitio cliffs before completing the scenic drive to Porto.
7. Day 7 — Porto, Character & Atmosphere
   Immerse yourself in Porto's rich character with a full-day exploration of its grand monuments, panoramic riverfront, and vibrant centre. Admire the azulejo masterpieces of Sao Bento Station, look up at the soaring Clerigos Tower, pass the neo-Gothic facade of Livraria Lello, and stroll the lively UNESCO-listed Ribeira district along the Douro.
8. Day 8 — Douro Valley, Wine & Serenity
   Head into the enchanting terraced landscapes of the UNESCO-designated Douro Valley for a day of pure river serenity and winemaking excellence. In the morning, embark on a private 1-hour boat trip aboard a traditional vessel, followed in the afternoon by an authentic Douro wine tasting at a family-run quinta.
9. Day 9 — Scenic Journey South via Coimbra & Departure
   Depart Porto for your southward journey through central Portugal, pausing in the historic university city of Coimbra to discover its academic legacy and riverfront charm. Conclude your memorable nine-day adventure with a smooth transfer directly to Lisbon Airport for your departure flight 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