Grand 10-Day Portugal Discovery: From Lisbon & Sintra to Porto & the Douro Valley

Overview

Welcome to an immersive 10-day private journey through the heart and soul of Portugal, thoughtfully designed for two travellers seeking an authentic, stress-free exploration. From the sunlit hills and historic quarters of Lisbon to the romantic fairy-tale heights of Sintra, the medieval legacy of central Portugal, and the terraced wonders of the Douro Valley, this curated experience blends rich heritage with breathtaking landscapes. Travelling with your dedicated English-speaking private driver/guide, you will enjoy seamless comfort and local insight at every turn.

Highlights

• Warm meet and greet service at Lisbon Airport by your private driver
• Comfortable private transfer to your hotel in a premium Mercedes-Benz vehicle
• Gentle introductory scenic drive along the historic Tagus riverfront
• Relaxed evening at leisure with free time for dinner on your own
• Admire the intricate Manueline architecture of Jeronimos Monastery and take in Belem Tower along the riverbank
• Private tuk tuk experience through the Old Town of Lisbon (1 hour)
• Taste authentic, warm pasteis de nata at the legendary Pasteis de Belem bakery
• Take in sweeping panoramic vistas of Lisbon from the grand terrace of Eduardo VII Park
• Wander through the evocative winding alleyways and hidden courtyards of historic Alfama
• Explore the vibrant architecture and lush royal gardens of Pena Palace nestled in the forested Sintra hills

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Lisbon & Riverside Welcome
   Upon your arrival at Lisbon Airport, your private driver will warmly greet you for a comfortable transfer to your hotel. Settle in and enjoy a gentle introductory panoramic drive along the Tagus River, followed by time to relax after your journey. In the evening, enjoy free time for dinner on your own at a local restaurant.
2. Day 2 — Historic Lisbon & Maritime Heritage
   Begin your morning exploring the historic Belem district, where you will admire the ornate exterior of Jeronimos Monastery and enjoy a riverside stop by Belem Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries. After savoring warm custard tarts at the renowned Pasteis de Belem bakery, take in panoramic city vistas from Eduardo VII Park before exploring the atmospheric labyrinth of Alfama. Your afternoon concludes with leisure time across Baixa and Rossio Square. 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 Fairy-Tale Hills & Cascais Coastline
   Journey into the romantic Serra de Sintra hills, where you will visit the colorful and whimsical Pena Palace, exploring its vibrant terraces and expansive royal parklands. Continue down to Sintra's historic village for independent exploration and traditional pastry tasting, before traveling out to the dramatic windswept cliffs of Cabo da Roca. Return via the scenic Atlantic coastal road through the charming seaside town of Cascais and past the shores of Estoril.
4. Day 4 — Evora Heritage & Alentejo Wine Country
   Head east across the Tagus River into the sun-drenched plains of the Alentejo region to discover the UNESCO-listed city of Evora. Francis. In the afternoon, visit a traditional regional wine estate to enjoy a tasting of celebrated Alentejo vintages before returning to Lisbon.
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 Historic Centre & Ribeira Charms
   Dedicate today to uncovering the timeless charms of Porto's historic core, beginning with the stunning hand-painted azulejo tiles at Sao Bento Railway Station. Stroll past Clerigos Tower and the lively streets of the city centre, taking in dramatic views from the upper deck of Dom Luis I Bridge. Continue down to the vibrant riverside Ribeira district and drive along the breezy Foz district where the Douro River meets the Atlantic Ocean.
7. Day 7 — Douro Valley River Cruise & Wine Tasting
   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: Guimaraes & Braga
   Travel into the lush Minho region to explore two of northern Portugal's most historic jewels: Guimaraes and Braga. Begin in Guimaraes, celebrated as the birthplace of the nation, walking through its exceptionally preserved medieval streets and palace quarters. Continue to Braga to ascend the monumental baroque staircase of Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary before returning to Porto for your final evening in the north.
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 — Farewell Portugal & Airport Departure
    Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel before preparing for your journey home. Your private driver will meet you in the hotel lobby for a seamless private transfer to Lisbon Airport, scheduled perfectly in time for your departure flight. Depart Portugal with treasured memories of its historic towns, sweeping landscapes, and warm hospitality.

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