Grand 10-Day Portugal Discovery: Lisbon, Sintra, Porto & The Douro Valley

Overview

Welcome to your bespoke 10-day private journey through Portugal, curated to showcase the nation's most captivating heritage, dramatic coastlines, and world-renowned landscapes. Traveling in the comfort of a dedicated Mercedes-Benz with your private driver/guide, you will experience the historic quarters of Lisbon, the romantic hills of Sintra, the medieval charm of the central region, the storied culture of Porto, and the terraced splendour of the Douro Valley. Every day is thoughtfully balanced between immersive discovery and relaxed evenings at your own leisure.

Highlights

• Warm airport meet and greet with direct private transfer to your hotel
• Panoramic introductory drive through Lisbon along the Tagus riverfront
• Gentle orientation to help you settle comfortably into the Portuguese capital
• Evening at leisure to unwind and enjoy dinner on your own
• Enjoy a riverside stop by Belem Tower and learn about Portugal maritime golden age
• Private tuk tuk experience through the Old Town of Lisbon (1 hour)
• Admire the intricate Manueline architecture of Jeronimos Monastery from the grand plaza
• Taste authentic warm custard tarts at the historic Pasteis de Belem bakery
• Wander through the atmospheric cobblestone alleys of Alfama, Lisbon oldest quarter
• Explore the colorful romantic architecture and panoramic terraces of Pena Palace

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Lisbon & Riverside Welcome
   Upon arrival at Lisbon Airport, meet your private driver/guide for a warm welcome and seamless transfer to your hotel. After settling in, take a gentle orientation drive along the grand avenues and the Tagus riverfront before enjoying free time for dinner on your own.
2. Day 2 — Historic Lisbon & Belem Discovery
   Spend the morning discovering the monumental district of Belem, admiring the historic riverfront landmarks and savoring the original warm custard tarts. In the afternoon, venture into the winding alleys of Alfama and take in sweeping city views from the grand terrace of Eduardo VII Park. 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, Cabo da Roca & Cascais
   Travel into the mystical forested hills of Sintra to explore the vibrant fairy-tale architecture of Pena Palace and its lush surrounding parklands. Continue past rugged Atlantic cliffs to Cabo da Roca, then trace the scenic coastal road through the charming seaside town of Cascais and elegant Estoril.
4. Day 4 — Evora & Alentejo Heritage Day Trip
   Journey east across the rolling plains of the Alentejo to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Evora, discovering its remarkably preserved ancient core.
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 — Best of Porto Historic Centre
   Dedicate a full day to exploring the historic soul of Porto, from its grand monumental avenues to the lively riverfront quarter of Ribeira. Admire the magnificent azulejo tile panels at Sao Bento Station, gaze up at the iconic Clerigos Tower, and take in panoramic views of the Douro River from Dom Luis I Bridge.
7. Day 7 — Cradle of the Nation: Braga & Guimaraes
   Travel north into the green Minho province to visit Guimaraes, revered as the birthplace of the Portuguese nation, with its remarkably preserved medieval center. Continue to historic Braga to admire the majestic sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte with its monumental baroque stairway before returning to Porto.
8. Day 8 — Douro Valley Terraced a vineyard & River Cruise
   Depart Porto for the enchanting Douro Valley, traveling along dramatic roads framed by terraced a vineyard climbing the riverbanks. In the morning, embark on a private 1-hour boat trip gliding along the tranquil Douro River, followed in the afternoon by an authentic wine tasting at a traditional family-run quinta.
9. Day 9 — Relaxed Private Transfer to Lisbon
   Admire the colorful Art Nouveau architecture along the canals and the charming striped fishermen cottages of nearby Costa Nova before arriving in Lisbon.
10. Day 10 — Farewell Portugal & Airport Departure
    After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning according to your flight departure schedule. Your private driver will meet you at your hotel and provide a comfortable, punctual transfer 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