Grand Discovery of Portugal: From Lisbon to the Douro Valley

Overview

Welcome to Portugal. This curated ten-day journey introduces you to the country's most iconic landscapes, rich heritage, and timeless traditions at an elegant, unhurried pace. From the sun-drenched historic avenues of Lisbon to the romantic heights of Sintra, the medieval soul of the central regions, and the terraced hills of the Douro Valley, every detail has been thoughtfully tailored for your discovery and comfort.

Highlights

• Warm airport arrival greeting and private transfer to your hotel
• Scenic introduction along the grand avenues of Lisbon
• Leisurely evening stroll along the welcoming Tagus riverside
• Free time for dinner on your own in the vibrant downtown area
• Take in expansive panoramic views across the city from Eduardo VII Park
• Private tuk tuk experience through the Old Town of Lisbon (1 hour)
• Wander the labyrinthine, cobblestone alleys of the historic Alfama quarter
• Admire the intricate Manueline architecture of Jeronimos Monastery and enjoy a stop by Belem Tower
• Taste warm, freshly baked custard tarts at the legendary Pasteis de Belem bakery
• Marvel at the vibrant colors and sweeping mountain vistas at Pena Palace

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Lisbon & Welcome Orientation
   Arrive at Lisbon Airport, where your private driver welcomes you for a seamless transfer to your hotel. Settle in and enjoy a gentle orientation drive through the city's grand avenues, followed by free time for dinner on your own.
2. Day 2 — Lisbon Heritage & Historic Belem
   Dedicate the day to discovering Lisbon's historic quarters and magnificent waterfront heritage. Explore the atmospheric alleys of Alfama and take in sweeping city vistas before discovering the monumental riverside monuments of Belem. 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 Fairytale & The Atlantic Coastline
   Journey into the forested hills of Sintra to experience its romantic architecture and fairy-tale atmosphere. Afterward, follow the dramatic Atlantic coastline past the cliffs of Cabo da Roca and through the charming coastal enclave of Cascais.
4. Day 4 — Evora UNESCO Heritage & Relaxed Alentejo Winery Day
   Travel across the rolling plains of the Alentejo to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Evora. Discover its remarkably preserved Roman and medieval monuments before enjoying a peaceful countryside drive through ancient cork oak groves.
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 — Historic Porto & Ribeira Charms
   Immerse yourself in the historic character and timeless architectural splendor of Porto. Discover the city's grand monuments, iconic bridges, and vibrant riverside promenade at a relaxed and engaging pace.
7. Day 7 — Breathtaking Terraces of the Douro Valley
   Journey inland to the world's oldest demarcated wine region, renowned for its dramatic river bends and sculpted vineyard terraces. In the morning, enjoy a private 1-hour boat trip on the Douro River, followed in the afternoon by a curated Douro wine tasting at a family-run quinta.
8. Day 8 — Cradle of the Nation: Guimaraes & Braga
   Spend an enchanting day exploring the rich historical and spiritual roots of northern Portugal. Visit Guimaraes, celebrated as the birthplace of the nation, and Braga, home to one of Portugal's most magnificent monumental sanctuaries.
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 — Departure from Lisbon
    Enjoy a leisurely morning in Lisbon before meeting your private driver at your hotel. Relax on a comfortable, direct transfer 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