Grand Discovery of Portugal: Lisbon to the Douro Valley

Overview

Welcome to your bespoke 8-day journey through Portugal, thoughtfully curated to reveal the country's most enchanting landscapes, rich heritage, and vibrant culinary traditions. Traveling in the effortless comfort of a private Mercedes-Benz vehicle with your dedicated private driver/guide, you will experience an immersive route connecting the historic elegance of Lisbon to the terraced beauty of the Douro Valley and the timeless charm of Porto.

Highlights

• Warm meet and greet arrival transfer at Lisbon Airport
• Scenic orientation drive past the grand viewpoint of Parque Eduardo VII
• Gentle walking exploration through the historic Baixa and Chiado districts
• Pleasant free time to settle in and enjoy dinner on your own
• Visit the romantic Pena Palace perched high above the Sintra hills
• Wander the storybook cobblestone lanes of Sintra's historic village
• Take in the sweeping Atlantic views from Cabo da Roca, Europe's westernmost point
• Stroll through the elegant seaside streets and harbor of Cascais
• Visit the peaceful grounds and modern basilica of the Sanctuary of Fatima
• Admire dramatic Atlantic panoramas from the clifftop promontory of Nazare

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Lisbon & First Impressions
   Upon your arrival at Lisbon Airport, your dedicated private driver/guide greets you warmly at arrivals to begin your Portuguese journey. Enjoy a gentle orientation drive showcasing the city's celebrated panoramic viewpoints, followed by a guided walking discovery of Lisbon's atmospheric historic quarters and free time for dinner on your own.
2. Day 2 — Sintra, Cabo da Roca & Cascais
   Ascend the forested hills of Sintra to explore the vibrant romanticist architecture and lush grounds of Pena Palace. Continue along the dramatic Atlantic coastline to stand atop the windswept cliffs of Cabo da Roca, concluding the day with a seaside stroll through the charming streets of the historic fishing village of Cascais.
3. Day 3 — Fatima, Nazare & Medieval Obidos
   Begin your morning with a reflective visit to the world-renowned Sanctuary of Fatima, one of Portugal's most sacred pilgrimage sites. Journey to the Atlantic coast to admire the colossal ocean cliffs and historic fisherman traditions of Nazare, before exploring the charming medieval walled town of Obidos.
4. Day 4 — Evora & the Hilltop Charm of Monsaraz
   Cross the plains into the golden Alentejo region to explore the UNESCO-listed city of Evora, discovering its Roman Temple, Gothic Cathedral, and the evocative Chapel of Bones. In the afternoon, travel toward the tranquil medieval hilltop fortress of Monsaraz, visiting an esteemed local estate for an authentic Alentejo wine tasting.
5. Day 5 — Knights Templar: Tomar & Almourol
   Delve into the fascinating lore of the Knights Templar with a journey to Tomar to visit the monumental Convent of Christ, celebrated for its legendary Chapter House window. Continue down to the Tagus River to admire the romantic island fortress of Almourol Castle, dramatically situated amidst the shimmering waters.
6. Day 6 — Relaxed Private Transfer to Porto with a Stop in the charming coastal town of Aveiro
   Embark on your northbound journey to Porto, stopping in the charming coastal town of Aveiro, known as the Portuguese Venice for its serene water canals and colourful moliceiro boats. Admire the striking Art Nouveau architecture and taste local ovos moles pastries before arriving in Porto for an introductory evening.
7. Day 7 — Douro Valley Terraced a vineyard & Wine Experience
   Spend an unforgettable day immersed in the world's oldest demarcated wine region in the Douro Valley. In the morning, embark on a private 1-hour boat trip gliding along the tranquil waters between dramatic terraced hillsides, followed in the afternoon by an authentic Douro wine tasting at a traditional family-run quinta.
8. Day 8 — Porto Historic Highlights & Departure
   Conclude your Portuguese adventure with a guided morning discovery of Porto's historic landmarks, including the iconic Clerigos Tower, the ornate tilework of Sao Bento Station, and the vibrant Ribeira district. After absorbing the city's rich architectural tapestry, your private driver provides a smooth departure transfer to the airport.

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