Grand Highlights of Portugal: Lisbon, Douro Valley & Porto

Overview

Welcome to your bespoke 10-day journey through Portugal, meticulously crafted to showcase the country's most captivating landscapes, historic treasures, and rich cultural traditions. Traveling in the refined comfort of a private Mercedes-Benz vehicle with a dedicated professional driver/guide, you will discover the sun-drenched capital of Lisbon, the romantic hills of Sintra, the timeless Douro Valley, and the historic majesty of Porto at an effortless, tailored pace.

Highlights

• Warm airport meet-and-greet with dedicated private luggage assistance
• Scenic introductory drive along Lisbon's grand tree-lined avenues
• Comfortable transfer and smooth check-in at your selected hotel
• Relaxed early evening with free time for dinner on your own
• Ridge road and coves of the Arrabida park
• Wine estate visit in Azeitao
• Fishing harbour of Sesimbra
• Your driver can share recommendations to enjoy fresh seafood lunch by the sea.
• Tour the colorful terraces and romantic staterooms of Palacio da Pena
• Stroll through the storybook alleys and artisan shops of Sintra village

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Lisbon & Welcome Introduction
   Upon arrival at Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport, your private driver will greet you warmly in the arrivals hall and assist with your luggage before escorting you to your vehicle. Enjoy a gentle panoramic drive introducing Lisbon's sweeping avenues and scenic riverfront before settling into your hotel, with the evening free for dinner on your own.
2. Day 2 — Arrabida, Setubal and Sesimbra
   South over the river to the Arrabida natural park, with turquoise coves below the ridge road, a wine estate in Azeitao and grilled fish in the fishing town of Sesimbra.
3. Day 3 — Enchanting Sintra & the Cascais Coast
   Journey to the enchanting forested hills of Sintra, where romantic architecture dots the verdant mountain slopes. Discover the vibrant terraces and whimsical rooms of Pena Palace, explore the cobbled lanes of Sintra's historic village, and continue along the Atlantic coast through windswept Cabo da Roca to the elegant seaside resort town of Cascais.
4. Day 4 — Evora UNESCO Heritage & Relaxed Alentejo Winery Day
   Travel east across the golden plains and cork oak forests of the Alentejo region to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Evora.
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 City Tour
   Dedicate your day to discovering the historic heart and vibrant spirit of Porto, beginning with the spectacular azulejo tile panels of Sao Bento Station and the iconic Clerigos Tower. Wander the UNESCO-listed riverside Ribeira district, cross the lower deck of the Dom Luis I Bridge, and continue along the Douro riverfront to the oceanfront district of Foz.
7. Day 7 — Douro Valley River Cruise & Wine Estate Experience
   Depart Porto for a scenic full-day excursion into the UNESCO-listed Douro Valley, carved with dramatic terraced a vineyard that slope steeply down to the water. In the morning, enjoy a private 1-hour boat trip on the Douro River, followed in the afternoon by an exclusive Douro wine tasting at a family-run quinta before returning to Porto.
8. Day 8 — Heritage of the North: Braga & Guimaraes
   Explore the cradle of Portuguese nationhood and spiritual heritage with a day trip north to Guimaraes and Braga. Discover the medieval atmosphere of Guimaraes' historic quarter and Palace of the Dukes, then continue to Braga to admire the monumental Baroque outdoor stairway and lush woodland setting of Bom Jesus do Monte.
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 — Lisbon Departure Transfer
    Enjoy a leisurely final breakfast at your hotel before meeting your private driver for your transfer to Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport. Reflect on an unforgettable journey through the heritage, landscapes, and culture of Portugal as you prepare for your return 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