Grand Highlights of Portugal: Lisbon, Porto & the Douro Valley

Overview

Welcome to an immersive 10-day private journey through Portugal, meticulously crafted to showcase the country's most enchanting landscapes, rich history, and celebrated culinary traditions. From the historic quarters and seaside palaces of Lisbon and Sintra to the medieval jewels of the central region, the architectural splendor of Porto, and the terraced hillsides of the Douro Valley, every moment is curated for seamless comfort and authentic discovery. Enjoy the flexibility of dedicated private transportation as you uncover Portugal's greatest treasures at your own pace.

Highlights

• Warm airport meet and greet with direct transfer to your hotel
• Scenic first drive past the tree-lined Avenida da Liberdade
• Orientation introduction to the capital's historic layout
• Relaxing evening at leisure with free time for dinner on your own
• Admire the intricate Manueline architecture of Jeronimos Monastery and Belem Tower from the waterfront
• Private tuk tuk experience through the Old Town of Lisbon (1 hour)
• Taste the authentic warm custard tarts at the historic Pasteis de Belem bakery
• Wander through the atmospheric alleys and medieval streets of Alfama
• Take in breathtaking vistas over the city skyline from the Eduardo VII Park viewpoint
• Explore the vibrant architecture and wooded grounds of the iconic Pena Palace

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Lisbon & City Welcome
   Upon arrival at Lisbon Airport, meet your private driver for a warm welcome and a smooth transfer into the city. Enjoy a gentle orientation drive through Lisbon's grand boulevards before settling into your hotel with free time for dinner on your own.
2. Day 2 — Historic Lisbon & Monumental Belem
   Spend the morning discovering the monumental riverside district of Belem before heading into the vibrant heart of the capital. In the afternoon, explore the labyrinthine cobblestone alleys of Alfama and take in panoramic viewpoints across the city. 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 Fairytales & the Estoril Coast
   Travel into the cool pine forests of the Sintra hills to explore the romantic Pena Palace and the historic mountain village. Continue along the dramatic Atlantic coastline past Cabo da Roca and the elegant seaside town of Cascais.
4. Day 4 — Evora Heritage & Alentejo Wine
   Journey into the golden plains of the Alentejo to explore 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 — Architectural Treasures of Porto
   Dedicate the day to discovering the historic soul of Porto, from its grand azulejo-tiled monuments to the riverfront Ribeira district. Admire magnificent architectural landmarks and take in classic river views across the iconic Dom Luis I Bridge.
7. Day 7 — Journey into the Douro Valley
   Set out from Porto along the winding roads that lead into the UNESCO-listed Douro Valley, the oldest demarcated wine region in the world. Travel through steep terraced hillsides, take in sweeping river panoramas, and arrive in the valley heartland. 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 — Lamego and the Douro Viewpoints
   A second day in the Douro Valley, away from the river and deeper into the villages and estates of the region. The morning follows the high panoramic roads towards Sao Joao da Pesqueira and Casal de Loivos, with time in Lamego or one of the small granite villages. In the afternoon a different family quinta welcomes you for a tasting of their own wines and Ports alongside local bread, cheese and olive oil.
9. Day 9 — Relaxed Private Transfer to Lisbon with a Stop in Aveiro
   Travel back toward the capital with a scenic stop in Aveiro, celebrated as the Venice of Portugal for its network of tidal canals and Art Nouveau architecture. Continue along the scenic coastal route to Costa Nova before reaching Lisbon for your final evening.
10. Day 10 — Departure from Lisbon
    Following breakfast, your private driver meets you at your hotel for a seamless departure transfer to Lisbon Airport. Reflect on an unforgettable journey through Portugal's finest cities, coastlines, and wine regions.

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