Grand Iberian Journey: Portugal & Southern Spain

Overview

Welcome to an unforgettable private journey through Portugal and Southern Spain, thoughtfully curated for your party of four seeking the finest cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and authentic regional gastronomy. From the sunlit hills of Lisbon and the dramatic a vineyard of the Douro Valley to the Moorish marvels of Andalusia and the timeless monuments of Seville, Granada, and Cordoba, every day unfolds at an engaging yet relaxed pace. With your dedicated private driver and comfortable Mercedes-Benz vehicle, immerse yourselves in the soulful traditions, historic landmarks, and rich culinary character of the Iberian Peninsula.

Highlights

• Private meet and greet at Lisbon Airport with comfortable Mercedes-Benz transfer
• Admire the Manueline architecture of Jeronimos Monastery and enjoy a riverside stop by Belem Tower
• Taste authentic warm custard tarts at the renowned Pasteis de Belem bakery
• Wander through the atmospheric Alfama district, Lisbon's oldest and most evocative quarter
• Explore the colorful romantic terraces and panoramic vistas of Pena Palace
• Stroll the charming historic village of Sintra with its boutique artisan shops
• Stand at Cabo da Roca, the dramatic westernmost point of continental Europe
• Breathe in the ocean breeze along the stylish bay and seaside promenade of Cascais
• Full day at leisure to explore Lisbon's diverse neighborhoods at your own pace
• Stroll the elegant shopping avenues and historic literary cafes of Chiado and Bairro Alto

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Lisbon & Historic Highlights
   Your private driver warmly welcomes you at Lisbon Airport for a curated introduction to Portugal's luminous capital. Enjoy a picturesque riverside orientation in Belem before exploring the historic cobblestone lanes of the ancient Alfama quarter, followed by free time for lunch and evening dining on your own.
2. Day 2 — Sintra, Cabo da Roca & Cascais
   Journey into the fairy-tale landscapes of the Sintra hills to explore the romantic architecture of Pena Palace and its surrounding village. Afterwards, travel out to the rugged cliffs of Cabo da Roca before following the ocean drive into the charming coastal town of Cascais.
3. Day 3 — Free Day in Lisbon
   Enjoy a full day at your own leisure to embrace the cosmopolitan charms of Lisbon at your personal rhythm. Discover the vibrant cultural venues of Chiado, browse contemporary design spaces at LX Factory, or relax at a sunny riverside cafe along the Tagus River.
4. Day 4 — Relaxed Private Transfer to Porto
   Travel northward toward Porto, pausing first in the picturesque medieval walled town of Obidos to stroll its fortified streets and taste traditional cherry liqueur. Continue to the authentic coastal fishing town of Nazare for sweeping Atlantic views before arriving in Porto with a relaxing evening ahead.
5. Day 5 — Porto Best Highlights
   Devote a memorable day to the historic soul of Porto, discovering its world-famous monuments, artistic tiled interiors, and vibrant riverfront. Stroll past iconic architectural treasures including the Clerigos Tower, historic Sao Bento Station, and the timeless pedestrian quarters of the Ribeira.
6. Day 6 — Douro Valley Experience
   Embark on an inspiring day trip into the UNESCO-listed Douro Valley, the world's oldest demarcated wine region. In the morning, enjoy a private one-hour boat trip gliding along the tranquil waters, followed in the afternoon by an authentic wine tasting experience at a family-run quinta.
7. Day 7 — Relaxed Private Transfer to Lisbon
   Depart Porto on a comfortable southbound drive across central Portugal, enjoying scenic pastoral landscapes along the way. Arrive back in Lisbon by early afternoon with time at your own leisure to prepare for your upcoming journey into Andalusia.
8. Day 8 — To Seville via the Algarve
   Set off toward southern Spain, traversing the picturesque southern Portuguese countryside with a scenic coastal stop in the Algarve. Cross the Guadiana River border into sunny Andalusia and arrive in Seville, the vibrant and romantic heart of southern Spain.
9. Day 9 — Seville Best Highlights
   Spend an extraordinary day exploring the historic grandeur of Seville alongside your private guide. Marvel at the intricate Mudejar architecture of the Royal Alcazar, admire the monumental Cathedral and Giralda Tower, and wander through the labyrinthine alleys of the historic Santa Cruz quarter.
10. Day 10 — Free Day in Seville
    Embrace a relaxed day in Seville completely at your own pace to soak up the vibrant Andalusian lifestyle. Your driver can share recommendations to enjoy authentic local tapas at neighborhood taverns, wander along the palm-lined banks of the Guadalquivir River, or explore the ceramic heritage of the lively Triana quarter.
11. Day 11 — Gibraltar & on to Granada
    Travel southward toward the Mediterranean coast to visit the legendary Rock of Gibraltar, taking in spectacular panoramic views spanning Europe and Africa. Continue your scenic journey eastward across the dramatic Andalusian mountain roads to reach historic Granada.
12. Day 12 — Granada & the Alhambra
    Immerse yourselves in the fairy-tale Moorish heritage of Granada with a dedicated day at the world-renowned Alhambra Palace and Generalife gardens. In the afternoon, explore the steep whitewashed lanes of the historic Albaicin quarter, capturing unforgettable views of the royal fortress.
13. Day 13 — Cordoba, Mezquita & Historic Quarter
    Drive northwest across the rolling olive groves of Andalusia to Cordoba, an ancient crossroads of Roman, Islamic, and Christian cultures. Spend the afternoon exploring the awe-inspiring forest of stone arches inside the Mezquita Cathedral and wandering the enchanting historic Jewish Quarter.
14. Day 14 — Evora UNESCO Heritage & Relaxed Alentejo Winery Day
    Cross back into Portugal through the rolling plains of the Alentejo, stopping in the UNESCO-listed museum-city of Evora. Admire the ancient Roman Temple and the intriguing Chapel of Bones, and enjoy free time for a farewell Alentejo lunch on your own before your departure transfer.

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