Grand Lisbon, Porto & Douro Valley Experience

Overview

Welcome back to Portugal! Having explored the country extensively during your memorable six-week stay in 2019, this curated 10-day journey is designed to reconnect you with both Lisbon and Porto through a refined, deeper lens that goes well beyond the standard routes. From evocative historic quarters and romantic coastal vistas to an immersive overnight escape into the terraced Douro Valley, every day blends seamless private travel with relaxed regional discovery.

Highlights

• Personal airport greeting and private transfer to your hotel in Lisbon
• Gentle orientation drive introducing the elegant avenues of the capital
• First relaxing walk along the scenic Tagus riverfront promenade
• Evening at leisure with free time for dinner on your own in the city centre
• Admire the Manueline architecture of Jeronimos Monastery and riverside Belem Tower
• Private tuk tuk experience through the Old Town of Lisbon (1 hour)
• Taste the authentic warm custard tarts at the legendary Pasteis de Belem bakery
• Wander the winding medieval alleys and tiled facades of the historic Alfama district
• Take in panoramic city views across Lisbon from the Edward VII Park viewpoint
• Explore the colourful terraces and romantic park of the iconic Pena Palace

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Welcome to Lisbon - Arrival & Orientation
   Arrive in Lisbon where your private driver welcomes you at the airport and transfers you comfortably to your hotel. Take the afternoon to settle in and enjoy a gentle first stroll along the lively riverfront, followed by free time for dinner on your own.
2. Day 2 — Historic Lisbon & Riverside Belem
   Begin your morning exploring the monumental maritime district of Belem before heading into the historic heart of Lisbon. Discover the labyrinthine streets of the ancient Alfama quarter and soak in sweeping panoramas from the city's finest vantage points. 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 Palaces & Atlantic Coastline
   Journey to the romantic hill town of Sintra to visit the whimsical Pena Palace amidst lush mountain forests. Later, continue to the dramatic cliffs of Cabo da Roca before winding down through the elegant seaside resort of Cascais and the Estoril coast.
4. Day 4 — Evora Heritage & Alentejo Wine Country
   Head east into the rolling plains of the Alentejo region to discover the UNESCO World Heritage city of Evora. Marvel at centuries of layered history from ancient Roman pillars to the historic town square, complemented by a visit to a local wine estate.
5. Day 5 — Scenic Journey North via Obidos & Nazare
   Travel north toward Porto with leisurely stops in two of Portugal's most characterful coastal locations. Explore the medieval fortified town of Obidos before heading to the clifftop promontory of Nazare to admire sweeping ocean vistas and maritime traditions.
6. Day 6 — Porto Historic City & Riverfront Wonders
   Spend a full day discovering the architectural splendours and vibrant riverside ambience of Porto. From historic railway azulejos to granite towers and riverfront promenades, experience the authentic soul of the northern capital.
7. Day 7 — Minho Heritage: Braga & Guimaraes
   Head into the Minho region to explore Portugal's cradle of nationhood and one of its most striking sanctuaries. Visit the medieval centre of Guimaraes followed by the monumental baroque stairways of Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga.
8. Day 8 — Terraced Hills of the Douro Valley
   Journey inland to the UNESCO-listed Douro Valley, where terraced hillsides rise steeply above the tranquil river. In the morning, embark on a private one-hour boat cruise along the water, followed in the afternoon by an authentic wine tasting at a family-run quinta. 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.
9. Day 9 — Douro Countryside to Porto via Amarante
   Enjoy an afternoon stop in the picturesque riverside town of Amarante with its historic arched bridge and charming riverside cafes.
10. Day 10 — Farewell Portugal - Departure from Porto
    On your final morning, enjoy a relaxing breakfast before your private driver arrives at your hotel for a smooth transfer to Porto International Airport (OPO) for your 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