Grand Portugal & Algarve Discovery: A 13-Day Private Journey

Overview

Welcome to an inspirational, comprehensive 13-day journey through Portugal, thoughtfully curated for travellers who are beginning to discover the country's rich tapestry of history, landscapes, and culture. From the grand monuments and coastal allure of Lisbon and Sintra to the dramatic terraced a vineyard of the Douro Valley and the sun-drenched golden cliffs of the Algarve, this private experience is designed at an unhurried, flexible pace. Enjoy the dedicated care of your private driver/guide, seamless private transportation, and timeless Portuguese hospitality at every turn.

Highlights

• Warm meet and greet arrival at Lisbon Airport with your private driver/guide
• Admire the Manueline architecture of Jeronimos Monastery and riverside Belem Tower
• Take in panoramic city views over Lisbon from the Eduardo VII Park viewpoint
• Stroll through the narrow cobblestone lanes and whitewashed houses of old Alfama
• Explore the colourful romanticist architecture and lush gardens of Pena Palace
• Wander the charming historic alleys and boutique artisan shops of Sintra village
• Stand atop the dramatic windswept sea cliffs of Cabo da Roca
• Take a seaside stroll through the charming streets of Cascais old fisherman village
• Experience the serene, spiritual atmosphere of the sacred Sanctuary of Fatima
• Take in breathtaking coastal views from the Sitio clifftops overlooking Nazare beach

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Lisbon Arrival & Capital Discovery
   Upon arrival at Lisbon Airport, meet your private driver/guide for a warm welcome and an introductory exploration of Portugal's vibrant capital. Discover the riverside monuments of Belem and wander through the labyrinthine alleys of historic Alfama before settling in for the evening.
2. Day 2 — Sintra, Cabo da Roca & Cascais
   Journey into the fairytale hills of Sintra to explore the vibrant colours and romantic architecture of Pena Palace and its wooded parklands. Continue past the dramatic ocean cliffs at Cabo da Roca before winding along the scenic coastline through the historic seaside town of Cascais.
3. Day 3 — Fatima, Nazare & Medieval Obidos
   Head north from Lisbon to explore the sacred Sanctuary of Fatima, one of the world's renowned pilgrimage sites. Continue to the Atlantic coast to admire the majestic cliffs of Nazare before stepping into the medieval walled village of Obidos.
4. Day 4 — Lisbon at Leisure & Cultural Quarters
   Enjoy a gentle morning exploring Lisbon's elegant Chiado and Baixa quarters before an afternoon entirely at leisure to soak in the city at your own rhythm. Your private vehicle and driver remain at your disposal should you wish to take in additional sights or riverside viewpoints.
5. Day 5 — Knights Templar: Tomar & Almourol
   Delve into Portugal's medieval history on an excursion dedicated to the Knights Templar in the Tagus River valley. Discover the grand Convent of Christ in Tomar, an UNESCO World Heritage treasure, followed by the romantic island fortress of Almourol Castle.
6. Day 6 — Relaxed Private Transfer to Porto
   Depart Lisbon northbound towards Porto, stopping en route in the picturesque canal town of Aveiro, often celebrated as the Venice of Portugal. Stroll past graceful Art Nouveau facades and admire traditional wooden moliceiro boats before arriving in historic Porto.
7. Day 7 — Porto Historic Highlights
   Spend a full day exploring Porto's captivating historic centre, framed by granite monuments, tiled facades, and the Douro River. Marvel at the intricate tilework of Sao Bento Station, the historic Clerigos Tower, and the picturesque lanes descending to the Ribeira waterfront.
8. Day 8 — Douro Valley a vineyard & River Cruise
   Escape into the breathtaking Douro Valley, the world's oldest demarcated wine region, renowned for its steep terraced a vineyard. In the morning, embark on a private 1-hour boat trip along the tranquil river waters, followed in the afternoon by a Douro wine tasting at a family-run quinta.
9. Day 9 — Porto Coast & Afternoon at Leisure
   Enjoy a relaxing day in Porto with a morning visit to the scenic coastal district of Foz do Douro, where the river meets the Atlantic Ocean. Spend the afternoon entirely at your leisure to wander traditional shopping streets, visit local galleries, or unwind by the riverside.
10. Day 10 — Relaxed Private Transfer to the Algarve with a Stop in Evora
    Embark on a scenic journey south toward the sun-drenched Algarve, stopping in the heart of the Alentejo plains to discover UNESCO-listed Evora. Wander among ancient Roman ruins and whitewashed medieval squares before continuing south to the southern coastline.
11. Day 11 — Algarve Coast: Sagres & Lagos
    Uncover the wild, dramatic beauty of the southwestern Algarve with an excursion to Sagres and historic Lagos. Stand atop the rugged sea cliffs at Europe's southwestern tip, then explore the historic maritime centre of Lagos and its dramatic coastline.
12. Day 12 — Coastal Wonders & Algarve at Your Pace
    Experience the captivating natural beauty of the Algarve coastline with a small group boat tour navigating beneath towering cliffs and sea arches. Enjoy an afternoon tailored to your wishes, exploring charming fishing villages or relaxing along golden sandy beaches.
13. Day 13 — Farewell to the Algarve & Departure
    Enjoy a leisurely final morning along the coast, soaking in the serene coastal atmosphere and sea breezes. Your private driver will provide comfortable private transportation for your departure transfer, concluding an extraordinary Portuguese adventure.

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