Grand Portugal Discovery: Lisbon, Alentejo, Douro & Porto

Overview

Welcome to an inspiring 10-day private journey through Portugal, thoughtfully curated to showcase the country's most iconic landscapes, historic quarters, and timeless traditions. Traveling in comfort with your dedicated private driver/guide, you will uncover the historic treasures of Lisbon, the romantic hills of Sintra, the medieval legacy of Evora, the terraced a vineyard of the Douro Valley, and the vibrant riverside soul of Porto.

Highlights

• Seamless airport meet and greet with direct private transfer to your hotel
• Scenic introduction to Lisbon along the grand waterfront of Praca do Comercio
• Leisurely stroll through the atmospheric downtown Baixa district
• Free time in the evening to relax and dine independently at a local restaurant
• Admire the intricate Manueline architecture of Jeronimos Monastery and Belem Tower along the Tagus River
• Private tuk tuk experience through the Old Town of Lisbon (1 hour)
• Tasting of warm, freshly baked Pasteis de Belem at the original 1837 bakery
• Wander the cobblestone alleys and whitewashed lanes of the historic Alfama district
• Take in panoramic views of central Lisbon from the manicured terraces of Eduardo VII Park
• Explore the colorful romanticist architecture and lush forested grounds of Pena Palace

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Lisbon & First Impressions
   Upon arrival at Lisbon Airport, your private driver will greet you at the arrivals hall and transfer you directly to your hotel. Settle in, take a gentle riverside stroll along Praca do Comercio, and enjoy the rest of the day at your own pace with free time for dinner on your own.
2. Day 2 — Historic Lisbon & Belem Wonders
   Begin your exploration with Lisbon's maritime heritage in Belem, enjoying views of iconic monuments and tasting warm custard tarts. In the afternoon, discover the medieval charm of the Alfama district and admire sweeping city views from the hilltop of Eduardo VII Park. 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 & Cascais Coastline
   Head into the forested Sintra hills to explore the vibrant Pena Palace and wander the romantic historic village. Continue along the dramatic Atlantic coastline to Europe's westernmost cape before visiting the charming seaside resort town of Cascais and passing the scenic coast of Estoril.
4. Day 4 — Evora Heritage Plains
   Travel east into the sun-drenched Alentejo plains to visit the UNESCO-listed city of Evora, home to ancient monuments and whitewashed squares.
5. Day 5 — Scenic Journey North via Obidos & Nazare
   Depart Lisbon traveling north, stopping first at the medieval walled town of Obidos to stroll its historic ramparts and sample local cherry liqueur. Continue to the historic fishing town of Nazare to admire sweeping Atlantic views from the dramatic Sitio clifftop before arriving in Coimbra.
6. Day 6 — Coimbra Heritage to the Douro Valley
   Explore the historic university city of Coimbra, walking through its historic upper town and viewing the grand college courtyards. In the afternoon, journey inland into the breathtaking terraced hills of the Douro Valley to check in and enjoy a relaxing evening surrounded by a vineyard. 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.
7. Day 7 — a vineyard & River Rhythms of the Douro
   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.
8. Day 8 — Journey to Porto via Charming Amarante
   Depart the tranquil Douro hills and travel west toward the coastal city of Porto, pausing in the picturesque riverside town of Amarante along the way. Arrive in Porto in the afternoon to settle into your hotel and enjoy a gentle first walk along the bustling Ribeira waterfront.
9. Day 9 — Porto's Historic Grandeur & Coastal Charm
   Spend a captivating full day uncovering the architectural treasures and storied lanes of Porto. Admire the magnificent azulejo tile panels at Sao Bento Station, see the towering Clerigos Church, stroll the vibrant shopping districts, and take in ocean breezes along the elegant Foz district.
10. Day 10 — Farewell Portugal & Airport Departure
    Conclude your memorable journey across Portugal with a smooth, private transfer to Porto Airport (OPO) or Lisbon Airport according to your departure flights. Savor your final morning moments before heading homeward with unforgettable memories.

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