Grand Portugal Discovery: Lisbon, Porto & the Douro Valley

Overview

Welcome to your bespoke 10-day journey through the heart and soul of Portugal, thoughtfully planned to showcase the country's most enchanting landscapes, rich history, and vibrant traditions. From the sunlit avenues and coastal elegance of Lisbon and Sintra to the rolling terraced hills of the Douro Valley and the historic charm of Porto, this itinerary offers an inspiring and seamless exploration tailored to your desires.

Highlights

• Warm airport welcome and seamless transfer in a Mercedes-Benz vehicle
• Scenic introduction along Lisbon's iconic Avenida da Liberdade and historic plazas
• Relaxed check-in and leisure time to unwind after your flight
• Free time for dinner on your own at an atmospheric local restaurant
• Admire the exquisite Manueline architecture of Jeronimos Monastery from the riverside gardens
• Private tuk tuk experience through the Old Town of Lisbon (1 hour)
• Photograph the iconic Belem Tower set against the sparkling Tagus River
• Savour authentic warm pasteis de nata at the legendary Pasteis de Belem bakery
• Wander through the historic Alfama quarter, soaking in its timeless hillside charm
• Explore the whimsical terraces and vibrant courtyards of Pena Palace

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Lisbon & Welcome
   Upon your arrival at Lisbon Airport, your private driver will greet you warmly for a seamless transfer to your hotel. Settle in comfortably and enjoy an introductory drive through the grand avenues before enjoying free time for dinner on your own.
2. Day 2 — Lisbon's Historic Quarters & Belem
   Spend the morning discovering the riverside splendour of Belem before exploring Lisbon's historic quarters. Admire the architectural mastery of the Jeronimos Monastery and Belem Tower from the waterfront, taste traditional warm pastries, and stroll the winding cobbled alleys of the old Alfama district. 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 — Enchanting Sintra & the Cascais Coastline
   Journey into the romantic Serra de Sintra to discover its fairytale setting and dramatic coastal scenery. Visit the colourful Pena Palace nestled amid verdant mountain peaks, stroll the storybook streets of Sintra village, and journey along the dramatic Atlantic coastline past Cabo da Roca and seaside Cascais.
4. Day 4 — Historic Evora & Alentejo Heritage
   Travel east into the golden plains of the Alentejo region to immerse yourself in the historic 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 — Porto City Highlights & Ribeira
   Discover the timeless beauty and architectural treasures of Porto's historic heart. Marvel at the intricate tilework of Sao Bento Station, gaze upon the soaring Clerigos Tower, and meander along the vibrant waterfront promenade of Ribeira beside the Dom Luis I Bridge.
7. Day 7 — Cradle of the Nation: Braga & Guimaraes
   Journey through the dramatic landscapes of the Minho region, renowned as the cradle of Portuguese nationality. Visit the ancient medieval city of Guimaraes with its historic streets, and ascend to the majestic hilltop sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga.
8. Day 8 — Wonders of the Douro Valley
   Leave Porto for the breathtaking terraced slopes of the Douro Valley, one of the world's oldest demarcated wine regions. In the morning, glide peacefully along the river on a private 1-hour boat trip, followed by an afternoon visit to a family-run quinta for a wine tasting.
9. Day 9 — Relaxed Private Transfer to Lisbon
   Begin your journey back south towards Lisbon, pausing in the romantic canal town of Aveiro. Admire the brightly painted moliceiro boats along the peaceful central waterways, take in the charming striped cottages of Costa Nova, and arrive smoothly back in Lisbon for your final evening.
10. Day 10 — Lisbon Departure
    Enjoy a relaxed morning at your hotel before your private driver arrives for your comfortable departure transfer. Transfer directly to Lisbon Airport with wonderful memories of your discovery of Portugal.

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