Grand Portugal Discovery: Lisbon, Porto & The Douro Valley

Overview

Welcome to Portugal. This curated 10-day private journey unveils the captivating beauty, rich history, and vibrant culinary traditions of the country, thoughtfully paced for an unforgettable experience. Traveling in the comfort of a dedicated Mercedes-Benz with your private driver/guide, you will discover historic capitals, sun-drenched a vineyard, and timeless coastal villages at an effortless and elegant rhythm.

Highlights

• Warm meet and greet arrival transfer from Lisbon International Airport
• Panoramic orientation drive through the elegant Avenida da Liberdade
• Picturesque riverside welcome by Praca do Comercio on the Tagus River
• Free evening to relax and enjoy dinner on your own at your leisure
• Admire the intricate Manueline architecture of Jeronimos Monastery and Belem Tower
• Private tuk tuk experience through the Old Town of Lisbon (1 hour)
• Savor authentic warm custard tarts at the renowned Pasteis de Belem bakery
• Wander through the atmospheric Alfama district, the city's oldest quarter
• Take in sweeping panoramic city views from the belvedere at Eduardo VII Park
• Visit the colorful fairy-tale Pena Palace set high atop the Sintra mountains

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Lisbon & Riverside Orientation
   Arrive in Lisbon where your private driver welcomes you at the airport for a comfortable transfer to your hotel. Settle in and enjoy a gentle orientation drive along the grand Avenida da Liberdade down to the Tagus riverfront. The evening is yours to relax and enjoy dinner on your own at one of Lisbon's delightful local restaurants.
2. Day 2 — Belem Heritage & Historic Lisbon Districts
   Begin the morning in historic Belem discovering Portugal's seafaring heritage along the Tagus riverfront. In the afternoon, head into Lisbon's vibrant historic core to wander the charming alleyways of Alfama and explore iconic squares. Enjoy a warm custard pastry tasting and finish the day admiring the grand city vistas from 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 Fairytale Palace & The Cascais Coast
   Journey into the misty hills of Sintra to explore the romantic architecture of Pena Palace and its lush surrounding park. Afterward, meander through the cobblestone alleys of Sintra village before continuing to the rugged cliffs of Cabo da Roca. Conclude with a scenic coastal drive through the charming seaside town of Cascais and along the Estoril coast.
4. Day 4 — Medieval Obidos & Authentic Nazare to Coimbra
   Depart Lisbon on a scenic journey northbound, stopping first in the enchanting medieval walled village of Obidos. Continue toward the Atlantic coast to Nazare, an authentic fishing town celebrated for its dramatic cliffs and maritime traditions. Arrive in the historic university city of Coimbra in the late afternoon for check-in and evening relaxation.
5. Day 5 — Coimbra Academic Heritage to Porto
   Spend the morning discovering the historic university city of Coimbra, home to one of Europe's oldest academic institutions and its breathtaking Baroque library. In the afternoon, travel northward to the vibrant northern capital of Porto and check into your hotel. Enjoy an evening stroll along the lively Douro riverfront with free time for dinner on your own.
6. Day 6 — Historic Porto & Ribeira Charms
   Immerse yourself in the timeless character of Porto, visiting the awe-inspiring azulejo tile murals at Sao Bento Railway Station and the iconic Clerigos Tower. Explore the lively pedestrian boulevards of Baixa and admire the dramatic double-deck Dom Luis I Bridge spanning the Douro River. The late afternoon is open for leisure, shopping, or relaxing at a riverside cafe.
7. Day 7 — Historic Guimaraes & Braga Day Excursion
   Embark on a captivating day excursion to Minho, the lush cradle of the Portuguese nation. Discover the birthplace of Portugal in historic Guimaraes, admiring its medieval center and landmark palace. Continue to Braga to marvel at the monumental baroque staircase of Bom Jesus do Monte before returning to Porto for the evening.
8. Day 8 — Douro Valley River Cruise & Quinta Wine Estate
   Leave Porto behind as you journey into the enchanting Douro Valley, an UNESCO World Heritage cultural landscape of terraced hills. In the morning, enjoy a relaxing private 1-hour boat trip on the peaceful waters of the Douro River. In the afternoon, visit a traditional family-run wine quinta for an authentic estate tour and Port wine tasting.
9. Day 9 — Relaxed Private Transfer to Lisbon with a Stop in the colorful canals of Aveiro
   Begin your leisurely southward journey back toward Lisbon, traveling via the colorful canals of Aveiro, often celebrated as the Venice of Portugal. Stroll past historic Art Nouveau townhouses and see the picturesque candy-striped fishermen's cottages of Costa Nova. Complete your journey to Lisbon in the afternoon, with a free evening to enjoy a memorable final dinner on your own.
10. Day 10 — Lisbon Departure
    Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel before completing check-out. Your private driver will meet you in the hotel lobby to provide a smooth, comfortable transfer to Lisbon International Airport for your departure 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