Grand Portugal Discovery: Lisbon, Sintra, Alentejo & The North

Overview

This curated 10-day classic journey has been designed as an inspirational framework to showcase the finest cultural, historical, and scenic treasures of Portugal. Thoughtfully balanced between vibrant historic quarters, romantic royal landscapes, and wine regions, this private itinerary offers complete flexibility to adjust every detail at your own rhythm whenever you are ready to finalize your plans.

Highlights

• Warm meet and greet at Lisbon Airport with seamless private transfer to your hotel
• Introductory panoramic drive along Lisbon's grand avenues and waterfront boulevards
• First glimpses of the sunlit Tagus River and historic downtown architecture
• Relaxing evening at leisure with free time for dinner on your own
• Admire the exquisite Manueline architecture of Jeronimos Monastery and riverside Belem Tower
• Private tuk tuk experience through the Old Town of Lisbon (1 hour)
• Taste the original warm custard tarts at the renowned Pasteis de Belem bakery
• Wander through the historic Alfama quarter with its labyrinthine cobblestone alleys
• Take in sweeping panoramic vistas of the capital from the Eduardo VII Park viewpoint
• Discover the vibrant colors and panoramic terraces of the fairy-tale Pena Palace

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Welcome to Lisbon & Gentle Arrival
   Upon arrival at Lisbon Airport, meet your private driver for a warm welcome and seamless transfer to your central hotel. Settle in and enjoy a gentle introductory drive along the Tagus River and elegant grand avenues, followed by free time for dinner on your own.
2. Day 2 — Lisbon Highlights: Maritime Belem & Historic Alfama
   Spend a comprehensive day discovering Lisbon's timeless districts, beginning with the maritime heritage of Belem before ascending into the winding alleys of Alfama. Take in broad panoramic views across the city rooftops from iconic viewpoints and enjoy the vibrant character of Baixa and Chiado. 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 Royal Heritage & The Cascais Coastline
   Journey into the romantic Serra de Sintra to explore the whimsical architecture and lush gardens of Pena Palace, followed by a stroll through Sintra's historic village. Continue along the dramatic Atlantic coastline past the cliffs of Cabo da Roca and the refined seaside resort of Cascais before returning via Estoril.
4. Day 4 — Evora UNESCO Heritage & Relaxed Alentejo Winery Day
   Cross the Tagus River into the sun-drenched plains of the Alentejo region to explore the 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 — Historic Porto: Monuments, Ribeira & Grand Bridges
   Immerse yourself in the rich architectural heritage and historic charm of Porto, exploring the atmospheric Ribeira waterfront and the city's grand landmarks. Admire world-famous tile panels, stroll across the iconic Dom Luis I Bridge, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the historic centre.
7. Day 7 — The Enchanting Douro Valley Wine Country
   Travel into the world-renowned Douro Valley, where terraced a vineyard carve steep paths down to the winding river. In the morning, embark on a private 1-hour boat trip aboard a traditional vessel, followed in the afternoon by a curated wine tasting at a family-run quinta.
8. Day 8 — Minho Heritage: Historic Guimaraes & Sacred Braga
   Venture north into the lush Minho region, widely regarded as the birthplace of the Portuguese nation. Explore the remarkably preserved medieval center of Guimaraes before ascending to the majestic hilltop sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga.
9. Day 9 — Relaxed Private Transfer to Lisbon with a Stop in Aveiro
   Continue through central Portugal with a stop in Aveiro, known for its canals, colourful moliceiro boats and Art Nouveau facades, followed by the striped wooden houses of Costa Nova by the Atlantic.
10. Day 10 — Farewell Portugal & Departure Transfer
    Enjoy a leisurely final breakfast at your hotel before meeting your private driver for your scheduled transfer to Lisbon Airport. Depart Portugal filled with lasting memories of historic monuments, dramatic landscapes, and warm Portuguese hospitality.

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