Grand Portugal Discovery: Lisbon, Sintra, Porto & Douro Valley

Overview

Welcome to an extraordinary 10-day private journey through Portugal, meticulously crafted to showcase the country's most enchanting destinations in supreme comfort. From the historic neighborhoods and sun-drenched coastlines of Lisbon and Sintra to the medieval treasures of the central region, the vibrant streets of Porto, and the terraced a vineyard of the Douro Valley, every moment is seamlessly guided by your dedicated private driver/guide. Enjoy a graceful balance of curated cultural exploration and relaxing evenings at your own pace.

Highlights

• Seamless airport meet and greet with direct transfer to your hotel in a premium Mercedes-Benz vehicle
• Gentle panoramic orientation along the stately avenues and scenic viewpoints of the capital
• First glimpse of the Tagus River bathed in golden late-afternoon light
• Relaxed evening at leisure with free time for dinner on your own
• Admire the intricate Manueline stonework of Jeronimos Monastery and take in the historic riverside setting of Belem Tower
• Private tuk tuk experience through the Old Town of Lisbon (1 hour)
• Savor warm, authentic Pasteis de Belem custard tarts at the renowned original bakery
• Take in grand panoramic city and river views from the manicured lawns of Eduardo VII Park
• Wander through the historic Alfama district, Lisbon's oldest quarter, filled with winding alleys and vibrant character
• Visit the colorful and whimsical Pena Palace standing majestically atop Sintra's forested peaks

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Lisbon & Welcome Orientation
   Upon arrival at Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport, meet your private driver for a warm welcome and an effortless private transfer to your hotel. Take the afternoon to settle in and enjoy a gentle first orientation drive through the elegant boulevards, followed by free time for dinner on your own.
2. Day 2 — Historic Lisbon & Belem Discovery
   Begin the morning exploring Lisbon's iconic riverside district of Belem before heading into the historic heart of the city. Stroll through the labyrinthine cobblestone alleys of the medieval Alfama quarter, savor classic custard tarts, and take in panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Tagus River. 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 — Fairytale Sintra, Cabo da Roca & Cascais
   Journey into the romantic Serra de Sintra to discover its fairytale architecture and lush botanical forested hillsides. In the afternoon, descend to the dramatic cliffs of Cabo da Roca before traveling along the Atlantic coastline through the charming seaside town of Cascais and the graceful coast of Estoril.
4. Day 4 — Evora & Alentejo Heritage Day Trip
   Venture southeast across the 25th of April Bridge into the sun-drenched Alentejo region to explore Evora, an UNESCO World Heritage gem.
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 — The Best of Historic Porto
   Dedicate the day to exploring the historic soul of Porto, starting with the breathtaking blue-and-white tilework of Sao Bento Railway Station. Stroll through the romantic Ribeira quarter along the Douro River, marvel at the iconic Dom Luis I Bridge, and enjoy sweeping views from the Clerigos district and Foz waterfront.
7. Day 7 — Cradle of the Nation: Guimaraes & Braga
   Travel into the Minho region to discover Portugal's spiritual and national origins in Guimaraes and Braga. Explore Guimaraes' celebrated medieval centre, revered as the birthplace of the nation, before ascending the baroque monumental sanctuary staircase of Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga.
8. Day 8 — Enchanting Douro Valley & River Cruise
   Leave Porto for the dramatic terraced hills of the Douro Valley, the world's oldest demarcated wine region. In the morning, embark on a private 1-hour boat trip gliding along the tranquil waters of the Douro River, followed in the afternoon by a curated wine tasting at a family-run quinta nestled among the vines.
9. Day 9 — Journey to Lisbon via Aveiro & Costa Nova
   Begin your southbound journey back toward Lisbon, traveling via the charming canal city of Aveiro, often celebrated as the Portuguese Venice. Admire the colorful Art Nouveau architecture and traditional striped fisherman houses of Costa Nova before arriving in Lisbon for your final celebratory evening.
10. Day 10 — Lisbon Departure Transfer
    Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before meeting your private driver for your scheduled transfer to Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport. Reflect on an unforgettable 10 days of Portuguese discovery, culture, and hospitality as you begin your homeward journey.

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