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

Overview

Welcome to Portugal. This thoughtfully curated 10-day private itinerary takes you through the country's most enchanting destinations, seamlessly blending historic cities, dramatic coastlines, royal mountain retreats, and sun-drenched vineyard valleys. With dedicated private transportation and your knowledgeable driver/guide, you will experience the very best of Portuguese heritage, scenery, and gastronomy at a comfortable, leisurely pace.

Highlights

• Warm meet and greet at Lisbon Airport with your private driver
• Scenic panoramic drive along the Tagus riverfront to introduce the capital
• Seamless check-in at your selected Lisbon hotel
• Relaxing evening at leisure with free time for dinner on your own
• Admire the intricate Manueline architecture of Jeronimos Monastery
• Private tuk tuk experience through the Old Town of Lisbon (1 hour)
• Enjoy a riverside stop by Belem Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries
• Taste original warm pastries at the legendary Pasteis de Belem bakery
• Wander through the historic Alfama quarter and take in views from Eduardo VII Park
• Explore the vibrant, romantic architecture of Pena Palace atop Sintra's peaks

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Lisbon & Riverside Introduction
   Your private driver warmly welcomes you at Lisbon Airport for a smooth transfer into the city. Enjoy a gentle panoramic drive along the Tagus riverfront to settle in, followed by check-in and free time to relax and dine independently.
2. Day 2 — Iconic Lisbon: Belem & Historic Quarters
   Begin your morning in historic Belem, discovering Portugal's Age of Discovery along the scenic riverbanks and tasting warm custard tarts. In the afternoon, head into Lisbon's historic quarters, from the sweeping panoramic views at Eduardo VII Park to the enchanting cobbled alleys of Alfama. 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 — Fairy-Tale Sintra & the Cascais Coast
   Journey into the lush hills of Sintra to visit the whimsical Pena Palace and explore the charming historic village. Continue along the dramatic Atlantic coastline past Europe's westernmost point at Cabo da Roca, concluding in the elegant seaside town of Cascais.
4. Day 4 — Evora UNESCO Heritage & Relaxed Alentejo Winery Day
   Travel inland across the rolling golden plains and cork oak forests of the Alentejo to 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 Treasures of Porto
   Explore the rich architectural treasures and vibrant atmosphere of historic Porto, from the riverfront Ribeira to iconic panoramic viewpoints. Admire the magnificent tile work at Sao Bento Station, gaze upon Clerigos Tower, and enjoy the charming oceanfront promenade at Foz.
7. Day 7 — Douro Valley River Cruise & Wine Tasting
   Travel inland along scenic winding roads into the breathtaking Douro Valley, the world's oldest demarcated wine region. Board a traditional boat for a private morning cruise along the tranquil waters, followed by an afternoon visit and wine tasting at a celebrated hillside quinta. 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.
8. Day 8 — Vila Real and the Mateus Palace
   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.
9. Day 9 — Relaxed Private Transfer to Lisbon
   Admire the colorful Art Nouveau architecture, view the iconic striped beach cottages of Costa Nova, and arrive in Lisbon for your final evening.
10. Day 10 — Lisbon Departure Transfer
    Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel before your private driver arrives for a comfortable transfer to Lisbon International Airport. Depart Portugal with lasting memories of exceptional landscapes, rich culture, and warm 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