Grand Portugal: From Lisbon's Grandeur to the Douro Terraces

Overview

Welcome to Portugal. This curated 10-day private journey introduces you to the timeless heritage, captivating landscapes, and rich gastronomy of the country at an elegant, unhurried pace. From the sun-drenched avenues of Lisbon and the romantic hills of Sintra to the historic charm of Porto and the terraced slopes of the Douro Valley, every detail has been thoughtfully arranged for your utmost comfort and discovery.

Highlights

• Warm meet and greet by your private driver upon arrival at Lisbon Airport
• Panoramic orientation drive along the grand boulevards and Tagus waterfront
• Smooth check-in at your selected Lisbon hotel
• Relaxed evening at leisure with free time for dinner on your own
• Admire the ornate Manueline exterior architecture of Jeronimos Monastery
• Private tuk tuk experience through the Old Town of Lisbon (1 hour)
• Enjoy a scenic riverside stop by the historic Belem Tower and Monument to the Discoveries
• Savor warm and freshly baked artisanal custard tarts at Pasteis de Belem
• Wander the winding cobblestone alleys and picturesque plazas of ancient Alfama
• Explore the vibrant colors and eclectic architecture of Pena Palace

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Lisbon & Riverside Welcome
   Upon your arrival at Lisbon Airport, your private driver will greet you at the arrivals hall and transfer you comfortably into the city. Enjoy an introductory scenic drive along the grand avenues and the Tagus River before arriving at your hotel to rest, followed by free time for dinner on your own.
2. Day 2 — Historic Lisbon & the Heritage of Belem
   Begin the day discovering the monumental riverside district of Belem before heading into Lisbon's historic quarters. In the morning, admire the intricate architecture of Jeronimos Monastery and enjoy a stop by the iconic Belem Tower, followed by a tasting of the legendary warm custard tarts and an afternoon stroll through 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 — Enchanting Sintra & the Cascais Coastline
   Journey into the mystical forested hills of Sintra for a visit to the whimsical Pena Palace and its surrounding grounds. After exploring the romantic historic village, trace the dramatic Atlantic shoreline around Cabo da Roca and conclude with a scenic drive through the charming coastal enclave of Cascais and the Estoril coast.
4. Day 4 — Evora UNESCO Heritage & Relaxed Alentejo Winery Day
   Travel east across the rolling plains of the Alentejo region 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 — Porto's Historic Center & Riverside Splendor
   Dedicate today to discovering the cultural splendor and architectural treasures of Porto. Admire the stunning blue-and-white azulejo tile panels at Sao Bento Station, view the iconic Clerigos Tower, and wander down through the historic Ribeira quarter beside the Dom Luis I Bridge, followed by free time for dinner on your own.
7. Day 7 — Minho Heritage: Braga & Historic Guimaraes
   Embark on a captivating day excursion through the northern Minho region, beginning in Braga to visit the monumental Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary. Continue to Guimaraes, proudly regarded as the birthplace of the Portuguese nation, to explore its exceptionally preserved medieval center.
8. Day 8 — Terraced a vineyard & River Vistas of the Douro Valley
   Depart Porto for a journey into the world's oldest demarcated wine region in the Douro Valley. In the morning, embark on a private 1-hour boat trip along the calm waters of the Douro River aboard a traditional rabelo vessel, followed in the afternoon by a curated Douro wine tasting at a traditional family-run quinta.
9. Day 9 — Relaxed Private Transfer to Lisbon
   Admire the colorful Art Nouveau architecture and the traditional striped fishermen's cottages of Costa Nova before arriving in Lisbon for your final evening, with free time for farewell dinner on your own on your own.
10. Day 10 — Departure from Lisbon
    Following breakfast and hotel check-out, your private driver will meet you at the lobby for your comfortable transfer to Lisbon Airport. Depart with unforgettable memories of Portugal's remarkable history, scenery, 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