Grand Portugal: From Porto & Douro Valley to Lisbon

Overview

Congratulations on your exciting fundraiser win to discover Porto and the enchanting Douro Valley. This tailored 10-day private journey seamlessly elevates your prize experience, pairing the romantic north with scenic historic towns and vibrant Lisbon in comfort and style. Relax and enjoy Portugal at a curated pace with your dedicated private driver/guide attending to every detail.

Highlights

• Warm meet and greet at Porto Airport by your dedicated private driver
• Scenic orientation drive through the historic quarters along the Douro River
• First panoramic view of the majestic Dom Luis I Bridge
• Free time to relax and enjoy dinner on your own at the riverside
• Admire the elaborate tile panels depicting Portuguese history inside Sao Bento Station
• Wander through the historic Ribeira district along the banks of the Douro River
• Take in panoramic city views near Clerigos Tower and Avenida dos Aliados
• Drive past the Atlantic coast at Foz where the Douro River meets the ocean
• Explore the UNESCO-listed medieval center of Guimaraes, birthplace of Portugal
• Admire the impressive Palace of the Dukes of Braganca from its historic grounds

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Porto & Welcome to Portugal
   Welcome to Portugal! Your private driver greets you upon arrival at Porto Airport to transfer you to your hotel, followed by an introductory orientation drive through Porto's historic riverfront.
2. Day 2 — Best of Historic Porto
   Discover the architectural elegance and cultural treasures of Porto on an immersive exploration of its historic center. Stroll through vibrant historic neighborhoods, admire world-famous azulejo tiles, and enjoy breathtaking riverfront panoramas.
3. Day 3 — Minho Heritage: Guimaraes & Braga
   Journey north into the lush Minho region to discover Portugal's foundational history and sacred heritage. Explore the birthplace of the nation in Guimaraes and ascend to the grand pilgrimage sanctuary overlooking Braga.
4. Day 4 — Scenic Journey into the Douro Valley
   Depart Porto as you journey inland toward the breathtaking terraced a vineyard of the Douro Valley. Along the way, visit the historic riverside town of Amarante and ascend to awe-inspiring panoramic viewpoints before checking in to your valley hotel. 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. In the afternoon a family run quinta welcomes you for a Douro wine tasting, with time to walk the vines before the day closes.
5. Day 5 — The Upper Douro and Sao Joao da Pesqueira
   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.
6. Day 6 — 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.
7. Day 7 — Central Portugal Journey to Lisbon via Coimbra
   Begin your southward journey toward Lisbon, stopping first in the historic university city of Coimbra before arriving in the capital. Stroll the historic streets that shaped Portugal's academic and literary traditions.
8. Day 8 — Lisbon Highlights: Belem & Old Town Alfama
   Experience the captivating history and distinct character of Lisbon across its most iconic neighborhoods. In the morning, explore the maritime monument district of Belem before heading into the charming alleys of Alfama and the city's grand viewpoints. 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.
9. Day 9 — Fairy-tale Sintra & The Portuguese Riviera
   Spend an enchanting day exploring the romantic landscapes of Sintra and the sophisticated Portuguese Riviera. Discover the vibrant beauty of Pena Palace, explore the historic mountain village, and travel along the Atlantic coast through Cascais and Estoril.
10. Day 10 — Farewell Portugal & Departure Transfer
    Enjoy your final morning in Lisbon at your own pace before your private driver arrives for a comfortable transfer to Lisbon Airport for your return flight.

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