Grand Portugal: Lisbon, Douro Valley & Porto Discovery

Overview

Welcome to an inspiring ten-day private journey designed to showcase the very best of Portugal at a comfortable and elegant pace. From the sun-drenched hills and historic quarters of Lisbon to the romantic estates of Sintra, the timeless Douro Valley a vineyard, and the riverside charm of Porto, every detail is seamlessly curated for your private discovery.

Highlights

• Warm airport meet and greet with direct private Mercedes-Benz transfer
• Scenic panoramic first look at Lisbon grand boulevards and historic avenues
• Check-in and time to unwind comfortably at your hotel
• Evening at leisure with free time for dinner on your own
• Admire the intricate Manueline stonework of Jeronimos Monastery from the riverside gardens
• Private tuk tuk experience through the Old Town of Lisbon (1 hour)
• Enjoy a scenic stop by Belem Tower and taste original Pasteis de Belem pastries
• Take in sweeping views across the terracotta rooftops from Eduardo VII Park viewpoint
• Wander the historic cobblestone alleys and picturesque plazas of ancient Alfama
• Discover the vibrant colors and eclectic architecture of Pena Palace

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Lisbon & Welcome Orientation
   Arrive in Lisbon where your private driver welcomes you at the airport and escorts you directly to your hotel. Settle in and enjoy a gentle orientation drive through the capital before relaxing for the evening with free time for dinner on your own.
2. Day 2 — Lisbon Highlights & Historic Quarters
   Dedicate the day to discovering Lisbon's storied maritime heritage and timeless neighborhoods. In the morning, explore Belem along the Tagus River, tasting genuine warm custard tarts, followed by an afternoon walking exploration of historic 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 — Fairytale Sintra & the Cascais Coast
   Journey into the forested hills of Sintra to explore the whimsical architecture of Pena Palace and its romantic park. Continue across dramatic coastal roads to the rugged cliffs of Cabo da Roca and the seaside town of Cascais.
4. Day 4 — Evora UNESCO Heritage & Relaxed Alentejo Winery Day
   Travel east into the sun-drenched Alentejo region to explore the UNESCO World Heritage city of Evora. Discover millennia of history spanning ancient Roman architecture to medieval landmarks, surrounded by golden plains and cork oak forests.
5. Day 5 — Medieval Obidos, Coastal Nazare & Coimbra
   Depart Lisbon heading north, stopping first in the enchanting medieval walled town of Obidos to stroll cobblestone ramparts and taste sweet cherry liqueur. Continue to the Atlantic fishing town of Nazare to admire sweeping ocean panoramas from the clifftop promontory before arriving in Coimbra.
6. Day 6 — University of Coimbra & Journey to the Douro Valley
   Explore the rich scholarly heritage of Coimbra, home to one of Europe's oldest universities, before driving into the terraced landscapes of the Douro Valley. Settle into the heart of wine country surrounded by dramatic rolling hills and winding river bends. 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.
7. Day 7 — Hidden Viewpoints and Quintas of the Douro Valley
   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.
8. Day 8 — Journey to Porto & City Panorama
   Bid farewell to the vineyard hills as you travel west toward the vibrant coastal city of Porto. Enjoy a scenic afternoon introduction to Porto's iconic landmarks, historic railway architecture, and sweeping riverfront vistas.
9. Day 9 — Porto Architectural Gems & Riverside Character
   Spend a full day discovering the authentic soul, architectural treasures, and vibrant culture of Porto. Explore the historic Ribeira quarter, admire colorful riverfront facades, and take a gentle coastal drive along the Foz district where the river meets the ocean.
10. Day 10 — Farewell Porto & Airport Departure
    Conclude your Portuguese adventure with a private transfer from your Porto hotel to Francisco Sa Carneiro Airport. Depart with cherished memories of Portugal's remarkable history, breathtaking landscapes, 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