Grand Portugal: Lisbon, Douro Valley & Porto Discovery

Overview

Welcome to Portugal. This curated ten-day journey introduces you to the country's most iconic landscapes, historic quarters, and cultural treasures at an unhurried, comfortable pace. From the sunlit hills of Lisbon and the romantic forests of Sintra to the terraced a vineyard of the Douro Valley and the historic riverfront of Porto, every day is tailored for your relaxation and discovery.

Highlights

• Warm airport greeting and seamless private transfer to your central hotel
• Scenic first drive along the Tagus River and elegant waterfront avenues
• Relaxing introduction to the city's sun-drenched architecture and maritime character
• Evening at leisure to unwind and enjoy dinner on your own
• Admire the intricate Manueline architecture of Jeronimos Monastery and Belem Tower from the riverside
• Private tuk tuk experience through the Old Town of Lisbon (1 hour)
• Taste warm traditional custard tarts at the historic Pasteis de Belem bakery
• Wander the labyrinthine cobblestone alleys of Alfama lined with whitewashed houses and ceramic azulejos
• Take in commanding city vistas from the grand terrace of Eduardo VII Park
• Explore the vibrant Romanticist architecture and lush gardens of Pena Palace

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Lisbon & Riverside Welcome
   Your private driver welcomes you at Lisbon Airport for a seamless transfer to your hotel. Settle in and enjoy a gentle first look at the city along the Tagus River with free time for dinner on your own.
2. Day 2 — Historic Lisbon & Maritime Belem
   Discover the historic quarters of Lisbon, starting with a scenic morning in maritime Belem and continuing through the city's oldest districts. Take in panoramic viewpoints and soak up the authentic atmosphere of Baixa, Chiado, and 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 — Sintra Fairy-Tale Palaces & Cascais Coast
   Journey into the romantic Serra de Sintra to discover whimsical royal heritage and rugged coastal scenery. Explore the historic village of Sintra before heading to the westernmost edge of mainland Europe and the charming seaside town of Cascais.
4. Day 4 — Alentejo Heritage & Medieval
   Discover Roman antiquities, whitewashed lanes, and hilltop medieval fortifications before returning to Lisbon.
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 Historic Center & Ribeira Charm
   Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty and architectural grandeur of Porto's historic center. Explore iconic riverfront districts, celebrated monuments, and lively avenues before enjoying a relaxed afternoon at your own rhythm.
7. Day 7 — Cradle of Portugal: Guimaraes & Braga
   Head into the Minho region to discover the birthplace of the nation and its spiritual capital. Explore the UNESCO-listed medieval streets of Guimaraes and the majestic sanctuary above Braga.
8. Day 8 — Scenic Journey into the Douro Valley
   Embark on a scenic drive into the Douro Valley, the world's oldest demarcated wine region, where terraced a vineyard descend dramatically to the river. Settle into your countryside retreat and enjoy an evening surrounded by peaceful valley vistas. 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.
9. Day 9 — Lamego and the Douro Viewpoints
   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.
10. Day 10 — Farewell Portugal & Departure Transfer
    Enjoy a relaxed breakfast surrounded by tranquil vineyard slopes before your private transfer to the airport for your journey home. Reflect on ten unforgettable days discovering the culture, scenery, and heritage of Portugal.

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