Grand Portugal & Southern Spain Private Journey

Overview

Welcome to an extraordinary 14-day private journey connecting the timeless charms of Portugal with the vibrant heritage of Southern Spain, thoughtfully curated for your family's comfort and festive holiday celebrations. From the historic riverside of Porto and terraced hills of the Douro Valley to Lisbon, Seville, Granada, and Madrid, you will experience rich culture, grand architecture, and scenic landscapes at a relaxed, seamless pace. Your dedicated private driver/guide ensures effortless travel throughout, leaving you free to cherish every unforgettable moment together.

Highlights

• Warm airport welcome and private transfer to your Porto hotel
• Check-in and time to settle comfortably into your hotels
• Gentle introductory orientation of Porto's scenic surroundings
• Evening at leisure to relax and enjoy dinner on your own
• Admire the historic Ribeira quarter and Dom Luis I Bridge
• See the magnificent azulejo tilework inside Sao Bento Station
• Take in panoramic views across the city and river from scenic viewpoints
• Explore the charming streets, local cafes, and shops of the historic center
• Journey through dramatic terraced landscapes along the Douro River valley
• Morning private 1-hour boat trip on the Douro River in a traditional vessel

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Porto & Leisure Time
   Arrive at Porto Airport, where your private driver/guide greets you for a comfortable transfer to your hotel. Settle in, unpack, and enjoy a relaxed first evening soaking up the enchanting holiday atmosphere along the river.
2. Day 2 — Historic Highlights of Porto
   Discover the historic beauty of Porto on a dedicated private city tour through its atmospheric old town and waterfront districts. Take in dramatic viewpoints over the Douro River, marvel at the azulejo tile panels of Sao Bento Station, and stroll along the scenic Ribeira promenade.
3. Day 3 — Douro Valley Scenic Landscapes & River Cruise
   Travel inland to the breathtaking Douro Valley for a full day immersed in world-renowned terraced vineyard landscapes. In the morning, embark on a private 1-hour boat trip gliding along the tranquil waters of the Douro River, followed in the afternoon by an authentic wine tasting at a family-run quinta before returning to Porto.
4. Day 4 — Journey to Lisbon via Coimbra & Obidos
   Depart Porto on a scenic southward journey to Lisbon, stopping midway to discover historic landmarks and scenic treasures. Explore the historic university city of Coimbra and pause in the picturesque walled town of Obidos before continuing comfortably to the Portuguese capital.
5. Day 5 — Christmas Day in Lisbon
   Embrace a peaceful, festive Christmas Day in the Portuguese capital with a gentle morning panoramic drive across the city's grand avenues and scenic hills. Enjoy sweeping views from Eduardo VII Park over the Tagus River, followed by a restful afternoon celebrating the holiday at your own pace.
6. Day 6 — Lisbon Highlights: Belem, Alfama & Chiado
   Spend a dedicated day uncovering the iconic neighborhoods of Lisbon, starting in historic Belem along the Tagus estuary. Admire the exterior grandeur of Jeronimos Monastery and Belem Tower, savor warm traditional custard tarts at Pasteis de Belem, and wander through the labyrinthine alleys of Alfama and elegant Chiado.
7. Day 7 — Sintra Fairy-Tale Palaces & Cascais Coast
   Embark on a captivating private excursion to the romantic Serra de Sintra, visiting the fairy-tale Pena Palace set high amid forested hills. Continue along the dramatic Atlantic coastline to the cliffs of Cabo da Roca before concluding with a scenic coastal drive through the charming seaside town of Cascais.
8. Day 8 — Scenic Transfer to Seville
   Set out eastward across the rolling landscapes of the Alentejo toward the Spanish border and vibrant Andalusia. Your driver can share recommendations to enjoy a comfortable lunch break in a historic regional town along the way before arriving in Seville for check-in and an evening at leisure.
9. Day 9 — Historic Wonders of Seville
   Immerse yourself in the soulful atmosphere of Seville on a private sightseeing tour of its most celebrated landmarks. Discover the grand tiled semicircular pavilion of Plaza de Espana, wander the tangled alleyways and orange-blossom courtyards of the Santa Cruz quarter, and take in views along the Guadalquivir riverbank.
10. Day 10 — Journey to Granada via Historic Cordoba
    Depart Seville for Granada, pausing en route in Cordoba to discover its extraordinary multicultural legacy. Explore the historic Jewish Quarter and admire the iconic Roman Bridge and surrounding monuments before continuing across olive-clad Andalusian hills to Granada.
11. Day 11 — Granada & New Year's Eve Celebrations
    Celebrate New Year's Eve in magical Granada, a city steeped in Moorish and Christian heritage. Explore the historic Albaicin quarter with its steep winding alleys, take in majestic viewpoints overlooking the iconic Alhambra palace complex, and prepare for an evening celebrating the arrival of the New Year.
12. Day 12 — New Year's Journey to Madrid
    Begin the New Year with a scenic private journey north across the rugged landscapes of Andalusia and the plains of La Mancha toward Madrid. Relax in premium comfort with curated scenic stops along the way before arriving in Spain's vibrant capital city.
13. Day 13 — Madrid Capital Highlights & Royal Grandeur
    Spend a delightful day exploring the grand avenues and regal landmarks of Spain's capital city. Admire the stately exterior of the Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral, stroll through bustling Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor, and wander along the tree-lined paths of the UNESCO-listed Retiro Park.
14. Day 14 — Departure from Madrid
    After breakfast, conclude your unforgettable holiday journey across Portugal and Spain. Your private driver meets you at your hotel for a smooth and comfortable transfer to Madrid Barajas Airport for your homeward 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