Grand Tour of Portugal: Lisbon, Douro Valley & Porto

Overview

Welcome to your handcrafted 10-day journey showcasing the very best of Portugal, connecting the sun-drenched capital of Lisbon to the majestic Douro Valley and the historic streets of Porto. Thoughtfully paced with your private driver/guide, this signature itinerary balances landmark culture, celebrated regional flavors, and scenic countryside relaxation.

Highlights

• Warm airport welcome and seamless transfer in a premium Mercedes-Benz vehicle
• Introductory drive along Lisbon's grand Avenida da Liberdade and riverside boulevard
• Time to settle into your central hotel and unwind at your own pace
• Leisurely first evening with free time for dinner on your own
• Morning stop to admire the intricate Manueline stonework of Jeronimos Monastery
• Private tuk tuk experience through the Old Town of Lisbon (1 hour)
• Riverside pause to photograph Belem Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries
• Tasting of original warm custard tarts at the legendary Pasteis de Belem bakery
• Walking exploration through the winding medieval alleyways of historic Alfama
• Guided morning visit exploring the fairy-tale architecture of Pena Palace

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Lisbon & Warm Welcome
   Arrive in Lisbon where your private driver/guide welcomes you at the airport and transfers you smoothly to your hotel. Settle in and enjoy a gentle orientation drive along the grand Avenida da Liberdade, followed by a leisurely evening and free time for dinner on your own.
2. Day 2 — Lisbon's Iconic Quarters & Historic Belem
   Begin the morning along the historic Belem waterfront, pausing to admire Jeronimos Monastery and Belem Tower before tasting warm custard tarts at Pasteis de Belem. In the afternoon, discover the storied quarters of Alfama, Chiado, and Eduardo VII Park, before enjoying free time for dinner on your own. 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's Fairytale Hills & The Cascais Coast
   Journey into the forested Sintra hills to explore the vibrant romanticism of Pena Palace and its surrounding parklands. Continue past rugged Atlantic cliffs at Cabo da Roca, concluding with a tranquil coastal drive through the seaside town of Cascais and the elegant shoreline of Estoril.
4. Day 4 — Evora UNESCO Heritage & Relaxed Alentejo Winery Day
   Head south across the Tagus River into the Alentejo plains to discover the UNESCO World Heritage city of Evora.
5. Day 5 — Scenic Journey to Porto via Obidos & Nazare
   Travel north toward Porto with enriching pauses in the picturesque walled town of Obidos and the authentic fishing community of Nazare. Savor local ginjinha in a chocolate cup within medieval walls, admire sweeping ocean vistas from Nazare's clifftop, and arrive in Porto by late afternoon.
6. Day 6 — Best of Historic Porto & The Douro Riverfront
   Immerse yourself in Porto's rich heritage with a scenic discovery of the historic center, including the grand tilework of Sao Bento Station and the iconic Dom Luis I Bridge. In the afternoon, enjoy time to explore the riverfront Ribeira district and coastal Foz before an evening at leisure.
7. Day 7 — Douro Valley Terraced a vineyard & River Cruise
   Journey eastward into the Douro Valley to admire dramatic terraced landscapes that have produced fine wines for centuries. In the morning, embark on a private 1-hour boat trip along the Douro River, followed in the afternoon by a curated wine tasting at a traditional family-run quinta.
8. Day 8 — The Cradle of the Nation: Guimaraes & Braga
   Venture north into Portugal's Minho province to visit Guimaraes, the revered birthplace of the Portuguese nation, followed by historic Braga. Marvel at the grand baroque sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte with its iconic zig-zag stairway before returning to Porto.
9. Day 9 — Relaxed Private Transfer to Lisbon
   Journey southward back to Lisbon, pausing midway in the storied university city of Coimbra. Visit the historic hilltop university campus, wander through the historic student quarter, and reach Lisbon in the late afternoon for a farewell evening on your own.
10. Day 10 — Departure from Lisbon
    Enjoy a final relaxed morning in Lisbon depending on your flight schedule. Your private driver transfers you from your hotel directly to Lisbon Portela Airport for your journey home, ensuring a smooth and comfortable departure.

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