Grand Tour of Portugal: Lisbon, Douro Valley & Porto

Overview

Welcome to Portugal. This curated 10-day private journey takes you across the country's most iconic landscapes, from the historic quarters of Lisbon and the romantic hills of Sintra to the rolling terraced a vineyard of the Douro Valley and the architectural treasures of Porto. Traveling in the refined comfort of a private Mercedes-Benz vehicle with your dedicated English-speaking driver/guide, you will enjoy a seamless, personalized itinerary balanced with daily leisure time to unwind and savor Portugal at your own pace.

Highlights

• Warm meet and greet service directly at Lisbon International Airport
• Smooth private transfer through Lisbon aboard a premium Mercedes-Benz vehicle
• Gentle panoramic orientation drive along the historic Tagus riverfront
• Free time in the evening to relax and dine independently at a local restaurant
• Ridge road and coves of the Arrabida park
• Wine estate visit in Azeitao
• Fishing harbour of Sesimbra
• Your driver can share recommendations to enjoy fresh seafood lunch by the sea.
• Curated morning visit to the vibrant Romanticist masterpiece of Pena Palace and its wooded parklands
• Leisurely walk through the charming historic centre of Sintra village with artisan shops

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Lisbon & Riverside Orientation
   Welcome to Lisbon. Upon arrival at Lisbon International Airport, meet your private driver for a seamless transfer to your hotel, followed by an introductory scenic drive along the Tagus waterfront and time to settle in before enjoying dinner on your own.
2. Day 2 — Arrabida, Setubal and Sesimbra
   South over the river to the Arrabida natural park, with turquoise coves below the ridge road, a wine estate in Azeitao and grilled fish in the fishing town of Sesimbra.
3. Day 3 — Fairytale Sintra & Cascais Coastline
   Journey westward into the mystical Serra de Sintra to tour the colorful fairy-tale Pena Palace and stroll the cobblestone lanes of Sintra's historic village. Continue along the dramatic Atlantic coastline to continental Europe's westernmost cape and the sophisticated seaside resort of Cascais before returning to Lisbon.
4. Day 4 — Evora UNESCO Heritage & Relaxed Alentejo Winery Day
   Travel inland into the sun-drenched Alentejo plains to discover the UNESCO World Heritage city of Evora, exploring its classical Roman ruins and fascinating monuments.
5. Day 5 — Scenic Journey North via Obidos & Nazare
   Depart Lisbon northward on a scenic journey toward the majestic Douro Valley, pausing en route to explore the medieval walled town of Obidos and the dramatic ocean cliffs of Nazare. The day is given over to the journey north, with time along the way to stretch your legs, take in the towns and countryside that break up the drive, and arrive in the Douro Valley in time to settle into your hotel.
6. Day 6 — Douro Valley River Cruise & Wine Tasting
   Immerse yourself in the serene majesty of the Douro wine country, beginning your morning with a private one-hour river cruise aboard a traditional boat along steep vineyard slopes. In the afternoon, visit a traditional family-run quinta for an estate tour and fine wine tasting before enjoying free time to relax.
7. Day 7 — Journey to Porto via Charming Amarante
   Travel from the quiet banks of the Douro toward the vibrant northern capital of Porto, pausing in the historic town of Amarante along the Tamega River. Upon arriving in Porto, enjoy an introductory panoramic drive across the city's iconic bridges and riverfront before settling into your hotel.
8. Day 8 — Porto Historic Centre & Coastal Charms
   Spend a full day exploring Porto's captivating historical centre, marveling at the thousands of blue-and-white azulejo tiles inside Sao Bento Station and admiring the grand Clerigos Tower. Continue to the Atlantic mouth of the river in Foz do Douro, followed by an afternoon at leisure for independent shopping and dining.
9. Day 9 — Cradle of the Nation: Guimaraes & Braga
   Embark on a captivating day excursion through the lush Minho region to Guimaraes, universally recognized as the birthplace of the Portuguese nation, followed by spiritual Braga. Marvel at the dramatic monumental staircase of Bom Jesus do Monte before returning to Porto for your final evening.
10. Day 10 — Farewell Portugal & Departure Transfer
    Enjoy a relaxed morning at your hotel before your private driver arrives for a comfortable transfer to Porto International Airport (or return transfer to Lisbon as preferred), marking the conclusion of an unforgettable journey through 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