The Essence of Portugal - A 10-Day Private Experience

Overview

We are delighted to welcome you back to Portugal, Mabel, and thrilled to be crafting this special 10-day journey for you and your friend. This itinerary blends iconic highlights with authentic local experiences, revisiting some of your favourite places while introducing new treasures. Prepare for an unforgettable exploration of Portugal's heart and soul, from the historic streets of Lisbon to the serene vineyards of the Douro Valley.

Highlights

• Personalized airport meet & greet with luggage assistance
• Relaxing private orientation tour of Lisbon's main districts
• Introduction to the city's history and layout
• Seamless transfer and check-in support at your hotel
• Visit the UNESCO-listed Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery
• Taste the original, world-famous Pastéis de Belém custard tarts
• Explore the atmospheric Alfama district and its viewpoints
• Stroll through the elegant, historic squares of Rossio and Comércio
• Explore the romanticist Pena National Palace on its hilltop perch
• Wander through the charming historic center of Sintra

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Lisbon & Gentle Introduction
   Upon arrival at Lisbon Airport, your private driver-guide will be waiting for a personalized meet & greet. We will then embark on a smooth and relaxing orientation tour of the city to help you get your bearings before a comfortable drop-off at your hotel.
2. Day 2 — Discovering Lisbon: History & Charm
   Today is dedicated to Portugal's vibrant capital. We'll explore the Belém district, the cradle of the Age of Discoveries, before wandering the ancient, labyrinthine streets of the Alfama district and the historic Baixa.
3. Day 3 — Sintra's Palaces and the Atlantic Coast
   Venture to the storybook town of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage cultural landscape. From the breathtaking Pena Palace, we'll journey to Cabo da Roca, the dramatic westernmost point of continental Europe, before relaxing in the chic seaside town of Cascais.
4. Day 4 — Alentejo Heritage: Évora & Monsaraz
   Travel into the golden plains of the Alentejo, a region rich in history and gastronomic tradition. We'll discover Évora, a perfectly preserved UNESCO city, and conclude with a visit to the stunning medieval hilltop village of Monsaraz, complete with a local wine tasting.
5. Day 5 — The Mysteries of the Knights Templar
   Uncover the legends of the powerful Knights Templar. Our journey takes us first to the dramatic Almourol Castle, set on a tiny island in the Tagus River, then to the magnificent Convent of Christ in Tomar, a vast and fascinating UNESCO World Heritage site.
6. Day 6 — A Day at Leisure in Lisbon
   Enjoy a full day to relax and explore Lisbon at your own pace. This is the perfect opportunity to revisit a favourite neighbourhood, indulge in some shopping, discover a hidden museum, or simply sit at a 'miradouro' and enjoy the view.
7. Day 7 — North to Porto via Coastal Gems
   We bid farewell to Lisbon and travel north toward Porto. Along the way, we'll stop to explore the incredibly picturesque medieval walled town of Óbidos and the famous fishing village of Nazaré, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and giant waves.
8. Day 8 — Porto: Character & Riverside Charm
   Discover Portugal's second city, Porto, a place of captivating contrasts and atmosphere. We'll explore the historic Ribeira district along the river, admire the city's grand bridges, and uncover the architectural marvels of this UNESCO World Heritage city.
9. Day 9 — Douro Valley: Wine, Landscapes & Serenity
   Today is dedicated to the world's oldest demarcated wine region, the Douro Valley. Enjoy a relaxing private boat trip on the serene Douro River, followed by an exclusive wine tasting at a family-owned 'Quinta' (wine estate), surrounded by breathtaking terraced vineyards.
10. Day 10 — Scenic Return & Farewell to Portugal
    Enjoy a comfortable and scenic return journey from Porto to Lisbon. This flexible transfer allows for final, spontaneous discoveries before we drop you off in Lisbon, concluding your unforgettable 10-day Portuguese adventure.

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