Treasures of Portugal: Lisbon, Medieval Heritage & the Douro Valley

Overview

Welcome to Portugal! This private eight-day journey is tailored to reveal the country's most enchanting heritage, from the sunlit avenues and royal hills of Lisbon and Sintra to the medieval spirit of the Alentejo, the historic north, and the terraced wonders of the Douro Valley. Accompanied throughout by your dedicated private driver/guide in a premium Mercedes-Benz vehicle, you will experience Portugal at an effortless, comfortable pace with personalized attention every step of the way.

Highlights

• Warm private meet and greet upon arrival at Lisbon Airport
• Panoramic orientation drive past Eduardo VII Park overlooking the Tagus River
• Gentle introductory walking stroll through the vibrant Baixa district and Rossio Square
• Evening at leisure to unwind and enjoy dinner on your own at a local restaurant
• Visit the colorful Pena Palace perched high amid the misty Sintra mountains
• Stroll through the enchanting cobblestone alleys of Sintra historic village
• Take in sweeping ocean panoramas from Cabo da Roca, Europe's westernmost headland
• Discover the seaside charm and historic coastal lanes of Cascais
• Experience the peaceful atmosphere and vast plazas of the Sanctuary of Fatima
• Marvel at the dramatic clifftop views and authentic fisherman heritage of Nazare

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Lisbon & First Impressions
   Upon your arrival at Lisbon Airport, your dedicated private driver/guide will warmly welcome you at arrivals and assist with your luggage. Embark on a gentle orientation drive through Lisbon's iconic quarters, pausing at panoramic viewpoints like Eduardo VII Park before enjoying an introductory stroll through the historic Baixa district and free time for dinner on your own.
2. Day 2 — Sintra, Cabo da Roca & Cascais
   Travel into the forested Sintra hills to explore the romantic fairy-tale architecture of Pena Palace and wander the cobblestone paths of Sintra historic village. Continue along the dramatic Atlantic coastline to Cabo da Roca, mainland Europe's westernmost headland, before enjoying a scenic coastal drive through the charming traditional fishing town of Cascais and the elegant seaside road of Estoril.
3. Day 3 — Fatima, Nazare & Obidos
   Journey north into Portugal's central heartland to experience the serene grounds of the Sanctuary of Fatima, one of the world's most revered pilgrimage sites. Head towards the Atlantic coast to marvel at the towering cliffs and seaside character of Nazare, followed by an afternoon exploring the flower-lined cobblestones and ancient ramparts of medieval Obidos.
4. Day 4 — Evora & Monsaraz
   Venture east across rolling plains of cork oak into the Alentejo capital of Evora, an UNESCO World Heritage site known for its Roman Temple and intriguing Chapel of Bones. Afterwards, travel to the whitewashed hilltop stronghold of Monsaraz overlooking the vast Alqueva, where you will savor fine regional wines at a distinguished local estate.
5. Day 5 — Knights Templar: Tomar & Almourol
   Delve into the mysterious world of the Knights Templar with a journey to Tomar, where you will explore the awe-inspiring Convent of Christ and its world-famous Manueline Chapterhouse window. Continue to the banks of the Tagus River to admire Almourol Castle, an iconic medieval fortress dramatically set on a rocky islet in the middle of the river.
6. Day 6 — Relaxed Private Transfer to Porto
   Depart Lisbon and journey north toward Porto, stopping midway in the delightful canal city of Aveiro, often celebrated for its colorful painted moliceiro boats and ornate Art Nouveau architecture. Continue northward to arrive in Porto in the afternoon, settling into your hotel and taking in your first scenic views of this historic riverside metropolis.
7. Day 7 — Douro Valley Wine Experience
   Embark on an unforgettable day into the Douro Valley, the world's oldest demarcated wine region characterized by terraced a vineyard sculpted into river hillsides. In the morning, enjoy a relaxing private 1-hour boat trip on the peaceful waters of the Douro River, followed in the afternoon by a guided visit and wine tasting at a traditional family-run quinta.
8. Day 8 — Porto Highlights & Departure
   Conclude your Portuguese adventure with an engaging morning exploration of Porto's historic center, admiring the iconic Clerigos Tower, the neo-Gothic facade of Livraria Lello, and the vibrant Ribeira riverfront. Your private driver will then escort you comfortably to Porto Airport for your departure flight home.

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