Treasures of Portugal: Lisbon, Sintra, the Douro Valley & Porto

Overview

Welcome to an inspiring ten-day private journey curated to introduce you to the very best of Portugal, connecting the historic treasures of Lisbon, the romantic coastal hills of Sintra, the medieval legacy of the central region, the terraced slopes of the Douro Valley, and the vibrant riverfront charm of Porto. Thoughtfully paced with your private driver/guide, this sample itinerary offers an effortless blend of rich culture, world-class scenery, and relaxed discovery as you begin planning your Portuguese adventure.

Highlights

• Warm meet-and-greet arrival transfer from Lisbon Airport with your private driver
• Introductory drive passing iconic avenues and grand riverfront squares
• Smooth hotel check-in and leisure time to settle in after your flight
• Evening at leisure with free time for dinner on your own at a local eatery
• Admire the intricate Manueline stonework of Jeronimos Monastery and the iconic Belem Tower
• Private tuk tuk experience through the Old Town of Lisbon (1 hour)
• Taste the authentic warm pastries at the world-famous Pasteis de Belem bakery
• Take in sweeping panoramic vistas across the terracotta rooftops from Eduardo VII Park
• Wander through the atmospheric alleys and hidden courtyards of Lisbon's historic Alfama district
• Visit the whimsical, brightly colored Pena Palace perched atop Sintra's misty peaks

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Lisbon & Welcome Introduction
   Upon your arrival at Lisbon Airport, meet your private driver for a comfortable transfer into the city. Enjoy a scenic introductory drive through Lisbon's grand boulevards before settling into your hotel with free time for dinner on your own.
2. Day 2 — Lisbon Highlights: Maritime Belem & Historic Alfama
   Discover the maritime splendor and historic soul of Portugal's capital on a curated city journey. Explore the riverside monuments of Belem in the morning before meandering through the cobblestone alleys of the historic Alfama quarter. 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 — Enchanting Sintra & The Atlantic Coast
   Journey into the forested Serra de Sintra to discover its romantic hilltops and grand royal heritage. After visiting the fairy-tale Pena Palace and historic village, trace the dramatic Atlantic coast past Europe's westernmost cape to elegant Cascais.
4. Day 4 — Evora & The Historic Alentejo Heritage
   Travel southeast across the Tagus River onto the sun-drenched plains of the Alentejo region. Spend the day immersed in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Evora, discovering its remarkably preserved Roman landmarks and atmospheric medieval monuments.
5. Day 5 — Northbound Journey: Obidos, Nazare & Coimbra
   Depart Lisbon on a scenic northbound journey toward the historic university city of Coimbra. Along the route, walk the cobblestone streets of medieval Obidos and take in the dramatic coastal cliffs of the traditional fishing town of Nazare.
6. Day 6 — Coimbra Heritage & Scenic Journey to the Douro Valley
   Explore Coimbra's storied academic heritage in the morning before embarking on a breathtaking scenic drive into the Douro Valley wine country. Arrive amidst the terraced hillsides and relax into the tranquil riverfront rhythm. Today belongs to the Douro Valley, where terraced vineyards drop down to the river. In the morning you step aboard a private 1-hour boat trip on the Douro, seeing the valley from the water. Back on land, the drive follows the panoramic roads above Pinhao and Peso da Regua, stopping at the best viewpoints. In the afternoon a family run quinta welcomes you for a Douro wine tasting, with time to walk the vines before the day closes.
7. Day 7 — Hidden Viewpoints and Quintas of the Douro Valley
   A second day in the Douro Valley, away from the river and deeper into the villages and estates of the region. The morning follows the high panoramic roads towards Sao Joao da Pesqueira and Casal de Loivos, with time in Lamego or one of the small granite villages. In the afternoon a different family quinta welcomes you for a tasting of their own wines and Ports alongside local bread, cheese and olive oil.
8. Day 8 — Guimaraes Medieval Heritage & Arrival in Porto
   Journey westward along the scenic valley corridors toward the vibrant coastal metropolis of Porto. En route, explore the birthplace of the nation in Guimaraes, renowned for its medieval castle and impeccably preserved historical center.
9. Day 9 — Best of Porto: Historic Heart & Coastal Foz
   Dedicate a captivating day to exploring the historic districts and architectural treasures of Porto. Admire the city's grand monuments, vibrant cultural squares, and iconic river viewpoints before taking in the coastal beauty of the Foz district.
10. Day 10 — Farewell Porto & Airport Departure Transfer
    Enjoy a relaxed final morning in Porto before checking out from your hotel. Your private driver will meet you for a smooth, direct transfer to Porto Airport in good time for your 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