Treasures of Portugal: Porto, the Douro Valley & Lisbon

Overview

Welcome to Portugal! This meticulously designed 10-day private itinerary takes you seamlessly from the historic streets of Porto and the terraced hills of the Douro Valley down through scenic central Portugal to Lisbon, culminating in a relaxed conclusion in the capital. Travel at a comfortable, leisurely pace with your dedicated private driver/guide, taking in the country's finest landscapes, heritage, and flavors.

Highlights

• Warm airport meet and greet with direct private transfer to your hotel
• Gentle introduction to Porto along the scenic banks of the Douro River
• Leisurely orientation stroll to take in the historic city ambiance
• Evening at your leisure with free time for dinner on your own
• Admire the iconic blue azulejo tile murals inside Sao Bento Station
• Take in panoramic views across the Douro from the Dom Luis I Bridge
• Stroll the vibrant Ribeira district along the historic waterfront
• Enjoy an afternoon at leisure exploring local shops and cafes
• Morning private 1-hour boat trip on the peaceful waters of the Douro River
• Spectacular panoramic views over the terraced hillsides and river bends

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Porto & Riverside Welcome
   Arrive at Porto Airport, where your private driver welcomes you for a smooth transfer to your hotel. Settle in and enjoy a gentle first look at the city with an orientation walk along the riverfront, followed by free time for dinner on your own.
2. Day 2 — Best of Porto Historic Centre
   Spend a full day discovering the cultural and architectural highlights of Porto at an easy pace. Explore the historic center, admire the intricate tilework of Sao Bento Station, take in panoramic river views, and enjoy free time to wander traditional streets and cafes.
3. Day 3 — Journey to the Enchanting Douro Valley
   Travel from Porto into the breathtaking UNESCO-listed Douro Valley, framed by dramatic terraced a vineyard. In the morning, embark on a private 1-hour boat trip along the Douro River, followed in the afternoon by an authentic wine tasting at a traditional family-run quinta before checking in to your valley hotel.
4. Day 4 — Douro Valley Viewpoints & Village Charm
   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.
5. Day 5 — Historic Coimbra & Academic Heritage
   Discover the rich academic heritage of the oldest university in Portugal, admire the famed Joanina Library, and stroll the charming medieval streets of the old town.
6. Day 6 — Coastal Jewels: Obidos & Nazare to Lisbon
   Depart Coimbra toward Lisbon, enjoying two classic intermediate stops along the Atlantic coast. Explore the medieval walled town of Obidos with a traditional ginjinha tasting, followed by breathtaking ocean views at the authentic fishing town of Nazare.
7. Day 7 — Lisbon Highlights & Belem Discovery
   Begin your exploration of Lisbon with a morning in historic Belem, followed by iconic viewpoints and neighborhood strolls. Admire the landmark monuments along the Tagus River, savor warm traditional pasteis de Belem, and take in the city skyline from Eduardo VII Park. 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.
8. Day 8 — Sintra, Cabo da Roca & Cascais
   Embark on a fairytale excursion to the romantic hills of Sintra and the sophisticated Estoril Coast. Visit the whimsical Pena Palace nestled among lush forested peaks, pause at mainland Europe's westernmost point, and stroll the charming coastal streets of Cascais.
9. Day 9 — 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.
10. Day 10 — Farewell to Portugal & Departure Transfer
    Conclude your journey through Portugal with a private transfer from your hotel to Lisbon Airport. Reflect on an unforgettable journey across northern and central Portugal as you prepare for your departure flight.

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