Discover Europe’s best-kept secret in a memorable 10-day Portugal itinerary: a place where each day offers a different rhythm, taste, and landscape. Imagine gliding along the Douro River, sipping wine as terraced vineyards rise around you, or hearing the soulful chords of Fado echo through Lisbon’s narrow streets.
Our Portugal 10 day tour was designed for travelers who seek both depth and comfort, allowing you to uncover the country’s essence at a relaxed pace. From historic cities to golden hillsides, this journey connects the cultural heart of Portugal with its rolling landscapes and rustic beauty. Each stop is thoughtfully arranged, blending guided insights with freedom to explore!
Your journey begins in Lisbon, a city that glows with charm and character. Take a walk through the lively Baixa district, lined with elegant squares, cafés, and mosaic-tiled streets. Watch trams rattle past pastel-colored buildings, and pause for a coffee as the Tagus River sparkles in the distance.
The next day, set out with your guide to explore the heart of the Portuguese capital. Wander through Alfama’s narrow lanes filled with life, admire the grand architecture of Praça do Comércio, and climb to the ancient São Jorge Castle for sweeping views of the city. Later, discover Belém’s magnificent monuments, such as the Tower of Belém and the Jerónimos Monastery, the masterpieces of Portugal’s Age of Discovery. In the evening, let the soulful melodies of Fado draw you in, capturing the emotion and beauty that define Lisbon’s spirit.
Collect your rental car and begin your Portugal multi-region tour, heading north through a landscape rich in history and coastal allure. Your first stop is Óbidos, a beautifully preserved medieval village encircled by ancient walls and adorned with cascades of bougainvillea. Stroll its cobbled streets, admire the quaint whitewashed houses, and taste the famous cherry liqueur, Ginja, served in chocolate cups.
Continue to Nazaré, a traditional fishing town alive with maritime spirit and breathtaking ocean views. Enjoy a seafood lunch before driving to Alcobaça, home to a magnificent Gothic monastery, one of Portugal’s UNESCO treasures, housing the moving tombs of King Pedro and his lover Inês de Castro. Each stop of this day trip reveals heartfelt traditions and the enduring beauty of Portugal’s heartland.
Welcome to Porto, a city that weaves together the elegance of the past with the vibrancy of today! Begin your day exploring its UNESCO-listed center, where Baroque churches, tiled façades, and the scent of roasted coffee fill the air. Visit the Sé Cathedral, step inside the magnificent São Bento Station to admire its blue-and-white azulejo tiles, and marvel at the intricate woodwork of Igreja de São Francisco. Wander through the lively Ribeira district, with its colorful riverside houses and cozy cafés, then cross the iconic Dom Luís Bridge for a new perspective over the Douro River.
In Vila Nova de Gaia, tour traditional Port wine cellars, sample different styles, and learn how this world-famous drink has shaped Porto’s identity for centuries - a highlight of any journey through northern Portugal.
Drive into the heart of the Douro Valley, one of Europe’s oldest demarcated wine regions and a highlight of any Portugal cultural and food itinerary. Along the winding roads, terraced vineyards unfold in perfect harmony with the river below, creating one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country.
Stop in Pinhão, a charming riverside village with an exquisite tiled train station depicting the region’s winemaking traditions. Visit historic wine estates to learn about Port and DOC Douro wines, taste the local vintages, and meet the people who keep these traditions alive. Then, relax on a peaceful river cruise, gliding between sun-drenched hillsides and elegant quintas, a truly unforgettable way to experience the heart and soul of the Douro Valley!
Continue your journey to Viseu, a city that perfectly blends history, art, and regional flavor. Stroll through its cobbled streets framed by noble houses and granite doorways, and visit the magnificent Cathedral rising above the old town. Step into the Grão Vasco Museum to admire works by the famed Renaissance painter Vasco Fernandes, a native son of the city.
Enjoy a glass of Dão wine, born from the surrounding hillsides that make this region a treasure for wine lovers. Later, travel to Belmonte, a picturesque village with a proud Jewish legacy. Explore its medieval castle, visit the Jewish Museum, and discover the story of a community that quietly preserved its faith for centuries, an inspiring stop in Portugal’s enduring heartland.
Travel south through the scenic Serra de São Mamede Natural Park, a haven of rolling hills, cork forests, and picturesque villages that capture the soul of the Alentejo. Your first stop is Castelo de Vide, an enchanting town of cobbled streets, flower-filled balconies, and a remarkably preserved Jewish quarter that tells centuries of stories.
Continue to Marvão, dramatically perched atop a granite peak, its stone walls seemingly floating above the plains. Wander through the narrow lanes, visit the castle’s watchtowers, and soak in panoramic views that stretch across the border into Spain. The peaceful atmosphere and authentic charm of these hilltop gems make this day an unforgettable highlight of any Portugal travel guide.
Arrive in Évora, a captivating UNESCO World Heritage city that feels like an open-air museum. Within its ancient walls, every corner reveals layers of Portugal’s rich past. Stroll through cobbled streets lined with whitewashed houses and wrought-iron balconies, then admire the striking Roman Temple rising against the blue Alentejo sky. Visit the impressive Cathedral, climb its tower for panoramic views, and step into the São Francisco Church, home to the intriguing Bone Chapel.
In the afternoon, explore the mysterious Almendres Cromlech, a circle of prehistoric stones surrounded by olive groves and golden fields. Évora’s atmosphere is serene yet vibrant, a perfect harmony of history, artistry, and culture that makes it an essential stop for travelers seeking depth and inspiration.
Your journey concludes with a scenic drive through the lush Arrábida Nature Park, a protected area of emerald hills rolling toward the sparkling Atlantic. Take your time along winding coastal roads that reveal hidden coves and quiet beaches embraced by limestone cliffs. Pause at viewpoints that offer sweeping vistas of the sea and the Troia Peninsula shimmering in the distance.
Visit Setúbal, a lively port city known for its delicious seafood and the sweet, golden Moscatel wine produced nearby. Enjoy a relaxed lunch before returning to Lisbon across the Tagus River. It’s the perfect finale for visiting Portugal cities and countryside. An experience that offers nature, flavor, and the joyful rhythm of Portuguese life.
Portugal stands out as one of Europe’s most inviting destinations, rich in culture, beauty, and hospitality. Less visited than its neighbors, it offers exceptional value and a distinct personality. From vibrant cities and medieval towns to vineyards and the Atlantic coast, every region reveals a unique story.
Food and wine are a way of life, from fresh seafood to the finest Port and Dão wines. English is widely spoken, making travel easy and enjoyable, and the country’s sunny climate welcomes you year-round. Portugal delivers a balance of comfort and discovery that defines the best scenic Portugal itinerary.
This tour is ideal if you want to experience both vibrant cities and peaceful countryside, combining guided exploration with the freedom of independent discovery. Self-drive flexibility lets you linger in places that capture your heart, while our team provides continuous support along the way. Preferring a touch of extra comfort? The journey can be tailored to your style, adjusting the route or adding a private driver for a more relaxed experience.
If this sounds like your kind of adventure, contact us to start planning your personalized trip through Portugal, a journey filled with moments that will stay with you long after you return!