10 Days in Portugal: A Flexible Private Itinerary in Lisbon and Porto

Giuseppe Santagata
6 days ago
4 min read

Explore a flexible 10-day private itinerary in Portugal, covering Lisbon, Porto, UNESCO sites, wine regions and coastline — fully customizable to your travel style.

10 Days in Portugal: A Flexible Private Itinerary in Lisbon and Porto

If you have 10 days in Portugal, you have the perfect amount of time to experience the country in depth — without rushing, without long backtracks, and without turning your journey into a checklist.

This itinerary is built around the private tours I personally guide, connecting Portugal’s most iconic cities, UNESCO World Heritage sites, wine regions, and coastal landscapes in a way that feels natural and well-balanced.

It’s important to note that this is a flexible itinerary. The order of the days can be adjusted, and the journey can start in Lisbon or Porto, depending on your flights, travel dates, or personal preferences.

At a glance: your 10-day Portugal journey

This itinerary offers a complete view of Portugal, from south to north:

Lisbon & surroundings
Sintra & Cascais (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Évora & the Alentejo region
Fátima, Nazaré & Óbidos
Setúbal, Arrábida & Palmela
Porto and surroundings
The Douro Valley
Braga & Guimarães
Aveiro, Coimbra & Costa Nova

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Day 1 — Lisbon: viewpoints, history and the Age of Discoveries

Your journey begins in Lisbon, Portugal’s capital and one of Europe’s most character-filled cities.

This first day focuses on understanding Lisbon’s identity: its hills, its historic centre, and its deep connection to the Tagus River. You’ll explore areas such as Baixa, rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake, and enjoy some of the city’s most iconic viewpoints, including Miradouro de Santa Luzia, overlooking Alfama’s rooftops.

The day continues in Belém, where landmarks like the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower tell the story of Portugal’s Age of Discoveries and the country’s global impact during the 15th and 16th centuries.

This day sets the rhythm for the journey — relaxed, insightful, and immersive.

Day 2 — Sintra & Cascais: fairytale palaces and Atlantic coastline

Day two takes you to Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its fairy-tale palaces, lush hills, and romantic architecture.

Formerly a royal retreat, Sintra is home to landmarks such as Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, the Moorish Castle, and Monserrate Palace, each reflecting a different period of Portuguese history.

After exploring Sintra’s hills, the route follows the Atlantic coastline toward Cascais, a charming seaside town that combines its fishing heritage with an elegant coastal atmosphere.

This day blends heritage, nature, and ocean views, making it one of the highlights of the journey.

Day 3 — Évora & Alentejo: history, cork and wine traditions

Leaving Lisbon behind, you’ll travel inland to Évora, a beautifully preserved UNESCO-listed city in the heart of the Alentejo region.

Roman ruins, medieval streets, and religious landmarks define the city’s historic centre. Depending on your interests, the day can also include a visit to a traditional cork factory and an optional wine tasting, introducing you to Alentejo’s renowned wines and slow-paced lifestyle.

Day 4 — Fátima, Nazaré & Óbidos: faith, ocean and medieval charm

This day brings together some of Portugal’s strongest contrasts.

You’ll visit Fátima, one of the world’s most important pilgrimage destinations, before heading to Nazaré, known for its fishing traditions and the power of the Atlantic Ocean.

The day ends in Óbidos, a medieval walled town with narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and castle walls that invite you to slow down and wander.

Day 5 — Setúbal, Arrábida & Palmela: markets, nature and wine views

South of Lisbon lies one of Portugal’s most underrated regions.

You’ll experience local life in Setúbal, explore the stunning landscapes of the Arrábida Natural Park, and enjoy panoramic views from Palmela Castle, overlooking vineyards and the sea.

After lunch, there is the opportunity to visit a local winemaker to taste the famous Moscatel de Setúbal, alongside other regional wines. Depending on pace and interests, optional stops may include Cabo Espichel, Sesimbra, or Portinho da Arrábida.

Day 6 — Journey north: Lisbon to Porto

Rather than a simple transfer, the journey between Lisbon and Porto becomes part of the experience, with scenic routes and optional stops depending on what you’ve already visited.

By the end of the day, you’ll arrive in Porto, Portugal’s second city and the gateway to the north.

Day 7 — Porto: character, history and river life

Your journey ends in Porto, a city with a strong identity and a deep connection to the Douro River.

Historic streets, riverfront views, wine cellars and local culture define the final day — a fitting conclusion to a journey through Portugal’s diversity and depth.

Day 8 — Douro Valley: wine landscapes and river views

The Douro Valley is one of the world’s oldest demarcated wine regions.

Terraced vineyards, winding river roads, and historic wine towns such as Peso da Régua and Pinhão define this day. Wine tastings and scenic viewpoints allow you to enjoy the region at a relaxed pace.

Day 9 — Braga & Guimarães: the origins of Portugal

In northern Portugal, you’ll explore Braga, known for its religious heritage, and Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This day connects you to the country’s early history and national identity.

Day 10 — Aveiro, Coimbra & Costa Nova: canals, knowledge and colour

Central Portugal offers a mix of landscapes and traditions.

Aveiro, often called the “Venice of Portugal,” is known for its canals and colourful boats.Coimbra, home to one of Europe’s oldest universities, adds academic history and tradition.Nearby Costa Nova brings a coastal touch with its iconic striped houses.

A flexible journey, designed around you

This 10-day itinerary is a framework, not a fixed package.

It can:

start in Lisbon or Porto
adjust pace and order
Focus more on wine, culture, or nature

Want to do this as a private, seamless journey?

If you’d like to experience Portugal with everything taken care of — comfortable transport, local insight, flexible pacing, and the best stops along the way — I’d love to tailor these days to your travel style.

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