Travel From Porto to Lisbon, Douro Valley, and Braga & Guimarães

Exploring the heart of Portugal is a must-do for any traveler. This 3-day private tour takes you on a journey from the vibrant city of Porto to the rolling hills of the Douro Valley, and onto the historic towns of Braga and Guimarães. You’ll discover the country’s rich heritage, sample its renowned wines, and learn about breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this itinerary promises to unveil the authentic charm that makes Portugal a captivating destination. What awaits as you embark on this adventure?

Key Points

• This 3-day private tour explores top destinations in Portugal, including Porto, Lisbon, Douro Valley, Braga, and Guimarães.
• The journey from Porto to Lisbon includes optional stops in Aveiro, Fátima, Coimbra, and Nazaré.
• The Douro Valley tour involves winery visits, a boat cruise, and a farm-to-table lunch, immersing visitors in the region’s winemaking heritage.
• The tour in Braga and Guimarães highlights historical and cultural landmarks, showcasing the cities’ medieval heritage and significance.
• The experience is tailored to provide a well-rounded and flexible exploration of Portugal’s renowned destinations.

Trip Overview

Embarking on this 3-day private tour, travelers can explore the vibrant cities of Porto and Lisbon, the picturesque Douro Valley, and the historical towns of Braga and Guimarães.

The journey begins with a private transfer between the two cities, offering optional stops along the way to immerse in the local culture.

In the Douro Valley, guests will visit renowned wineries, enjoy a boat cruise, and indulge in a farm-to-table lunch.

The tour continues to the northern cities, where travelers can discover the impressive Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary, the grand Sé Cathedral, and the charming medieval centers.

With a mix of guided tours and free time, this comprehensive package allows for a well-rounded experience of Portugal’s top destinations.

Porto to Lisbon Journey

Travelers begin the journey from Porto to Lisbon with a private transfer, which offers optional stops along the route to immerse in the local culture.

The journey can include visits to:

1. Aveiro, the ‘Venice of Portugal,’ known for its charming canals and colorful boats.
2. Fátima, a renowned pilgrimage site where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared.
3. Coimbra, home to one of the oldest universities in Europe and its stunning Baroque library.
4. Nazaré, a picturesque fishing village famous for its massive waves and breathtaking coastal views.

The private transfer ensures a comfortable and flexible travel experience, allowing travelers to explore these enchanting destinations at their own pace before arriving at their final destination in Lisbon.

Exploring Douro Valley

After the journey from Porto to Lisbon, travelers can explore the stunning Douro Valley, a renowned wine region known for its picturesque vineyards and world-class wine production. The Douro Valley tour offers a private car with hotel pick-up, allowing visitors to visit two wineries for premium tastings and enjoy a delightful lunch at a local farm. Cruising along the Douro River for an hour, guests can savor snacks and drinks while taking in the breathtaking scenery. This immersive experience in the heart of the Douro Valley promises an unforgettable taste of Portugal’s rich wine heritage.

Winery Visits	Lunch	River Cruise
2 Premium Tastings	At a Local Farm	1 Hour
Scenic Vineyards	Authentic Cuisine	Snacks & Drinks

Winery Visits and Tastings

The Douro Valley tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore the region’s renowned winemaking heritage, with stops at two carefully selected wineries for premium tastings. These exclusive experiences allow guests to discover the nuances of the Douro’s iconic port and table wines.

A visit to a family-owned quinta, where you’ll learn about the traditional grape-crushing methods and sample the estate’s finest vintages.

A stop at a cutting-edge winery, showcasing the latest advancements in winemaking technology and techniques, paired with tastings of their award-winning portfolio.

A leisurely boat cruise along the picturesque Douro River, where you can savor local snacks and drinks while admiring the breathtaking scenery.

A delectable lunch at a charming farmhouse, highlighting the region’s rich culinary traditions.

Boat Cruise on Douro

One of the highlights of the Douro Valley tour is the 1-hour boat cruise along the picturesque Douro River, where visitors can savor local snacks and drinks while admiring the region’s breathtaking scenery.

As the boat glides across the tranquil waters, passengers will be treated to panoramic views of the lush, terraced vineyards that cascade down the valley’s steep slopes.

The cruise provides a unique perspective to appreciate the Douro’s natural beauty and its significance as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

It’s a peaceful and relaxing break from the winery visits and tasting, allowing travelers to soak in the essence of this captivating region.

Discovering Braga

Leaving the tranquil Douro River behind, the tour now shifts its focus to the historic city of Braga, where visitors can explore its rich religious and cultural heritage.

The guided tour takes travelers through the city’s highlights, including:

1. The Bom Jesus do Monte, a Baroque sanctuary renowned for its iconic staircase and panoramic views.
2. The Sé Cathedral, a stunning Romanesque cathedral that has stood the test of time for over 1,000 years.
3. The Santa Barbara Gardens, a lush oasis of greenery and fountains that offer a peaceful respite in the heart of the city.
4. The vibrant city center, where visitors can stroll through the charming streets and soak up the local atmosphere.

Exploring Guimarães

From Braga, the tour then takes visitors to the charming town of Guimarães, known as the birthplace of the Portuguese nation.

Travelers will explore the town’s well-preserved medieval heritage, including the iconic Guimarães Castle, the São Miguel Chapel, and the grand Dukes’ Palace, all while strolling through the quaint city center.

The Castle, with its imposing walls and towers, offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside. The São Miguel Chapel, with its intricate Romanesque architecture, is a true gem. The Dukes’ Palace, once the residence of the first royal dynasty, showcases the grandeur of Portugal’s early history.

Throughout the tour, visitors will gain a deeper appreciation for Guimarães’ role in shaping the nation’s identity.

Included Amenities and Services

This three-day private tour package includes a range of amenities and services that enhance the overall travel experience. Travelers can look forward to a private trip between Porto and Lisbon, with three optional stops along the way.

The tour also features a guided exploration of the Douro Valley, including visits to two wineries for premium tastings, a scenic boat cruise, and a farm-to-table lunch.

Plus, the package includes a guided tour of the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães, with lunch provided during these excursions.

The package includes:

1. Private transportation throughout the tour
2. Premium wine tastings at two wineries
3. 1-hour boat cruise on the Douro River
4. Guided tours with local experts in Braga and Guimarães

Recap

This three-day private tour of Portugal’s top destinations offers an immersive and well-rounded experience.

Travelers will explore the charming cities of Porto, Douro Valley, Braga, and Guimarães, enjoying wine tastings, a Douro River cruise, and discovering the country’s rich history and culture.

With private transfers, this itinerary provides a seamless and comprehensive journey through some of Portugal’s most captivating landscapes and landmarks.