From Porto to the Algarve: A 10-Day Adventure in Portugal

PROPOSED ITINERARY

Day 1 – Discover Porto: A Journey Through Time and Architectural Wonders

Dear traveler,

Welcome to Carameltrail. Your adventure starts here!

We will take you beyond the touristic attractions to show you the real local taste of each destination.

We rely on a team of people that have a deep knowledge of each destination and excellent customer service. We have carefully selected all the services, unique experiences and exclusive activities that will satisfy your expectations.

As a travel agency we are always looking for the best contacts and new experiences for our travelers, putting our heart and soul in those details that make a trip a TRIP!

  • Transfer from Porto Airport to Hotel

    On arrival to Porto airport, your chauffeur will be waiting for you to drive you to your hotel.

  • Your accommodation will be a 5* hotel

    The hotel is just a step away from the heart of the historic core of Porto. With a privileged location on the bank of the Douro River. A perfect accommodation to enjoy Porto!

Old town of Porto, Portugal
Porto, Portugal

Porto City Tour

3 hours 30 mins • Highlights of this Tour: walking Riveira, Sé & Vitoria neighborhoods

Embark on a journey through Porto, guided by your expert companion!

The historic center of Porto stands as a testament to urban development across the ages Romans, Medieval and Almadas.

Its diverse architecture showcases the cultural values of each era, from Romanesque to Gothic, Renaissance to Baroque, and neoclassical to modern.

Positioned strategically, Porto’s geographical location has played a pivotal role in its trade history. Today, it stands as one of Portugal’s most important cities, boasting one of Europe’s oldest city centers.

Let your guide unlock the secrets, stories, and architectural marvels that define Porto’s charm, as you explore this destination!

Day 2 – Douro Valley Adventure: Hike, Wine, and Rabelo Boat Experience

Private Guided Tour at Douro Valley: Hike & Wine

8 hours • Highlights of this Tour: visiting a Quinta & the Douro Valley landscapes • Wine tasting & food included

Discover the Douro, a world-renowned wine region nestled along Portugal’s northeastern landscape!

Journey through its Douro River valley, where iconic landmarks and traditional wineries await.

Taste the wines that have made Douro famous as well, immersing your senses in their unique flavors. As you indulge, behold the breathtaking views of the Douro River, which meanders through Spain and Portugal, embellishing the surrounding landscapes with unrivaled beauty. Spend a day enveloped in the natural treasures of Portugal, finding solace amidst this enchanting setting.

Allow the essence of Douro to weave its spell, leaving you with an unforgettable connection to this wine region!

Rabelo Boat Ride

Today you will also join a Rabelo Boat tour on an unspoiled stretch of the Douro River.

You will observe the terraced vineyards and the century-old buildings of the famous wineries in this unique landscape included in the World Heritage List by UNESCO.

Douro wine region
Boat trip on the Douro River in Portugal

Day 3 – Free Time to Explore Porto on your own

Today, in your free time, we suggest you explore on your own the city of Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996!

Nestled along the hillsides overlooking the mouth of the Douro River, Porto boasts a 2,000-year history that has shaped its urban landscape.

For the best city views, ascend the Clérigos Tower, the oldest in Portugal, and contemplate the panoramic vistas that unfold before your eyes. Nearby, don’t miss the Lello e Irmao Bookstore, a true architectural gem.

A visit to Sao Bento Station is a must, even if you don’t plan to catch a train. Admire the history of Portugal depicted on the station’s walls through over 20,000 exquisite tiles.

Food lovers will find paradise at Mercado do Bolhao, a food market bursting with flavors and aromas. And don’t forget to gaze upon the Dom Luis Bridge, a symbol of the city’s grandeur!

Lello Library in Porto (Portugal)
Dom Luis I bridge. Porto, Portugal

Day 4 – Experience Lisbon: A Private Guided Tour of Culture and Charm

  • Transfer to Lisbon

    Your private transport will be waiting for you to drive you to Lisbon.

  • Your accommodation will be a 4* hotel

    On Avenida de Liberdade, an elegant tree-lined street filled with cafés and designer shops, in the center of Lisbon.

Lisbon Private Guided Tour

4 hours • Highlights of this Tour: walking Alfama, Baixa & Chiado neighborhoods

Old tram in front of cathedral in Lisbon, Portugal
Praça do Comércio. Lisbon Portugal

Get ready for a journey through this magical city filled with life, charm, and a thriving cultural scene!

Your private guided tour will take you to the most emblematic neighborhoods, including Chiado and Bairro Alto.

Experience the beating heart of the city in Chiado, where theaters, cafés, and old bookshops create an enchanting atmosphere. And what better way to soak in the local rhythm than aboard a historic tram? Feel the nostalgia as you ride through the streets, immersing yourself in the vibrant energy that flows through every corner.

Unlock the secrets of this city, where cultural delights and memorable experiences await at every turn.

Day 5 – A Journey Through Time: Explore Sintra and Cascais in One Day

  • Transfer Day trip to Sintra & Cascais

    Your private transport will be waiting for you to drive you to Sintra and Cascais in this day trip.

Day trip to Sintra & Cascais

8 hours 15 mins • Highlights of this Tour: inside Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira & walking the old center of Sintra & Cascais

Embark on a journey with your driver-guide as you explore the quaint villages of Sintra and Cascais!

Sintra, a hidden gem, holds UNESCO World Heritage status and boasts mysterious sites like Quinta da Regaleira that are simply a “must” to experience.

Prepare to be enchanted by the beauty of Cascais, often referred to as the “Portuguese Riviera.” Its allure lies in places like Palmela Park, where nature and designed gardens intertwine. But the crown jewel is the majestic Fortress of San Julián, standing along the Portuguese Coast. Immerse yourself in the glamour and splendor that define Cascais.

Get ready for a day filled with beauty, mystery and captivating villages!

Pena Palace. Sintra
Cascais, Portugal

Day 6 – Free Time in Lisbon: Explore Belem

Get ready to uncover the hidden corners of Lisbon!

Today, in your free time, we invite you to explore on your own the neighbourhood of Belém, a true gem of the city.

Here, you’ll encounter two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the majestic Jerónimos Monastery and the iconic Belém Tower.

Marvel at the intricate Manueline architecture of the monastery, and don’t forget to explore its cloister. Nearby, the grandeur of the Belém Tower awaits you.

Before you bid farewell to Belém, make sure to visit number 84 on Rua Belém, where a delectable treat awaits you. Indulge in the original Pasteis de Belem, a sweet and creamy pastry. It’s the perfect ending to your visit to Belém!

Belem Tower in Lisbon (Portugal)
Pastéis de Belem. Traditional Portuguese recipe

Day 7 – Road Trip to Algarve

  • Rental Car – City Pick Up: 4 days • Unlimited Mileage

    Today you will pick up your rental car. The car rated for you is a VW Golf or Similar.

Algarve Awaits: A Road Trip Through Rolling Hills and Vineyards

Today you will self-drive from Lisbon to the Algarve!

On the way, you will pass through the Alentejo region, where you will have a glimpse into rural Portuguese life, with the landscape transforming into a quilt of rolling hills. This countryside is also characterized by endless rows of grapevines, olive groves, and cork oak trees.

On your way to the Algarve region, you will begin to contemplate sandy beaches and rugged cliffs!

Algarve. Portugal
The Algarve Coast
  • Your accommodation will be a 4* hotel

    It faces the ocean and is just a short walk away from an immense beach. The perfect location to enjoy some relaxing days.

Day 8 – Unwind on the Waves: A Full Day Sailing Experience in the Algarve

Sailing Algarve Full Day Experience

6 hours • Highlights of this Tour: private sailing experience through the Algarve Coastline • Picnic on boat

Embark on a day of relaxation aboard a sailboat!

Escape the crowds as you uncover the hidden treasures of the Algarve coast. From the enchanting Culatra Island to Benagil Cave, you won’t miss a single highlight of this remarkable region.

Indulge in an on-board lunch as well, featuring the finest local delicacies. This is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the tranquility and beauty of the Algarve, leaving all worries behind.

Let the gentle waves carry you to idyllic corners, where you can swim in pristine waters and soak up the sun’s warm embrace. Unwind and experience pure bliss on this unforgettable experience!

Dolphins off the Coast of Sagres

Day 9 – Free Time to Discover Algarve

Today, you will have free time in the Algarve Region, a destination that holds both natural beauty and a fascinating history. In the coming days, you’ll have ample time to explore this area.

Relax and enjoy the sun at the region’s exquisite beaches, including the renowned Praia da Marinha and Praia do Carvalho near Lagoa.

And if you’re a water sports enthusiast, seize the opportunity to take a surf class and experience riding the waves in iconic spots like Sagres.

But the Algarve offers more than just coastal allure. Uncover the region’s rich past as you delve into its villages and immerse yourself in its unique heritage.

From picturesque landscapes to thrilling adventures, the Algarve promises a journey that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime!

Surfers on Beliche Beach. Sagres, Algarve, Portugal

Day 10 – Goodbye!

  • Rental Car Drop-off Airport

    At convenient time you will drop off your rental car at the airport.

We wish you a lovely trip back home!

In this trip you will enjoy the culture, the traditions, the gastronomy and you will live wonderful experiences for all senses.

All Carameltrail itineraries are carefully customised and personalised for each traveler and include a full consultancy service before, during and after your trip.

We will send you all the information required to discover the essence of each destination and of course, you will enjoy 24/7 assistance during your trip.

  • Services Excluded during this trip:

    • International air and connecting flights.
    • Travel insurance (ask coverage, terms and conditions if needed).
    • Telephone charges, hard liquor or mini bar charges, laundry.
    • Tourist tax in hotels where it is required.
    • Meals (unless mentioned in inclusions)
    • Medical expenses (we recommend checking out your personal medical insurance).
    • Any service not mentioned in Inclusions.

other itineraries that might interest you

April 25 Bridge Lisbon Portugal

The Perfect Week in Portugal: Top Highlights in 7 Days

  • Porto, Lisbon, Coímbra, Óbidos, Sintra and Cascais
  • 7 Days

La Concha Beach in San Sebastian, Spain

15 days in the Iberian Peninsula: northern Spain and Portugal

  • Barcelona, San Sebastián, Bilbao, Santiago de Compostela, Porto, Lisbon

  • 15 Days

Palais Bahia. Marrakech

A Taste of Two Continents: 12 Days in Lisbon, Marrakech, Madrid, and Barcelona

  • Lisbon, Marrakech, Madrid, Barcelona
  • 12 Days