ITINERARY DETAILS
DAY 1
Arrival in Porto
Welcome to Portugal! Porto has something to offer for everyone: From the historic center, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the trendy shopping streets and the amazing food. The city is famous for the Stock Exchange Palace, and the incredible granite work made, with magnificent neo-Arab influences.
DAY 2
Douro River Day Trip
Douro Valley is a region famous for its wine production, and the famous Douro wines are produced on its hillsides. The entire region has been declared a UNESCO Heritage Site, for its cultural significance, as it is the oldest demarcated wine region in the world. Today you will have the opportunity to visit and explore prestigious Quintas in the area, explore the vineyards and learn all about the process behind the production of the famous wines. At the end of your tour, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a wine tasting and then a cruise on the river.
DAY 3
Explore Porto's Historic Center
Discover the secret gems of the city and the places only locals know! Accompanied by your professional guide you will discover Porto, with its iconic buildings and historic center. This part of the city was classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1996. As you explore the city your guide will share information about all the important sites you pass, such as Aliados Avenue, S. Bento train station, and Cordoaria garden. You will also have the chance to experience the beauty of the street art in the city, see traditional stores and Flowers Street. Don’t forget to visit Lello Bookstore, a 1906 building with unique architectural details and a vast collection of books.
DAY 4
Porto-Lisbon with 2 stops (Coimbra and Obidos)
After breakfast, you will meet your driver and head to Lisbon. On the way, you will have the opportunity to make two stops in the towns of Coimbra and Obidos. The town of Coimbra Is a truly charming city as it is not only one of the most ancient cities and university towns in the world but also one of the most harmonious sets of buildings in Portugal. Founded in 1290 by King Dinis, the University of Coimbra is now a beacon of history and knowledge. Its library houses an incredible collection of over 200.000 books, stored on beautiful carved and gilded bookshelves. Located only a few meters away is the chapel of Saint Michael and a nice walk within the old medieval streets is also a must as you explore the town. Your next stop will be Obidos, a magnificent medieval town. Travel back in time with the old, whitewashed houses surrounded by the old castle walls of the town.
DAY 5
Lisbon's Historic Sites
Start your day by discovering the must-see monuments of Lisbon together with your private guide. Begin in the historic Belem neighborhood, the same place many great Portuguese explorers embarked on their voyages of discovery: Prince Henry the Navigator was the first overseas expedition to conquer Ceuta in Morocco, while Bartholomeu Dias to round the Cape of Good Hope. The first voyages of Ferdinand Magellan and Vasco da Gama's discovery of the sea route to India also began here. Visit the Belem Tower, originally built in 1515 as a fortress to guard the entrance to Lisbon's harbor, or the Discovery Monument, built in honor of Henry the Navigator, who led Portugal's discovery expeditions into the New World, during the country's heyday in the 15th century. Continue your exploration of Jeronimo's Monastery, the most impressive symbol of Portugal's power and wealth during the Age of Discovery, built by King Manuel I in 1502, to commemorate Vasco da Gama's voyage and to thank the Virgin Mary for its success. Following along the riverbank, towards commerce Square, you will pass through the Alfama neighborhood, highlighting the city's Moorish legacy, before heading to the Pombalina district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. See the lively Rossio Square, Liberty Avenue, and the Marques of Pombal roundabout.
DAY 6
Day Trip to Sintra and Cascais
Today you will have the opportunity to explore charming towns surrounding Lisbon. After meeting your private driver and leaving the city, you’ll head straight to the World Heritage Site of Sintra were hundreds of years of history and culture are waiting for you to discover. Doing a short walk in the old city center you'll find yourself surrounded by the old houses now converted into small quaint handicraft shops and traditional pastry shops. Driving around the mountain you will pass by amazing Royal Palaces, Chalets, and Aristocratic residences in the most incredible combination of architectural styles, colors, and shapes that you will find in Portugal. Your driver guide will include stops for you to explore the local churches, including the Igreja Ulgueira, and Igreja Paroquidal de Sao Pedro de Sintra. You will also see the colorful Pena Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and if you wish your guide will purchase tickets on the spot. After lunch in one of the many restaurants available in town, it will be time to head to Cascais. Once a small fishing village only, the town of Cascais managed to maintain its seafaring traditions combined with the aristocratic and royal presences of the late 19th and beginning of the 20th century. Walking by its animated town center you'll find the cosmopolitan life side by side with the Atlantic.
DAY 7
Travel to Marrakech
After breakfast, you will meet your driver and be transferred to the airport to catch your flight to Marrakech. After some time to rest at your hotel you will begin your exploration of this vibrant city with a visit to the tropical Majorelle Gardens, lovingly restored under the patronage of the late Yves St. Laurent. In the evening, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Jemaa el-Fnaa Square.
DAY 8
Marrakech's Historic Sights
Today you will explore the most important sites of Marrakech. With the help of your experienced guide, you will delve into the rich history and culture of the city. Visit the Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs, get lost in the bustling souks of the city for a diverse shopping experience and admire the incredible architecture of the Koutoubia Mosque. In the evening you can optionally book a relaxing hammam experience.
DAY 9
Day Trip to the Atlas Mountains
Experience the raw beauty of Marrakesh with a thrilling 4x4 adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of the Atlas Mountains, and a thrilling off-road exploration of traditional Berber villages along the way. Traverse rugged terrains, witness majestic mountain peaks, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the desert’s stony expanse. From the awe-inspiring mountains to the serene desert, today’s unforgettable journey into the heart of Morocco's natural wonders will leave you speechless. You can optionally enrich today’s memories with a romantic a rooftop dinner in Marrakech.
DAY 10
Departure
As your unforgettable journey comes to an end, you'll be transferred to Marrakech airport for your departure.