5 Days to the North of Portugal Private Tour

The 5 Days to the North of Portugal Private Tour, offered by Pentravel for $1,915.67 per group (up to 5 people), provides an in-depth exploration of Portugal’s northern region. With a flexible 5-day schedule, this private experience covers port city Porto, UNESCO World Heritage sites, two national parks (Geres & Alvão), and historic towns like Guimarães and Braga. The tour includes pickup, WiFi onboard, and all museum and activity fees, making it a convenient and comprehensive way to see this diverse part of Portugal.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a personalized, culturally rich itinerary that combines nature, history, gastronomy, and wine tasting. The guide’s expertise is a notable highlight, with Luis praised for his knowledge of Portuguese architecture and history. The tour balances guided visits, free time, and local experiences, offering a well-rounded look at northern Portugal’s most iconic spots.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience for groups of up to 5 people at $1,915.67
• Includes hotel pickup, WiFi, and museum/activities fees
• Focus on Porto’s historic sites, UNESCO landmarks, and national parks
• Visit to a Port wine cellar and the World of Wine museum complex
• Travel on a historic train along the UNESCO-listed Douro River, enjoying breathtaking scenery
• Exploration of Guimarães, Braga, and Viana do Castelo, with cultural and architectural highlights
• Combines guided visits, free time, and local dining recommendations

Starting from Lisbon: A smooth journey to Porto

The tour begins with a drive from Lisbon to Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city. The transportation is comfortable, with air-conditioned vehicles and WiFi onboard, making the approximately 3-hour drive relaxed and enjoyable. Once in Porto, the focus turns to its iconic houses clinging to the Douro River banks and the city’s historic charm.

Travelers will find the city sightseeing engaging, with visits to important monuments and Port wine cellars. The Taylor’s Port cellar offers an authentic insight into the long history of Port wine, one of Portugal’s treasured exports. The Mercado do Bolhão market provides a lively atmosphere filled with fresh produce, local flavors, and a glimpse into Porto’s daily life. The World of Wine (WOW) complex adds an interactive layer, telling the story of the Port wine industry through its museums, cellar bars, and tasting experiences.

Exploring Porto’s vibrant food scene and historic sights

After a guided city tour, the tour includes a lunch in a typical Portuguese restaurant. This meal offers an authentic taste of regional gastronomy, often a highlight for those wanting to experience local flavors firsthand. The balance of sightseeing and free time allows travelers to explore further or relax before heading to the next stops.

Discovering Amarante and the Douro Valley’s scenic train ride

On the second day, Amarante charms visitors with its honey-gold granite façade of the church and former monastery of São Gonçalo. The town’s picturesque streets and architecture showcase the Minho region’s charm. Nearby, the Amadeo De Souza Cardoso Museum emphasizes Portugal’s modern art scene, with its focus on the locally-born Cubist artist.

The highlight of the afternoon is the train ride along the Douro River, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This historic train offers stunning views of terraced vineyards, winding river valleys, and lush landscapes, making it a memorable experience. The train journey culminates in the village of Pinhão, where a visit to a vinery like Quinta do Ventozelo reveals the Douro wine production process. A delicious lunch with farm products enhances the experience, emphasizing regional flavors.

Visiting the Douro Museum and local villages

Following the vinery visit, a short walk in Peso Da Regua introduces travelers to the local Port wine museum housed in the historic Casa da Companhia building. The museum’s exhibits tell the story of the Douro Valley’s wine industry, adding context to the tastings and vineyard visits.

Exploring Vila Real and Alvão National Park

The third day offers a visit to Vila Real, with its scenic views and the Casa de Mateus, an 18th-century palace designed by the architect Nicolau Nasoni. The palace’s Baroque architecture and gardens provide insight into Portugal’s aristocratic heritage. Nearby, the Fisgas de Ermelo waterfalls, located within the Alvão National Park, are a striking natural feature, formed by the relentless force of water over time.

Later, Guimarães is explored, recognized as the birthplace of Portugal and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its historic center is filled with medieval streets, castles, and monuments like Paco dos Duques de Braganca, adding depth to Portugal’s early history.

Day four immerses in Braga, Barcelos, and Viana do Castelo

The Roman city of Braga offers insights into ancient architecture and religious history. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Sameiro and the Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary—famous for its 19th-century funicular—stand out as Baroque masterpieces. The day continues with a visit to Barcelos, known for its crockery and embroidery, and a cooking class and lunch, offering a hands-on cultural experience.

The afternoon concludes with a panoramic view from Santa Luzia Sanctuary in Viana do Castelo, a city celebrated for folklore, crafts, and ethnography. A visit to the Gil Eannes Hospital Ship provides a window into Portugal’s maritime history, especially its support for fishing fleets.

Final day in Ponte de Lima and Gerês National Park

The last day takes travelers to Ponte de Lima, Portugal’s oldest village, dominated by its Roman bridge. The journey then moves into Geres National Park, Portugal’s only mountain park, renowned for its rugged hills, wildlife, and Roman roads. The Geres area offers a boat trip on the Homem River, providing scenic views of the park’s natural beauty.

The tour wraps up with a return to Lisbon, completing the full circle of Portugal’s northern treasures.

Flexibility and practical details

The tour includes personal accidents insurance, responsibility insurance, and all fees and taxes. Travelers are responsible for their own meals and drinks and are expected to arrange their overnight accommodations—though recommendations can be provided. The private nature of the tour means only your group participates, allowing for a personalized experience.

The most travelers can participate, with baby seats available as needed. The confirmation process is straightforward, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour begins.

Final assessment of the 5 Days to the North of Portugal Tour

This well-structured tour offers a detailed look at Portugal’s northern heritage, landscapes, and wine culture. The expert guide, especially noted for Luis’s knowledge and storytelling, elevates the experience. The balance of guided visits and free time makes it suitable for those who want a comprehensive yet relaxed journey.

While the price may seem high, it covers transport, admissions, and museum visits, making it a cost-effective choice for a private tour. The diverse stops and local experiences ensure that travelers leave with a genuine understanding of Portugal’s traditions and landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, the tour is open to most travelers, and baby seats are available, making it feasible for families with young children.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is private for up to 5 people, ensuring personalized attention and a flexible pace.

What is included in the price?
The price covers all fees and taxes, responsibility insurance, WiFi onboard, museums and activity admissions, and pickup.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but local restaurant recommendations are provided during the trip.

How long is the drive from Lisbon to Porto?
The drive takes approximately 3 hours, in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

Can I customize the itinerary?
As a private tour, it offers flexibility, and specific stops or activities can be discussed in advance.

What makes this tour different from group excursions?
The private setting allows for a tailored experience, with dedicated guide and the ability to explore at your own pace.

Are there any physical requirements?
Most stops involve walking, but no strenuous activity is specified. The tour is suitable for most physical abilities.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera for scenic views, and any personal items needed for a full day of sightseeing.

Is there a recommended time of year for this tour?
The data doesn’t specify seasons, but the varied landscapes suggest that spring and fall would be ideal for pleasant weather and outdoor activities.