The Ultimate Portugal Road Trip

Say goodbye to Arrábida and start driving to the sunny Algarve region (a drive of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes via the A2 route). We recommend adding early hotel check-in if you plan on arriving at your hotel before 2:00 pm. 

• Suggestions for the rest of the day:
  • Lagos Town: Explore Lagos, the old town, the local marina, and Santo António Church
  • Ponta da Piedade: Visit Ponta da Piedade and admire the stunning cliffs and rock formations. You can click here to schedule in advance a boat tour around the caves.
  • Lagos' Beaches: Relax on Lagos' beautiful beaches like Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo

• Suggestion for the day: Visit neighboring Spain! Journey to Seville, Andalusia's heart, on a day trip. Explore Maria Luisa Park's exotic gardens, then wander Barrio de Santa Cruz's charming streets filled with jasmine and historic gems. Relax on a sunny terrace, soaking up Seville's magic. Click here to schedule this tour.
   

• Suggestions for the day: Start your day by exploring the charming Albufeira City Center, where you can stroll through historic streets, visit local shops, and the marina, and immerse yourself in the town's atmosphere. Take some time to relax at one (or more!) of the following beaches in Albufeira:
  • Pescadores Beach
  • Oura Beach
  • São Rafael Beach
  • Olhos da Água Beach
  • Falésia Beach
  • Sail on a catamaran, cruising close to the coast between Albufeira marina and the world-renowned Benagil Caves. Witness these awe-inspiring rock formations and hidden grottos, accompanied by a crew eager to share local history and cultural gems. This is truly a natural masterpiece with a breathtaking opening to the sky. To book this tour, please click here.

Say goodbye to the Algarve and make your way to Évora (a 2 hour and 30 minutes drive via the A2 and IP2 routes). 

• Suggestions for the day: Explore the charm of this beautiful town and take some time to visit the following places:
  • Chapel of Bones (Capelas dos Ossos)
  • Évora's Cathedral (Sé Catedral)
  • The Roman Temple (Templo de Diana)
  • Enjoy a traditional meal from Évora/Alentejo Region. Alentejo is known for its hearty cuisine, such as Migas Alentejanas (bread porridge), Açorda Alentejana (bread soup), or Ensopado de Borrego (lamb stew).

Start the day by driving to Castelo Branco for about 2 hours and 30 minutes via the IP2 or the A23 routes. Consider adding early hotel check-in if you plan on arriving at Castelo Branco during the morning.

• Suggestions for the day: Make the most out of your day here and explore the best that Castelo Branco has to offer! Be sure to check these spots:
  • Castle of Castelo Branco (Castelo dos Templários)
  • Paço Episcopal Garden
  • Medieval Museum
  • Penha Garcia Gardens: Located about 20 kilometers outside of Castelo Branco (1-hour drive), these 19th-century gardens are considered one of the most beautiful romantic gardens in Portugal. Explore the gardens' various sections, each with its unique theme and style. Be sure to take a ride on the funicular railway for breathtaking views.
  • Sample the local wines and have a traditional meal for dinner! The region around Castelo Branco is known for its wines, particularly those produced in the Dão wine region. Head to one of the local wineries for a tasting (like the Adega Cooperativa do Fundão), learn about the winemaking process in the region, and enjoy a delicious meal at a local restaurant (try the local Empada de Castelo Branco, a savory pastry filled with a combination of veal and pork with a flaky crust).

Continue your journey and head to Serra da Estrela via the A23 and ER339 routes (about a 1 hour and 15 minutes drive). For a more comfortable arrival, we suggest adding early hotel check-in, as most hotel check-ins in Portugal only start around 2:00 pm.

• Suggestions for the day:
  • Seia: Located on the foothills of the mountain range, Seia boasts a historical center with a 15th-century cathedral (Sé Catedral) and a charming town square (Praça da República). Make sure to try the local Seia pastries, known for their rich filling and flaky crust.
  • Covão da Ametade: Head towards the higher regions of the park and stop at Covão da Ametade, a glacial lake nestled amidst the mountains. Hike around the lake or rent a pedal boat to explore its serene waters. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
  • Penhas da Saúde: Continue your drive to Penhas da Saúde, a mountain resort town known for its ski slopes that are perfect for downhill skiing, snowboarding, and other sports during winter and hiking trails during summer. Take a scenic ride on the Seia-Sempre cable car that offers panoramic views of the Serra da Estrela mountains. In the summer, enjoy a refreshing swim in one of the natural pools or go for a horseback riding tour through the mountain trails.

• Suggestions for the day:
  • Serra da Estrela Cheese: Dedicate your morning to explore the Serra da Estrela Cheese Route. Visit a cheese factory (like Quinta Madre de Água or Quinta da Lagoa owned by Casa Portuguesa do Pastel de Bacalhau) and learn about the traditional process of making the world-renowned Queijo da Serra da Estrela, a creamy sheep's milk cheese. Enjoy a cheese tasting paired with local wines and bread.
  • Piódão: Head to the charming historical village of Piódão. This postcard-perfect village is known for its unique shale houses built on a steep mountainside. Wander through the narrow cobbled streets and admire the traditional architecture, and don't miss the opportunity to purchase local handicrafts and souvenirs!
  • Manteigas: For a touch of history and culture, visit Manteigas village and its 18th-century manor houses with their beautifully preserved interiors and learn about the history of the region. End your day with a delicious meal at a local restaurant, savoring the regional specialties like Maranho (sausage dish) or Chanfana da Serra (stew made with goat or sheep meat).

Say goodbye to Serra da Estrela and continue this epic road trip to the Douro Region. Drive through the A24 route for about 2 hours and 30 minutes. If you're planning on arriving in Douro before 2:00 pm, we suggest adding early hotel check-in to your reservation.

• Suggestions for the day:
  • Go on an unforgettable Douro River Boat Trip: In the afternoon (or during sunset), embark on a breathtaking boat trip along the Douro River and discover why it's one of the region's top experiences. Glide through stunning landscapes of terraced vineyards and quaint villages, soaking in the beauty of Portugal's renowned wine country. Click here to see our offers for a Douro boat trip.
  • In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as the "alheira de Mirandela" (typical Portuguese sausage), "leitão" (roasted suckling pig), or "bacalhau" (codfish), accompanied by a glass of one of the many incredible Douro wines.

• Suggestion for the day: Visit one (or more!) of the fantastic wineries ("quintas") of the Douro Valley. Many of them offer tours and tastings, so you can learn about the winemaking process and sample some of the region's finest wines. 
  • Quinta do Naval
  • Quinta do Seixo
  • Quinta da Vega Sicilia
• In between winery visits, take some time to explore the charming villages and towns of the Douro Valley. Most of these villages are small and walkable, and they offer a glimpse into the traditional way of life in the region.
  • Peso da Régua
  • Pinhão
  • Lamego
  • Mesão Frio
  • Favaios
  • Alijó

Bid farewell to the Douro region and drive to Gerês for about 2 hours and 30 minutes via the A24 route. We suggest adding early hotel check-in for a more comfortable arrival.

• Suggestion for the day: Embark on a scenic drive through the Peneda-Gerês National Park. The park's winding roads offer stunning views of the mountains, forests, and valleys:
  • Visit Mata da Albergaria National Forest, a beautiful area with walking paths and picnic areas. You can relax here, enjoy the fresh air, and admire the scenery.
  • Continue your drive to the Pedra Bela Viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Here you can take in the breathtaking beauty of the park and capture some amazing photos.
  • Drive to Fecha de Barjas/Tahiti Waterfalls, a series of beautiful cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery.
  • Stop at Caniçada Dam, a large dam nestled in the mountains. There's a viewpoint here where you can admire the dam and the lake it creates. You can also go for a boat ride on the lake or have a picnic lunch by the water.
• Visit the picturesque UNESCO villages of Castro Laboreiro and Lindoso, known for their Celtic granite houses and "espigueiros" (granaries raised on stone pillars to protect crops from rodents).
• To end your day in the best way, enjoy a traditional Portuguese dinner at a local restaurant in Gerês. Taste dishes like Cozido à Portuguesa, Bacalhau à Brás, Papas de Sarrabulho, Rojões, goat meat, and lamprey.

Continue your scenic road trip by driving from Gerês to Porto using the A3 route for about 1 hour and 30 minutes. We recommend adding early check-in to your hotel reservation for a smoother and more comfortable arrival in Porto.

• Suggestions for the day: 
  • Immerse yourself in Porto's vibrant spirit with a walking tour through its historic downtown! Uncover the city's gems and iconic landmarks such as:
    • D. Luís I Bridge
    • Ribeira District
    • Livraria Lello
    • Torre dos Clérigos
    • Porto Cathedral (Sé Catedral do Porto)
    • São Francisco Church
    • Majestic Café
  • Taste the traditional Francesinha! Renowned for its hearty and rich flavors, this special sandwich has layers of various meats such as ham, linguiça (a type of Portuguese sausage), and steak, all between slices of bread, covered with melted cheese and a hot, thick tomato and beer sauce. It is typically served with a fried egg on top and surrounded by French fries. A must-try local comfort food!

• Suggestion for the day: Explore other highlights in Porto. You can easily walk or catch the metro to visit these places if you don't wish to drive for the day.
  • Vila Nova de Gaia (located across the Douro River, it's famous for its port wine cellars and stunning views of Porto from its riverfront)
  • Capela das Almas 
  • Bolhão Market
  • Palácio de Cristal Garden
  • Casa da Música 
  • Serralves Museum & Gardens

Drive to Coimbra via the A1 route for about 1 hour and 30 minutes. On your way from Porto to Coimbra, we strongly recommend stopping in Aveiro (known as the Venice of Portugal) for a few hours, to see the traditional "moliceiro" boats and try the delicious "ovos moles".

• Suggestions after arriving in Coimbra:
  • University of Coimbra and Garden: Start your day by entering the gates of the historic University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in Europe (founded in 1290) and the oldest one in Portugal. Be sure to visit the iconic Joanina Library, a Baroque masterpiece adorned with thousands of rare books. Climb the inspiring Baroque staircase (Escada Monumental) that leads to the university's upper buildings and relax in the garden, one of the oldest botanical gardens in Portugal (established in 1773). Explore its diverse plant collections, greenhouses, and romantic ponds.
  • Alta (Upper Town): Take a stroll through the Alta, Coimbra's upper town, and explore its charming streets and historical landmarks. Visit the Sé Velha (Old Cathedral), a Romanesque masterpiece built in the 12th century. Admire the panoramic views of the city from Sé Nova (New Cathedral) and Torre de Almedina (Almedina Tower).
  • Quinta das Lágrimas: If you have extra time, visit the Quinta das Lágrimas (Palace of Tears), a romantic garden with a tragic love story linked to Portugal's King Pedro I and Inês de Castro.
  • Fado Performance: Immerse yourself in the melancholic sounds of Fado, a traditional Portuguese music genre. Enjoy an authentic Fado performance in a cozy restaurant in the Baixa (Lower Town) district. You can book this experience in advance by clicking here.

Finish your epic trip on the capital of Portugal - the lively city of Lisbon! From Coimbra to Lisbon you'll want to follow the A1 route for about 2 hours and 30 minutes. We strongly recommend adding early hotel check-in to your hotel reservation, especially if you want to rest for a few hours after arriving in Lisbon and before going on your exploration of the city!

• Suggestions for the day:
  • Start your day by exploring the historic city center. Take a walk through the charming Baixa, known for its elegant squares (Praça do Comércio) and neoclassical architecture. Stroll around Rua Augusta and go up the Santa Justa Elevator to have a panoramic view of downtown. Be sure to ride the iconic yellow Tram 28 through the narrow streets, offering a glimpse into Lisbon's traditional life.
  • Head to the São Jorge Castle, Lisbon's crowning glory. Explore its ramparts and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Afterward, take a walk through the Alfama district, Lisbon's oldest neighborhood. Wander through the maze of narrow streets, past pastel-colored houses, and hidden squares.
  • Enjoy a Fado performance, a traditional Portuguese music genre known for its melancholic sounds. Immerse yourself in the emotion of Fado in a cozy restaurant in the Bairro Alto district. After the performance, explore Bairro Alto's vibrant nightlife scene with its trendy bars and restaurants. Click here to schedule a Fado night with dinner.

• Suggestion for the day:
  • Day Trip to Sintra: Located at just a 40-minute drive from the center of Lisbon, you will not want to miss this incredible place, fondly known as the fairytale village. 
    
    • Pena National Palace: Begin your adventure with a visit to the vibrant and whimsical Pena National Palace, a fairytale castle atop a hill that promises stunning views and jaw-dropping architecture.
    • Local Delights: Treat your taste buds to the delectable local pastries, travesseiros de Sintra, and sip on the sweet Ginginha liqueur, both of which are delightful Sintra specialties.
    • Quinta da Regaleira: Explore the mysterious and enchanting Quinta da Regaleira, a palace and estate filled with hidden tunnels, gardens, and symbolism.
    • Monserrate Palace: Discover the unique beauty of Monserrate Palace, known for its exotic gardens and eclectic architecture.
    • Moorish Castle: Ascend to the Moorish Castle, where ancient walls and towers offer commanding views of the surrounding landscape.
    • Old-Town Stroll: Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through Sintra's charming old town, where you can soak in the atmosphere of this historic gem.

• Suggestions for the day:
  • Jerónimos Monastery: Visit the Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at its intricate Manueline architecture.
  • Pastéis de Belém: Next door to Jerónimos Monastery, be sure to try the world-famous Pastéis de Belém (custard tarts) from the original bakery.
  • Belém Tower: This is a unique UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Portugal's Age of Discovery.  Explore the tower and learn about Portugal's maritime history.  In the afternoon,  drive across the 25 de Abril Bridge, a magnificent suspension bridge that offers stunning views of the city.
  • Cascais & Estoril: Take the afternoon to relax by the shore! Drive along the scenic coast to Cascais and Estoril, known for their beautiful beaches, charming seaside resorts, and luxurious casinos. Enjoy fresh seafood, relax on the beach, or explore the Boca do Inferno, a dramatic natural formation.

Thank you for choosing Portugal Getaways! We hope you had an incredible time exploring Portugal and we can't wait to embark on more adventures with you soon.