Self‑Drive Itinerary in Central and Southern Portugal

Upon arrival at Lisbon airport, meet with the car rental representative that will facilitate your car rental arrangements. Drive to the seaside resort of Estoril, a town known as “Portuguese French Riviera”.

During your stay, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the romantic Sintra area with its unique Palaces; located on top of one of Sintra’s hills is the Romantic 19th century Pena Palace. Lisbon is also a Must, with its World Heritage Monuments, Jerónimos Monastery, the Tower of Belem, and the Monument of the Discoveries; Walk along the medieval quarters of Alfama, and Mouraria, crowned by the magnificent St. George’s Castle and feel the atmosphere of this “old” historical town. On the drive out of Lisbon, take the seaside “Marginal Road” (the left side of the track) by passing through the famous harbour of Belém and taste the “Pastel de Nata” or “Pastel de Belém”, a specialty of the traditional Portuguese cuisine. We also suggest driving Northwest to Óbidos, and the charming medieval walled old Town of Óbidos, located within the old beautiful castle walls and known for its typical white houses, flowered windows and narrow streets paved with beautiful stone. While here, try the traditional ginginha (cherry liqueur) in a chocolate cup! You can also enjoy the area, also in the northwest, of the national monuments in Batalha, Alcobaça and the most picturesque fishing town of Nazaré, a great place for a lunch break!

On the way to the Algarve region, drive inland to the Capital of Alentejo Region, Évora, a “living museum” classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage City and the perfect place to taste the delicious Alentejo cuisine. In Évora, we recommend taking a walking tour from Giraldo square through the handicraft streets to the Roman temple, to the Cathedral, and to St Francis Church, with its unique Chapel of Bones. Continue your journey driving south along the coastline to the Algarve, one of Europe’s destinations with the warmest Mediterranean climate and beautiful sandy beaches. Overnight in Albufeira and cherish your memories of the golden sand contrasting with the cliffs, the white houses, the pleasure of the sun and the taste of good cooking. Take some free time to relax and walk along the sea. During your stay we recommend the following visits: Lagos, known as the pot of gold because of its yellow rocks along the coast, admire the promontory named Ponta da Piedade with its caves and rocks; Sagres, the most south-westerly village in mainland Europe and visit the promontory of the fortress of Cape St Vincent, the symbol of the Portuguese discoveries; Silves, where you can discover the ancient Arab capital of the Algarve with its Moorish Castle and 12th century Cathedral; Monchique, the “garden” of the Algarve, and a typical village located in a scenic range of rounded hills. Do take the time for shopping for handicrafts; Faro, the capital city of the Algarve, is worth taking a walk through the Old Town and visiting the 13th century Cathedral; Olhão, a city built under Arabic influences with a visit to the waterfront markets and old quarter; Santa Luzia, the most picturesque unspoiled fishing village in the Algarve, renowned for fishing activities; and Tavira, an old roman town, with old castle ruins, Santa Maria do Castelo church and the famous 4th century Roman bridge.

On your last day in Portugal, head back to Lisbon. Drive through the Alentejo region and on the way to Lisbon you should stop in Sesimbra, where you can sightsee its bay from the castle of Sesimbra and have lunch in a frontal sea view restaurant. Continue driving through the lively Arrabida Natural Park that offers beautiful beaches and unspoilt nature, the Arrábida Mountain range, with its unique vegetation, taking you to the gates of Lisbon. In Lisbon we recommend a walk along the typical streets of Bairro Alto and in the Madragoa district, be sure to enjoy a night in this lively area, have dinner in a local Fado restaurant and listen to the traditional mournful songs.

Enjoy one last breakfast in Portugal, and head to Lisbon airport to return your car or extend your holidays in this charming country!