Portugal could also be a small nation, however it’s filled with scenic magnificence, vibrant tradition, and historic marvels. From the rolling vineyards in Douro Valley to the dramatic cliffs of Algarve, every nook provides distinctive and awe-inspiring landscapes.
We’ve spent weeks driving round Portugal and have had the pleasure of highway tripping from the highest right down to the underside. Regardless of the place we stopped, we discovered the folks pleasant, the desserts scrumptious and the port wine flowing freely.
Greatest Street Journeys in Portugal
From scenic coastal drives to inland journeys, we’ve seen loads firsthand, however know there’s all the time extra to discover. Whether or not touring as a pair, a household, with a gaggle of buddies or by yourself, we’ve seen there’s one thing in Portugal for everybody.
Lisbon to Porto: Coastal Bliss
Excited to see what highway journeys Portugal has to supply? Right here’s your information to the most effective highway journeys in Portugal for a journey you’ll always remember.
Fast Abstract
This classical Portugal highway journey route provides an ideal mix of metropolis, sea, and historical past. Ranging from the colourful capital Lisbon, you’ll cruise north alongside the coast, exploring gorgeous seashores, medieval cities, and bustling cities earlier than reaching Porto, well-known for its port wine and historic appeal.
Route:
Lisbon – Cascais – Sintra – Nazaré – Coimbra – Aveiro – Porto
Distance/Time:
433km – Approx. 5.5hrs journey time – Google Maps
Street Journey Period:
5-7 Days
Highlights:
- Lisbon: Capital metropolis of Portugal with attractive structure just like the Jerónimos Monastery, cool avenue tiles, loads of uncommon issues to do in addition to the house of our favourite Portuguese dessert, the scrumptious Pasteis de Belem.
- Cascais: The Boca do Inferno, a dramatic cliffside chasm is price stopping for.
- Sintra: Discover each the colourful Pena Palace in addition to the gorgeous Quinta da Regaleira palace (plus each their superb gardens).
- Nazaré: Stand in awe of Nazarés big waves, go to Our Girl of Nazaré Sanctuary plus try the Miradouro do Suberco, a viewpoint providing superior panoramic ocean views.
- Coimbra: House of the Joanina Library, one of the crucial stunning libraries on the earth in addition to the favored College of Coimbra.
- Aveiro: Canals adorned with brightly coloured boats referred to as moliceiros line this Portuguese metropolis, usually referred to as the Venice of Portugal.
- Porto: Pattern completely different ports, go on a Douro river cruise and take a look at Livraria Lello, one of many world’s most stunning bookstores.
Tip:
Whereas Nazaré is widespread for day journeys, think about spending an evening right here. At evening, as soon as the day vacationers go away, you’ll get the possibility to expertise the quiet appeal of this fishing village, which is each wealthy in custom and native taste.
Douro Valley: The Wine Circuit
Fast Abstract:
For port and wine lovers, this route is paradise. Starting in Porto, you’ll journey into the guts of Portugal’s wine nation, following the Douro River via scenic cities and valleys, and stopping for winery excursions and tastings alongside the way in which.
Route:
Porto – Amarante – Peso da Régua – Pinhão – Vila Actual
Distance/Time:
188km – Approx. 3hrs journey time – Google Maps
Period:
3-5 Days
Highlights:
- Porto: The long-lasting Ribeira District alongside the Douro River and the Porto Cathedral, a 900 12 months previous constructing with superb tile artwork.
- Amarante: Ponte de São Gonçalo, an arched bridge with tons of historic significance.
- Peso da Régua: Douro Museum, exploring the historical past and tradition of the Douro area.
- Pinhão: The prepare station adorned with blue-and-white Azulejo tiles.
- Vila Actual: The 18th-century Mateus Palace and its attractive gardens.
- Peso da Régua: Douro River Cruise and Museu do Douro.
- Pinhão: Wine estates and Azulejos-decorated prepare station.
- Vila Actual: Mateus Palace.
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Tip:
The Douro Valley is the birthplace of port wine, and no go to can be full with out diving into this native specialty. Many vineyards supply tastings and excursions the place you may study concerning the winemaking course of from grape to bottle. Nevertheless it’s not nearly port; the area additionally produces distinctive crimson and white wines. Make sure that to take a guided tour of not less than one wine property to completely recognize the area’s wealthy viticultural historical past.
The Algarve: Solar-Kissed Splendor
Fast Abstract:
This southern loop provides the quintessential Algarve expertise: golden seashores to lounge away the recent summer time days, rocky coves to discover and bustling cities full of nightlife. The route takes you from the historic metropolis of Faro to the westernmost level of the Algarve, offering a well-rounded tour of this sun-soaked area.
Route:
Tavira – Faro – Albufeira – Lagos – Sagres
Distance/Time:
168km – Approx. 3hrs journey time – Google Maps
Period:
5-7 Days
Highlights:
- Tavira: The Roman Bridge, a picturesque seven-arched bridge.
- Faro: Arco da Vila, an arched gateway courting again to Moorish occasions.
- Albufeira: Nightlife hub of the Algarve. Additionally try Previous City, a vibrant space full of outlets, eating places, and bars.
- Lagos: Ponta da Piedade, recognized for its gorgeous rock formations and Praia Dona Ana.
- Sagres: Fortaleza de Sagres, a cliff-top fortress with panoramic sea views and Cape St. Vincent. Additionally very talked-about with kite surfers.
Tip:
Tavira provides a much less crowded, extra genuine Algarve expertise. It’s comparatively untouched by large-scale tourism, making it a perfect spot for a quieter seashore escape and to discover conventional Portuguese tradition. If you wish to be the place the motion is, Albufeira is the place you need to be.
Madeira: The Backyard Isle
Fast Abstract:
Portugal’s southern island of Madeira gives a definite highway journey expertise filled with pure magnificence and old-world appeal. Beginning in Funchal, this island route provides lush gardens, volcanic swimming pools, and coastal views which can be second to none.
Route:
Funchal – Câmara de Lobos – Ribeira Brava – Porto Moniz – Santana
Distance/Time:
117km – Approx. 2.5hrs journey time – Google Maps
Period:
4-6 Days
Highlights:
- Funchal: Monte Palace Tropical Backyard providing views over Funchal Bay, take a loopy Toboggan experience in a standard wicker basket down town roads and go to the beautiful Mercado dos Lavradores.
- Câmara de Lobos: Picturesque fishing village immortalized by Winston Churchill’s work.
- Ribeira Brava: Forte de São Bento, a historic fort with scenic sea views.
- Porto Moniz: Pure lava swimming pools excellent for a singular swimming expertise and the Madeira Aquarium.
- Santana: Thatched-roof A-frame homes showcasing conventional Madeiran structure Queimadas Forest Park.
Tip:
The Laurisilva Forest is a must-see in Madeira. This UNESCO World Heritage website covers about 20% of the island. A stroll right here reveals a uncommon glimpse of Europe’s prehistoric landscapes. The wildlife are distinctive, and the sense of tranquility is unparalleled.
Azores: Volcanic Journey
Fast Abstract:
Portugal’s Azores islands are an off-the-beaten-path treasure in the course of the Atlantic. Beginning in Ponta Delgada, this route provides a journey via volcanic landscapes, cliffside viewpoints, and luxurious greenery that encapsulates the untamed magnificence of those islands.
Route:
Ponta Delgada – Sete Cidades – Furnas – Nordeste
Distance/Time:
126km – Approx. 2.5hrs journey time – Google Maps
Period:
4-6 Days
Highlights:
- Ponta Delgada: Forte de São Brás, a Sixteenth-century fortress plus try Twin lakes and Vista do Rei.
- Sete Cidades: Go to Lagoa do Fogo, a shocking crater lake.
- Furnas: Terra Nostra Backyard, a gorgeous botanical backyard with thermal swimming pools.
- Nordeste: Miradouro da Ponta do Sossego, providing panoramic views of cliffs and ocean.
Tip:
The Azores are one of many world’s greatest spots for whale watching. Whereas most guests come between April and October, every season provides a distinct array of species. Ebook a tour with a good operator to reinforce your probabilities of sightings and to make sure moral practices.
Journey Suggestions for Any Route:
- Toll Roads: Portugal has many toll roads. A Through Verde (Inexperienced Lane) digital machine could be rented to robotically pay some tolls whereas others require a toll cross, each will prevent time and fuss.
- Gasoline Stations: Gas up in bigger cities as rural areas might have restricted providers. Gasoline stations additionally usually shut early in distant areas.
- Native Legal guidelines: At all times have your ID and driving license with you. Portuguese visitors police are recognized for random checks, and fines for not having correct identification or a correct toll cross could be steep.
The Greatest Street Journeys in Portugal
With every highway journey providing its personal distinctive set of points of interest and nuances, Portugal guarantees an journey that caters to all types of vacationers. We cherished our time right here and the complete household all the time loved leaping into the automotive understanding that the subsequent cease was going to be simply as superb because the final. Protected travels!
