Portuguese Summer Road Trip: The Ultimate 3-Week Guide
Portugal, our beloved home, is the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable summer road trip. With our local expertise, we're here to steer you through the best spots, travel tips, and practical info to make your adventure smooth and sensational. Buckle up as we dive into renting a car, must-see destinations, and what to expect in terms of costs. Let’s hit the road!
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Renting a Car
Caravan Adventure: If you're dreaming of a road trip where your accommodation rolls with you, a caravan might be your best bet. We recommend checking out Indie Campers. You can kick off your journey from Faro in the sunny south, with flights from most EU cities and convenient van pickup right at the airport. Expect to pay around 80 to 95 euros per night. Heads up: Portugal’s highways are toll-heavy, and caravans fall into a pricier toll category (type 2 vehicle). Fuel prices are a bit of a rollercoaster but hover around 1.60 euros per liter.
Car Rental: If you prefer the flexibility of a regular car, Kayak offers great options with prices ranging from 95 to 110 euros. Keep in mind, while you’ll save on tolls and gas compared to a caravan, you’ll need to budget for hotel stays, which can be pricier than campsites.
International License Alert: If you’re not an EU citizen, don’t forget to grab an international driver’s license. Portuguese roads are pretty standard, but speed limits might surprise you, and while national roads are charming and toll-free, they can be a bit rough around the edges. But hey, that's part of the adventure, right?
Parking Hack: Parking can be tricky in some of Portugal’s older towns, like Lisbon, where streets are narrow and spots are scarce, so make sure you do your research first on parking. If you can, we suggest that you use public transportation in cities like Lisbon to avoid driving with a caravan into the city center and risking not having a spot to park.
Cost of Living
Portugal is still known for having relatively affordable prices, especially when it comes to food. You can easily stuff yourself on a full meal—especially in the North and Alentejo—and pay around 10 to 12 euros per person. And when we say stuff, we mean it. Alentejo, in particular, is famous for its generous portions and low prices, so you might find things here even cheaper than back home.
Pro Tip: Look out for "prato do dia" (dish of the day) at local restaurants. It’s usually a hearty meal at an even more reasonable price, often including a drink and dessert.
Taxi & Uber: Taxis and Ubers are also very cheap in Portugal overall, making them a convenient option for getting around. Just be sure to check if your destination is covered by Uber as some rural areas might be off the grid.
While Uber is often the go-to for tourists, don’t overlook the local taxi services. They’re reliable, and in smaller towns, they can even offer some local insights and tips. Just remember to ask for a price estimate beforehand if you're taking a traditional taxi.
Public Transport: Portugal’s public transportation is affordable and generally reliable, whether you’re hopping on a bus, tram, or metro.
If you plan to use public transport frequently in cities like Lisbon or Porto, consider getting a travel card (like the Lisbon Viva Viagem) for unlimited rides. It’s a budget-friendly way to explore without constantly worrying about fares.
Optional Tours
Benagil Cave Boat Tour: €25-€35 per person (Algarve)
Alentejo Wine Tour (Évora): €80-120 per person (Évora)
Dolphin Watching Tour: €35 per person (Setúbal)
Port Wine Cellar Tour: €25-€40 per person (Porto)
Aveiro Moliceiro Boat Tour: €14 per person (Aveiro)
Sintra and Cascais Day Trip: Consider this if you prefer to have an extra day in Lisbon, €60-€90 per person (Lisbon)
Itinerary
1-3 Days in the Algarve
Day 1: Arrival and Settling In
Touchdown in Faro! After picking up your wheels, whether it’s a rental car or a cozy caravan, you’re ready to hit the road. If you’re rolling with a caravan, we recommend camping at Camping Canelas, a charming spot where you can unwind and get into vacation mode. If you're traveling by car and looking for a hotel near Carvoeiro, a great option is Hotel Mirachoro Praia. Carvoeiro will be the first stop in your adventure!
Carvoeiro: A beautiful coastal town, which will be your gateway to Algarve’s stunning scenery. It’s perfect for a relaxed beachside escape with a sprinkle of local charm. Here’s how to make the most of your time:
Marinha Beach: Renowned as one of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches, with golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Just be prepared for a bit of a trek down some steps to reach the beach itself!
Benagil Cave: A must-see natural wonder! Hop on a boat tour from Benagil Beach to explore this iconic sea cave with its impressive dome.It’s a bit of an adventure, but the views inside are absolutely worth it.
Beaches to Explore: Besides Marinha, check out these nearby beaches:
Praia do Carvalho: A hidden gem with a picturesque setting and serene vibe. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of tranquility away from the crowds.
Praia da Rocha: If you’re up for a livelier scene, this beach in Portimão has a great mix of bars, restaurants, and a bustling atmosphere.
Praia dos Três Irmãos: Known for its dramatic rock formations and scenic beauty, this beach is ideal for a scenic stroll and some great photo ops.
Day 2: Dive Into Local Flavors and Activities
Carvoeiro Town: Spend your morning wandering through the charming streets. The town is full of cozy cafes and boutiques where you can pick up unique souvenirs or enjoy some breakfast.
Dinner with a View: For an unforgettable meal, head to O Algar, a restaurant offering stunning sea views and delicious seafood dishes. You can’t go wrong here, trust us!
Day 3: Adventure through Algarve
Explore the Algarve Coastline: Take a scenic drive along the coastline. The coastal roads offer breathtaking views and access to various hidden charming villages.
Day Trip Options:
Lagos: An historic town with beautiful beaches, stunning cliffs, and a vibrant marina. Don’t miss a visit to Ponta da Piedade for its dramatic rock formations. (30min away from Carvoeiro)
Silves: Head inland to discover this historic town known for its well-preserved castle and picturesque streets. It’s a nice change of pace from the coastal vibes. (20min away from Carvoeiro)
Day 4-6 Alentejo
After your stay in Algarve, start heading to your Alentejo adventure by going towards the towns of Porto Covo and Vila Nova de Milfontes. You can opt for staying in either one of these camping site:
Camping Porto Covo: Is located just a short walk from the beach, we can definitely recommend it as Sara’s family used to always stay here. Monte do Cerro is an ideal stay for those exploring Porto Covo by car.
Camping Milfontes: It’s near Vila Nova de Milfontes, and also offers comfortable amenities as well and is close to both the beach and town. HS Milfontes Beach is a comfortable and convenient base for exploring Vila Nova de Milfontes.
Day 4: Alentejo, first impressions
Porto Covo: One of our favorite places and where Sara used to spend almost all her family vacations when she was a kid. A fishing village known for its traditional architecture and breathtaking coastline. Wander through the narrow streets, enjoy fresh seafood , and soak up the laid-back atmosphere. For a memorable meal, try O Pescador, where the seafood is as fresh as it gets and a personal favorite!
Vila Nova de Milfontes: If you prefer a slightly larger town with more amenities, Vila Nova de Milfontes is a great choice (also one of Sara’s personal favorites). Make sure to check out Tasca do Celso, a local gem for its delicious Portuguese dishes and welcoming vibe.
Day 5: Coastal Exploration
Return to the Coast: Head back to the coast and enjoy a day of beach-hopping. We suggest going to our personal favorite beaches: Praia da Ilha do Pessegueiro and Praia de São Torpes.
Explore Local Towns: If you have time, stop by the charming town of Sines, known for its maritime history and beautiful harbor.
Dinner: Consider O Beijinha, which has a relaxed atmosphere and a menu filled with traditional Portuguese dishes, which can never go wrong.
Day 6: Discover the Alentejo’s Rich Heritage
Here you can opt for staying at the Camping Orbitur Évora (Price Range: €15-€30 per night, depending on the season and caravan size). For Évora, a great hotel option for travelers with a car is Vila Galé Évora.
Évora: Make your way to Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage city known for its well-preserved Roman and medieval architecture. This one also has a special place in our heart, as it was the first place that we spent a weekend together. Explore the historic center, visit the impressive Templo de Diana, and take a stroll through the charming streets. Don’t miss the Capela dos Ossos, a chapel adorned with human bones that makes for a unique and slightly eerie experience.
Lunch in Évora: Stop by Taberna Típica Quarta Feira, where you can savor traditional Alentejo cuisine, including hearty dishes like “migas” and “porco preto” (this is an absolute must!).
Days 7-11 Setúbal & Troia
Day 7: Coastal Charms of Setúbal and Troia (this one is special as well since it’s where we live)
Here you can opt for staying at the Parque de Campismo de Setúbal (Price Range: €15-€30 per night, depending on season and caravan size). For Setúbal, a good hotel option if you have a car is Hotel do Sado Business & Nature.
Arrive in Setúbal: Begin your coastal adventure in Setúbal, famous for its vibrant harbor and seafood delights.
Explore Troia Peninsula: Just a short ferry ride or drive from Setúbal, Troia is famous for its stunning beaches and relaxed vibe. Spend your day soaking up the sun on beaches like Praia de Troia and Praia Atlântica.
Dolphin Watching: Don’t miss out on a boat tour to see dolphins in their natural habitat. Several local operators offer tours, so be sure to book in advance for the best experience!
Local Food: For a taste of Setúbal, head to A Casa do Mar , it's one of our personal favorites for fish, the typical choco frito (fried cuttlefish) and seafood.
Day 8-9: More of Setúbal and Troia
Explore Setúbal’s Market: Visit the Mercado do Livramento, a beautiful, tiled food market where you can find fresh fish, local cheeses, and all kinds of meat. It has been voted to be one of the most beautiful markets in Portugal and we love coming here on the weekend for some fresh food!
Protected Beaches: Relax at the stunning protected beaches around Setúbal, like Praia da Figueirinha and Praia de Galapos. These beaches give off tropical paradise vibes. Keep in mind that during high season you can’t go by car unless you go around the whole mountain range so an Uber and walking normally does the trick.
Day 10: Lisbon Exploration
Head to Lisbon! We would recommend using the train to get to Lisbon and set up your base at a campsite in Setúbal (if you’re in a caravan).
Belém Tower: An iconic landmark with a panoramic view of the Tagus River and is a testament to Lisbon’s rich maritime history.
Jerónimos Monastery: A beautiful Monastery with intricate Manueline architecture and rich history
Alfama District: Lose yourself in the labyrinth of narrow streets in Lisbon’s oldest district. It’s a great spot for wandering, listening to Fado music, and experiencing traditional Portuguese culture.
Time Out Market: For a culinary adventure, where you can sample a variety of local dishes from some of Lisbon’s best chefs.
Lunch in Lisbon: Check out Ramiro for some of the best seafood in town. Their amêijoas à bulhão pato (clams in garlic and coriander) is a must-try. For a more casual dining experience, you also have the famous Cervejaria Trindade which offers not only a historic atmosphere but also delicious traditional food
Day 11: Lisbon Continued
We would recommend coming back to Lisbon since there is so much to see!
Morning Stroll: Take a walk through Praça do Comércio and enjoy the views of the Tagus River. This grand square is a great starting point for exploring the city.
Lunch & Last-Minute Shopping: Visit Chiado for shopping and grab a bit at A Brasileira , a historic café known for its strong coffee and famous Fernando Pessoa’s (famous Portuguese Poet) statue.
Evening: Enjoy your last evening in Lisbon with a visit to Miradouro da Senhora do Monte for some of the best views of the city at sunset. It’s the perfect spot to wrap up your Lisbon adventure.
Days 12-13: Óbidos and Foz do Arelho
After packing up, head up North to the charming town of Óbidos. If you’re traveling by caravan, we recommend staying at the Campismo Orbitur Foz de Arelho, which is conveniently located close to the town. A good hotel option for travelers with a car in Óbidos or Foz do Arelho is Pousada Castelo de Óbidos or Rio do Prado.
Day 12: Explore the Medieval Charm of Óbidos
Morning in Óbidos: Start your day by exploring the medieval town. This walled town is like stepping back in time, with narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses and a stunning castle.
Local Delights: Make sure to stop by one of the many local shops to try the famous (and delicious) Ginja de Óbidos—a cherry liqueur often served in a small chocolate cup. It’s really hard to resist this one!
Lunch in Óbidos: For a truly local experience, head to A Nova Casa de Ramiro , a cozy restaurant known for its traditional Portuguese dishes. Try their seafood rice or a serving of codfish (“bacalhau”)—a Portuguese classic and an absolute must.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon exploring the town’s many historical sites, including the Church of Santa Maria and the Livraria de Santiago, a bookstore set inside a centuries-old church.
Day 13: Enjoy the Natural Beauty of Foz do Arelho
Morning in Foz do Arelho: A short drive from Óbidos, Foz do Arelho is where the calm waters of the Óbidos Lagoon meet the waves of the Atlantic Ocean.
Things to Do: Walk along the beach or take a hike on the cliffs for some amazing views of the coastline. If you’re into birdwatching, the lagoon area is a great spot to see a variety of bird species (as Sara’s dad would say).
Lunch in Foz do Arelho: We suggest Cais da Praia . This restaurant is right on the beach and has a good variety of seafood dishes, including fresh fish, clams, and their famous seafood stew.
Afternoon Adventure: After lunch, take some time to explore the Óbidos Lagoon, either by foot or bike.
Days 14-16: Discovering the Charms of Aveiro
After exploring the historical towns and scenic beaches, it's time to head even more towards the North to the small city of Aveiro. Known as the "Venice of Portugal", Aveiro is famous for its canals and colorful moliceiro boats. For those with a caravan, we recommend staying at Obitur Vagueira, which is located just a short drive from the city. For Aveiro, a great hotel option for travelers with a car is Hotel Moliceiro.
Day 14: Arrival in Aveiro and Canal Cruise
Canal Cruise: The best way to get acquainted with Aveiro is by taking a moliceiro boat tour. These traditional boats, were used for harvesting seaweed, and now offer cruises along the city’s canals. We can’t recommend it more!
Lunch in Aveiro: After your cruise, head to O Batel for a tasty lunch. This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood dishes, we recommend the caldeirada de enguias (eel stew), a local specialty.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon exploring the city on foot. Don’t miss the Art Nouveau Museum, which showcases the city’s architectural heritage, or the Aveiro Cathedral.
Day 15: Salt Pans and Costa Nova
Morning at Costa Nova: A short drive from Aveiro, you’ll find Costa Nova, famous for its striped, colorful houses known as palheiros. If you are a photograph enthusiast this is for you!
Visit the Salt Pans: After the beach, head to the nearby Salt Pans of Aveiro. Here, you can learn about the traditional methods of salt production that have been used for centuries. There’s even a small museum and shop where you can buy artisanal salt products to take home!
Lunch at Costa Nova: For lunch, try Restaurante Dori , located right by the beach. They have a great seafood menu with dishes like grilled sardines and octopus rice (all very typical).
Afternoon: Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the salt pans, or if you're up for it, take a short drive to São Jacinto Nature Reserve for some walking trails and birdwatching (if you are into cardio).
Day 16: A bit more of Aveiro’s Beauty
Morning: On your final day in Aveiro, take some time to visit the Museu de Aveiro, which was a former convent (Portugal with it’s History, am I right?).
Stroll Through the Fish Market: Before you leave, also make sure to visit the Mercado do Peixe (Fish Market), where you can experience the local vibe and maybe even pick up some fresh seafood if you have ways of cooking it.
Lunch in Aveiro: For a final meal in Aveiro, we recommend Salpoente.
Afternoon and Departure: After lunch, you can take a walk along the Ria de Aveiro (Aveiro Lagoon) or rent a bike to explore more of the city’s hidden gems.
Days 17-20: Exploring Porto, Braga and Coimbra
After experiencing the beauty of Aveiro, it's time to head further north to Porto, Portugal's second-largest city. Porto is a must-visit and one of our favorite cities. If you're traveling by caravan, we recommend staying at Parque de Campismo Orbitur Canidelo. For Porto, a good hotel option for travelers with a car is HF Ipanema Park.
Day 17: Arrival in Porto and Ribeira Exploration
Ribeira District: Start your Porto adventure by exploring the Ribeira District, the city’s historic heart along the Douro River. Its narrow, winding streets, lined with colorful buildings are a sight to see.
Lunch by the River: For a riverside meal, head to Ribeira Square and dine at A Bolina . It’s a traditional restaurant that offers a cozy atmosphere and must-have dishes like bacalhau à brás (a popular codfish dish) and francesinha (a mega sandwich layered with meat, cheese, and smothered in a rich sauce and a staple in Porto’s food scene).
Afternoon: After lunch, take a walk across the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia, where you can visit some of the famous Port wine cellars like Sandeman or Graham’s. Don’t forget to prebook in a tasting session if you are a wine lover, we would highly recommend it!
Day 18: Cultural and Architectural Gems of Porto
Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Clérigos Tower, one of Porto’s most iconic landmarks. Climb the 240 steps for the amazing panoramic views of the city and for some beautiful photos. Afterward, check out the Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores and a must-see for book lovers (Sara tends to go a bit crazy here).
Lunch in the City Center: For lunch, make your way to Cantina 32 . This trendy spot is known for its creative take on Portuguese cuisine, we recommend trying the octopus risotto and cod (yes, fish and seafood. When in Portugal…).
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon exploring the Palácio da Bolsa, and from there, walk over to the São Bento Railway Station to check out its incredible azulejo (tile) panels.
Evening: As the sun sets, head to Jardins do Palácio de Cristal for a walk through the gardens, with stunning views over the Douro River.
Day 19: Day Trip to Braga and Coimbra
Morning in Braga: Take a short drive or train ride to Braga, one of Portugal’s oldest cities. Start your visit at the Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary. You can either climb the 577 steps (which is an experience on it’s own and a full leg training) or take the funicular for easier access.
Lunch in Braga: For a taste of traditional Minho cuisine, have lunch at Restaurante Cruz Sobral. This cozy spot serves local dishes like arroz de pato (duck rice and one of Sara’s favorite dishes of all times) and bacalhau à Braga (codfish Braga-style).
Afternoon in Coimbra: After exploring Braga, head to Coimbra, a city famous for its historic university and a charming old town. Visit the University of Coimbra, including the Joanina Library, and take a walk through the streets of the city center.
Dinner in Coimbra: For dinner, consider going to Tapas nas Costas, they offer a mix of traditional Portuguese dishes with a contemporary twist.
Day 20: Last Day in Porto
Morning: Start your final day in Porto with a visit to the Serralves Foundation, a cultural institution that hasa contemporary art museum.
Lunch at the Market: For lunch, head to Mercado Bom Sucesso , a modern food market offering everything from sushi to traditional Portuguese food so you can sample just about everything and anything.
Afternoon: Spend your last afternoon with a visit to the Casa da Música, a concert hall. Even if you don’t catch a performance, the guided tours are well worth it. If you get the chance or prefer, you can look at small boat cruises in the Douro River and prebook one as well as they are absolutely great.
Dinner Time: We recommend a dinner at Brasão Antas, for one last memorable meal.
You can then fly back and return your car or caravan in Porto, since there is a main airport there as well.
And there you have it—our ultimate 3-week road trip through the beautiful landscapes, historic towns, and vibrant cities of Portugal. We've taken you from the sunny Algarve beaches all the way to the rich culture of Porto, with plenty of unforgettable stops along the way.
Portugal is a wonderful country (we might be a bit biased but oh well), and despite its small size, it offers so much to explore. We truly hope you’ll come back and discover even more!
Of course, there are so many more places in our beloved country that are worth visiting, like Guimarães, Bragança, Viseu, Piódão, and Monforte. But those gems can be saved for your next adventure in Portugal. Check our other itineraries on Portugal locations!
If you’re planning a future trip or just need some tips on these or any other destinations, don’t hesitate to drop us an email. We’re always here to help you make the most of your travels!
Até logo!
