Top 3 Regions: Portugal Road Trip

Suggestion for the day:

• Explore Lagos. Lagos is famous for its stunning coastline, which features golden sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. Visitors flock to Lagos to explore its beautiful beaches, such as Praia Dona Ana and Praia da Camilo, which are renowned for their natural beauty and excellent swimming conditions. The town also boasts a rich history, with attractions like the Ponta da Bandeira Fort and the Church of Saint Anthony offering glimpses into its past. Additionally, Lagos is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars, restaurants, and clubs lining its streets. Overall, Lagos offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and lively entertainment, making it a must-visit destination in the Algarve.

Suggestion for the day:

• Visit Albufeira. Albufeira is renowned for its picturesque beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich history, making it one of the most popular destinations in the Algarve. Visitors flock to Albufeira to enjoy its stunning coastline, which boasts beautiful sandy beaches like Praia da Oura and Praia dos Pescadores, perfect for sunbathing and water sports. In addition to its beaches, Albufeira offers a wealth of cultural and historical attractions. The historic center, known as the Old Town, is characterized by its charming cobbled streets, traditional white-washed buildings, and lively atmosphere. Here, you'll find historic landmarks such as the Clock Tower, as well as bustling squares and vibrant markets.
• While in Albufeira, go on a boat trip to the iconic Benagil Caves - you can schedule in advance here.

Suggestion for the day:

• Ponta da Piedade Boat Tour: Ponta da Piedade is renowned for its striking cliff formations, picturesque rock stacks, and hidden coves, all carved by the relentless force of the Atlantic Ocean. The towering cliffs offer panoramic views of the turquoise-blue waters below, creating a stunning contrast against the golden sandstone formations. Ponta da Piedade is a true paradise for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a serene and unforgettable coastal experience in the Algarve.

Driving from the Algarve to Lisbon via the countryside route through the Alentejo region is a scenic and enjoyable experience. The total driving distance is approximately 270 to 300 kilometers (about 170 to 186 miles)-

Suggestions for the day: 

• Once you've settled in, stroll around Lisbon's vibrant districts (Chiado, Baixa, Belém & Bairro Alto), and make sure to check these highlights:
• • São Roque Church
  • São Pedro de Alcântara Garden
  • Ruins of Carmo Church
  • Santa Catarina Viewpoint
  • Luís de Camões Square
  • Torre de Belém
  • Mosteiro dos Jerónimos
  • Pastéis de Belém
  • Augusta Street
  • Terreiro do Paço
  • Santa Justa Lift

Suggestion for the day:

• Visit Sintra: Historically known as being the illustrious home to Portugal’s most storied monarchs, the town of Sintra is not only historically relevant, but aesthetically speaking, it is a true marvel of magnificence and romantic beauty. This dream destination is also known as being filled with heavenly mansions tucked among rolling green hillsides, and fantastical castles that make you feel as if you have stepped into an actual real-life fairytale, including must-see marvels of the Palácio Nacional de Sintra, Palácio da Pena, Quinta de Regaleira, the Castelo dos Mouros, and the Palácio de Monserrate.
  • Pena National Palace
  • Local pastries (travesseiros de Sintra)
  • Ginginha (local licour)
  • Quinta da Regaleira
  • Monserrate Palace
  • Moorish Castle
  • Old-Town 

Suggestion for the day:

• Visit the UNESCO City of Évora: The Alentejo region of Portugal is a feast for all the senses, from its northernmost tip to its sunkissed southern shores. While the north offers visitors pastoral scenery, like horses grazing in the flatland, the central portion of the region is marked by the vast plain with rows of cornflowers blowing in the wind. As one makes their way to the Alentejo coast, wild and unmarred natural beauty awaits to awe and inspire.
  • Sé Cathedral
  • Roman Temple
  • Capela dos Ossos
  • Giraldo Square
  • Évora university
  • Água da Prata aquaduct
  • Cromlech of Almendres

Driving from Lisbon to Porto is a popular route, offering beautiful views and the opportunity to explore some of Portugal’s most charming cities and landscapes. The distance is approximately 310 kilometers (about 193 miles), and the drive typically takes around 3 to 3.5 hours via the main highways.

Here’s a suggested route with some scenic and cultural stops along the way:

1. Starting in Lisbon: Depart from Lisbon, heading north on the A1 motorway.
2. First Stop - Santarém: After about an hour of driving, consider stopping in Santarém, a historic city known for its Gothic architecture and beautiful views of the Tagus River.
3. Continue on A1 to Fátima: Drive for another 45 minutes to reach Fátima, a significant pilgrimage site. The Sanctuary of Fátima is a major religious site and worth a visit.
4. Next Stop - Coimbra: Continue north on the A1 for about another hour to reach Coimbra, home to one of the oldest universities in Europe. Take some time to explore the university, the historic city center, and the beautiful botanical garden.
5. Final Leg to Porto: From Coimbra, continue on the A1 for approximately 1.5 hours to reach Porto.

Suggestion for the day

Start by exploring and walking around downtown Porto and get to know the city's unique highlights! These are some that you can't miss:

• D. Luís I Bridge: This iconic double-decker bridge offers stunning panoramic views of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. Take a walk across the bridge for a unique perspective, or hop on a tram for a thrilling ride.
• Ribeira District: Explore the heart of Porto's historic center. Wander through the charming Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its colorful houses, narrow streets, and lively atmosphere.
• Livraria Lello: A haven for bookworms, this historic bookstore boasts a beautiful neo-gothic facade and a grand staircase said to have inspired J.K. Rowling. Be prepared for queues, though!
• Torre dos Clérigos: Climb the 225 steps of the Clérigos Tower for breathtaking 360-degree views of the city. Don't miss the adjacent Igreja do Clerigos church, known for its baroque architecture.
• Porto Cathedral (Sé Catedral do Porto): This imposing Romanesque cathedral is the oldest church in Porto. Climb the bell tower for stunning city views and admire the intricate architecture.
• São Francisco Church: Immerse yourself in the extravagant Baroque style at São Francisco Church. Be sure to marvel at the opulent gilded woodwork and the azulejo tilework within.
• Majestic Café: Step back in time at the Majestic Café, a Belle Époque gem known for its art nouveau interior and delicious Portuguese pastries.

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