Portuguese Road Trip: Porto, Évora, Algarve & Lisbon

Suggestion for the day:

• Take a day trip to the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its vineyards and stunning landscapes
• Visit vineyards and wine estates, and enjoy wine tastings of the famous Porto wine
• Cruise along the Douro River and admire the terraced vineyards and picturesque villages
• Optionally, visit the Douro Museum in Peso da Régua to learn about the region's wine production

The drive from Porto to Évora typically takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete, covering a distance of approximately 405 kilometers (252 miles).

If you're looking for interesting stops along the route from Porto to Évora, both Aveiro and Coimbra make excellent choices:

• Aveiro (The driving distance from Aveiro to Porto is 77 kilometers/ 48 miles)
  • Known as the "Venice of Portugal," Aveiro is famous for its picturesque canals, colorful moliceiro boats, and beautiful architecture.
  • Don't miss the opportunity to explore the historic city center, visit the Aveiro Museum, and savor traditional Portuguese cuisine, especially the regional delicacy, ovos moles.
• Coimbra (The driving distance from Porto to Coimbra is approximately 122 kilometers/ 76 miles) 
• • Coimbra is home to one of Europe's oldest universities, the University of Coimbra, with its stunning architecture and libraries.
  • The city also boasts a rich history, and you can explore the Coimbra Old Cathedral, the Royal Palace of Coimbra, and the beautiful botanical gardens.
  • Take a stroll through the charming streets of Coimbra's old town and enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants.

Once in Évora, here is our suggestion for the day:

• Take a leisurely stroll through its charming downtown area.
  • Capela dos Ossos: Explore the intriguing Chapel of Bones.
  • Évora Cathedral: Admire the grand Évora Cathedral.
  • Roman Temple of Évora: Step back in time at the Roman Temple.
  • Diana’s Garden: Find serenity in Diana’s Garden.
  • Évora’s Winding Streets: Get lost in the picturesque streets of Évora.
  • Évora University: Explore the intellectual heart of the city.

Suggestion for the day:

• Évora Exploration & Beyond: This day offers a mix of history, culture, and wine, giving you a taste of the region's rich heritage.
  • City Walls & Aqueduct: Begin your day by visiting Évora's historic City Walls and the impressive Aqueduct.
  • Mosteiro da Cartuxa: Enjoy the tranquility of Mosteiro da Cartuxa, a serene monastery with beautiful gardens.
  • Almendres Cromlech: Journey to the ancient Almendres Cromlech, a mysterious stone circle from ancient times.
  • Monsaraz Trip: Take a short drive to the charming town of Monsaraz, with its cobblestone streets and stunning views.
  • Premium Wine Tasting: Treat your taste buds to premium local wines in Évora.

Hit the road for the Algarve, a scenic drive of approximately 127 miles (204 km), taking around 2.5 hours.

Once in Algarve, here is our suggestion for the day:

• Explore Lagos: Begin your Algarve adventure by exploring the vibrant town of Lagos.
  • Black and White Coffee Shop: Start your day with a delightful coffee at the Black and White Coffee Shop.
  • Camilo Beach: Enjoy the sun and sea at Camilo Beach, known for its stunning cliffs and clear waters.
  • Ponta da Piedade: Discover the breathtaking rock formations and caves of Ponta da Piedade.
  • Sunset in Cabo de São Vicente, Sagres: Conclude your day with a mesmerizing sunset at Cabo de São Vicente in Sagres, a place where the land meets the ocean in a dramatic setting.

Suggestion for the day:

• Explore Albufeira City Center: Start your day by exploring the charming Albufeira City Center, where you can stroll through historic streets, visit local shops, and immerse yourself in the town's atmosphere.
  • Pescadores Beach: Spend some relaxing hours at Pescadores Beach, one of Albufeira's iconic sandy shores.
  • Oura Beach: Explore the lively Oura Beach, known for its vibrant atmosphere and water sports.
  • São Rafael Beach: Discover the picturesque São Rafael Beach, with its intriguing rock formations and clear waters.
  • Olhos da Água Beach: Enjoy the unique experience of Olhos da Água Beach, where freshwater springs bubble up through the sand.
  • Falésia Beach: Marvel at the striking red cliffs of Falésia Beach, providing a stunning backdrop for your seaside adventures.
  • Marina de Albufeira: Wrap up your day with a visit to Marina de Albufeira, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk, dine at waterfront restaurants, or simply soak in the harbor views.

Suggestions for the day:

• Algar de Benagil Boat Tour: Algar de Benagil is a mesmerizing sea cave along Portugal's Algarve coast, known for its stunning natural architecture and the iconic shaft of sunlight that filters through its ceiling.
• Ponta da Piedade Boat Tour: Explore the captivating caves and rock formations along Lagos' renowned 'Ponta da Piedade' coast. Depart from the Marina de Lagos, where knowledgeable local skippers will unveil the hidden wonders of this extraordinary coastline.

The driving distance from the Algarve to Lisbon is approximately 277.8 kilometers (172.6 miles), and the estimated driving time is around 2.5 hours.

Suggested stops along the way:

• Setúbal: Begin your journey with a visit to Setúbal, where you can indulge in Moscatel wine tasting, explore the beautiful Península de Tróia, admire the dramatic cliffs of Cabo Espichel, and visit the historic Palmela castle. (244km/ 151mi)
• Sesimbra: Consider a stop in Sesimbra to enjoy the sun at Califórnia Beach and marvel at the natural beauty of the Serra da Arrábida. (278km/ 172mi)
• Almada: Visit Almada for a glimpse of the iconic Cristo Rei statue, offering breathtaking views of Lisbon. (269km/ 167mi)
• Cascais: Explore Cascais, a charming coastal town known for its sandy beaches and vibrant atmosphere. (301km/ 187mi)

Suggestion for the day:

• Stroll Around Lisbon’s City Streets: Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Lisbon, where you can soak in the city's unique atmosphere. 
• • São Roque Church: Discover the exquisite architecture and artistry of São Roque Church.
  • Santa Catarina Viewpoint: Head to Santa Catarina Viewpoint for stunning panoramic views of the city.
  • Luís de Camões Square: Enjoy the ambiance of Luís de Camões Square, a central gathering place steeped in history.
  • Torre de Belém: Explore the iconic Torre de Belém, a symbol of Portugal's Age of Discovery.
  • Mosteiro dos Jerónimos: Visit the impressive Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing stunning Manueline architecture.
  • Pastéis de Belém: Don't miss the chance to savor delicious pastries at Pastéis de Belém, a beloved Portuguese pastry.
  • Terreiro do Paço: Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Terreiro do Paço, a historic square by the waterfront.
  • Santa Justa Lift: Conclude your day with a ride up the Santa Justa Lift for breathtaking views of Lisbon from above.
• Lisbon Fado Night with Dinner: Fado is a soulful and emotive genre of Portuguese music, often characterized by melancholic tunes and lyrics that express themes of longing and saudade.

Suggestion for the day:

• Journey to Sintra: Set out on an enchanting day trip to Sintra, a place that has captivated the hearts of travelers for centuries. Today's journey transports you to the realms of fairytales and history in the enchanting town of Sintra, where every corner is a piece of wonder. 
  • 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.

Thank you for choosing us! Wishing you a safe journey back home, and we look forward to the opportunity to travel with you again in the future.