The ultimate 2-week road trip in Portugal

Do you wish to discover the rich history and culture of Portugal? Look no further.

Here is the perfect 2-week road trip itinerary for a successful trip to Portugal, from Porto, to Lisbon, to the Algarve. 
 

Summary of the 2-week road trip in Portugal

Days 1-2 : Porto

Welcome to Porto, a charming and picturesque city nestled on the banks of the Douro River in northern Portugal. With its captivating historical past and architectural wonders, Porto is an unmissable destination for any explorer seeking cultural discoveries and enchanting panoramas.

Start your exploration by visiting the Ribeira district, the historic heart of the city, with its narrow and steep streets, colorful houses, and bustling atmosphere. 

Head first to the Sé de Porto, a massive fortified church that blends Romanesque and Baroque styles, and stands out for its impressive size. Inside, you can admire the splendor of its altar and the stunning azulejos in its cloister. Then, visit the São Bento station. Its typical 19th-century architecture will charm you instantly. 

Do not miss the Dom-Luis bridge, a work of art in itself, built in the 19th century by Seyrig, a disciple of Eiffel. While you're by the banks of the Douro, why not take a cruise on the famous river?

To end your first day, continue along the Douro River towards Miragaia. This district holds exceptional historical and architectural sites, such as the Palacio da Bolsa, the San Francisco church, the Clerics Church, and the Lello bookstore. A must-visit and assuredly romantic is the visit to the Crystal Palace gardens. Perfect for a memorable sunset! 

For your second day in Porto, head north of the city, to the Bolhao district. Start with a visit to the Chapel of Souls, an architectural beauty covered with azulejos. The Santa Catarina street, a popular pedestrian artery, is also a superb way to discover local life. A stop at the famous Majestic Café is mandatory! If you're feeling a bit peckish, stop by the Bolhao Market, a colorful covered market where you can taste local flavors. 

If you are wine enthusiasts, an ideal afternoon awaits in the Vila Nova de Gaia district. Dive into the history and wine tradition of Porto by visiting the port wine cellars and tasting the famous port wine. Then, why not end your day in a relaxed coastal atmosphere in the Foz do Douro district. An excellent place for a seafood meal with the ocean as your backdrop. 

Day 3 : Douro Valley (126 km)

Hit the road in your rental car in Portugal, your two-week road trip in Portugal starts today. Epicureans will be thrilled to head to Portugal's prime wine region, the Douro Valley. The Alto Corgo region, with its pronounced reliefs, is actually dotted with beautiful terraced vineyards and home to many picturesque villages along the river.

Start your visit in the pleasant village of Pinhao, simple and welcoming. It is one of the main stops in the Douro Valley. Its station is decorated with azulejos, these traditional ceramic tiles with blue designs and frescoes. A train also offers a fascinating tour of the upper Douro Valley.

If you love the charm of lakes, Tua lake and its namesake locality can be the subject of a nice excursion. For history fans, do not miss Sabrosa, the village that claims to be the birthplace of explorer Magellan. 

In the afternoon, head to Quinta do Noval, one of the most renowned port wine producers. The vineyard is known for producing high-quality Portos, focusing on the expression of terroir. Their selection of wines includes remarkable vintage Portos as well as other styles of Porto.

Continue your discovery of port wine at the vineyard perched on the banks of the Douro, Quinta do Crasto. This vineyard is one of the most respected in the production of red wines and Portos. It is known for its successful blend of tradition and innovation, producing a wide range of wines that reflect the unique character of the Douro Valley.

Day 4 : Aveiro (155 km)

Today, head south towards Aveiro, a charming city on the Atlantic façade of the Iberian Peninsula, also known as "the Venice of Portugal". It is renowned for its charming waterways and multicolored boats.

Start your discovery of Aveiro by walking through its historic district. Do not miss the opportunity to visit the canals by sailing on a moliceiro, a traditional boat of the region. Enjoy this quiet journey along the canals, lined with beautiful Art Nouveau houses.

The Aveiro Cathedral is a must-see during your visit. It is located right in the heart of the city, and its construction dating back to the 15th century is a true work of art! Then, sit down in one of the many restaurants. If ovos moles are on the menu, don’t hesitate, they are a purely local delight. 

Next, head to the Aveiro harbor district. Here, you will find two distinct settings: marshes and beaches. Begin by exploring the salt marshes, which are an integral part of Aveiro's landscape and represent a true local tradition. 

Then, end your day by the sea. Barra Beach offers maritime beauty with its well-known lighthouse. As for Costa Nova, it will charm you with its picturesque multicolored cabins. To close this day, a tasting of fresh fish in a small seaside inn is in order.

Day 5 : Figueira da Foz (76 km)

On this fifth day of your road trip, your destination of the day is a typical seaside resort on the coast. Here, you will find fine sandy beaches, impressive waves for surfers in a warm atmosphere. 

The center represents the vibrant core of Figueira da Foz, where you can find a range of dynamic restaurants, shops, and bars. An emblematic representative of local architecture, the Figuera Casino is at the center of the city's cultural scene, all with a touch of elegance and sophistication. The Santa Catarina Fortress, which dates back to the 16th century, offers a spectacular view of the ocean, especially at sunset.

On a different note, nature lovers will be delighted by the Serra de Boa Viagem. Climb this picturesque mountain for a breathtaking view of Figueira da Foz and its surroundings. You can also explore the trails of the nature reserve.

If you want to experience the seaside charm, Praia de Claridade is renowned for its soft sandy beach and lively promenade. Enjoy the sun, cool off in the sea, and stroll along Avenida do Brasil, lined with restaurants, bars, and shops.

Day 6 : Obidos (116 km)

Now head to Obidos, a charming medieval village. Nestled within walls dating back to the 13th century, Obidos exudes an authentic and picturesque ambiance. You must definitely experience tasting the famous cherry liqueur, the ginjinha, a local specialty. Obidos is a hidden treasure that will enchant history and architecture enthusiasts.

I suggest starting with a visit to the historic district. First, discover the 13th-century fortress, the Castle of Obidos, which offers an incredible panoramic view of the town and its surroundings. Then, visit Santa Maria Church, a Gothic monument decorated with magnificent Portuguese azulejos and stunning architecture. 

Finally, visit the municipal museum to learn more about the history and culture of Obidos through an exhibition of artifacts and artworks. If you are a fan of the medieval world, know that in July, the medieval festival of Obidos offers period music concerts, with actors dressed in medieval costumes and a contagious good mood. 

Day 7 : Evora (196 km)

Your two-week road trip continues in the Alentejo region, heading towards Evora. Known for its rich history and sublime architecture, Evora offers a unique adventure for its visitors. There are a multitude of attractions and activities in this amazing city.

Unsurprisingly, you should start your visit with the historic center, which is filled with charming homes with whitewashed facades and historical monuments that add to the charm of this delightful city. The Evora Cathedral is an architectural masterpiece that deserves a visit. Built in the 13th century, this imposing cathedral offers a spectacular panorama of the city from its summit. 

A visit here would not be complete without seeing the "chapel of bones", located in the Church of Sao Francisco. A true curiosity, it is adorned with human bones and skulls, creating an atmosphere both eerie and captivating. It’s a must for history and architecture enthusiasts. This is also true for the Temple of Diana. Located in the heart of the city, the remains of this temple are a reminder that Evora was an important place in antiquity. Keep your eyes open in the area; you can also see Roman baths and the ancient city gates.

About ten kilometers from the city center, you’ll find the Almendres Cromlech. It is an astonishing site showcasing nearly a hundred monoliths, these vertical stone structures also known as menhirs. Dating back to the Neolithic era, they are a testament to the ancient civilization that lived in this region. 

Days 8-10 : Algarve (226 km)

The next destination, the Algarve, deserves several days. Between golden sandy beaches, spectacular cliffs, and crystal-clear water, southern Portugal is a true sunny dream. 

For your first day, discover Faro, the main city of the Algarve, which is famous for its old fortified town and its narrow paths. Be sure to visit the impressive beach of Faro Island, which can be accessed by boat from the city.

Then stroll through the cobbled streets of the old quarter of Faro and explore the cathedral and local museums. Then, if you feel like it, embark on a boat excursion to admire the incredible islands of the Ria Formosa, a protected natural park. End your first day by tasting the excellent seafood and fresh fish dishes served in Faro's restaurants.

For your second day, discover the west of the region with a stop in Lagos. Discover the marine caves by embarking on a sea tour to meet the splendid rock formations and marine caves of Lagos. 

Then enjoy the beaches of Lagos such as Dona Ana or Camilo, perfect places to relax and sunbathe. Enjoy this well-deserved rest or continue your exploration nearby by heading to Cape Sao Vicente and the city of Sagres. 

For your last day in Algarve, head to Albufeira, a seaside town known for its beautiful beaches and its nightlife. Discover the colorful alleys of the old town and savor the charm of the bars, restaurants, and shops.

Immerse yourself in the past of the town by wandering its charming alleys and exploring its churches and museums. Albufeira is also famous for its numerous beaches, including the renowned Praia dos Pescadores beach. Here, you can swim, sunbathe, or engage in water sports. 

End your stay here by experiencing the vibrant nightlife, with a multitude of bars, clubs, and discos. And if you want to discover the Algarve by motorhome, we've dedicated an article to it. Don't hesitate to check it out!

Days 11-14 : Lisbon (278 km)

Your two-week road trip in Portugal is coming to an end. Finish your journey in the country's capital, Lisbon. It is located at the mouth of the Tagus, whose wide estuary looks like an inland sea. 

Start your journey in Alfama, the oldest district in the city that remarkably survived the 1755 earthquake and subsequent tsunami. Soak up its medieval ambiance by strolling through its narrow streets and discovering its historic churches.

The Castelo de São Jorge is an emblematic historical site. Perched on a hill, it offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and the river. This medieval castle played a key role in Portugal's history.

The viewpoint of Santa Lucia is an excellent romantic spot. This charming viewpoint, decorated with azulejos, probably offers the best view of Lisbon. The cathedral Sé Patriarcal is the oldest church in the city, built on the foundations of a Moorish mosque. The Monastery of Sao Vicente da Fora is an immense building that dominates the city. It is worth visiting for its magnificent azulejos and the sumptuous view of Lisbon it offers.

For your second day in Lisbon, explore the Baixa and Chiado districts, the vibrant heart of Lisbon, meticulously rehabilitated after the 1755 earthquake. You will be captivated by the contrast between the perfectly aligned streets, a testament to the visionary project of the Marquis of Pombal, and the alleys preserving their original charm. It's this harmony between modernity and tradition that gives Lisbon its unique appeal.

Let yourself be seduced by the vastness of Praça do Comércio, framed by colorful buildings, and take the time to explore the shops and cafes of Rua Augusta. The Santa Justa Elevator is a true challenge to describe… This construction is unique and typically Lisboan. Imagine a slim industrial tower, dotted with Gothic windows. Don’t miss the chance to use it!

For your final day before departure, head towards the Belem district, an essential destination during a visit to Lisbon.

The Belem Tower is a key symbol of the town, a true gem of Manueline architecture, which seems to watch over the port of Lisbon since the time of the great navigators. 

For those with a sweet tooth, you must absolutely try the pasteis de Belem, these delicious golden pastries, crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, are an invitation to taste Portuguese history and tradition with every bite. 

Then head towards the Monastery of the Hieronymites, an imposing Manueline Gothic building, symbolic of the golden age of Portuguese discoveries. Its intricate façade is adorned with detailed sculptures that tell the country's history. 

Don't forget to also visit the Bairro Alto district, renowned for its lively nightlife and trendy bars. A good final tribute to your two-week road trip in Portugal. After a good night's sleep, it will be time for you to head to the airport for your return flight!

There you go! You are ready to discover the wonders of Portugal. For any additional questions, express yourself in the comments section below.