Discover northern Portugal by RV

Imagine yourself on the Portuguese roads behind the wheel of an RV, admiring the landscape passing by before your eyes…

Welcome to northern Portugal ! Less known than the Algarve, this region with its green valleys, picturesque villages, and lovely beaches has a lot to offer. Embark your entire tribe on an 8-day road trip in northern Portugal in an RV !
 

Summary of the road trip in northern Portugal in an RV

Days 1-2 : Lisbon

Here you are in the capital, your trip to Portugal can begin ! If you are wondering what to do in Lisbon, here are some visit ideas that should please you. I first advise you to start exploring Lisbon's historic center on foot.

Discover Alfama, the oldest district of the city, with its winding streets, colorful houses, and picturesque viewpoints. A visit to the Castle of São Jorge, perched on a hill, will offer you a breathtaking view of Lisbon. By the way, the Santa Justa lift too ! It is a small architectural masterpiece from which you will have a view of the entire city.

For lunch, dive into authentic Portuguese cuisine by tasting traditional dishes in a tasca, those neighborhood canteens found everywhere. The pastéis de bacalhau (codfish balls) and grilled fish of the day are must-tries.

Then hop on the famous tram 28 at Praça Martim Moniz. This iconic tram will take you through Lisbon's most picturesque neighborhoods, with a recommended stop in Bairro Alto to enjoy the bohemian atmosphere and lively bars.

In the evening, book a table in a traditional restaurant to enjoy delicious Portuguese cuisine accompanied by local wine. Some of these establishments also offer fado, the traditional Portuguese music performances.

The next morning, head to the LX Factory, a creative and cultural district filled with cafes and shops. Then, explore the Berardo Museum, which houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, featuring works by renowned artists such as Picasso, Warhol, and Dalí.

For a lunch break, head to the Mercado da Ribeira, also known as Time Out Market, where you can taste a variety of Portuguese and international dishes in a lively atmosphere.

In the afternoon, take a tram or bus to the Belém district. There, you can visit the Hieronymites Monastery, the Belém Tower, and the Monument to the Discoveries. Don't forget to taste the famous pastéis de Belém, those small custard tarts with a slightly caramelized top.

In the late afternoon, head to the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte for an unforgettable sunset with a panoramic view of Lisbon. In the evening, go to the Baixa-Chiado district near Lisbon Cathedral to dine at one of the local restaurants, then explore the city's vibrant nightlife in the surrounding bars and clubs.

Days 3-4 : Porto (314 km)

This third day of the road trip in Portugal in an RV is dedicated to Porto. Your stay in this lovely coastal city known for its eponymous wine promises to be full of discoveries. You can stay at the Parque de Campismo de Salgueiros which is well-located.

Start exploring the Ribeira on foot, Porto's medieval district classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The narrow streets, colorful houses, and the Douro River flowing at your feet create a unique atmosphere.

At mid-day, dive into Porto's wine culture by visiting one of the cellars located in Vila Nova de Gaia, on the other side of the Douro. Enjoy a tasting and an exciting guided tour.

Next, admire Porto from the famous Dom Luís I Bridge, a magnificent iron bridge offering an exceptional panoramic view. For art lovers, the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art is a must-visit, followed by a stroll in the surrounding gardens.

End this first day beautifully by attending a fado show. The A Casa do Fado and Ideal Clube de Fado venues offer concerts throughout the year.

Your second day begins with a visit to the São Francisco Church, a Gothic building with richly decorated interiors in a baroque style. Then head to the Bolhão Market, a lively place where you can buy local and artisanal products, to taste on-site or take home.

For lunch, try bifanas, these small typical Portuguese sandwiches filled with slices of pork, or francesinhas (meat sandwiches covered with cheese and sauce). For dessert, try queijadas, which are almond and fresh sheep cheese tarts.

Next, explore the famous Lello bookstore with its impressive wooden stairs and then climb to the top of the Clerigos Tower for a panoramic view of the city. The Palacio da Bolsa is also a must-see monument.

Your day continues with a visit to the Tramway Museum, which traces the fascinating history of Porto's trams. End your road trip in Porto beautifully with a nighttime stroll along the Douro, where you can admire the city's sparkling lights.
 

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Day 5 : Douro Valley (127 km)

The Douro valley, where terraced vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see, is a must-visit during a road trip in northern Portugal in an RV. On the way from Porto, stop at Amarante and Vila Real before arriving at Pinhão. Feel free to park your RV at the Parque de Pernoita de Autocaravanas.

Enjoy a wine tasting at one of the local wineries to discover the famous Port wines. Then, take the scenic road along the Douro River between Pinhão and Peso da Régua, offering breathtaking landscapes. Stop at a few viewpoints to take photos and end the day with a cruise on the Douro to admire the panorama from the water.

Day 6 : Braga (136 km)

It is time to hit the road again in your RV towards Braga. On your way, don't hesitate to make a stop at Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal, with its rich heritage. It's hard not to fall for its medieval castle, the Ducal Palace, the Vila Flor Palace, and its UNESCO-listed historic center.

You now arrive in Braga. Nicknamed the Portuguese Rome, Braga is the oldest city in the country, built by the Romans over 2000 years ago.

I recommend starting your visit with the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site. There you will discover a beautiful basilica accessed by a monumental staircase in three sections. If you don't have the energy to climb the 600 steps leading to the sanctuary, take the funicular! Take the time to also visit the Santuário do Sameiro located 2 km away, you won't regret it.

As you head back towards the historic center, don't miss the beautiful Basílica dos Congregados and the Palácio do Raio located nearby. Still in the same area, you can discover the sublime Theatro Circo through a guided tour or by attending one of the many shows in its program. The Jardim de Santa Bárbara is also worth a visit. Also, pass by the Casa dos Crivos to see its unique facade covered with shutters.

For a well-deserved break, have a coffee at A Brasileira, one of the most beautiful and oldest cafes in the city.

If you want to learn more about the daily life of the Portuguese nobility between the 17th and 19th centuries, visit the Museu dos Biscainhos and then pass under the Arco da Porta Nova, the monumental gate that linked the medieval city to the new town. After that, head towards the Sé de Braga, the cathedral dating back to the 12th century.

Just 7 km from Braga is the monastery of Tibães, one of the richest Benedictine monasteries in northern Portugal. Don’t miss it; it's a true gem!

Day 7 : Figueira da Foz (190 km)

Your Portuguese getaway continues! Take the wheel of your RV and head to Figueira da Foz. But before reaching your destination, stop at Aveiro. Dubbed the Portuguese Venice, the city is crisscrossed by numerous canals navigated by small colorful boats. You can even take a cruise on the Ria de Aveiro.

To get a good overview of the city's beauty, start by passing by the old train station with its white facade decorated with azulejos. The Parque Infante Dom Pedro, the cathedral, the Praça da República are also must-sees. Take a gourmet break at Confeitaria Peixinho, a true institution where I particularly recommend tasting the ovos moles. This confectionery has been open since 1856, can you believe it!

Once in Figueira da Foz, all you have to do is enjoy its magnificent beaches like Praia de Buarcos and Praia do Cabedelo. It’s lovely to stroll through the Buarcos neighborhood to discover its typical buildings. In the city center, the Palácio Sotto Mayor and the Santa Catarina fortress are really worth a look.

Day 8 : Lisbon (197 km)

The last day of your trip in northern Portugal in an RV has arrived. But before returning to Lisbon, you can stop at Sintra to discover its extravagant palaces. Among the must-sees, there are:

• the National Palace of Pena
• the Moorish Castle
• the National Palace of Sintra
• the Palace of Regaleira
• the Palace of Monserrate

I recommend parking your RV at the following location: Praça Dom Fernando II, 2710-490 Sintra, then visiting the sites on foot or by taxi.

Once back in Lisbon, you can head to one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the capital to admire the view one last time and take some stunning photos. Here are my favorites:

• Miradouro de Santa Luzia
• Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara
• Miradouro da Graça
• Miradouro das Portas do Sol

Finally, don't leave Lisbon without tasting the ice creams from Gelados Santini, the best ice cream shop in the city.

You now know the best itinerary in northern Portugal in an RV! Feel free to share your favorites and recommendations in the comments.