After 5 completely different visits to Portugal (one being a highway journey), I’ve lastly determined to pen down this submit. Right here’s all the knowledge you want for the perfect 2 weeks in Portugal.
My first Portugal journey was in 2016 and it was love at first sight once I arrived in Lisbon. That point Portugal felt like a heat sip of a comforting caffeinated drink on a chilly winter day. I did go to 4 extra occasions after that and every time was particular.
Beginning Level for two Weeks in Portugal
Our highway journey to Portugal really began in Germany as a result of we drove with our campervan from house. We crossed France, and Spain after which entered Portugal. We arrived within the North of Portugal close to Coimbra.
I perceive that not many will really drive from their very own nation for a highway journey in Portugal, however as an alternative fly and hire a automotive.
For the sake of this itinerary, I recommend you fly to Faro, the south of Portugal. Faro is the gateway to the Algarve so you can begin your journey with beautiful seashores earlier than you progressively make your method to the North. An alternative choice can be to fly to Porto, the north of Portugal, after which make your method to the south.
At each Faro and Porto airports, you can find automotive rental cubicles however I all the time suggest you e book a rental automotive upfront in order that there aren’t any last-minute surprises. In your 2-week Portugal itinerary, you would additionally fly to Lisbon, however then it’s important to do your highway journey in a circle.
Remember the fact that Portugal is a small nation, so a drive from Lisbon to Porto will simply take 3 hours, or additionally Lisbon to Faro
Portugal Street Journey Itinerary + Map
In the event you see the map of Portugal, you’ll discover that the nation’s form is a bit like an extended rectangle. So it makes it an ideal nation for a highway journey ranging from the highest finish of the rectangle to the underside (or vice versa).
That’s precisely how I’ve made this itinerary. You can begin from the underside or high, it is determined by the way you wish to do it.
Faro, Algarve – 1 Day (Optionally available)
Our first cease on this highway journey is Faro. When you’ve got learn my Algarve highway journey submit, then you understand by now that Faro is the right place to start out a highway journey.
I’m in love with the Algarve. The seashores are sandy, the climate is nice, the rock formation is tremendous beautiful, and because of this, there are a number of viewpoints. Furthermore, you may hike from one seaside to a different in lots of elements of the Algarve and that’s what makes the expertise much more particular.
You’ll land in Faro, decide up your rental automotive, and drive on the scenic path to discover the Algarve. It’s as much as you whether or not you wish to keep in Faro in your first day, or simply drive additional to Carvoeiro (our subsequent cease).
I’ve stayed the evening in Faro on two events and I loved this tiny metropolis with a historic middle. All the things in Faro is so shut to one another. You may simply stroll from anyplace in Faro to the marina and the outdated city.
I booked a spot to remain close to the prepare station the primary time I used to be right here however determined to remain proper subsequent to the marina on the second go to.
In the event you do resolve to remain in Faro for an evening, then the best place so that you can spend your night is the marina, and Cidade Velha (the outdated city). See town partitions in Vila Adentro.
Stroll round in Cidade Velha and decide a restaurant with out of doors seating for dinner. I ate in Taberna Modesto within the outdated city and had a beautiful meal. Sleep and rejuvenate after dinner to drive to the attractive seashores of the Algarve the subsequent day.
Carvoeiro, Algarve – 2-3 days
Questioning what’s the perfect place to go to within the Algarve? It’s Carvoeiro.
Probably the most well-known spots of the Algarve are simple to entry from Carvoeiro. I’m speaking concerning the legendary Marinha Seaside and Benagil Cave.
Carvoeiro is the explanation why I went again to the Algarve inside simply 11 months as an alternative of choosing a brand new vacation spot. There are seashores, caves, and beautiful hikes.
Right here’s what you are able to do in Carvoeiro in your 3 days right here.
Vale de Centeanes Seaside
Carvoeiro has a couple of seashores however the perfect one is Vale de Centeanes. Since you might be in Carvoeiro for simply three days, profit from your time by stress-free on Vale de Centeanes.
Not like Praia do Carvoeiro (the primary seaside near Carvoeiro city middle), Vale de Centeanes doesn’t get as crowded. We stayed very near this seaside at Rocha Brava Village Resort so we simply walked and reached this seaside.
There’s a small bar/restaurant at Vale de Centeanes on the entry level. I recommend you stroll somewhat farther from there until the time you discover the arch of a cave. Sit right here as a result of the water is cleaner subsequent to it for a swim.
Algar Seco (Sundown)
That is unmissable. In the event you arrive late in Carvoeiro, then skip the seaside and simply go for a stroll to Algar Seco Caves.
There may be a whole Carvoeiro Boardwalk that one can do, however for that, you want extra time. One of the best half is the Algar Seco caves. Midway on the Carvoeiro Boardwalk, you can find an indication for “A Boneca”. That’s an exquisite cave and there’s additionally a restaurant with the identical title.
The entry for “A Boneca” cave is thru the restaurant. Go inside “A Boneca” and see a magical sundown. There are two holes, that appear like the eyes.
This cave is tiny so I recommend you be aware of different guests and depart when you’re finished admiring this beautiful spot in order that the queues don’t construct up behind you.
There are extra caves throughout and the rock formations jogged my memory somewhat of Cappadocia. Stroll round right here and admire the wonder. Discover a good spot to sit down on one of many rocks and see the fantastic thing about the golden hour.
Benagil Cave
Your second day in Portugal (in the event you didn’t keep in a single day in Faro) will begin with a go to to Benagil Cave. It’s a hidden seaside inside a cave with a gap on high that filters the pure gentle.
I’ve visited the Benagil Cave twice. It’s a beautiful cave that has change into very fashionable on Instagram. The one method to get pleasure from it’s by attending to it by 9 am. So get up early and arrive at Benagil village by taxi out of your resort at 8:45 am.
The one method to attain Benagil Cave is by kayaking or paddleboarding. In the event you haven’t finished kayaking or paddleboarding, the simplest method to begin is by becoming a member of a bunch tour. They’ll instruct you and information you. In any other case, you may all the time go for a ship journey.
There are boat excursions that go to the Benagil Cave too however the boats aren’t allowed to cease inside to dump individuals.
If you wish to stroll on Benagil Cave seaside, then the one method in is by kayaking or paddleboarding. Neglect swimming as a result of it isn’t protected due to the rocks. Imagine it or not, I did each. I kayaked to the Benagil collapse 2022 and Stand Up Paddleboarded to it in 2023.
You are able to do a tour like I did, or simply hire a kayak or a paddleboard on Benagil seaside as quickly as you arrive. I did a tour as a result of I needed to be protected and didn’t wish to collide with the rocks. Please learn my particulars submit about Benagil Caves right here.
Seven Hanging Valleys Path
The Seven Hanging Valleys path really begins from Vale de Centeanes in Carvoeiro to Praia da Marinha. This whole climbing path is scenic however one of the best ways to do it’s to divide it into sections. Probably the most scenic a part of the Seven Hanging Valleys path is from Benagil to Marinha.
After you might be finished with visiting the Benagil Cave seaside, go up on the cliffs to start out this hike and go within the route in direction of the Marinha seaside.
Additionally, you will have the ability to see the Benagil Cave from the outlet on the highest. It’s fenced off however some individuals jumped the fence. It’s harmful as a result of in the event you slip, you would significantly injure your self.
Despite the fact that Portugal will get sizzling in the summertime months, this hike is completely doable through the day as a result of there are bushes round.
Carry a hat and water. This climbing path doesn’t have a boardwalk however a path over the rocks that has many viewpoints and every one is particular.
We did a piece of this hike every day and noticed one thing new. There’s a coronary heart within the rocks that’s on the finish of this hike proper above Praia da Marinha seaside close to the elephant rock.
We got here right here to observe the sundown too and it was a tremendous expertise. Though we couldn’t actually see the solar setting due to the route. That is extra of a dawn spot than a sundown since it’s east-facing.
Marinha Seaside
Praia da Marinha is the prettiest seaside within the Algarve and has received many awards. I received’t go into the main points however to deep dive into extra information, see my Marinha Seaside weblog submit.
Now that you’ve arrived at Praia da Marinha, get pleasure from a swim within the clear and chilly waters of this seaside. Swim across the arch on the Marinha seaside and benefit from the magnificence.
Sure, the water right here is chilly since you’re swimming within the Atlantic Ocean, however it’s tremendous refreshing and enjoyable, particularly on a sizzling summer time day after the hike.
Marinha Seaside has a pleasant restaurant and bar that’s family-run and has inexpensive costs. I cherished this little restaurant a lot that I ate there twice. Additionally they have wonderful Sangrias.
We loved Marinha Seaside a lot that we stayed right here for a full day and visited it once more the subsequent day. It didn’t really feel crowded despite the fact that we visited through the summer time months.
The place to Keep in Carvoeiro
Rocha Brava Village Resort – That is the place we stayed. It’s a beautiful resort with wonderful villas, and residences and is near the seaside. The Seven Hanging Valleys path begins from proper right here.
Campsites Ferragudo – In the event you rented a van as an alternative of a automotive, then it makes extra sense to remain in a campsite as an alternative of a resort. Additionally it is referred to as “CCL – Parque de Campismo de Ferragudo”.
Lagos, Algarve – 3 days
Your subsequent cease within the Algarve is Lagos. It’s so significantly better than different locations like Portimão or Albufeira. In some way most vacationers go to Albufeira and that’s it.
I’ve steered 3 days in Lagos for you however I stayed right here for per week myself as a result of I fell in love with its simple vibes. In the event you resolve to remain right here for an extended period then see my submit with issues to do in Lagos which has extra actions than what I point out right here.
Lagos is simply 42 kilometers from Carvoeiro and therefore a brief drive away. Actually, in the event you hate packing and unpacking to maneuver rooms, then it would make extra sense so that you can keep put in simply one in every of these locations.
For me, it made extra sense to remain in these locations individually in order that some issues which are finished tremendous early (like Benagil Cave) or late (like particular sundown hikes) are simpler to do while you’re sleeping shut by.
Ponta da Piedade (Sundown Hike)
Ponta da Piedade is the perfect climbing path within the Algarve, if not all the Portugal. Not like the Seven Haning Valleys hike that I discussed earlier than, this one is a fenced boardwalk so feels safer.
There are a number of viewpoints on this climbing route and there’s normally a gazebo for each good viewpoint. You don’t have to do that whole hike.
Simply go close to the Ponta da Piedade lighthouse close to the sundown and discover a spot to sit down on high of the rocks. The sudden drop under you’ll take your breath away.
We discovered a pleasant spot right here that missed a hidden seaside and confronted the west, so excellent for seeing the sundown. I used to be in Lagos for per week and went again to this spot each single night.
If you wish to do all the Ponta da Piedade hike, you may learn my submit about it. I did the entire route and break up it over a couple of days. You may hike from one seaside to a different and it’s completely value it you probably have time.
Camilo Seaside
There are many seashores in Lagos, however the perfect one is Praia do Camilo. It’s beautiful however is tiny. The water may be very clear and the sand is ideal. There are arches, rock formations, and in addition a cave.
Praia do Camilo tends to get crowded as a result of it’s so fairly, so the perfect time to go to it’s at 9:30 am proper after breakfast. I did that too and it was empty. The seaside is split into two sections and it’s important to undergo a cave to succeed in the second half.
With the intention to attain Praia do Camilo, it’s important to go on the identical path that goes to Ponta da Piedade, however simply earlier than it’s a flip that factors to Camilo restaurant. That’s the entryway for Praia do Camilo too.
You need to climb plenty of steps to succeed in this seaside, however belief me it’s value it. Sadly, it has no wheelchair or pram entry. There are numerous spots to cease and admire the view as you climb down this large staircase.
I additionally noticed a tiny snack bar at Praia do Camilo, so you should purchase your fundamentals. There isn’t any WC right here on this seaside.
Dona Ana seaside
Praia de Dona Ana is a large seaside that’s wonderful for a swim. There are good rock formations right here and because of this, there are some shaded areas to sit down on a sizzling summer time day.
The primary time I visited Dona Ana seaside was from a hike from the close by Pinhão seaside, which is tremendous tiny. The primary view of Dona Ana seaside from up on the rocks took my breath away.
There’s a restaurant on Dona Ana seaside with a bar. I didn’t go there however my pal did to make use of the WC. There may be additionally a bus cease proper on the entry level of Dona Ana so it’s simple to succeed in with public transportation.
This seaside was fully empty at 6 pm as a result of the solar went behind the rocks and all the seaside was coated in shade. I cherished the view of it from the highest when the solar began happening.
Dona Ana will not be removed from the outdated city. Really, the seashores which are nearer to the primary city are Praia da Batata and Praia dos Estudantes. You may learn extra about these seashores in my submit about Lagos’ seashores.
Praia do Canavial
If you wish to go off the overwhelmed path in Lagos, I recommend you hike to Praia do Canavial. You need to go on the Ponta da Piedade hike and preserve occurring this path for a very long time to see this seaside.
It wasn’t simple to seek out it however I obtained fortunate and located somebody on the climbing path who simply obtained out of this seaside. It was sort of like an journey to succeed in right here.
This seaside may be very good as a result of it’s empty. That’s why it’s a nudist seaside or FKK seaside. The sand was a tad pebbly and the rock formations had been fairly okay when in comparison with the opposite seashores. However the thrill of journey made this go to memorable.
Lagos Outdated City
Sure, Lagos is a seaside vacation spot however has an attention-grabbing metropolis middle. There are outdated buildings which are coated with Azulejos. The time I visited, there have been Jacaranda bushes, citrus bushes, and bougainvillea throughout the outdated city and the whole lot was blooming and fruiting.
I like that Lagos is a surprising seaside vacation spot but additionally has a historic small-town vibe. This is the reason I really feel that Lagos is a crucial spot on this Portugal highway journey itinerary as a result of it just about has the whole lot.
The place to Keep in Lagos
B22 – Rising Solar 2 Mattress Flat – Ideally fitted to households and {couples} who’re on the lookout for an condominium with a view. I’d e book this in a heartbeat if I used to be visiting with my husband and my little lady.
Lemon Tree Enjoyable Visitor Home – Peaceable Place with a backyard and a shared kitchen.
Safari Seaside Visitor Home – Reasonably priced non-public rooms and dorm beds in a quiet residential space. That is the place I stayed and cherished it.
Kampaoh Praia da Luz – This can be a good campground and it is sensible to remain right here you probably have a campervan.
Trindade Visitor Home and Tenting – In the event you arrive in Lagos on a camper van, then you may contemplate this place because it has van parking and tenting amenities too.
Lisbon and Sintra – 3 days
Ola Lisboa, you might be simply so stunning!
I don’t like large cities however I make an exception for Lisbon as a result of it’s so fairly. It has a great deal of historical past thus one can discover historic buildings, church buildings streets, and buildings. Sure, a number of large European cities have a wealthy historical past, however Lisbon has a lot extra.
Lisbon is constructed on seven hills and because of this, there are various viewpoints. These are referred to as “Miradouro” and there are various. A number of the streets are slanted and you may see the Tagus River from a couple of of them.
Strolling on Lisbon’s slender streets with pastel homes throughout and yellow trams, I felt I used to be part of a Wes Anderson film.
If you’re driving to Lisbon, then contemplate parking your rented automotive or van at Lisboa Bungalows & Tenting, which is somewhat away from the busy metropolis middle. Driving in Portugal’s busy cities is not any enjoyable, so keep away from it in the event you can.
There are numerous issues to do right here, I like to recommend you spend at the least three days right here. You may get your self a Lisbon card which covers the transport and historic buildings.
It’s value it solely if you wish to go inside historic buildings. I didn’t get the Lisbon card, however I nonetheless managed all proper as a result of I didn’t have plans to go inside greater than 1-2 historic buildings.
Eat Pastel de Nata
Pastel de Nata is a well-known Portuguese egg tart pastry, which was invented in Lisbon by monks to make use of up leftover eggs. It turned well-liked and the recipe was then offered to Pastéis de Belém. You don’t should go all the way in which there however discover any random bakery the place you eat this amazingly filling snack that makes a great breakfast.
Alfama & Graça
Lisbon is fairly however Alfama is the icing on high. It’s Lisbon’s oldest district and is usually residential. The well-known historic Castelo de São Jorge is on one facet of Alfama and on the opposite is the Tagus River.
Stroll on Alfama’s slender streets and get misplaced within the labyrinth. Watch how the Yellow Tram 28 strikes on these slanted streets. A notable outdated avenue in Alfama is Rua dos Remédios, which is only for pedestrians. I uncover one thing new every time I stroll in Alfama.
There are a bunch of free strolling excursions in Alfama however you may simply discover this cute outdated city by yourself at your tempo.
Proper above Alfama is Graça, which is Lisbon’s highest district. Be ready to climb to the highest of the hill to enter Graça and sit for a drink subsequent to Miradouro da Graça, there’s an open-air cafe/bar right here).
Observe Tram 28 Route
Lisbon’s historic trams are cute however tram 28 is particular as a result of it goes via Alfama & Graça. It isn’t simple to get on the tram 28 due to loopy lengthy traces however you may simply comply with its path and {photograph} it.
Personally, I believe standing in an extended line can be such a time waste as a result of Lisbon has so many wonderful issues to do and you may’t simply get caught on to at least one.
I’ve been to Portugal 5 occasions and nonetheless not obtained on to the tram 28. By the way in which, Lisbon has purple trams too they usually transfer round in Alfama as effectively.
Castelo de São Jorge
Let’s discuss probably the most well-known historic constructing of Lisbon, the São Jorge Fortress (or St. George’s Fortress) which is perched on high of a hill overlooking Alfama. This citadel is so outdated that the primary fortification right here dates again to the 2nd century BC.
With the intention to go to the São Jorge Fortress, it’s important to arrive right here tremendous early as a result of the queues are longer than you may think about. In the event you arrive a bit late, you may overlook about coming into it and transfer on to the subsequent place.
In the event you do handle to get inside Castelo de São Jorge, you’ll get pleasure from a panoramic view of Lisbon.
In the event you don’t wish to wait in line and may’t go inside Castelo de São Jorge, simply stroll somewhat additional and you’ll arrive on the citadel’s church tower – “Torre da Igreja do Castelo de São Jorge”. The road right here was non-existent and I paid 5 euros to enter and went as much as see the view. I additionally obtained a free glass of wine!
Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Portas do Sol
There are two viewpoints in Lisbon proper subsequent to one another and are completely definitely worth the go to. Miradouro de Santa Luzia is on a decrease stage with an exquisite tiled sitting space and magenta bougainvillea rising on the arches on high.
Proper above it’s Miradouro das Portas do Sol, which is extra open and in addition has an open-air bar, so you may seize a drink right here and sit subsequent to the railing to admire the view of Lisbon’s red-roofed buildings and Tagus river.
I recommend you see the sundown at Miradouro de Santa Luzia after which head to Miradouro das Portas do Sol for a couple of cocktails. Miradouro de Santa Luzia tends to really feel extra crowded as a result of it’s smaller and tremendous fairly. In the event you can get up early then come right here for a dawn expertise.
Jerónimos Monastery & Belém Tower
Jerónimos Monastery & Belém Tower are historic buildings shut to one another. They’re a bit removed from Alfama and Rossio, so it’s important to get on an Uber to go to them.
Go to Jerónimos Monastery early as a result of the queues are inclined to get lengthy. Lisboa Card will get you skip-the-line privileges nevertheless it isn’t all the time doable when issues go uncontrolled. This together with the close by Belém Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Website.
Belém Tower is an emblem of the Age of Discoveries and is a beautiful landmark. Actually, you don’t should enter it to understand it however you may admire the way it seems from the skin as effectively.
Rossio Sq. to Santa Simply Elevate
Irrespective of the place you keep in Lisbon, you’ll in some unspecified time in the future cross the primary Rossio Sq.. It’s a large sq. with geometrical flooring tiles, a fountain, and outdated buildings throughout. There may be additionally normally an extended queue right here for tram 28.
From Rossio, you may stroll to Baixa and on to Rua de Santa Justa. This avenue is fairly and you will note a Neo-Gothic model tower which is a historic elevator constructing. Through the excessive season in the summertime months, the traces are very lengthy and it doesn’t make sense to go up.
Arco da Rua Augusta
From Rossio, stroll to Arco da Rua Augusta – the primary procuring avenue of Lisbon which may be very busy. It’s lined with eating places and retailers. On the finish of the road is the Augusta Arc.
You may cease on this avenue at Fábrica da Nata for Pastel de Nata. There are numerous touristy eating places on this avenue which are overpriced. One place value visiting is Imprensa Cocktail & Oyster Bar for wonderful drinks.
Stroll to the Augusta arc and admire it. Past it, you will note Praça do Comércio and the Tagus River.
Stroll Alongside the Tagus river
From the Augusta arc, stroll alongside the Tagus River. There are marble sitting buildings alongside the river the place you may sit and spend a while. As you stroll alongside the Tagus River, you will note some carts with cocktails on the market.
Time Out Lisboa / Mercado da Ribeira
Stroll somewhat additional alongside the Tagus River and you will note a constructing with “Mercado da Ribeira” written on it. It’s a tremendous place for meals that was additionally featured on the “Anyone Feed Phill” present on Netflix.
Mercado da Ribeira additionally referred to as Time Out Lisboa, is greater than only a regular meals court docket. It’s a assortment of fastidiously curated eateries with a number of the greatest cooks from throughout Lisbon. You can find not solely a number of conventional Portuguese meals but additionally worldwide meals.
The center a part of Time Out Lisboa has cocktail bars and we had Aperol Spritzes from right here. The all-around these bars had been eating tables with shared seating. The ambiance general was tremendous informal.
Bairro Alto or Pink Road for Nightlife
Just some steps from the Time Out Manufacturing facility is Pink Road. Identical to the title, the road is definitely pink in colour with umbrellas on high. It’s the place you can begin your night and revel in a couple of cocktails.
The primary space for nightlife in Lisbon is only a bit forward of Pink Road – it’s Bairro Alto. That’s the place a number of locals and vacationers go for an evening of celebration and it kind of jogged my memory of Bangkok’s Khao San Street.
The place to Keep in Lisbon
If you’re driving to Lisbon, then I discussed Lisboa Bungalows & Tenting already. It’s a bit away from the busy middle.
In the event you don’t thoughts driving in Lisbon’s slender lanes, listed here are a couple of locations I believe you may contemplate within the outdated city of Alfama and Graca.
There may be way more to do in Lisbon than what I’ve talked about above. Despite the fact that most of those spots are simply 100 – 200 meters away from one another, don’t underestimate the quantity of vitality you have to to stroll in Lisbon. Town is constructed on hills, thus the streets are sloped and one must climb quite a bit.
There are extra issues to do right here like LX Manufacturing facility, Dwell Fado Reveals, the Christo Rei statue, and lots of extra viewpoints. See my Lisbon itinerary for extra issues to do right here.
Pena Palace, Sintra
In the event you parked your automotive at Lisboa Tenting, then Sintra is lower than a 30-minute drive away. In that case, you may keep put in the identical campground and see Sintra on a day journey from Lisbon.
Sintra has mountains, seashores, small fishing villages, and a technicolor fortress perched on high of a hill – Pena Palace. This UNESCO World Heritage Sita can be one of many seven wonders of Portugal.
The very first thing you must do while you arrive in Sintra is to see Pena Palace. The palace itself is beautiful and multicolored. It’s in contrast to any constructing you’d ever see. The view from Pena Palace is spectacular as a result of there are mountains throughout.
Cascais
After visiting Pena Place, drive for 25 minutes in direction of the coast to succeed in Cascais, which is an exquisite seaside resort city with was earlier a easy fishing village. Take a break and calm down on the huge sandy seaside of Cascais. Go to Guincho Seaside or Praia do Tamariz.
After Lisbon and Pena Palace, you is likely to be bored of historic buildings so a breach break can be good for you. If not, Cascais additionally has historic buildings – Nossa Senhora da Luz Fort, the Citadel Palace, and Nossa Senhora da Assunção church.
If you’re taken with nature, then see Boca do Inferno which suggests “Hell’s mouth” and is a rock formation. You need to stroll alongside the water on the rocks and go a bit uphill to reach right here. Additionally, that is the spot from the place you’ll get a pleasant waterfront view of Cascais.
Cabo da Roca
After seeing Cascais, drive for one more half-hour to succeed in Cabo da Roca, which is the westernmost level of Europe. It’s a viewpoint on a 140-meter-high cliff that appears out to sea the place you may stand and wave at America.
There are numerous climbing trails that begin right here. There may be additionally a small cafe with touristy costs. There’s a lighthouse right here too, Farol do Cabo da Roca.
It might get very windy up right here so carry a jacket. If you’re fortunate, additionally, you will see a musician or two right here busking. Cabo da Roca is part of the Sintra-Cascais Pure Park.
By the way in which, the parking at Cabo da Roca is free and typically there are individuals who attempt to rip-off guests by asking for a parking price.
This brings us to the tip of Lisbon and Sintra as a part of the itinerary. If you wish to skip North Portugal, then you may catch a flight to the Azores Islands from Lisbon. Else, prepare for a brief drive to the subsequent vacation spot.
Óbidos – Cease for Sightseeing
The fantastic thing about a highway journey in Portugal is that not one of the locations are an extended drive away. All the things is so shut, so the drive from Sintra to your subsequent high – Nazaré is simply 1.5 hours.
Simply in direction of the tip of this drive, you’ll cross a historic small village referred to as Óbidos. That is the place you may make a small cease for lunch, espresso, or presumably fast sightseeing. Portugal has many attention-grabbing locations however there’s one thing particular about visiting the smaller cities.
Óbidos is situated on high of a hill with fortified metropolis partitions round it. The medieval structure of this little city is effectively preserved and that’s why it has been receiving consideration lately.
With a medieval citadel, outdated metropolis sq., and historic streets, Óbidos has sufficient that can preserve you occupied for a couple of hours.
In comparison with many of the locations talked about on this itinerary, Óbidos is tiny. It is among the superbly preserved medieval villages of Portugal.
Nazaré – 2 days
On my third go to to Portugal, I requested a number of the locals and different vacationers about different attention-grabbing locations to go to within the nation and most steered Nazaré, a surf city on the west coast. So I went again after three months to see Nazaré, and it was my fourth time in Portugal.
Nazaré is world well-known, however not due to the seashores however the waves. They’re large right here. The best wave that was ever surfed was recorded in Nazaré and was 26.2 meters excessive. The document was made by Sebastian Steudtner, a German surfer.
You realize a kind of small cities with a enjoyable vibe that you just go to and get too snug to depart? Nazaré is one in every of them. Right here’s what you are able to do in Nazaré throughout your go to right here.
Praia da Nazaré
Praia da Nazaré is the primary seaside of Nazare and is huge. It’s a good sandy seaside the place I loved a swim on a day when the waves had been calm. Identical to many of the seashores of Portugal, the water right here was very chilly too as a result of it’s the Atlantic Ocean, however was enjoyable nonetheless.
The time I visited Praia da Nazaré, it was fairly full and had a number of households as a result of it was the college trip time in Europe. There have been tented sitting spots that we may hire for a day, however we simply put up our mat as an alternative.
Trip the Funicular Railway to Sítio
Nazare is split into two elements – Decrease Nazare (Praia da Nazaré) and Sítio (Higher Nazare). You may journey the funicular to succeed in the highest, it’s simply EUR 1.50 per method. Whenever you attain the highest, it isn’t only a viewpoint however a whole separate city middle with the whole lot.
Stroll round in Sítio and you will note a tremendous view from many alternative spots. For me, the perfect views are initially of Sítio overlooking Praia da Nazaré.
Sítio is definitely the place from the place you may see the waves and the surfers through the excessive wave season, which is October to February.
If you’re in Sitio, one of many must-see sights right here is the 21-foot Veado statue, which is the physique of a human, the top of a deer, and holding a surfboard. Proper behind it’s Praia do Norte (the North Seaside) the place all of the browsing motion occurs.
Discover Nazaré City
I cherished exploring the maze of slender streets in Nazaré city. The streets seemed whitewashed and with white laundry that was hanging from the home windows to dry.
As you stroll within the route of the seaside, the streets get busier with loud bars and eating places. However in the event you stroll within the different route, you’ll solely see easy residential buildings.
The place to Keep in Nazare
- Vila Fidalgo – Cute residences and ours had a view from the balcony. That is the place I stayed.
- Really feel Nazaré – Boutique Residences which are beachfront
- Resort Mar Bravo – Beachfront with a view
Coimbra or Aveiro – Cease for a lunch
After spending two stress-free days in Nazare, it’s time to hit the highway once more in your final cease – Porto. The drive from Nazaré to Porto is simply 2 hours, which provides you sufficient time to cease someplace so I will provide you with two choices.
Each small cities Aveiro and Coimbra are small cities the place you may cease for lunch and some hours of sightseeing as a result of they’re simply halfway in your drive from Nazare to Porto.
I’ve been to Coimbra, it’s an attention-grabbing outdated metropolis and has the oldest universities or Portugal. Actually, it’s the oldest college within the Portuguese-speaking world and has a surprising library.
Aveiro is smaller than Coimbra and is located alongside a lagoon referred to as Ria de Aveiro. It has canals and colourful boats which are referred to as barcos moliceiros. I personally haven’t visited Aveiro as a result of I went to Coimbra as an alternative.
Porto – 2 – 3 Days
Your final cease in your itinerary for two weeks in Portugal is the historic metropolis of Porto. Please test the site visitors scenario earlier than as a result of I bear in mind standing in a jam for 2-3 hours close to Porto. I’ve realized to be affected person with site visitors jams however they aren’t enjoyable when you’re touring with kids.
Porto is smaller than Lisbon, nevertheless it nonetheless has a number of historic buildings and viewpoints. I even have a submit on my weblog with an in depth comparability of Porto vs Lisbon. Porto is named Oporto in Portuguese.
I will provide you with a tip for exploring Porto. This metropolis has a number of historic buildings and landmarks. With the intention to get pleasure from your journey and calm down somewhat throughout your vacation, don’t put strain on your self to see as many historic landmarks as doable. You should have extra enjoyable while you give your self time to calm down, discover somewhat spontaneously, sit at random open-air bars for a drink, and simply chill.
Spend three days in Porto if you wish to expertise this metropolis in a soothing method. If you’re brief on time then two days are additionally sufficient. See my listing of really helpful issues to do right here:
Ribeira (Riverfront)
Ribeira is Porto’s outdated city and can be the historic middle. However at this level I’m not speaking about all the outdated city, however simply the waterfront space.
Porto’s Ribeira is among the most stunning riverfront areas that I’ve seen, with outdated buildings, boats, and attention-grabbing sights. This space seems its greatest at evening when it’s darkish and all of the yellow lamps glow. Their reflection in water seems wonderful.
Porto’s Historic Middle
Porto is an exquisite metropolis with historic buildings, church buildings, and streets. Together with Ribeira, the historic middle of Porto is a UNESCO World Heritage Website and has greater than 2000 years of historical past.
Admire the outdated buildings coated with blue azulejos, dilapidated buildings that look very outdated, cute residential buildings with grandmas standing on the balconies – the wonder is within the particulars and you may really lose your self admiring all these little issues as a result of there are such a lot of.
There are numerous buildings and landmarks which you can see right here, I received’t point out all of them however a couple of right here and the whole lot is a brief stroll away:
Igreja do Carmo
Igreja do Carmo is probably probably the most photographed church in Porto as a result of it has a facet facade that’s coated with azulejos. You will notice azulejos throughout in Portugal however this specific wall is among the most well-known ones.
Torre dos Clerigos & Church
Whenever you discover Porto’s Historic middle, you will note the 75-meter-high Clerigos tower within the background. Torre dos Clerigos and Clerigos Church are very outdated Baroque buildings which are attention-grabbing to have a look at.
Rua Santa Catarina
This can be a historic procuring avenue in Porto, stroll right here and benefit from the sights. You can find a number of cork leather-based primarily based iterms and I purchased somewhat backpack that receives a number of compliments.
São Bento Practice Station
Greater than any church or cathedral, my favorite constructing in Porto is the São Bento Practice Station. The intereiors are tremendous splendid and there are excessive arched home windows. There may be intricate tilework on the partitions – a tremendous instance of effectively stored azulejos.
Livraria Lello
Sure, it’s a bookstore however Livraria Lello is historic. It is among the oldest bookstores on this planet. It isn’t that large and typically will get crowded past creativeness. Learn my submit if Livraria Lello is value it or not.
I really visited Porto throughout peak season so my expertise wasn’t all that nice. In the event you go to Livraria Lello very first thing within the morning or throughout much less busy months then you definately would possibly simply find yourself having fun with it.
Sé do Porto (Porto Cathedral)
In the event you resolve to go to only one historic constructing, then it or not it’s Sé do Porto – additionally referred to as Porto Cathedral. It’s so stunning that it seems extra like a palace and fewer like a cathedral.
I occurred to be right here proper earlier than the sundown so the picxtures got here out rather well. That is additionally near Dom Luís I Bridge on which you’ll be able to stroll to succeed in the opposite facet of Porto for a tremendous sundown. We are going to discuss them proper under.
Dom Luís I Bridge
Dom Luís I Bridge is iconic, and is enjoyable to stroll on it to succeed in the otherside of the Douro river due to the wonderful views after each few steps. Even throughout poeak summer time months, it will get very windy and chilly on this bridge so carry a jacket.
Watch out and be careful for metro when you’re strolling on this bridge as a result of it runs on this bridge and not using a protecting barrier.
Jardim do Morro (Sundown)
Whenever you cross the Dom Luis I Bridge, you’ll attain Vila Nova de Gaia – which is the opposite facet of Douro River. There are numerous spots right here that provide nice views, particularly through the sundown time.
The closest spot to the bridge for sundown watching is a backyard referred to as Jardim do Morro. If you’re right here throughout peak season occasions, then overlook about getting a great spot for sitting however simply stand and revel in probably the most stunning present that the sky places on each 12 hours – sundown and dawn.
Eat Francesinha Sandwich
Simply the way in which I instructed you to eat Pastel de Nata which was invented in Lisbon, I reccomend you strive Porto’s iconic sandwhich – the Francesinha.
Francesinha sandwhich has layers of meat, cheese, bread, egg and extra cheese. It’s opped with Francesinha sauce and typically additionally french fries. It felt like extra of a hangover meal and we couldnt eat greater than a handful of bites.
Douro Valley Wine Tasting
Going to at least one landmark to a different and making an attempt to see all of them could be aggravating. Take a break and get on a ship to see the fantastic thing about Douro Valley, which is the Port wine area.
Sit again and calm down as you expertise the pure great thing about Northern Portugal on a guided tour that features a conventional Portuguese lunch, Pinhão viewpoint, river cruise, and a wine tasting session.
The place to Keep in Porto
Listed here are the locations I suggesgt you contemplate reserving in Porto. I stayed in an AirB&B and we didn’t like the placement. After seeing Porto, I now know I’d wish to keep nearer to Ribeira so under are the locations I’ve shortlisted for you.
In the event you don’t have time to do a whole Portugal highway journey and also you’re in a position to fly to Oporto airport for affordable, then contemplate doing only a Porto highway journey with the close by Douro Valley, Coimbra and Aveiro. Personally for me any go to to Portugal is incomplete with out the wonderful Algarve coast.
Ideas for driving in Portugal
In the event you aren’t in a position to get low cost flights to Faro, then contemplate flying to Seville in Spain which is c;lose to the border. You may spend a day right here to see this beautiful metropolis after which attain the Algarve by highway. It is vitally simple to cross the Spanish border by automotive to enter Portugal. It by no means looks like a unique nation.
Portugal has toll roads and if you’re renting a automotive, then you’ll pay the toll price with the toll transponder which will likely be mounted in your rented automobile. The toll transponder will likely be related together with your debit or bank card for the toll funds.
If you find yourself looking for the route utilizing Google Maps, there’s an choice of avoiding toll roads. Use it in the event you should. However toll price isn’t costly in Portugal the way in which it’s in France.
Don’t attempt to cowl all of it and stress your self by making an attempt to see the whole lot. A number of the greatest highway journeys are these the place part of the itinerary leaves the room for spontaneity.
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