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Europe Road Trip – 24 Incredible Routes

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The Best Road Trips in Europe

Europe is perfect for an epic road trip! From the rolling fields of Tuscany and the soaring mountains of the Sierra Nevada to the beaches of the South of France and the mighty Alps, you can find a European road trip route to suit your taste and travel style.

Whether you’re road tripping in Europe for a week, a month, or a year, our top Europe road trip itinerary ideas will give you plenty of inspiration to get on the road.

We have lived on the road in Europe for over five years, and in our Europe trip planner, we share our top routes and itineraries, ideas about what do to and see, and accommodation recommendations. If you’ve got wheels there’s a European road trip here for you!

Europe Road Trip Planner

We have traveled every single one of these European roads in and on a variety of vehicles! Whether you ride a motorbike, drive Europe by car or you’re traveling in a motorhome or RV, you’ll find some of the best Europe road trip ideas here.

If you’re on a flying visit and or want a 3 month Europe road trip , we have the best Europe road trip itineraries for you. Our road trip planner Europe includes specific road trip routes, amazing hotel recommendations, and insider travel tips to help you plan a driving holiday in Europe.

RELATED POST: Why We Think These Are the Best Driving Roads in Europe

Are you planning to rent a car in Europe? As one of the largest car hire aggregator companies in the world, we recommend Rentalcars.com because they have massive purchasing power which enables them to secure the best rental prices, which benefits you when you’re planning a road trip through Europe.

For a real adventure, hire a motorhome or campervan in France. We recommend Auto Europe for their large range of fully equipped vehicles, competitive pricing, and great customer service. Use the Park4Night app to find overnight spots and campsites, and sleep on a high mountain pass, next to a beautiful lake, or in a wildflower meadow.

Europe Road Trip Map

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Europe . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

• Get the Travel Guides
• Lonely Planet Austria
• Fodor’s Vienna and the Best of Austria
• DK Eyewitness Austria
• Read Related Posts
• Austria Travel Guide
• Austria Road Trip: The Best Itinerary, Map & Tips
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• How to Visit Innsbruck in Summer

Vienna to Innsbruck Road Trip

Vienna – graz – hallstatt – salzburg – zell am see – mayrhofen – innsbruck.

• May-October

We recommend starting your two week Austrian road trip in Vienna and concluding the itinerary in Innsbruck.

As you leave Vienna, beautiful and quaint Austrian towns and villages will greet you as you travel south toward the foodie city of Graz, the next major stop on your Austrian itinerary. From here, it’s north to Hallstatt, a small, alpine village situated on the western shores of Hallstätter See, also known as Hallstatt Lake, that offers iconic views and outdoor experiences. 

Next up is Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We recommend leaving enough time in your itinerary to explore the Baroque architecture of the city and visit the Salzburg Fortress for stunning panoramic views. From Salzburg, head to Zell am See, a charming mountain town surrounded by the unforgettable mountain peaks of the Alps. 

Zell am See is the perfect spot from which to drive the spectacular Glossglockner high alpine pass, a mountain road that twists and bends itself along the Alps mountains, providing panoramic scenery and an unforgettable experience.

Your journey will continue on to Mayrhofen, a popular skiing destination known for its vibrant nightlife, unrivaled winter sports, and stunning alpine scenery. 

Finally, finish your Austria road trip in Innsbruck, the capital of the Tyrol region. This Austrian city is surrounded by breathtaking mountains and is home to several impressive landmarks. Innsbruck is the perfect place to end your road trip and reflect on the stunning beauty of Austria.

• Driving the gorgeous mountain roads, when you feel like you’re on top of the world!
• Listening to Mozart in Salzburg, his birthplace and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Walking out 1,48 feet onto the Hallstatt World Heritage Skywalk for breathtaking views of the Hallstätter See.

Where to Stay

Vienna ⇒ Jaz in the City Vienna for its city center location, modern interior, and funky bar.

Salzburg ⇒   Altstadthotel Wolf-Dietrich  for its old town setting, luxury spa, and fantastic breakfast.

Innsbruck ⇒ Hotel Grauer Bär for its perfect downtown location, light and stylish rooms, and excellent customer service.

• Lonely Planet France
• DK Eyewitness Road Trips France
• Fodor’s Essential France
• France Travel Guide
• France Road Trip – 13 Amazing Itineraries
• South of France Road Trip: Route, Highlights & Tips
• Route Napoleon: A Historic French Road Trip
• Normandy Road Trip: Ultimate 7 Day Itinerary
• Motorhoming in France: Your Complete Touring Guide
• Driving to France from UK: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know

Route des Grandes Alpes: An Epic French Road Trip

Loire valley road trip.

Orleans – Blois – Tours – Angers – Nantes

Centre-Val de Loire is a landlocked region, located to the southwest of the French capital Paris. As the name suggests this region is all about the magnificent river Loire. Just four to five hours from Calais to the capital of Orleans, and three from Paris, this region is a popular holiday region and makes an ideal destination for a road trip.

This is a real France bucket list trip. Fine historical cities and towns, many of which stand on the banks of the Loire, offer superb Renaissance religious buildings and architecture and of course, the fabulous and extravagant chateaux the region is best known for.

Follow this Loire Valley road trip between famous cities and marvel at the natural wonders, opulent architecture, charming towns, and breathtaking castles of one of France’s best-loved regions.

You’ll visit the many chateaux on the route, including the famous Chateau de Chambord and Chateau de Villandry, and explore the Loire’s historic towns, learning about French history, architecture, and culture and you go.

Discover Joan of Arc’s legacy in Orleans and take a ride on a giant machine elephant in Nantes as you take in the beautiful Loire landscape.

• Taking a vineyard tour to taste the delicious white wines, like Vouvray, Pouilly-Fume, and Sancerre, which are produced here.
• Visiting the world-famous Chateau Chenonceau, the only castle on the Loire built by women.
• Watching the iconic steampunk elephant strutt its stuff at Machines de L’Ile on the Ile de Nantes, an urban island in the Loire river.

Orléans ⇒   Empreinte Hotel & Spa for its riverbank location, beautiful bathrooms, and private spa.

Tours ⇒ Château Belmont  for its wonderful grounds, stylish bedrooms, and excellent restaurant.

Nantes ⇒ Okko Hotels Nantes Château   for its city center location, cool decor, and private parking.

Pyrenees Road Trip

Lourdes – cauterets – gavarnie – arreau – bagnares-de-luchon.

• May-September

This is a Pyrenees road trip and hiking tour all in one. With four easy-to-moderate classic Hautes-Pyrenees hikes en route plus an extra in Spain just over the border and some of the most spectacular mountains on the map of Europe at your feet, this is an amazing route. 

One of our go-to happy places, get our detailed seven day Pyrenees hiking tour guide, including an interactive map of hikes and the suggested route.

• Taking a dip in the crystal clear waters of the beautiful Lac de Gaube on a hot summer’s day.
• Braving the nail-biting drive up the Pic du Midi and the incredible views from the Col du Tourmalet.
• Standing at the top of Pic de la Pahule with the entire Pyrenees mountain range at your feet.

Lourdes ⇒ Villa L’Orante  for its commanding views, beautiful bathrooms, and delicious homemade breakfasts.

Gavarnie ⇒ Hotel Le Taillon  for its location, views, and hearty mountain food.

Bagnares-de-Luchon ⇒ Le Castel d’Alti   for its elegant decor, heated jacuzzi and pool, and live music in the bar.

South of France Road Trip

Lyon – st croix du verdon – aups – cassis – aix-en-provence – bezier – carcassonne – toulouse.

• avoid July & August

A road trip in France is one of the best ways to see this beautiful country, and because France is so accessible, this is an easy 2 week Europe road trip from UK and the rest of Europe

Start in the foodie city of Lyon, a five hour drive south of Paris , before using the historic Route Napoleon to travel south. It’s one of the  best drives in Europe , free and incredibly scenic.

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a gorgeous little town and worth a stop before you take a jaunt around the stunning Gorge du Verdon.

Try some  wild swimming in the Lac de Sainte-Croix here before making your way to Aups for their authentic farmers market and Provencal vibe.

Stop at Cassis to explore the Calanques, huge gashes in the coastal cliffs, often only accessible by boat. Take a day trip out for a picnic and an idyllic afternoon of soaking up the sun and snorkeling.

Head north to the vibrant and pretty French city of Aix-en-Provence and spend an evening strolling through the charming squares and winding alleys of this elegant and cultured city.

Next up is the drive east across the hauntingly beautiful and off-the-beaten-track Camargue, before arriving at Bezier, famous for the nine locks of the Midi Canal.

Move on to Carcassonne, dipping into the Pyrenees en route to see the incredible Peyrepertuse Castle, before spending a few days marveling at La Cite, the Disneyesque medieval citadel of Carcassonne. 

The pink city of Toulouse is your last stop and what a road trip destination it is! Head into the old town for great food, live music, and a typically Occitan atmosphere of noise, heat, and fun. 

• Walking through the fragrant iconic lavender fields of Valensole in Provence (June is the best month).
• Kayaking to hiffen beaches in the stunning Calanques National Park from Cassis.
• Discovering the atmospheric UNESCO World Heritage site of the medieval citadel in Carcassonne.

Lyon ⇒ Mob Hotel Lyon for stylish design, contemporary dining, and live DJ sets.

Aix-en-Provence ⇒   Le Pigonnet  for its beautiful location and luxury with a touch of glamour.

Carcassonne ⇒ Hotel de la Cite   for the Citadel location, traditional character, and spa.

• Lonely Planet Germany
• The Rough Guide to Germany
• DK Eyewitness Germany
• Germany Travel Guide
• Six Unmissable Germany Road Trip Routes
• Deutsche Märchenstraße: Germany’s Fairy Tale Road
• Romantic Road Germany: Itinerary, Map & Tips
• Deutsche Alpenstrasse: Route, Map & Highlights
• Motorhome Germany: Complete Touring Guide
• Driving from UK to Germany: Best Routes, Costs & Tips

The Fairy Tale Road

Frankfurt – steinau – marburg – kassel – gottingen – hamelin – bremen.

This central to north Germany road trip from Frankfurt does not technically start in the city, but Frankfurt is the perfect place to fly into and pick up a rental car. If you’re spending the night, make sure you visit the South Bank, where you’ll find an eclectic selection of restaurants, bars, and clubs.

The Fairy Tale route, or Deutsche Märchenstraße , offers travelers a series of charming towns, half-timbered buildings, castles, beautiful parks, and museums, most of which reference one fairy tale or another from the story collection of the Brothers Grimm .   

The starting town of Steinau an der Strasse is straight out of their fairy tales, complete with typical half-timbered houses, twisting cobbled alleys, and the turreted Schloss Steinau which overlooks the whole town. Visit the Brüder Grimm Haus and Museum Steinau, both of which showcase the works of the brothers.

Take the back roads to Marburg and enjoy the gorgeous landscapes and slower pace for a few hours. Marburg’s altstadt is full of medieval houses and the hilltop Landgrafenschloss, a dramatic castle holding exhibits on sacred art and local history.

From Marburg, head to Kassel, where the Brothers Grimm spent their teenage years whilst working as librarians for the King of Westphalia, Jerome Bonaparte, the younger brother of the infamous Napoléon. Make sure to visit the Brüder Grimm Museum, and the Schloss und Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe, a tranquil green space and the largest hill park in all of Europe.

Gottingen is home to the University of Gottingen, where the Grimm Brothers once served as professors. Make for the traditional and atmospheric central market square, where the statue of Ganseliesel, the little goose girl of German lore, is one of the most kissed statues anywhere in the world. It is said that the kisser is rewarded with good luck, but maybe post-virus this practice will change!

Hameln (or Hamelin) is next up and one of the most famous fairy tale destinations in Europe. Hameln is the home of the Pied Piper, or Rattenfänger, who rid the town of rats in 1284, only to be cheated out of his payment.

The Pied Piper returned to Hameln a year later and lured away all the children. The story is re-enacted in the town center every Sunday between May and October and is a fantastic spectacle. The Weser Renaissance architecture of the Rattenfängerhaus and the Hochzeitshaus makes a fitting historic backdrop for the streets which are thronged with locals dressed the part, stalls selling food, and live music playing. 

Finally, on to the Hanseatic city of Bremen, your final stop. Good places to visit in Bremen include the traditional Marktplatz, which is located in the city’s charming altstadt, the 600-year-old Rathaus or town hall, the Roselius-Haus Museum, and the stunning St. Petri Dom, the 11th century gothic cathedral.

Another landmark can be found in the city’s central town square – a statue of the Bremen musicians and heroes of the Brothers Grimm story, ‘The Town Musicians of Bremen’.

• Watching the lively re-enactment of Hameln’s Pied Piper luring away visiting children.
• Exploring the altstads of towns en-route, where half-timbered houses and cobbled streets are common.
• Indulging in northern Germany’s hearty and tasty cuisine, like wurst , Germany’s delicious sausages, Bremer klaben , a yeasty cake of candied fruit and nuts, and kluten , a delicious dumpling.

Frankfurt ⇒ Kempinski Hotel Frankfurt Gravenbruch  for its proximity to the airport and city center, fantastic spa, and beautiful surroundings.

Marburg ⇒ The Vila Vita Rosenpark  for its central location, excellent regional restaurant, and stylish bedrooms.

Bremen ⇒ Atlantic Grand Hotel   for its perfect riverside location, bike rental from reception, and ultra-stylish bathrooms.

Southern Germany Road Trip

Wurzburg – rothenburg – ludwigsburg – burg hohenzollern – fussen – oberammergau – linderhof – munich – chiemsee.

This route follows parts of southern Germany’s famous Romantic Road and the Deutsche Alpenstrasse and has a good mix of Alpine views, historic schloss and castles, and typical Bavarian towns and villages.

As you head south, enjoy the views of the magnificent Alps ahead.

You could rush around in a week but we think ten to fourteen days gives you enough time to visit a few other places of interest when you’re all castled out!

Visiting in the summer will provide you with sunshine and clear skies but if you can do this route in winter, then you’ll be rewarded with some of the best Christmas markets in the world, fairytale snowy landscapes, and schloss decorated for the festive season.

More of a palace than a castle, the  Wurzburg Residence  is a huge Baroque palace. Beautiful inside, the real draw here is the gardens, laid out in a typically formal French style.

From here, head to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a fairytale Bavaria town packed with medieval architecture, half-timbered houses, and cobblestone streets.

Next up is  Ludwigsburg Residential Palace  one of the largest Baroque palaces in Germany. Its sumptuous interiors, with gold leaf and painted ceilings, are on a similar scale to Versaille, and the Palace Theatre is pretty impressive. 

Schloss Lichtenstein  is a pretty little Neo-Gothic castle built in the romantic style. It may not have the scale of other castles but it’s charming and quirky, with amazing views.

Hohenzollern Castle  does have the scale, along with grandeur, Rapunzel towers, and a long royal history. It’s one of the most magical castles to visit in Germany . 

Hohenzollern Palace (also known as Sigmaringen Castle) sits 50km to the southeast, can be seen on the horizon for miles around, and is a real  hidden gem in Germany .

Our next stop is the daddy of German castles, Neuschwanstein. Just outside Fussen, in the village of Schwangau, Neuschwanstein is a truly stunning Cinderella-esque schloss built by the fascinating historical figure of King Ludwig II, who ruled Bavaria in the 19th century.

If you have time when  visiting Neuschwanstein Castle , take a walk out to Marienbrucke bridge where you can take the perfect images of the castle, the earlier the better! This castle gets very busy every day through the year, so make sure you  book tickets online  before arriving.

Next up, take in Oberammergau, home of the famous once-in-a-decade Passion Play. There is also a fantastic  public spa  here, which may be just the thing after a few days of driving. The Germans know how to do a spa and this is one of the best we’ve visited.  

If you’ve time to spare,  visit the Zugspitze , you’re only an hour away from Germany’s highest mountain in the northern Alps . This natural wonder is easy to summit, with the help of the cogwheel train and cable car; it is absolutely worth the detour, and the views are stunning. 

The next stop is  Linderhof Palace , our favorite of the German schloss. This beautifully symmetrical and elegant palace is arguably King Ludwig’s finest creation. Check out the grottos in the landscaped grounds; they’re pretty special!

Finally, drive on to Munich for the Nymphenburg Palace, one of the premier royal palaces in Europe with magnificent interiors and gardens. Spend a day discovering Munich  and if you’re  road tripping in autumn , you could also take in Oktoberfest, Munich’s famous beer festival. 

Herrenchiemsee Palace  is the last stop on this Bavaria road trip. Known as the ‘Bavarian Versaille’, this palace is in a beautiful location on Herreninsel, the largest island on the Chiemsee lake.

• Discovering the pretty medieval houses and architecture of Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
• Admiring King Ludwig’s before-their-time building innovations at his fairytale castles .
• Taking fantastic images of Neuschwanstein from Marienbruck at dawn, when the light is perfect and you’ll have the bridge to yourself. 

Rothenburg ob der Tauber ⇒ Hotel Reichs-Kuchenmeister  for its altstadt location, traditional Bavarian decor, and fabulous breakfast!

Oberammergau ⇒   Mammhofer Suites  for their family-run hospitality, central location, and kitchen access for self-catering.

Munich ⇒ Roomers Munich  for stylish design, superb customer service, and an excellent restaurant.

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to France.

• Lonely Planet Greece
• The Rough Guide to Greece
• DK Eyewitness Greece: Athens and the Mainland
• Motorhome & Campervan Greece – Complete Guide

Mainland Greece Road Trip

Athens – delphi – galaxidi – nafpaktos – parga – meteora – mount olympus – thessaloniki.

The beautiful landscape of mainland Greece is dotted with ancient Greek monuments and temples, UNESCO World Heritage sites, hot springs, roadside churches, lemon trees overhanging the roads, and traditional tavernas where you’ll be welcomed with open arms.

This trip hits all the big highlights of Greece, taking you from the modern yet historic capital city to the most charming coastal towns before exploring the mountainous interior, all on one road trip.

You’ll visit the most important archaeological site in Greece, Ancient Delphi, and be in awe of the gravity-defying monasteries in Meteora, before making your pilgrimage to the most mythical of all sites in Greece, Mount Olympus.

• Looking across the magnificent landscape of Meteora, to capture that once-in-a-lifetime iconic image.
• Sipping a carafe of chilled Greek rose on the harbourside in Parga.
• Taking the hike up to the Acropolis in Athens in the early morning, before the crowds arrive.

Ancient Delphi ⇒ Fedriades Delphi Hotel , for its perfect location and fantastic Greek breakfast.

Parga ⇒ Villa Coralli apartments for its perfect location overlooking Krioneri Beach and 200m from the center of town.

Thessaloniki ⇒ Plaza Hotel in Ladadika, for its beachside location close to all the major attractions.

Peloponnese Road Trip

Athens – corinth – kalavryta – olympia – kalamata – the mani – sparta – nafplio – mycenae – athens.

This two week Peloponnese itinerary and road trip starts in the capital city of Athens. Spend a day or two in this incredible city, which is both ancient and edgy.

As you head west from Athens towards Ancient Corinth, you’ll cross the Corinth Canal, which splits the Corinth Isthmus, the narrow strip of land between mainland Greece and the Peloponnese, and joins the Aegean and Ionian Seas, it’s worth making a stop to see what was a major feat of engineering back in the day.

Home to the legendary Jason of the Argonauts, of Golden Fleece fame, Ancient Corinth was one of the largest and most important cities of Greece, with a population of 90,000 in 400 BCE. The Romans demolished Corinth in 146 BCE before building a new city in its place in 44 BCE, which became the provincial capital of Greece.

Next up, head to Kalavryta, known officially as the place where the Greek War of Independence started when Greece revolted against the Turks in 1821, and where 500 souls were massacred by the Nazis in World War Two. The latter event is depicted in the Museum of the Kalavryta Holocaust, a moving tribute to those residents and the story of the struggle between Greek partisans and the occupying forces.

The Diakofto-Kalavryta Railway is a vintage rack and pinion railway between the two towns. The route is incredibly scenic, passes through seven tunnels, and twists along the dramatic Vouraikos Gorge, clinging to its narrow ledge over the churning rapids below – make sure to fit this into your visit before moving on to Ancient Olympia.

The birthplace of the Olympic Games, Ancient Olympia is where the Games took place every four years, for over 1100 years! The Olympic Flame is still lit here for the modern Games. This beautiful, shady archaeological site is incredibly evocative – wandering through the ruins, it’s easy to imagine the ripped athletes and excited spectators of its heyday, amongst the magnificent temples and athletic facilities.

Our route has two options at this point – head inland for spectacular scenery and mountain passes, or take the coastal route around the middle peninsula of the Peloponnese through the wild and rugged Messinian Mani, with picture-perfect Kardamyli and the colorful harbor of pretty Gythio awaiting.

Your final stop is Nafplio, often called the most romantic city in Greece, and blessed with pretty streets, elegant neoclassical architecture, and interesting independent shops, bars, and tavernas.

• Hiking the incredible Vouraikos Gorge from Kalavryta to Diakofto, and admiring the limestone formations along the route.
• Driving the 59km Langada Pass across the Taygetos Mountains from Kalamata to gory Sparta and the Byzantine capital of Mystras.
• Walking along the Cave of the Lakes boardwalk to view the incredible rock formations and thirteen crystal clear subterranean pools formed by millennia of mineral deposits.

Athens ⇒ The Athens Gate Hotel for its central location, Acropolis view, and stylish decor.

Kalamata ⇒ Messinian Icon Hotel & Suites for its spa and pools, sea views, and large, bright rooms.

Nafplio ⇒ Amymone and Adiandi for its perfect location, gorgeous decor, and homemade Greek breakfast.

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts , and road trip songs for the journey!

• Lonely Planet Iceland
• The Rough Guide to Iceland
• DK Eyewitness Top 10 Iceland
• Iceland Road Trip – 26 Epic Things to See & Do
• One Day Reykjavik Itinerary – Map, Tips & Guide
• South Coast Iceland: 18 of the Best Things to Do & See

The Golden Circle Road Trip

Reykjavik – thingvellir national park – geysers of haukadalur valley – gullfoss waterfall – reykjavik.

• June-September

Close to Iceland’s capital city of Reykjavik , the Golden Circle is easily the most touristy thing to do in the land of fire and ice, and traditionally the first stop on Iceland’s Ring Road, so it can get very busy, especially in peak season.

Start early if you can, and hop onto the Iceland ring road (route 1), which takes you first past the Reykjavik waterfront, and then out to the three stops on the Golden Circle. It’s a short drive away from Reykjavik, and should only take about 40 minutes to get to the first stop, Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Located right in Þingvellir (or Thingvellir) National Park , you can walk through the middle of the large area where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates have been splitting apart over the course of the centuries. This is one of the coolest things to do while you’re visiting the Golden Circle.

Don’t miss the other attractions in the national park where the Continental Divide is located. It’s home to Iceland’s first Parliament, where chieftains formed the first laws and court proceedings at what is known as the Lögberg, and has lots of trails and beautiful nature to explore if you have the time. You can even go snorkeling at Silfra, and see the divide in the tectonic plates underwater!

The next stop, about 60 kilometers from Þingvellir, is the two geysers at Haukadalur . These geysers are easy to visit because they erupt very regularly, so you’ll definitely see at least one eruption while you’re there. Strokkur is the larger of the two, but don’t get too close as the water really is boiling hot!

The last stop on the Golden Circle is the Gullfoss waterfall, just one of Iceland’s incredible waterfalls, of which there are 10,000!  The waterfall, located at the end of the Hvítá River, is absolutely gigantic and produces beautiful rainbows and light prisms from every angle.

There are viewing places galore here. A concrete path makes it easy to see the waterfall at various points, though there are clearly marked signs and ropes warning you where you should stop, as it can be very windy and slippery the closer you get to the edge.

After you’ve finished seeing Gullfoss, it’s about an hour and a half drive back to Reykjavik to complete the circle. There are add on’s which aren’t traditional Golden Circle stops, but you may want to take a lovely warm bath at the Blue Lagoon just outside the city, enjoy a slightly more natural thermal experience at the Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River, or head to the Kerid Crater if you’re in an off-road vehicle.

♥  Spending an hour lounging in the Reykjadalur Hot Springs whilst taking in the incredible scenery. ♥ Standing at the continental divide where Europe becomes North America, and being in awe of Iceland’s geology. ♥  Doing the Golden Circle in reverse and getting to Gullfoss before the crowds arrive.

Reykjavik ⇒ Sand Hotel for its city center location and Icelandic character and design.

• Lonely Planet Ireland
• DK Eyewitness Ireland
• The Rough Guide to Ireland
• Wild Atlantic Way: Itinerary, Map & Tips
• One Day in Dublin – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide
• Motorhoming in Ireland – A Complete Guide

Wild Atlantic Way Road Trip

Co. donegal – co. sligo – co. mayo – co. galway – co. clare – co. limerick – co. kerry – co. cork.

From Co. Donegal to Co. Cork and passing through counties Leitrim, Sligo, Mayo, Galway, Clare, Limerick, and Kerry, the Wild Atlantic Way winds down the intricate coast of western Ireland and the edge of Europe.

Taking in the must-sees of Malin Head, the Killarney National Park, the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and the Dingle Peninsula, this is a truly epic Ireland road trip covering many of the Emerald Isle’s most beautiful spots .

This huge trip from the north to the south of Ireland is best done with time on your side. Three weeks is just about enough, four weeks or longer will give you time to explore more and perhaps participate in some activities along the way.  

If this is too long for you, then pick out one of the six regions that appeal the most and take a couple of weeks to cover that specific area. You can find out more about these from the official  Wild Atlantic Way  website.  

The Bay Coast stretches south from Erris to Galway Bay and takes in the wild beauty of Connemara, the incredible 365 islets of Clew Bay, pretty Georgian Westport, dramatic Downpatrick Head, and medieval Galway, our favorite city in Ireland .

There’s plenty of things to see and do in Ireland if you love wide open spaces, wilderness, and raw nature, one of the reasons we adore this bit of the Wild Atlantic Way.

A great alternative is to  road trip from Dublin to Galway , traveling the southern half of the Wild Atlantic Way in a huge circle, and visiting Waterford, Dingle, and Cork on the way.

Dublin is a great place to start your road trip with an easily accessible international airport and lots of car rental choices.  

• Watching the rollers crashing from the savage beauty of Malin Head in Co. Donegal.
• Tapping your foot, sipping a pint of Guinness, and enjoying a hooley (live traditional Irish folk music) in Galway.
• Taking the steep and winding road to Dunquin Pier on the Dingle Peninsula for a memorable photo opportunity.

Westport Co. Mayo ⇒ Knockeranny House Hotel and Spa  for sublime Clew Bay views, Irish hospitality, and elegant dining.

Rossnowlagh Co. Donegal ⇒ The Sandhouse Hotel and Marina Spa  for its stunning beachfront location, contemporary decor, and excellent spa.

Glengarriff Co. Cork ⇒ Eccles Hotel and Spa  for its snug and traditional decor, a superb restaurant specializing in local seafood, and proximity to the pretty village and harbor.

• Lonely Planet Italy
• Fodor’s Essential Italy: Rome, Florence, Venice & the Top Spots in Between
• T he Rough Guide to Italy
• Italy Travel Guide
• The Ultimate Bucket List Italy Road Trip
• Northern Italy Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips

Great Dolomites Road: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know!

• Tuscan Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips
• A Bucket List Amalfi Coast Road Trip
• Sicily Road Trip – Itinerary, Tips & Map
• Beautiful Puglia – A Road Trip Itinerary

Dolomites Road Trip: Explore the Best of Northern Italy

• Motorhoming in Italy: Your Complete Guide
• Driving to Italy from UK – Routes & Tips

Amalfi Coast Road Trip

Sorrento – positano – amalfi – ravello – salerno.

• avoid July-August

The Amalfi Coast road, the SS163, is a 50km spectacular stretch of tarmac, hugging the cliffs and coves of the Tyrrhenian Sea, and is surely one of the best driving roads in Europe.   

Like the roads around Portofino and the Cinque Terre, this is a car route only and the road is permanently closed to motorhomes and RVs.

In a car or on a bike, it is best driven early in the morning in the months of April, May, October, and November due to the monstrously high amount of traffic in the peak months.

You can do the entire road in a day and stop in Ravello for lunch, but two or three days will give you longer to enjoy the glorious views and pretty towns en route.

Start from easily accessible Sorrento and head south across the peninsula until you get to the coast at San Pietro. Your first view of the glistening sea and this epic road are pretty special, prepare to be wowed.

Stop at Positano, the quintessential coast road town and the image on a thousand travel magazine covers. Take a wander through the maze of steep streets, pastel-painted stacked houses, and steps to find charming hotels and restaurants alongside chic independent boutiques. 

Next up is Amalfi itself. This hugely popular holiday resort is the largest town along the coast road. The pretty seafront, with its cafes and glamorous boutiques, gives this town a great vibe.

Head west on foot to Spiaggia del Fornillo from Amalfi, a long stretch of soft sandy beach perfect for an afternoon’s relaxing.

Ravello has to be one of the most romantic villages in Italy and is right up there on our list of favorite places in Europe. Perched high above the sea and overlooking immaculate terraced slopes full of vines, Ravello is home to lush Mediterranean planting and charming sun-dappled squares, and has to be one of the best spots in Southern Italy .

The 20km round-trip detour to Ravello from the main coast road is so worth taking. Visit Villa Rufolo, host to beautifully landscaped and dramatic gardens with superb sea views.

On to Salerno and the end of the Amalfi Coast road, or turn around and drive it again! 

• The glorious coastal views from the gardens of Villa Rufolo in Ravello.
• Taking a Limoncello tour and tasting this delicious local liquor where it’s made.
• Watching the fiery sun sink into the Tyrrhenian Sea at the end of a perfect day.

Positano ⇒ Hotel Marincanto  for its stunning cliff-hugging position, beautifully decorated rooms, and hands-on owners.

Ravello ⇒ Hotel Villa Maria  for its romantic dining terrace, old-world Italian charm, and fabulous breakfasts.

Vietri sul Mare ⇒ Palazzo Suriano  for its fragrance-filled terraced gardens, excellent homemade breakfasts on the terrace, and gorgeous decor.

Puglia Road Trip

Taranto – gallipoli – santa maria di leuca – lecce – ostuni – alberobello – bari.

Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot, is a beautiful place for a 7 day road trip in Europe. With Trulli houses, a fabulous sandy coastline, and whitewashed villages, there is a lot to see and do here.

The abundance of fresh, local produce means you will eat and drink well on this road trip! We spent an  amazing seven days exploring beautiful Puglia  and fell in love with the region.

• Visiting the UNESCO Trulli houses at Alberobello for an other-world experience.
• Discovering Gallipoli’s atmospheric, oh-so-Italian old town and castle.
• Finding a salumeria (deli) and enjoy the local specialties over a lazy lunch.

Gallipoli ⇒ Palazzo Presta for its fabulous old town location, eclectic design, and excellent service.

Lecce ⇒ La Fiermontina Urban Resort for its contemporary art and sculpture, outdoor pool set in an olive grove and gorgeous rooms.

Alberobello ⇒ Tipico Resort for its superb location, fabulous breakfast and for being a Trulli!

Sicily Road Trip

Catania – syracuse – ragusa – agrigento – marsala – palermo – cefalu – taormina.

A coastal road trip around Sicily can take a few weeks or a few months, there is so much to see. From ancient, immaculately preserved temples to modern and vibrant cities like Palermo , via jaw-dropping natural wonders, this rich and diverse island is a world away from anywhere you’ve ever been before. 

Read our detailed guide to  road-tripping eclectic Sicily , which includes an itinerary along the island’s coastal ring road, and start planning your trip!

• Taking a hike above the clouds to the summit of Mount Etna and look deep into the rumbling magma below. 
• Being awed by the ancient Valley of the Temples in Agrigento.
• Wandering the charming historic back streets of Ortigia, the old town of Syracuse.

Syracuse ⇒ Hotel Gutkowski for lovingly crafted and unique interiors, beachcomber chic, and a cool roof terrace.

Palermo ⇒ BB22  for its perfect piazza location, a cozy home-from-home feel, and palazzo style.

Taormina ⇒ Hotel Villa Ducale  for spectacular views, a relaxed vibe, and legendary cocktails!

Tuscany & Umbria Road Trip

Pisa – lucca – florence – san gimignano – siena – arezzo – cortona – pienza – montepulciano – assisi – spoleto.

• avoid August

Italy is a gorgeous country for a road trip , no area more so than Tuscany and Umbria, which are easily accessible by car from the UK and Europe. The rolling fields of vines and golden wheat, studded with tall cypress trees and creamy stone villas are iconic.

This is a truly epic journey packed full of culture, great food, wine, and fantastic roads. There is much to see and lots of interesting places to stop between the main route destinations, make sure to do your research before leaving home!

Pisa in northern Italy is a great place to start this road trip. The leaning tower is a bit cliched but has to be seen. Lucca is perfect to explore on foot, with narrow lanes opening onto charming piazzas lined with historic buildings.

Florence is the jewel in Tuscany’s crown. A surprisingly compact city with the imposing Duomo at the center, a must-see. Book well in advance for anything to do with the Duomo, it’s strictly ticketed and you won’t be able to buy a ticket on the day.

You’ll probably want at least two days in Florence to see everything at a manageable pace, although you can see Florence in a day if you plan well. Leaving Florence is the time to set your sat nav to ‘no autostrada’ and get off the beaten track in the Tuscan countryside …yes, it may take a little longer but it will be worth it!

San Gimignano, famous for its thirteen towers, sits high on a hill south of Florence. Between April and September, this thriving hill village is busy with tourists visiting the churches, palazzos, independent shops, and restaurants.

Onwards to Arezzo and then Cortona, one of the oldest and most scenic hill towns in Tuscany. Pienza is a delightful village and has perfect, interesting streets for wandering and admiring the 15th century architecture.

The drive through the  Val d’Orcia  from Pienza to Montepulciano on the SP146 is like driving through a film set! Sweeping curves, rolling vineyards, and photo opportunities at every bend; this is quintessential Tuscany.

From Montepulciano , follow the road around the tranquil Lake Trasimeno to Assisi, our favorite Umbrian destination. The imposing Basilica of St Francis can be seen hugging the hillside for miles around. Your last stop is the gorgeous hill town of Spoleto, stuffed with monuments, churches, and other historic buildings.

For us, this has got to be one of the best European road trips we have taken; for the fabulous ride (we did it on a motorbike, highly recommended!), the stunning landscapes, and the beautiful Italian hospitality.

• Taking the breathtaking drive through the Val d’Orcia to Montepulciano with photo opportunities galore and a glass of local red waiting for you!
• Discovering Siena’s perfectly laid out, beautiful fan-shaped Piazza del Campo.
• Climbing the dome of the Duomo in Florence for spectacular views, inside and out!

Florence ⇒ AdAstra Suites  for their stunning location, classy and interesting decor, and magnificent terrace.

Montepulciano ⇒ Palazzo Carletti  for attention to detail, gorgeous frescoed interiors, and central location.

Assisi ⇒   Nun Assisi Relais and Spa  – for its lavender-filled gardens, incredible Roman spa, and fabulous restaurant.

• Lonely Planet Norway
• Fodor’s Essential Norway
• The Rough Guide to Norway
• Norway Road Trip – Three Unmissable Routes
• Atlantic Road Norway: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know!
• Driving to Norway from UK – Routes & Tips
• One Day Oslo Itinerary – Map, Guide & Tips
• Campervanning in Norway – Tips, Routes & Destinations
• Flåm Norway: Visitor Guide & Tips

West Coast of Norway Road Trip

Bergen – loen – geiranger – trollstigen – kristiansund – trondheim – jektvik – bodo – tromso.

Taking in the iconic sights of Norway ‘s west coast, this route will take you through tunnels, over fjords, along the Atlantic Ocean Road, and the infamous Trollstigen Mountain Road.

This is a route for those that love the journey more than the destination; it’s all about the road – even getting to Norway is a road trip in itself!

Start in  beautiful Bergen , the city surrounded by seven fjords and seven hills. There are lots of things to do here, including visiting the lively Vagen harbor in Bergen’s old quarter, Bryggen.

From Bergen, take the E39 motorway north to Loen where you’ll find the awesome new  Loen Skylift  which takes you to the top of Mount Hoven for spectacular views of the white-blue Jostedalsbreen glacier.

If you prefer to get to the top under your own steam, then take the via Ferrata up and the zip-line down! Is sea-level activity more your thing? Then head for glacial Lake Lovatnet where you can swim and kayak.

At Hellesylt, you’ll take the ferry through Geirangerfjorden to Geiranger itself before picking up the RV63, the Trollstigen Mountain Road. Incredibly beautiful, this road was opened in 1936 and includes eleven hairpin bends and a 9% incline. Stop at the Ornesvingen viewing point for incredible vistas and again at the top to admire the Stigfossen waterfall.

Once you reach Andalsnes, head west and then drive north on the E39 to Vevang, and the start of the Atlantic Ocean Road, which runs across seven bridges and follows the islands between them like a silver ribbon. If you want to visit picture-perfect  Alesund  on the way, take a slight detour and head south on the E39 instead of north – if you have a few extra days, you won’t regret it!

Next up is Trondheim, Norway’s original capital city before you head to Jektvik. You can either take the E6 Arctic Highway all the way or around 80km north of Trondheim, and just after Steinkjer, pick up the FV17 and take in the glorious landscape and coastal views from the magnificent Kystriksveien Coastal Route.

This Atlantic road route will add a fair few kilometers, two days, and six fjord ferries to your journey, but the detour will be worth it if you have the time. You’ll cross into the Arctic Circle at 66 degrees, on the ferry between Kilborghavn and Jektvik.

At Bodo, you can get a ferry out to the  Lofoten Islands  if you are making this a longer trip. Perfect for hikers and nature lovers, Lofoten has become Norway’s go-to place for adventure – you can even  swim with Orca whales  here! 

Mount Romvik, outside Bodo and with minimal light pollution, is a good place to see the Northern Lights.

Otherwise, keep on trucking to  Tromso , Norway’s party city. From here, you can head on to Nordkapp where the sun never drops below the horizon from mid-May to the end of July.

Hauntingly beautiful but incredibly busy, you may prefer the true northernmost point of continental Europe at Knivskjelodden, an 18km hike away and inaccessible to vehicles.

You could also take a ferry to Svalbard and visit the polar bears, catch the  Hurtigruten ferry  back to Bergen or Oslo , or get on a flight to pretty much anywhere in the world. Wherever you end up, it will take you a while to forget what is surely one of the best road trips in Europe.

• Driving the thrilling and impressive Trollstigen Road from Geiranger to Andalasnes
• Crossing the Arctic Circle into the land of the midnight sun and Northern Lights.
• Following the Kystriksveien Coastal Route and see the real coastal Norway of fishing villages and subsistence agriculture.

Bergen ⇒ Det Hanseatiske Hotel  for its harbourside location, dining options, and cozy decor.

Narvik ⇒ Narvik Mountain Lodge  for its truly spectacular location, traditional log cabin style, and amazing coastal views.

Tromso ⇒ Scandic Ishavshotel  for its harbor location, fabulous breakfasts, and excellent customer service.

Western Fjords Road Trip

Stavanger – preikestolen – kjeragbolten – trolltunga – flam – bergen.

This is an outdoor enthusiasts’ adventurous road trip ! If you’ve ever looked at those amazing images of people perched on tongues of rock, sheer cliffs, or precipitously balanced boulders whilst gazing out over stunning blue fjords, then this is the road trip for you. We did this Norway route by campervan , and it’s got to be one of our favorite travel experiences!

You’ll start in the pretty and typically Norwegian city of Stavanger before heading off to  hike to Preikestolen  (Pulpit Rock) which is 4km and can be done in half a day with an early start.

Next up is the  Kjeragbolten  hike, the site of a giant boulder wedged in a crevasse 1084m above Lysefjorden, where you can also base jump. This is a longer hike at 10km and you will need a full day to complete it.

Both hikes can get busy and you may have to wait if you want the obligatory photo, so allow plenty of time. If you’re not a confident hiker, consider taking a guided hike, you’ll learn lots on the way.

Everywhere you drive in Norway, you are surrounded by mountains, fjords, and waterfalls. The scenery is simply spectacular, with new thrills around each bend in the road. Route 13 from Stavanger to Odda is known as the Ryfylke National Scenic Route, one of Norway’s eighteen official touring routes designated for their stunning scenery and tourist-friendly infrastructure.

As you drive through Norway you will motor through tunnels and need to get a ferry to cross a fjord. Allow several hours drive time longer than Google Maps suggests; this is a full day drive and you should start early.

Your next stop is Odda, for the infamous Trolltunga (literally Troll’s Tongue) one of the best hikes in the world. The most challenging of the three, this hike is 20km distance across mainly flat terrain but can be tricky underfoot with changeable weather.  Hiking Trolltunga  is not for the faint-hearted or unprepared but is an absolute must-do on your Norway road trip.

Take a few day’s downtime in Flam, a small village right at the top of the beautiful Aurlandsfjord. Surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, and water this is a playground for hikers, water sports enthusiasts, and mountain bikers.

From Flam, you can drive to Bergen or take the spectacular Flamsbana railway there, considered one of the most spectacular train rides in the world.

• Taking the incredible Flam Railway to Myrdal and cycle the Rallar Road.
• Standing on the edge of the Troll’s Tongue with the world at your feet.
• Discovering the imposing and dramatic Lysefjorden by boat.

Stavanger ⇒   Sola Strand Hotel  for the breathtaking beachfront location and a modern spa.

Odda ⇒   Vikinghaug Apartments for their amazing fjord views and the post-Trolltunga bath!

Flam ⇒ Flåmsbrygga Hotel   for its superb central position, cozy traditional decor, and micro-brewery.

• Lonely Planet Portugal
• DK Eyewitness Portugal
• The Rough Guide to Portugal
• Road Trip Portugal – Two Incredible Itineraries
• Driving from Lisbon to Porto: Itinerary, Route & Tips
• Driving to Portugal from UK – Routes & Tips
• Campervanning in Portugal: Complete Guide

Atlantic Coast Road Trip

Porto – coimbra – nazare – sintra – lisbon.

Portugal is a tiny country but it packs one hell of a punch. This Portugal road trip itinerary can be managed in five days, but seven gives you the opportunity to revel in the cities of Porto and Lisbon and enjoy a beach stop en route.  

You could easily drive from Lisbon to Porto as a 7 day road trip in Europe from UK if you fly into Porto and out of Lisbon, or vice versa. One-way car rental is possible from either airport.

Porto is a lively and fun city, intimate and friendly. There’s a lot to do in  Porto  but walking over the mighty Douro river on the iconic Luis I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia and the historic port lodges, has to be top of the list.

Head south from here to the  less-traveled city of Coimbra , Portugal’s ancient capital. Stacked on the banks of the river Mondego, the Moorish old town is dramatic and atmospheric. This is a great place to stop at a bar for authentic live fado or Portuguese guitar music.

Halfway between Coimbra and Lisbon, take a short detour to Nazare on Portugal’s Silver Coast. Known for its monster waves and daredevil surfers, this is a great place if you like huge beaches and dramatic landscapes.

Heading south, Sintra, in the mountains of the same name, is a love-it-or-hate-it kind of place. Home to Portuguese royalty for centuries, the lush landscape is dotted with pastel-colored palaces, villas, and houses.

You can also take a  day trip to Sintra from Lisbon  if you’d prefer to base yourself in the city. Visit and decide for yourself!

Finally to wonderful Lisbon for picture-postcard panoramas and fabulous food!  This most Portuguese of cities serves up fantastic bacalhau, pastel de nana, and port from the Douro Valley. Head for the exotic Tropical Botanical Gardens and stroll amongst giant banana plants before visiting the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, a haven of peace amongst the bustling city.

If you want to stretch your week in Portugal, you’ll find the beautiful Algarve region just three hours south of Lisbon. This stunning part of Portugal is famous for its incredible beaches and perfect climate. Make for the charming town of Lagos and stay at  Vivenda Miranda , a beautifully restored boutique hotel.

• Taking a port wine tour and tasting in one of Porto’s historic port wine lodges.
• Heading to a fado bar to hear the traditional and haunting music of Portugal played live.
• Tasting hundreds of delicious foods at the Mercado de Ribeira, Lisbon’s buzzy food hall.

Porto ⇒ Flores Village Hotel and Spa for its central location, roof-top bar views, and stylish design.

Coimbra ⇒ Sapientia Boutique Hotel  for the perfect location, stylish design, and warm hospitality.

Lisbon ⇒ Valverde Hotel for its gorgeous interiors, walkable location, and courtyard pool.

• Lonely Planet Spain
• DK Eyewitness Road Trips Spain
• The Rough Guide to Spain
• Spain Travel Guide
• Six of the Best Road Trips in Spain
• The Perfect Andalucia Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips
• North Spain Road Trip: Itinerary, Route & Tips
• Madrid in One Day – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide
• One Day in Barcelona – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide
• Driving from UK to Spain – Routes & Tips
• Motorhoming in Spain: Your Complete Guide

Andalucia Road Trip

Marbella – ronda – cadiz – jerez de la frontera – seville – cordoba – granada.

Andalucia epitomizes Spain for most visitors; vibrant, colorful, and passionate. This itinerary will take you to the major cities of Andalucia, bringing Spain alive.

If you’re looking for a longer holiday, it’s perfect for a 3 week European road trip itinerary with a bit of beach time thrown in,  even if you visit in winter .

This is a perfect road trip to start and finish in Malaga. Fly in, hire a car, and within a few hours, you can be on the beaches of the Costa del Sol, enjoying year-round sunshine.

In Marbella, spend a day soaking up the sun and visiting the charming old town. Make for  Taberna Casa Curro Marbella  where you’ll find great tapas and fruity Spanish wine.

Head north to Ronda and the stunning mountains of the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. If you have a few extra days, now is the time to visit the atmospheric cities of Cadiz and Jerez de la Frontera.

Your next stop is  Seville , a city almost too good to be true, and everything you ever through Seville would be.

Cordoba  is home to the breathtaking Mezquita, or mosque-cathedral, started by the Moors and finished by the Spanish conquistadors in the sixteenth century. Seeing this alone would make a visit to Cordoba worthwhile.

Pass through Antequera and learn the local legend of the  Lovers Rock  before making your way high into the Sierra Nevada to Granada and the famous Alhambra. Make sure you book your  priority tickets online  at least three months in advance, this ancient palace of kings sells out quickly.

• Visiting the beautiful  La Casa del Rey Moro  in Ronda for unrivaled views of the Puenta Nuevo.
• Watching steamy live flamenco in Seville’s atmospheric Barrio Santa Cruz.
• Being wowed by the incredible Moorish architecture of the Mezquita in Cordoba.

Marbella ⇒ Amare Beach Hotel  for its fun adults-only vibe and glamorous beach club. 

Seville ⇒ Casa del Poeta  for the beautifully renovated interiors, Barrio Santa Cruz location, and roof-top views to die for.

Granada ⇒ Hotel Santa Isabel la Real  for cozy rooms, spectacular Alhambra views, and a really special cooked breakfast.

Northern Spain Road Trip

San sabastian – bilbao – comillas – oviedo – ribadeo – a coruna – santiago de compostela.

• April-October

This Spanish road trip will take you through the beautiful and lush, aptly named Green Spain, hugging the north coast along the Bay of Biscay.

From the border with France and through the regions of the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia, you’ll see some of the most picturesque landscapes in Spain, enjoy amazing food, and crisscross the famous  Camino de Santiago .

Start in San Sabastian, a sophisticated city with a renowned restaurant scene, famous for seafood and pintxos (pronounced pinchos), which are similar to tapas.

Take a  gastronomic tour  for the best experience. Eat your fill and head west to Bilbao, home of the incredible  Guggenheim museum . The building itself is a work of art, with beautifully curved and sweeping architecture.

Head west, making sure to stop at the  cave of El Castillo  to see the 35,000-year-old drawings there.

Continue along the coast to the stunning Santillana del Mar, known as the town of the three lies; not holy (santi), flat (llana) or by the sea (del mar) .

This medieval town is beautifully preserved and worth a wander before you make your way to Comillas, further along the coast. Traditionally low-rise, you’ll find a pretty beach, a tiny fishing port, and a charming cobbled old center here.

Don’t miss El Caprichio, a Gaudi-designed villa.  If you have a few extra days, head into the  Picos de Europa , the small but perfectly formed mountain range.

Oviedo is the next stop and the starting point of the lesser-known Camino Primitivo (the oldest Camino). This compact and elegant city is another foodie delight, with a lively gastronomic scene.

Home to Spanish cider (who knew?), you’ll find traditional sidrerias along Calle Gascona, known as cider boulevard.   Visit in September for  Fiestas de San Mateo , a live theatre and music spectacular. If you go in October, you’ll be in the middle of the Asturias apple harvest.

A Coruna is up next, passing by the spectacular Playa de Las Catedrales en route. There is so much to do in A Coruna, a dynamic city that is home to a busy modern port, a relaxed beachfront resort, and an atmospheric old town.

The seafood here is some of the freshest and finest in Spain, with seafood tapas being a specialty. Take a walk out to the Tower of Hercules, the least-looking lighthouse we have ever seen!

Finally, you’ll reach  Santiago de Compostela , the end point of the famous Camino de Santiago, and your last stop. As you enter the town, you’ll see pilgrims covering the final few miles into one of the most beautiful cities in Spain, proudly displaying their vieira, the scallop shell badge that you’ll have seen along your route .  

Twisting alleys, dramatic squares, and historic religious buildings make up this labyrinth of a city, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are too many must-sees to list so consider a  walking tour with a local  to make the most of the time you have in this gorgeous city.

• Eating delicious  pintxos straight from the bar in the Basque Country. 
• Walking along the boardwalks at Playa de Las Catedrales and marvel at the extraordinary natural arches.
• Exploring the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela and make the climb to Las Cubiertas , the cathedral roof, for incredible views of the city and landscape beyond.

San Sebastian ⇒ Lasala Plaza Hotel  for a big dose of glamour, sea views, and a cool rooftop pool.

Oviedo ⇒ Barcelo Oviedo Cervantes  for its laid-back vibe, modern decor, and smooth service.

Santiago de Compostela ⇒ Parador De Santiago de Compostela  for its history, traditional decor, and HUGE breakfast buffet.

Switzerland

• Fodor’s Essential Switzerland
• Rough Guide to Switzerland
• DK Eyewitness Switzerland  
• Switzerland Road Trip: The Best Itinerary + Map & Tips
• One Day in Zurich – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

Road Trip to the Alps

Zurich – bern – lausanne – geneva – montreux – nendaz – zermatt – interlaken – lauterbrunnen – grindelwald – furka pass – lucerne – zurich.

This two week Switzerland summer road trip will take you on a spectacular, circular drive through Switzerland’s iconic landscapes covering roughly 1000km south across western Switzerland to Geneva before heading east towards Zermatt and eventually back north to Zurich.

Starting in Zurich, your first stop will be Bern, found within the curves of the Aare river. Bern is the capital city of Switzerland and is known for its 12th century architecture that forms the old town or Alstadt . Your visit to Bern would be incomplete without exploring Lake Brienz, just north of the Alps, which offers breathtaking mountain views and is considered one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland .

After your trip to Bern, begin traveling south to Lausanne, Geneva, and Montreux, visiting Lac Léman en route. 

The following stretch of your trip will provide unrivaled views of Les Diablerets as you head towards Zermatt where you will be met with the iconic Matterhorn, a mountain in the Swiss Alps.

At this point, your road trip starts the route east taking you to Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, and Grindelwald where hiking, mountain views, waterfalls and plenty of exciting adventures await.

As you leave Grindelwald, make sure you save time for the Furka Pass as you head to Lucerne. Our Swiss road trip itinerary will continue north to our initial starting point, the city of Zurich.

• Driving the incredible Alps passes of Furka and Susten, high in the picturesque Bernese Highlands.
• Taking one of the many cog-wheeled trains or cable cars into the big mountains that Switzerland is famous for.
• Exploring the incredible Jungfraujoch from Lauterbrunnen, an absolutely epic day trip!

Zurich ⇒ Placid Hotel Design & Lifestyle for its very cool interiors, accessible location, and free bikes to help you explore the city.

Geneva ⇒ Hotel Mon Repos  for its excellent location, beautifully decorated rooms, and comfy beds.

Lauterbrunnen ⇒ Hotel Schützen Lauterbrunnen for its Swiss chalet style, cozy restaurant and terrace, and friendly service.

United Kingdom

• Lonely Planet Great Britain
• DK Eyewitness Great Britain
• Rough Guides Make the Most of Your Time in Britain
• United Kingdom Travel Guide
• UK Road Trip – 18 Unmissable Routes
• Eight Incredible Scotland Road Trips
• North Coast 500 Route Planner + Highlights, Map & Tips
• Road Trip England – 10 of the Best Routes
• Wales Road Trip – A Stunning Route & Itinerary
• A South England Road Trip to Dorset & The New Forest
• Cornwall Road Trip: The Best Itinerary, Map & Tips
• Causeway Coastal Route: The Best Road Trip In Ireland?
• Belfast in A Day: Itinerary, Map & Tips
• Atlantic Highway: An Epic Devon & Cornwall Road Trip

Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland

Derry-londonderry – port rush – bushmills – cushendun – carrickfergus – belfast.

The wild and unspoiled  Antrim Coast  in Northern Ireland is made for a road trip. Peppered with fascinating places to see and exciting things to do, this route will appeal to outdoor adventurers.

If you are a  Game of Thrones fan , there are lots of  places along this route  which featured in the show or book a tour to find them all.

Start in the walled city of Derry-Londonderry, one of the finest examples of a walled city in Europe and the only remaining completely walled city in Ireland. The walls, which are around 1.5km in circumference, form a walkway around the inner city and provide a unique promenade to view the layout of the original town.

From here head north on the coast road, past the magnificent and unmistakable mountain of Binevenagh, and stop at Benone beach for a bracing walk along the sands. Don’t miss the Mussenden Temple perched on the cliff edge at the easternmost point of the beach.

Make your way to the pretty seaside town of Port Rush for a local ice cream and local craft shopping before meandering along the coast to Bushmills, home of the whiskey distillery. This is the perfect starting point for the gloriously breathtaking Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland’s first UNESCO site.

As you head west, make sure to stop at the picture-perfect harbor of Ballintoy and test yourself at the Carrick-a-rede rope bridge.

Take in the conservation village of Cushendun, steeped in character and folklore before heading on to Carrickfergus Castle. This imposing Norman castle stands on the northern shore of Belfast Lough and is one of the best-preserved medieval structures on the island of Ireland.

Belfast is your final stop; don’t miss the fantastic Titanic Quarter, historic Crumlin Road Gaol, and the buzzing nightlife of the Cathedral Quarter. Check out this detailed post for more  things to do in Belfast .

If you have longer, start in Belfast and head in the opposite direction. From Derry-Londonderry head across the border into raw and wild Co. Donegal and pick up the Wild Atlantic Way. This makes for a great island of Ireland 2 week road trip in Europe.

• Discovering the Giant’s Causeway, a truly spectacular natural wonder.
• Crossing the iconic Peace Bridge in Derry-Londonderry and then walking the ancient city walls.
• Taking a black cab mural tour in Belfast for a unique cabbie’s take on local politics and the troubles.

Londonderry ⇒ Bishop’s Gate Hotel for its perfect location, fascinating history, and tasteful decor.

Bushmills ⇒ The Bushmills Inn Hotel  for its homely peat fires, great Irish breakfast, and proximity to the Giant’s Causeway.

Belfast ⇒ Ten Square Hotel  for its superb central location, fantastic grill restaurant, and contemporary decor.

Norfolk Road Trip, England

Norwich – wroxham – winterton – cromer – hunstanton – sandringham – king’s lynn.

• Distance 175km
• Duration 5-7 days
• Drive Time 3 hours

This delightful coastal road trip will take you through the county of Norfolk to the Norfolk Broads, old-fashioned English seaside resorts, and onto the beautiful and unspoiled North Norfolk Coast .

Summer road trips in the UK are best if you want sunshine, but visit the UK in winter for more cost-effective travel and you’ll enjoy incredible beaches, big skies, and perfect solitude, especially when you road trip in Norfolk , England.

From the historic and pretty city of Norwich , head east towards Wroxham, the self-styled capital of the Broads. The dramatic landscapes and raw natural beauty of the Norfolk Broads were created when peat digs flooded in the 14th century.

This area is now a national park and a haven for wildlife and birds. Take a Broads cruise, hire a boat, or head off for a long walk along towpaths and through fields, where seeing flapping sails in the river is an everyday occurrence.

Nearby is the loud and bright town of Great Yarmouth , a traditional bucket and spade destination, with great nearby beaches and lots to do – you certainly won’t get bored here!

From the Broads, head east to explore the pretty towns and incredible beaches of the Norfolk coast . Winterton-on-Sea is a perfect place to see seal pups in the winter. Further north is the popular seaside town of Cromer, renowned for its lively pier.

From Cromer make a short detour south to the stunning Jacobean  Blickling Hall , home of Anne Boleyn.

Continue along the coast road to Blakeney and practice your crabbing skills from the harbor. Make a stop at the beautiful and huge Holkham Beach, where the ending of ‘Shakespeare in Love’ was filmed.

Onwards from here to Hunstanton, another bucket and spade destination , which is close to the medieval and Hanseatic port town of King’s Lynn . 

From here it’s a short drive to  Sandringham , home of the Queen. There are lots of things to do here, including visiting the house, gardens and country park.

If you have time, head to 12th century  Castle Rising  before making your way to the Hanseatic town of Kings Lynn. The town’s heritage is reflected in the fine merchants’ houses which stretch down to the river between cobbled lanes and the elegant Custom House that overlooks the harbor.

• Walking on Holkham Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the country.
• Traditional, delicious and fresh fish and chips from No 1 Cromer .
• Discover the stunning historic estates of Blickling Hall and Holkham Hall.

Norwich ⇒ The Georgian Townhouse   for its informal vibe, lively bar and restaurant, and contemporary decor.

Thornham ⇒  The Lifeboat Inn  for its romantic retreat-style location, open fires, and really seriously good pub grub.

King’s Lynn ⇒ Bank House  for its prime location, Grade II exterior, and go-to, lively brasserie.

North Coast 500 Road Trip, Scotland

Inverness – wick – john o’groats – durness – lochinver – ullapool – applecross.

• Distance 830km
• Duration 2-3 weeks
• Drive Time 12 hours

A favorite of motorhomers and campervanners, this iconic Scottish road trip is a 516 mile route that wends its way around the spectacular north coast of Scotland, starting and ending in Inverness. 

Passing through the remote and wild landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and the spectacular west coast, the North Coast 500 route delivers dramatic roads with spectacular views and is one of the must-do road trips in the United Kingdom .

• Hiking to beautiful  Sandwood Bay Beach , for the incredible sight of the Am Buachaille sea stack, a remnant of when the Highlands and North America were connected, millions of years ago.
• Whale watching from Gairloch, where you might also see porpoise, dolphins, and sharks, as well as seals, otters, puffins, and maybe white-tailed eagles. 
• Driving Bealach na Ba, the legendary Applecross Pass, and one of the best (but also most dangerous) roads in the UK.

Inverness ⇒ Kingsmills Hotel  for its traditional Scottish decor, lively bar, and spa.

Wick ⇒   Mackays Hotel for its award-winning service, great restaurant, and ideal location.

Gairloch ⇒   Shieldaig Lodge Hotel  for its wonderful lochside location, traditional hunting lodge style, and seriously good breakfast.

Snowdonia to the Brecon Beacons, Wales

Snowdonia – portmeirion – barmouth – new quay – pembrokeshire – gower peninsula – mumbles – brecon beacons.

• Distance 256km
• Drive Time 7 hours

Small but perfectly formed, the glorious country of Wales is a road tripper’s dream. With soaring mountains and valleys, miles of golden sands, craggy headlands, and some incredible roads, head to Wales for an adventurous and eclectic road trip.

Start your road trip itinerary in the spectacular Snowdonia National Park, or Parc Cenedlaethol Eryri in Welsh, in north Wales for drama, huge skies, and plenty of outdoor adventures. Perfect as a base for a few days, Betws-y-Coed is a typical mountain town in a beautiful valley, full of companies offering outdoor adventures, shops selling outdoor gear, and pubs and restaurants full of hikers talking about the day’s activities.

Your next stop is Portmeirion, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful places in Wales. Portmeirion is best known for Portmeirion Pottery (now made in Stoke-on-Trent) and its role in the 1960’s cult TV show The Prisoner . Look beyond the obvious though and enjoy local walks, tropical gardens, and interesting architecture.

Families with love Barmouth and its location on the west coast has to be one of the most beautiful in Wales. Steeped in a history rich with connections to the shipping and slate industries, this is a good old-fashioned seaside resort with a west facing beach ideal for sea swimming and watersports. 

Head south through coastal mid-wales to the vibrant seaside town of New Quay, following the Coastal Way along the length of Ceredigion Bay. Popular with tourists for its picturesque harbor and sandy beach, New Quay is an ideal base for water sports like sailing, stand-up paddle, kayaking, and canoeing – you’ll find lots to pack in for a couple of days.

Next up is Pembrokeshire, famous for its rough cliffs, huge beaches, and remote islands. The coast of Pembrokeshire offers limitless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and is one of the most stunning places in the UK. 

Pembrokeshire boasts that it invented coasteering, and it’s an activity you must try. The sport of jumping from land to sea, cliff scrambling, and swimming between rocks will stretch you mentally and physically but give you hours of fun. There is also lots of opportunity for swimming, paddling and generally messing about on the water.

Your next stop is the spectacular Gower Peninsula in south Wales, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty famous for its breathtaking coastline, 30 or so unspoiled beaches and coves, and coastal walking, including the gorgeous Rhossili Beach and the dramatic Worm’s Head, whose long ridged back rises straight from the sea.

Stop at Mumbles, a traditional seaside town, and walk along the bustling prom, where rollerbladers weave between pedestrians, and ice-cream parlors tempt.

Make a detour to the infamous Top Gear road, the Black Mountain Pass, as you head into the Brecon Beacons, or Bannau Brycheiniog in Welsh, for more fantastic hiking, especially if you tackle Pen y Fan, and incredible views.

• Driving the Black Mountain Pass and the Gospel Pass through the Brecon Beacons.
• Paddleboarding at the Blue Lagoon at Abereiddy in Pembrokeshire.
• Visiting the puffins and wildlife of Skomer Island.

Snowdonia ⇒ Ty Gwyn Hotel in Betws-y-Coed for its great location, friendly welcome, and traditional decor.

New Quay ⇒  Rooms @ The Dolau Inn for its location close to the beach, cozy rooms, and Welsh hospitality.

Pembrokeshire ⇒   Heywood Spa Hotel in Tenby for its luxury facilities, comfortable rooms, and great location.

European Road Trip Resources

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for planning a European road trip.

• Search for affordable flights to Europe with Skyscanner
• Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in Europe with Booking.com
• Find and book the best campsites in Europe with Eurocampings
• Book the cheapest and most reliable hire cars in Europe with Rentalcars.com
• Best for ferries around Europe are Ferryhopper
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Indie Campers
• Get highly rated, reliable, and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
• Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Information About Driving in Europe

• Driving in Europe – Everything You Need to Know
• How to Plan a Road Trip – Your Complete Guide
• 19 Helpful Long Distance Driving Tips
• Road Trip on a Budget: 36 Tips to Save Money in Europe
• The Best Printable Road Trip Checklists
• 150+ Road Trip Songs: Your Ultimate Driving Playlist
• Podcasts for Road Trips: 26 to Keep You Entertained
• Road Trip Snacks: 32 Ideas for Your Next Trip
• 113 Road Trip Quotes to Inspire Your Next Trip
• You must have at least three months remaining on your passport (issued in the past ten years) at your intended date of departure from Europe. If you’re traveling to Ireland , your passport must remain valid for the duration of your stay (UK citizens do not need a passport to visit Ireland, which is in the Common Travel Area).
• You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle.
• Citizens of non-EU third countries may require an International Driving Permit for driving in Europe . You can check whether you need an IDP here .
• Most of Europe drives on the right, except the United Kingdom which drives on the left.
• Most European countries, especially those with mountains, have rules about snow tires and snow chains. Make sure you check these rules if you’re taking a road trip to Europe in colder weather.
• You may want to consider carrying an  electronic toll pass  for the duration of your European road trip itinerary. These devices deduct the toll fees from a credit card automatically, meaning you don’t have to stop at a booth or barrier.
• Many cities across Europe have low emissions zones, which can be easy to stray into accidentally.  The Urban Access Regulation in Europe  website has information on a country and city-by-city basis, to help you plan your trip. They also share links for purchasing LEZ and ULEZ stickers online.
• Make sure you’re aware of the specific rules for each European country that you intend to visit. Some have obscure rules about driving in flip-flops or eating road trip snacks at the wheel! You can find more information about the rules of the road and what to carry in your vehicle  here .
• Although it is strongly advised, you are not required to have breakdown cover. UK registered vehicles may be able to add this to an existing policy or take out a policy for the duration of the trip. If you’re hiring a car to road trip around Europe, make sure to check breakdown arrangements with the car rental company.

Looking for more Europe itinerary ideas? Check out these top posts…

Stelvio Pass: The Best Mountain Road in Italy?

Spain Road Trip: 8 Amazing Routes for an Epic Trip

Croatia Road Trips: Five Incredible Routes

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10 Exciting Portugal Road Trip Itinerary Ideas (+ Tips!)

From the dramatic coastline of the Algarve to the stunning terraces of the Duoro Valley, and from the quaint charms of Obidos to the otherworldly palaces of Sintra, there is no shortage of amazing places to visit on a Portugal road trip.

Nestled in the southwest corner of mainland Europe, driving through Portugal offers a neverending supply of sublime views and hidden gems.

Long an overlooked corner of the continent (though that has changed dramatically in recent years!), road trips in Portugal are bound to leave you hoping for more.

When we moved to Lisbon as American expats, we knew we wanted to spend lots of time exploring by car–and we have!

Even still, there are many Portugal road trip itineraries still left on our long wish list, so we’ve teamed up with several other travel bloggers to show you a wide variety of the scenic drives that the country has to offer.

Here are the best road trips in Portugal–plus some essential tips to keep in mind as you plan your adventure!

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Essential Tips for Your Road Trip in Portugal

Rent the smallest car you can..

Especially if you’re coming from the USA like us, you’ll likely find Portuguese roads–especially in small villages and in the countryside–are smaller than what you’re used to.

Save on gas, rental costs,  and  stress while driving in Portugal by renting the smallest car you can manage to fit yourselves and your belongings into.

We recommend searching for your (tiny) rental car through Discover Cars , which will allow you to sift through all your options and choose the right car for you based on price, the reputation of the company that is renting it, and the terms of the rental contract.

Shop rental cars for your Portugal road trip today!

Plan on renting a manual, or prepare to pay.

Like the rest of Europe, manual cars are the norm in Portugal.

If you only drive automatic, you’ll absolutely be able to find a car to rent for your road trip… but be prepared to plan ahead (especially if you’re traveling during the busy season when the cars get reserved quickly), and to pay extra fees for the privilege.

Prepare to pay lots of tolls.

Portugal is notorious for its number of toll rolls, especially on popular routes like driving from Lisbon to the Algarve.

The easiest way to pay the tolls is to get a “Via Verde” pass from your rental car company (they will almost certainly offer you one), which will keep a tally of your tolls and charge you automatically.

We generally get charged by the rental car company for the tolls we racked up using our “Via Verde” pass within a week or so of turning the car in.

Plan your parking in advance.

This especially applies overnight parking–ie, look for hotels that include parking or have a plan for parking listed–but also during day trips. 

Whether you’re visiting a small village, beach, trailhead, or city, knowing where to park before you arrive will save lots of time, stress, and often money.

For overnight parking, we use  Booking.com  and ideally look for places using the “free parking on-site” filter.

Depending on where you are going during your road trip in Portugal, though, free parking may not be possible–in that case, carefully check and see what hotels have reasonably-priced parking nearby.

A hotel that is an extra 10 Euros/night may end up being an excellent deal if there’s inexpensive parking nearby!

Your life will be much easier if you have a Portuguese SIM Card.

This assumes your phone is unlocked, of course, but seriously: getting a local SIM card before taking off on your road trip in Portugal will make your life so much easier!

Having access to everything from a GPS to restaurant reviews is a huge benefit of traveling in the modern age, and bringing those tools along with you as you explore Portugal by car is a fantastic idea.

You can absolutely purchase a local SIM card once you arrive, but if you want to get everything set up before you go, you can also purchase an EU SIM card for your trip  in advance.

Know that you’ll need reflective jackets in the car.

This is a standard rule in Portugal, and the jackets must be worn during any breakdowns or accidents.

If you’re renting a car for your Portugal road trip itinerary, this will likely be included in your vehicle.

On the off-chance that you’re driving your own vehicle into the country, though, it’s important to keep in mind!

The Best Portugal Road Trip Itinerary Ideas

The best of the algarve road trip.

From Campbell of Stingy Nomads

The spectacular Algarve coast in the south is one of the most picturesque places to road trip through Portugal.

The region is famous for little fishing villages with white-washed houses and cobbled stone streets, beautiful sandy beaches backed by jaw-dropping limestone cliffs, and delicious seafood.

A road trip is a perfect way to explore the charming towns and unique turquoise coastline.

With good roads and facilities and relatively short distances between towns, driving is easy in the area.

The capital of the Algarve, Faro, is a popular entry point to the region with an international airport.

Carvoeiro, about an hour’s drive from Faro, is a small town packed with attractions.

Spend a day on one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve, Marinha Beach with golden sand and crystal clear water.

Visiting Benagil cave is a must-do activity from Carvoeiro and you can enter the famous cave by boat trip, paddleboard, or kayak.

If you enjoy hiking don’t miss the striking Seven Hanging Valleys Trail .

From Carvoeiro drive to Lagos, home to a beautiful marina, one of the nicest old towns to explore, and plenty of unreal beaches.

Don’t miss Praia do Camilo, Praia Dona Ana and Porto de Mos Beach.

Keep on driving to Sagres, the south-western tip of Europe with dramatic scenery the Romans used to call the end of the world. The wild ocean here is known for excellent surfing.

Make your way back to Albufeira, this once fishing village has some beautiful beaches to enjoy.

Driving Distance

Recommended road trip length.

This road trip can comfortably be driven in 7 days.

Loop from Lisbon through Portugal’s Medieval Southern Interior

By Emily of Wander-Lush

Brimming with charming medieval towns, historic castles and majestic cathedrals, a road trip through Portugal’s southern interior is a dream for history and architecture buffs.

This loop route starts and ends in Lisbon, making it ideal for travelers who are flying in and out of the capital.

Ease into things with a short but scenic drive to Obidos .

Just over an hour from Lisbon, this picture-perfect town of whitewashed houses and red roofs is a popular day-trip destination; linger on after the tour buses have departed and wander the quiet streets, visiting the impressive aqueduct and Obidos Castle.

Allow two nights to see the various monuments, and make sure you budget enough time for getting lost down the cobblestoned streets.

When it’s time to leave, duck inland to Santarem, a gorgeous Portuguese city on the edge of the Tagus River.

Catch the view from Santarem Castle and take in the gorgeous vernacular architecture before leaving the city behind to discover forests, wetlands, and river ecosystems in nearby Serras de Aire e Candeeiros Nature Park and beyond.

From there, it’s a short drive to Tomar, a former seat of the Order of the Knights Templar and home to one of the finest examples of Portuguese Renaissance architecture in the Convent of Christ.

Set aside a full day to enjoy the longest leg of this drive as you take the scenic back-road into the Alentejo region, stopping at Arraiolos, Pavia, and any other picturesque village that catches your eye.

Finish up with a few days in medieval Évora , visiting the 12th-century Gothic cathedral and the mythical Chapel of Bones.

318 miles or 512 km.

The total driving time for this Portugal road trip is just over 6 hours, but you should take your time on this historic route and make the most of each town.

A full week to 10 days is ideal.

Lisbon to Porto Road Trip

From Or of My Path in the World

With so many  beautiful places to visit between Lisbon and Porto , it’s no wonder why driving from the Portuguese capital to the country’s second city is such a popular road trip in Portugal.

From colorful palaces and castles to charming coastal towns to medieval villages and landmarks, there’s a lot to see and experience.

First, you can visit Cabo da Roca, Europe’s westernmost point.

After taking in the views of the Atlantic coastline, head to the UNESCO-listed Sintra, one of the best Portuguese cities for those who love fairytale palaces.

These include the Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and Monserrate Palace.

Next, visit Obidos, one of the most enchanting medieval villages in Portugal.

Stroll through the cobbled streets, walk along the walls, or even book a night at the Obidos Castle.

Continue to the city of Tomar, where you’ll find the infamous Covent of Christ, and visit Coimbra, the home of one of the oldest universities in the world, and enjoy the local version of Fado music.

If that’s not enough, you can also hike through the enchanted Bussaco Forest, and before arriving in Porto, stop at Vila Nova de Gaia for a tour at some of the best Port wine cellars in the area.

About 351 miles or 565 km.

We recommend dedicating at least 5-7 days to this road trip, though it could easily be extended to 2 weeks.

Vicentina Coast Road Trip Route

From Alya of The Algarve Family

A road trip along the wild and beautiful Vicentina Coast in southern Portugal is an incredible experience.

The coast stretches between Odeceixe in the north and Sagres in the south.

The Costa Vicentina is still to be discovered by international tourists. It’s very different from the popular southern Algarve.

The road trip can be done from Lisbon. The route follows the famous Fishermen’s Trail , one of the most beautiful coastal hiking routes in Europe.

You can combine a road trip with a beach holiday or a weekend filled with outdoor activities such as hiking or surfing.

The Vicentina Coast road trip starts in the small town of Porto Covo, 170 km south of Lisbon, and finishes at Cabo de S.Vicente, the southwesternmost point of continental Europe.

From Porto Covo, drive about 45 km south towards Zambujeira do Mar. 

It is a quiet town with a couple of beautiful beaches and stunning views of the rugged coast from the cliffs.

On the way make stops in Vila Nova de Milfontes, Praia do Almograve, and Cabo Sardão. 

The next day continue driving along the coast from Zambujeira do Mar towards Sagres.

This part of the route has many stunning beaches and breathtaking lookout points.

Places to stop on the route are Odeceixe Beach, Amoreira Beach, Arrifana, Bordeira Beach and viewpoint point, Cabo de S.Vicente, and Sagres. 

Driving Distance 

This Portugal driving route is perfect for a 3-day weekend trip.

An Azores Road Trip on Sao Miguel

From Megan of meganstarr.com

One of the best road trips in Portugal (and the rest of Europe ) is on the beautiful island of Sao Miguel in the Azores.

The island may be small (744 sq km / 290 sq mi), but it is jam-packed with incredible viewpoints, diverse landscapes, some of the best hikes in the Azores , and so much more.

The best way to see Sao Miguel is to rent a car and do a road trip!

On your first day, start off visiting the western side of the island.

Western Sao Miguel is brimming with lush greenery and volcanic lakes … which is a stark contrast to the eastern side of the island.

During this day, be sure to visit Miradouro da Boca do Inferno, Kings View (as well as the abandoned hotel called ʻMonte Palaceʻ there), Sete Cidades, and the sea stacks of Mosteiros.

For the second day of the trip, you will be visiting the dramatic landscapes of central Sao Miguel.

Some of the best landmarks and places to visit are Pocos, the famous Pineapple Plantation, Lagoa, Estacao Emissora do Pico da Barrosa viewpoint, and Salto do Cabrito… one of the most  beautiful waterfalls on Sao Miguel .

Finally, for the third day, you will head east! The east is the ʻhotʻ spot with a lot of hot springs and volcanic activity.

You can start your day in Lagoa das Furnas (be sure to try a Cozido das Furnas!), Parque Terra Nostra, and Salto do Prego.

End your day at the mind-blowing Miradouro Ponta do Sossego before heading back to Ponta Delgada (where you will spend your last day on Sao Miguel).

Taking a road trip of Sao Miguel will allow you to deeply connect with the island and never feel like youʻre spending more time driving than enjoying the scenery.

There are plenty of stops and the diversity of each will make you yearn for a second trip even before heading home from the first!

You will need a minimum of three days to travel the island (to get a good sense of it) and an additional day to spend in the capital city of Ponta Delgada.

A Scenic Drive Up the Silver Coast

From Jenifer of The Evolista

A road trip from Lisbon to Nazare will give you an up-close look at why people love the stunning Silver Coast of Portugal. 

The first village is Ericeira, a cool surf town, 30 minutes north of Lisbon.

Surfers flock here for the best waves in Europe.

Wander through the white cobblestone streets for shopping, delicious restaurants, and charming Ericeira hotels with ocean views for an overnight stay.

Next, head to Peniche for a dose of history. You’ll find a well-preserved fort that dates back to the 17th century.

If you have time, take the 45-minute ferry to the Berlengas Islands. 

The road heads inland to the walled, medieval city of Obidos. This picturesque town, filled with narrow streets lined with shops and cafes, is perfect to explore for a few hours.

Then you’ll head back to the beaches of Foz do Arelho.

It’s a beachy town overlooking a gorgeous lagoon where people enjoy a variety of water sports including SUP, kayaking, and windsurfing.

Last but not least is the town famous for big wave surfing, Nazaré.

So whether you’re looking to catch some waves or relax and rejuvenate, you’ll find plenty of things to do on a road trip from Lisbon to Nazare along the Silver Coast in Portugal.

114 miles or 183 km.

The drive time is only 3 hours in total but you should definitely plan at least 2-4 days for the trip so you have time to explore and take advantage of the charming towns and fun activities available.

Offbeat Peneda-Gerês National Park Road Trip

From Coni of Experiencing the Globe

When a country has only one national park, and you love nature, you might consider a visit.

When it’s a perfect loop from one of the country’s top destinations, then you must add it to your itinerary.

Gerês is not on most people´s  travel bucket list , but it absolutely should be!

Located only 60 miles from Porto, in the northern corner of Portugal, if you’re into culture tourism, hiking, or sightseeing in nature, Gerês will make for the perfect road trip.

The park is huge, and everything you will want to see is spread out, so jump into your car early, maybe make a quick stop in Braga, and head to Rio Caldo, where you can find a few restaurants and hotels (and campsites), and where the day will fly by swimming or walking around the river.

The next day, start by visiting the village of Gerês.

You’ll see shepherds leading their cattle to graze, and grannies selling homemade goodies.

Stop in Miradouro Pedra Bela for incredible views, in Cascatas de Fecha de Barjas if you want a bit of a trek with an amazing waterfall for a swim at the end, or in Cascata de Pincães if you want an easier hike.

Finish the day by going down an old Roman road to Ponte da Misarela, known as the Devil’s bridge, a beautiful man-made medieval building cohabiting with the stunning landscape.

You can find accommodation looping back to Gerês.

On the third day go towards Mata da Albergaria, a magnificent oak forest, and then to the small village with a top-of-a-hill castle of Lindoso.

Finish the day in Soajo, where you’ll see  Espigueiros , a collection of granite granaries built above the ground, where corn is still being kept.

From Porto to the village of Gerês lay only 60 miles, and your north Portugal road trip itinerary will determine how much driving you’ll do.

If you stick to the three days detailed above, you’re looking at around 230 miles.

Portugal Driving Tip : if you’re running out of petrol, from Lindoso cross into Spain. In a short 15-minute detour you’ll find a gas station.

There are many other waterfalls, viewpoints, small villages, and sanctuaries that you can visit if you have more time.

A minimum to take in the most important sites is 3 days, but if you have a week or more, the park will keep you entertained.

Porto + Duoro Valley Road Trip Loop

From Moumita and Sankha of Chasing the Long Road

The road trip from Porto to Douro Valley is one of the most incredible road trips in Portugal and is one of the best  things to do from Porto .

This Portugal road trip is structured as a loop starting and ending in Porto.

Start your Portuguese road trip adventure by exploring the city of Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal.

The old Historic Centre of Porto, alongside the nearby Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

From taking a short cruise over the Douro River to exploring the magnificent Livraria Lello (one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world), Porto offers a lot. 

Spend at least 2-3 days in Porto before exploring the Douro Valley.

The drive to Douro Valley is very scenic.

The entire valley is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its terraced vineyards.

You will be treated to stunning sceneries and some delicious wine and food. The road follows endless gorgeous vineyards over the lush green hills and the historic wine villages. 

There are numerous miradouros (viewpoints) on the way, where you can stop to take photos and admire the view.

Don’t miss the famous Double Viewpoint or Miradouro do Penedo Durao.

For wine lovers, many of the wineries here offer Port wine tasting and a tour of their cellar. 

Be sure to stop by the small village of Pinhao, with its famously charming train station, along the way.

About 127 miles each way.

It takes around 4 hours to drive between Porto and Vila Nova de Foz Coa.

We would suggest spending at least 4-5 days exploring Porto and the towns and villages of Douro Valley.

Island Road Trip on Madeira

From Marjut of The Smooth Escape

Madeira lies in the Atlantic Ocean, 700 miles off the coast of mainland Portugal.

Home to dramatic volcanic landscapes and lush vegetation, this sub-tropical island is known as the Hawaii of Europe.

The best way to witness the beauty of Madeira is by taking a road trip.

As the island is quite small, you can use the capital city Funchal as your base and take day trips via car to the different parts of the island.

Start your trip by spending a day in Funchal. With its tropical gardens, cobblestone streets, and endless ocean views, it’s a fantastic city to explore.

Next, drive to Madeira’s northwestern coast where you’ll find towering cliffs, natural pools, and picturesque villages.

Make sure to visit the black sand beach in Seixal which is considered one of the best beaches in Madeira . 

The next stop is Pico do Arieiro, the island’s third-highest peak where you can enjoy striking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

If you’re up for an adventure, you can hike the challenging trail to Pico Ruivo.

Visit also the traditional thatched houses in the village of Santana and do the scenic ‘levada’ walk to Caldeirão Verde waterfall.

Round off your trip by exploring the moon-like landscapes of the Ponta de São Lourenço peninsula. 

Although you could cover this whole distance in a couple of days, I recommend spending at least 5 days on this Portuguese road trip because there’s so much to see and do along the way.

Alternate Lisbon to Porto Driving Route

From De Wet of Museum of Wander

Yes, you can drive from Lisbon to Porto in about three hours, but do you really want to do that if you could slow down and see rural Portugal and a stunning surf town along the way?

This road trip takes you inland from Lisbon to the Alentejo region with whitewashed villages, cork forests and vineyards before heading back to the coast.

Stop in  Nazare  on the Costa da Prata for the freshest seafood,  long stretches of empty beach and enormous waves to surf before ending your trip in gorgeous Porto.

Leave Lisbon and head east towards Evora in Alentejo.

Evora is a stunning medieval town surrounded by a city wall.

In Evora, explore the cobblestoned old town, see the famous Bone Chapel and Roman Temple, dine on exquisite regional food, and do some wine tastings.

The countryside around Evora is peppered with vineyards, wineries, cork forests, and megalithic complexes to explore with your own wheels, too.

Then head back to the coast for some beach time and relaxation in Nazare.

In Nazare, head down to the lighthouse and Praia do Norte to see (or surf) the giant waves that Nazare is famous for.

After visiting Nazare, it’s about a two-hour drive to Porto, where your road trip ends.

357 miles or 576 km.

You enjoy this Portugal road trip in a weekend, but five days or more will be much more relaxing.

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About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

8 thoughts on “10 Exciting Portugal Road Trip Itinerary Ideas (+ Tips!)”

Good morning!

My husband an I are planning a road trip in Portugal in mid-Sept. to mid-Oct. 2023. How difficult is it to find overnight accommodations on the fly? We’d like to take our time each day and then find a place to rest to maximize our time. We are thinking of leaving from Porto, continuing through Douro Valley, north through National Park and the coast on return.

Assuming you’re flexible with where you stay (and especially if you’re open to staying in more rural properties), it’s not a problem at all. Based on your route I think you guys will be just fine going on the fly.

If you want to stay at a winery in the Douro Valley, you might consider booking that in advance, but if you’re just hoping to stay in the general area, you should be able to find something.

Hello Lee, My husband and I and another couple are doing a road trip through Portugal after a cruise that ends in Barcelona. Same time frame as your trip except 1 year later…October 2024. We plan to get a car in Barcelona. Can you share what you learned and/or what you recommend? I’m just beginning to research Portugal so I don’t even know what questions to ask. We are thinking roughly a week exploring Portugal.

Hi Kate and Jeremy, Thank you for your invaluable blog!

We are planning a trip to northern Portugal the last two weeks of September. We would like to do a walking tour in the Penada- Geres National Park. Do you have any personal recommendations for companies who organize such tours? We are keen to spend approximately a week there, and want to visit smaller villages. Our home base will be Porto.

Many thanks in advance for any advice you may have,

Unfortunately I don’t, as we haven’t had a chance to visit yet! I do know that Get Your Guide, one of our favorite aggregates to book tours through, has a few options leaving through Porto that are listed.

Thanks, Kate. We have gone ahead and booked with MACs Adventure. Really looking forward to it!

All the best, Anne

Very nice compilation. It would be even nicer if you put a caption under pictures telling where they are.

Thanks for the feedback, Jeff! We have started slowly adding location captions on some of our new posts, but it’s quite the job with 8+ years of archives to go through! 🙂

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Discover the Best Road Trips in Portugal: Your Ultimate Adventure Guide

Portugal may be a small country, but it’s packed with scenic beauty, vibrant culture, and historical marvels. From the rolling vineyards in Douro Valley to the dramatic cliffs of Algarve, each corner offers unique and awe-inspiring landscapes.

We’ve spent weeks driving around Portugal and have had the pleasure of road tripping from the top down to the bottom. No matter where we stopped, we found the people friendly, the desserts delicious and the port wine flowing freely.

Best Road Trips in Portugal

From scenic coastal drives to inland trips, we’ve seen a lot firsthand, but know there’s always more to explore. Whether traveling as a couple, a family, with a group of friends or on your own, we’ve seen there’s something in Portugal for everyone.

Lisbon to Porto: Coastal Bliss

Excited to see what road trips Portugal has to offer? Here’s your guide to the best road trips in Portugal for a journey you’ll never forget.

Quick Summary

This classical Portugal road trip route offers a perfect blend of city, sea, and history. Starting from the vibrant capital Lisbon, you’ll cruise north along the coast, exploring stunning beaches, medieval towns, and bustling cities before reaching Porto, famous for its port wine and historic charm.

Lisbon – Cascais – Sintra – Nazaré – Coimbra – Aveiro – Porto

Distance/Time:

433km – Approx. 5.5hrs travel time – Google Maps

Road Trip Duration:

Highlights:.

• Lisbon: Capital city of Portugal with gorgeous architecture like the Jerónimos Monastery, cool street tiles , plenty of unusual things to do as well as the home of our favorite Portuguese dessert, the delicious Pasteis de Belem .
• Cascais: The Boca do Inferno, a dramatic cliffside chasm is worth stopping for.
• Sintra: Explore both the colorful Pena Palace as well as the beautiful Quinta da Regaleira palace (plus both their amazing gardens).
• Nazaré: Stand in awe of Nazarés huge waves, visit Our Lady of Nazaré Sanctuary plus check out the Miradouro do Suberco, a viewpoint offering awesome panoramic ocean views.
• Coimbra: Home of the Joanina Library, one of the most beautiful libraries in the world as well as the popular University of Coimbra.
• Aveiro: Canals adorned with brightly colored boats called moliceiros line this Portuguese city, often called the Venice of Portugal.
• Porto: Sample different ports, go on a Douro river cruise and check out Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores.

While Nazaré is popular for day trips, consider spending a night here. At night, once the day tourists leave, you’ll get the chance to experience the quiet charm of this fishing village, which is both rich in tradition and local flavor.

Douro Valley: The Wine Circuit

Quick summary:.

For port and wine lovers, this route is paradise. Beginning in Porto, you’ll journey into the heart of Portugal’s wine country, following the Douro River through scenic towns and valleys, and stopping for vineyard tours and tastings along the way.

Porto – Amarante – Peso da Régua – Pinhão – Vila Real

188km – Approx. 3hrs travel time – Google Maps

• Porto: The iconic Ribeira District along the Douro River and the Porto Cathedral, a 900 year old building with amazing tile art.
• Amarante: Ponte de São Gonçalo, an arched bridge with tons of historical significance.
• Peso da Régua: Douro Museum, exploring the history and culture of the Douro region.
• Pinhão: The train station adorned with blue-and-white Azulejo tiles.
• Vila Real: The 18th-century Mateus Palace and its gorgeous gardens.
• Peso da Régua: Douro River Cruise and Museu do Douro.
• Pinhão: Wine estates and Azulejos-decorated train station.
• Vila Real: Mateus Palace.

Not sure where to start? Book your all-inclusive trip to Portugal with Voyage Privé .

The Douro Valley is the birthplace of port wine, and no visit would be complete without diving into this local specialty. Many vineyards offer tastings and tours where you can learn about the winemaking process from grape to bottle. But it’s not just about port; the region also produces exceptional red and white wines. Make sure to take a guided tour of at least one wine estate to fully appreciate the region’s rich viticultural history.

The Algarve: Sun-Kissed Splendor

This southern loop offers the quintessential Algarve experience: golden beaches to lounge away the hot summer days, rocky coves to explore and bustling towns filled with nightlife. The route takes you from the historic city of Faro to the westernmost point of the Algarve, providing a well-rounded tour of this sun-soaked region.

Tavira – Faro – Albufeira – Lagos – Sagres

168km – Approx. 3hrs travel time – Google Maps

• Tavira: The Roman Bridge, a picturesque seven-arched bridge.
• Faro: Arco da Vila, an arched gateway dating back to Moorish times.
• Albufeira: Nightlife hub of the Algarve. Also check out Old Town, a vibrant area filled with shops, restaurants, and bars.
• Lagos: Ponta da Piedade, known for its stunning rock formations and Praia Dona Ana.
• Sagres: Fortaleza de Sagres , a cliff-top fortress with panoramic sea views and Cape St. Vincent. Also very popular with kite surfers.

Tavira offers a less crowded, more authentic Algarve experience. It’s relatively untouched by large-scale tourism, making it an ideal spot for a quieter beach escape and to explore traditional Portuguese culture. If you want to be where the action is, Albufeira is where you want to be.

Madeira: The Garden Isle

Portugal’s southern island of Madeira provides a distinct road trip experience full of natural beauty and old-world charm. Starting in Funchal, this island route offers lush gardens, volcanic pools, and coastal views that are second to none.

Funchal – Câmara de Lobos – Ribeira Brava – Porto Moniz – Santana

117km – Approx. 2.5hrs travel time – Google Maps

• Funchal: Monte Palace Tropical Garden offering views over Funchal Bay, take a crazy Toboggan ride in a traditional wicker basket down the city roads and visit the lovely Mercado dos Lavradores.
• Câmara de Lobos: Picturesque fishing village immortalized by Winston Churchill’s paintings.
• Ribeira Brava: Forte de São Bento, a historic fort with scenic sea views.
• Porto Moniz: Natural lava pools perfect for a unique swimming experience and the Madeira Aquarium.
• Santana: Thatched-roof A-frame houses showcasing traditional Madeiran architecture Queimadas Forest Park.

The Laurisilva Forest is a must-see in Madeira. This UNESCO World Heritage site covers about 20% of the island. A walk here reveals a rare glimpse of Europe’s prehistoric landscapes. The flora and fauna are unique, and the sense of tranquility is unparalleled.

Azores: Volcanic Adventure

Portugal’s Azores islands are an off-the-beaten-path treasure in the middle of the Atlantic. Starting in Ponta Delgada, this route offers a journey through volcanic landscapes, cliffside viewpoints, and lush greenery that encapsulates the untamed beauty of these islands.

Ponta Delgada – Sete Cidades – Furnas – Nordeste

126km – Approx. 2.5hrs travel time – Google Maps

• Ponta Delgada: Forte de São Brás, a 16th-century fortress plus check out Twin lakes and Vista do Rei.
• Sete Cidades: Visit Lagoa do Fogo, a stunning crater lake.
• Furnas: Terra Nostra Garden, a beautiful botanical garden with thermal pools.
• Nordeste: Miradouro da Ponta do Sossego, offering panoramic views of cliffs and ocean.

The Azores are one of the world’s best spots for whale watching. While most visitors come between April and October, each season offers a different array of species. Book a tour with a reputable operator to enhance your chances of sightings and to ensure ethical practices.

Travel Tips for Any Route:

• Toll Roads: Portugal has many toll roads . A Via Verde (Green Lane) electronic device can be rented to automatically pay some tolls while others require a toll pass, both will save you time and fuss.
• Gas Stations: Fuel up in larger towns as rural areas may have limited services. Gas stations also often close early in remote regions.
• Local Laws: Always have your ID and driving license with you. Portuguese traffic police are known for random checks, and fines for not having proper identification or a proper toll pass can be steep.

The Best Road Trips in Portugal

With each road trip offering its own unique set of attractions and nuances, Portugal promises an adventure that caters to all kinds of travelers. We loved our time here and the entire family always enjoyed jumping into the car knowing that the next stop was going to be just as amazing as the last. Safe travels!

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We are moving to Portugal this summer. I’ll save this article for our new home exploration.

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Road Trip Portugal: The Perfect 3-week Itinerary

Portugal: the road trip of a lifetime, on looping mountain roads and cliffside paths, among epic cities, and beautiful whitewashed Portugal villages . Hire a campervan and make your way around the country from one breathtaking experience to the next. Whether it’s surfing off the coast of the Algarve, or wine tasting in the Douro Valley, Portugal will fulfill all your adventure dreams. Plan your route with this 3-week itinerary.

Portugal Travel Itinerary

Get ready for an unforgettable Portugal travel experience! (road trip) The route starts and ends in the south of Portugal, in Faro, and is best done by campervan. Using a car/public transport is also possible, but plan for accommodation and getting to more remote locations.

Also read: Complete 2-week Portugal itinerary .

Day 1: Evora & Elvas

Begin your Portuguese road trip in Faro: a small town in the south of Portugal. Collect your campervan or hire a car, and begin the 3.5-hour trip up north to Elvas. On your way, make a stop at Evora (about 2.5 hours into your journey).

We recommend to rent a car in Portugal through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

This beautiful university town has a buzzing atmosphere full of bars and restaurants and people enjoying its party nature. Not only this, but its incredible architecture and Roman history make it a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Read:   Evora Travel Guide – Best things to do

Please spend a few hours here during the day exploring its quaint streets, sandwiched between white and yellow-painted cottages. Make sure to pay a visit to the ruins of the Roman temple and the Evora cathedral.

Hotels in Evora 😴

Once you have enjoyed a few hours in Evora, continue your drive further north to Elvas. Just 1km from the walled city, discover the impressive Forte de Nossa Senhora da Graca: a huge star-shaped fort that sits high on a hill, where you can see an amazing sunset. The enormous fort walls are imposing, but the fort’s unique shape really takes your breath away.

Hotels in Elvas 😴

Amoreira Aqueduct

Before you leave Elvas on day 2, take an early morning trip to the Amoreira Aqueduct. This is a huge 4 tiered archway bridge that sits at the entrance to the town of Elvas. The 16th-century aqueduct was used to facilitate water movement in the town for many years and is still used today. The impressive 8km long structure is also a UNESCO site and is an absolute must-see.

Portugal road trip

Day 2-3: Monsanto Rock Village

On day 2, head to one of the most mesmerizing locations in Portugal: Monsanto Rock Village ! Named as ‘the most Portuguese village in Portugal’, this hilltop village takes you back to a simpler time.

Here, houses emerge out of gigantic boulders, with ladders and doors that take you up to rooftop rock terraces. Enjoy the spectacular views out across the valley from Monsanto and the most magical starry night sky!

More about: Rock Village Monsanto in Portugal

Staying the night is a good idea, as most people visit Monsanto on an organized day tour. Because of this, after 5 pm, the village will be totally peaceful and free of tourists. It also allows you to stay in one of the unique rock houses.

Hotels in Monsanto 😴

Elvas to Monsanto: 2hr 40 minute drive. The journey is possible by bus but the journey has several changes and can take up to 6 hours.

Day 4-5: Douro Valley, Portugal

One of the highlights of a Portugal travel road trip has to be time spent in the stunning Douro valley , amongst its endless vineyards and rolling hills. Enjoy time in the valley towns, such as Peso Regua, take part in water sports on the mighty Douro River, and drive along some of the most spectacular roads in Europe.

Planning a campervan trip? We’re happy to share a 5% discount on your campervan at Soul Campers only for readers of Salt in our Hair. Make a reservation and mention the code SALTINOURHAIR in the booking form.

Wine Tour Portugal

Make sure to book one of the many wine tours on offer in the Douro Valley . Wine tours range from tastings to learning about the harvesting experience or staying the night on one of the beautiful estates. 

Book your Douro Valley wine tour in advance 

Monsanto to Douro Valley: 3 hours driving. Alternatively, make your way down into the valley by taxi to the town of Covilha. From here, there is a public bus to Peso Regua, taking 3 hours. Be aware that only two buses run per day.

Stay overnight in the Douro Valley

We stayed at Quinta do Monte Travesso , where we did a wine tour and camped overnight. However, there are hundreds of beautiful Quintas to stay at throughout the huge region, so the options are endless.

Hotels in the Douro Valley 😴

Day 6: Braga

Walking around Braga is a pleasure, with its beautiful gardens and squares filled with colorful flowers. What’s more, it’s home to the oldest cathedral in Portugal, so dedicate a day to visit the city itself.

Peneda Geres National Park, Portugal

If you have time, drive a little further north to Peneda Geres National Park’s remote landscapes. Here you will find many waterfalls, lakes, and deep valleys peppered with quaint hillside villages and Roman ruins. The largest national park in Portugal is well worth the trip if you are traveling Portugal by campervan , as it’s the ideal way to explore nature.

Peso Regua to Braga: 1 hour 20 minutes driving. If using public transport, you will need to go to Porto first and access the bus or train from there. From Porto, Braga can be visited easily by train in just under an hour, with a regular service running throughout the day.

Day 7-9: Porto

Porto : Lisbon’s much-loved little sibling! Any Portuguese road trip is not complete without spending a few days in this extraordinary city. Walk in the small hillside streets, take the funicular railway, and discover Livraria Lello , one of the most magical bookstores in Europe . 

Read: Complete 2-Day Porto City Trip

Braga to Porto: Traveling by camper van? Drive 45 minutes to Porto and park your camper outside of the city, so you can spend a few days in a hotel for easier sightseeing.

Hotels in Porto 😴

Day 10-11: Arouca and Aveiro

The Arouca Paiva Walkways is an 8km long stretch of stairs and boardwalks that scale the rocks and valley surrounding the river Paiva. If visiting in the summer, there are also deep pools in certain areas that are suitable for swimming.

It is a fairly steep and difficult walk that takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes. Because of this, you’ll need to wear proper walking shoes, bring a hat, and lots of water if walking in the summer. The fast-flowing river also makes it an excellent place for kayakers who want to enjoy the white water and rapids. 

Porto to Arouca : 50 minutes driving from Porto. Alternatively, take a taxi or join an organized tour leaving from the city.

Tip: Spend the day here hiking, before driving on to the town of Aveiro to spend the night.

Wake up on day 11 in the unique town of Aveiro , known as ‘the Venice of Portugal’, with its colorful houses, canals, and brightly painted gondolas. Spend the day in Aveiro lazily, floating along the canals that feed away from the Aveiro lagoon.

Also read: Best Places to visit in Portugal

The gondolas of Aveiro are called ‘Moliceiros’, and most of the guides that row these boats will also provide you with interesting historical information about the maritime town.

Hotels in Aveiro 😴

Arouca to Aveiro: 1 hr 20 minutes by car. If you are using public transport, it’s easiest to go back to Porto and transfer onto a train from there.

Discover more: Best Things to do in Aveiro, Portugal

Day 12-13: Obidos

Welcome to the ‘Town of Queens’! Obidos is one of the most stunning towns you will come across on your Portugal travels. It is so beautiful that Portuguese kings traditionally gifted it to their queens.

The complete guide: Obidos, Portugal

Walk the 1.6km-long and 13-meter-high castle walls surrounding the town, marveling at the beautiful views across rolling hills and vineyards before exploring the charming cobblestone streets filled with traditional shops and bougainvillea flowers.

Hotels in Obidos 😴

Aveiro to Obidos: 1 hour 50 minutes driving. There is also a public bus from Aveiro to Obidos that takes 3 hours, with a change in a town called Caldas Rainha.

Tip: Make some time to enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Obidos, such as the surfing hotspots of Peniche or Nazare.

Day 14-16: Lisbon

No Portugal travel route would be complete without a visit to the breathtaking capital city: Lisbon . Often compared to San Francisco for its huge suspension bridge, yellow trams, and steep hillside streets, Lisbon is nothing short of spectacular.

Must-read: Best 3-Day Lisbon city trip guide!

Spend your days basking in the sunshine, enjoying live music next to the river as the sun goes down, and jumping from one cafe to another, sampling custard tarts and drinking coffee: bliss!

Obidos to Lisbon: 1 hr 10 minutes drive. There is also a direct train running throughout the day that takes 2.5 hours.

Hotels in Lisbon

Lisbon’s best neighborhoods to stay in are the charming old town: Barrio Alto and Alfama, or in the center at Baixa and Chiado. There are also plenty of great hostels to choose from.

Hotels in Lisbon 😴

Day 17-20: Algarve

Drive down to the southern Algarve region of Portugal to spend your final days relaxing on sandy beaches, exploring caves with emerald water, and learning how to surf under the great cliffs of Portugal. Lagos’ gorgeous whitewashed town is the perfect place to base yourself for a few days in the Algarve.

Not only is the town beautiful, with a lively atmosphere and plenty of amazing restaurants, but it’s within walking distance to some of the best beaches in Portugal, as well as world-famous surf spots. Also visit the small fishermen village Ferragudo .

Lisbon to Lagos : 2 hr 45 minutes drive. There is also a 4-hour train, with one change in the town of Tunes.

Here are all the bucket list things to do in the Algarve

Carvoeiro & Albufeira

While staying in Lagos, don’t forget to visit towns like Carvoeiro and Albufeira . Both coastal towns boast a variety of outdoor activities for travelers. Whether it’s hiking along the boardwalks that sit on the dramatic cliffs or paddleboarding amongst the caves off the shoreline, there is something for all adventure enthusiasts.

Read more about the things to do in Albufeira .

Albufeira is also known for its buzzing nightlife if you’re looking for a more lively atmosphere while on your Portugal travel route.

Here are all your hotel options in Albufeira.

Where to Stay in the Algarve

Lagos’ gorgeous town is the perfect place to base yourself for the next two days. It has a lively atmosphere and is within walking distance of some of Portugal’s best beaches and surf spots. See all hotels in Lagos .  

Hotels in the Algarve 😴

Day 21: Faro

End your Portugal travel route by spending the night in the beautiful old town of Faro. The Algarve region’s capital is often only used as a jumping-off point to the rest of Portugal. However, it’s well worth spending a day here admiring the ancient cathedral and walking amongst the white-washed houses that overlook the nearby lagoon and harbor.

Good to know: Faro airport is located only 10 minutes drive from the town itself and there is a regular airport shuttle bus that departs throughout the day.

Lagos to Faro: Direct train in 1 hour 45 minutes OR drive in less than an hour.

Costs of Traveling in Portugal

Portugal is one of the cheapest countries to travel to in Europe! Enjoy a coffee for around 2 USD and stay in a beautiful apartment for 25 USD per night.

Travel on a budget in Portugal, from $710 − $1050 USD weekly per person, mid-range $1130 − $1180 USD, and high-end from $1120 − $1650 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $20 − $90 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $20 − $40 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $60 − $140 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $35 − $80 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $15 − $40 USD
• Activities: $5 − $20 USD See tickets & tours
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

How to Get Around Portugal

Portugal is home to some of the most beautifully remote locations. Because of this, we highly recommend hiring a camper van or renting a car . Especially in the east and the very north of Portugal, it will be necessary to have your own transport.

Despite this, there are bus services running between villages, so it is possible to use public transport. Consider following a west coast route, as there are great rail and bus links between Lisbon and Porto .

Best Time to Travel in Portugal

Portugal is stunning all year round. However, the spring and the fall is the best time to visit Portugal. This is the shoulder season when there are fewer tourists and prices will be cheaper. Additionally, there are still many sunshine hours, but it’s not quite as hot and sticky as the summer months.

September/October is also the harvest season, so a great time to visit the wineries in Douro Valley. Additionally, you can see the surf sessions happening in places like Nazare, where some of the highest waves in the world are surfed.

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Portugal via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

Renting a Car in Portugal in 2024: All you need to know

8 most beautiful villages & towns in portugal, 9 best places to visit in portugal.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

What a brilliant blog. Thank you so much for sharing. We will definitely do a similar 3 week route, using much of this information and your recommendations.

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The 12 best and most beautiful road trips in Europe

Fill up the tank, load up the tunes and get behind the wheel. The best road trips in Europe are waiting

If you’re anything like us, incredible road trips will be high on your bucket list. You simply can’t beat the feeling of speeding down the road, loading up the tunes and having your main character moment (whether you’re the one behind the wheel or not). 

The best part? Europe alone is home to a number of incredible road trips, from the mountainous views of Iceland to the deserts of Tirana. Pick your favourite road trip playlist or a cracking podcast, load up on snacks and hit the road. Here are the best road trips in Europe. 

RECOMMENDED: ⛰️ The best city breaks in Europe for 2024 🗺 The most underrated travel destinations in Europe 🏛️ The best museums and galleries in the world 🎨 The world’s exhibitions worth travelling for

John Bills is a writer for Time Out Travel. At Time Out, our travel guides are written by experts all over the world. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines . 

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Best road trips in Europe

1.  Iceland Ring Road

Iceland makes an appearance on any self-respecting list of travel experiences. The Iceland Ring Road encircles the entire nation, covering 1,333 kilometres of road, a distance that can be traversed in 12 or 13 hours, depending on speed. Truth be told, you should take a week or so to do it properly, stopping to take in the majestic scenery that only Iceland can produce. Sigur Rós made a video of the whole thing backed by some typically gorgeous music, so head to a well-known internet video streaming site and start making plans. 

2.  Epirus, Greece

Driving around the winding mountain roads of Zagori sounds like a dream, right? These serpentine roads aren’t the easiest, but they are well worth it; think lakes, monasteries, stunning mountain villages and animals that are very much in charge of the place. There are several possible routes, so you might as well just get that driving licence sorted and let your whims do the rest.

3.  Pula to Dubrovnik, Croatia

If anyone tells you that Croatia is still a hidden gem, you should stop listening to them. Hrvatska gets mega busy throughout the summer, but spring and autumn remain brilliant times to visit, and what better way to explore the coast than by driving all the way down it? Start at Pula and snake your way down the coast to Dubrovnik, breaking up the 709km with stops in Rijeka, Zadar, Split and wherever else. Heck, you could even nip inland to explore the magical Plitvice Lakes National Park, and extend the last leg by heading into Bosnia and Herzegovina to see Mostar, Kravice waterfall and Blagaj for yourself.  

4.  Transfăgărășan Highway, Romania

You can also call it the DN7C if you’d prefer. The Transfăgărășan is a stunning mountain road that traverses Romania’s Carpathian Mountains, the second-highest in the country but arguably the best known. Every spectacular second of the 150 kilometres offers up stunning views. The speed limit is 40km/h because of the relatively fragile ground, but going slow makes it easier to enjoy the surroundings. Bâlea Lake is pretty much at the top, and it doesn’t get much more beautiful than that. 

5.  Atlantic Road, Norway

Not all road trips need to be multi-day marathons. Sometimes, going out for a few hours of gorgeous driving interspersed with views (and a picnic, you gotta have a picnic) is all that is needed. Norway ’s Atlantic Road snakes around the west coast of the country, covering just 8.3km but encapsulating the old ‘quality over quantity’ cliche perfectly. The road has been described as the world’s most beautiful car journey, and we aren’t about to disagree.

6.  Tallinn to Tirana

Somehow, someway, Eastern Europe remains criminally misunderstood. The vague geographic notion doesn’t tell half the story, so why not drive from the north of the east to the south and see for yourself? From Estonia on the Baltic to Albania on the Med lies a conveyor belt of fascinating nations with beauty around every corner. It would take around 34 hours to drive the 2,945km without stopping, but you’d also need to be a cyborg. Head through the Baltic states before heading central into Poland , Czechia and onwards. 

7.  Autobahn, Germany

If you’re interested in an incredible European road trip, the chances are you’re already very aware of the Autobahn. Germany and all things automobiles go together like magnet and steel – hurtling down the Autobahn is one of Europe’s great behind-the-wheel experiences. You can’t actually go as fast as you like on this famous road, so pay attention to the various limits, lest you end up in serious bother. Start in Cologne and head north through Bremen and Hamburg before snaking back down to Berlin , covering more than 500km in the process.

8.  Northern Lakes, Italy

Okay, now we’re really entering the world of dreams. The magnificent lakes in the north of Italy have been big business for a long old while, but how about an extravagant road trip taking in as many of them as possible? You can start this one pretty much from the moment you land in Milan , picking up a rental and heading to Lake Maggiore and setting up shop before heading east through Lake Como, Lake Garda and all the rest. Take as much time as is humanly possible, you’re going to want to savour these spots. 

9.  Edinburgh to London, United Kingdom

You could tackle the entire length of Great Britain, starting at John o’Groats and driving 1,407km down to Land’s End, but the  very northern tip of Scotland isn’t the most accessible place. Instead, make a grand journey between the capitals of Scotland and England , starting in Edinburgh and heading south through the Lake District , the cities of the north, the meat of the Midlands and more. Just 647km sit between the two, so be sure to make this itinerary a winding one.

10.  Vienna to Belgrade

Europe has no shortage of great rivers, but the diversity of the Danube makes it the continent’s finest. The second longest in Europe, the Danube runs through four capital cities (Belgrade, Budapest , Bratislava and Vienna ), so why not get behind the wheel and hit up all four? Start in the latter and weave your way towards bouncing Belgrade, treating yourself to a night out in one of the continent’s most exciting cities as a treat. Better yet, if you have the time, why not follow the entire length of the river?  

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Best Road Trips in Portugal: 10 Super Scenic Routes

As much as I love city breaks, I will never say no to a road trip. One of my favorite scenic drives was in Portugal, a perfect destination to explore by car. Since then, I’ve been in an endless search for the best road trips in Portugal that I can add to my bucket list.

With the help of a few fellow bloggers, I finally have an epic roundup of road trip ideas, which I’m super excited to share with you. They are all adjustable, so whether you have a few days or 2 weeks in Portugal , you’ll find your inspiration here.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Table of Contents

10 of the Best Road Trips in Portugal

The algarve.

Contributed by Linn from Brainy Backpackers

Route: Faro to Lagos.

The south coast of Portugal is incredibly beautiful and offers so much to see and do. Going on an  Algarve road trip  is a great way to explore as much as possible.

For a one-week road trip, I suggest you start in Faro and end in Lagos, Portugal . You can easily drive back to Faro in 1 hour and 45 minutes to return your rental car and get on your flight back.

But on this seemingly short stretch, there is so much fun, and you should at least spend a couple of days in Albufeira, Carvoeiro, and Lagos.

Not all places are easily accessed by public transport, so a car is a must if you want to experience the best of the coastline.

You can spend a day in Faro and then enjoy the best things to do in Albufeira or get from Faro’s airport to Albufeira and save Faro for the last day of your road trip.

Get ready to see some spectacular beaches along the way, take the astounding Seven Hanging Valleys coastal hike (aka one of the best hikes in Portugal ), or paddleboard to the most mesmerizing cave in Portugal, Benagil Cave . Walk the boardwalk from Carvoeiro to the Algar Seco’s natural pool and caves.

Want to learn how to surf or scuba dive? Lagos is the place. This quaint town is just a short driving distance from the spectacular Sagres cliffs and the Ponta da Piedade cliffs, which I personally think are the most beautiful cliffs in the Algarve. 

São Miguel Island, the Azores

Contributed by Megan from Megan Starr

Route: Circular from Ponta Delgada.

One of the most scenic drives in Portugal is on the main island in the Azores, Sao Miguel. The best way to conduct this road trip is to start in the capital city called Ponta Delgada and circumnavigate the island.

I recommend taking a minimum of four days to complete the road trip as you will have many amazing stops on your  Sao Miguel itinerary .

From Ponta Delgada, you’ll want to head to the west of Sao Miguel toward Sete Cidades. This area is known for its gorgeous views, volcanic crater lakes, and more.

If you’re keen to stay on this side of the island, there are plenty of accommodations around Sete Cidades .

From there, you can start making your way to the north on the second day. The north coast is rugged and actually has the best weather, so enjoy the thermal pools, the views over the high cliffs, and a kind of hidden gem in Portugal called Salto do Cabrito.

The best place to stay on the north shore of Sao Miguel is at Sao Vicente Lodge or Santa Barbara Eco-Resort . Both are fantastic places with epic views.

From there, head to the east of Sao Miguel, a geothermal wonderland. Furnas is the highlight of the east, where you’ll find many natural parks, botanical gardens, and the chance to enjoy cozido das furnas , a local stew made underground with geothermal heat.

On your last day, head toward Ponta Delgada and stop at a few places along the way. If you’re feeling adventurous, try snorkeling or taking a tour to Vila Franco do Campo, a small islet in the sea.

End your road trip with some delicious food in the capital, Ponta Delgada, where you can enjoy the city life at an Azorean pace.

Alentejo Region

Contributed by Faye from Delve Into Europe

Route: Ėvora to Mertola, then onto the Algarve.

We had planned an  Alentejo road trip  for years because we thought it would be a great deal to see this rural province in southeast Portugal. It’s packed with whitewashed towns and medieval castles, two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and some of the best Portugal scenery.

The only downside was that we didn’t have more time – we could easily have spent two weeks or more exploring the region.

It’s full of amazing places to stay, and we settled on three – the capital, Évora , and the fortified villages of Marvão and Monsaraz, both overlooking the Spanish border.

We also stopped at various places along the way, including the famous Saturday market of Estremoz, the stunning historic border city of Elvas, and the picturesque unexplored town of Castelo de Vide.

Évora makes a great starting point, and it warrants a couple of days or more. The tight cobbled streets of the Old Town are incredible and lead to a superb 2nd-century AD Roman temple and a fine concoction of a cathedral overlooking the whole scene.

Marvão is a magnificent mountaintop fortified village with one of the most spectacular castles in Europe, located high in the Serra de São Mamede range.

Monsaraz has a less dramatic setting but wins out on sheer beauty. We visited early in the season and had the whole village to ourselves at night, including the two main streets lined with stunning whitewashed buildings.

The view over the Basrragem do Alqueva lakes on the Spanish border at sunrise was unforgettable too.

Lisbon to Porto

Route: Lisbon to Porto.

Starting off with a classic, a road trip from Lisbon to Porto is a must-have experience in Portugal.

From palaces and monasteries to ocean views and enchanting villages, this is a fantastic route that combines a little bit of everything. Excluding 2 days in Lisbon and 1-2 days in Porto, you can complete it in 5-7 days.

Begin your journey in Cabo da Roca, Europe’s westernmost point (and one of the most Instagrammable spots in Portugal ), which provides some jaw-dropping views of the Atlantic coast.

Continue to Sintra, where you’ll find the iconic Pena Palace and other visit-worthy Portuguese landmarks like the old town, the Palace of Quinta da Regaleira, and the Sintra National Palace.

There are also plenty of things to do in Ericeira , which you can visit after either Cabo da Roca or Sintra.

From there, you must spend at least half a day strolling through the alleys of the picture-perfect village of Obidos, lose yourself in the beauty of the Bussaco Forest, unwind in the coastal town of Espinho, and enjoy some Port wine-tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia.

This route covers some of the country’s greatest highlights and is suitable for every type of traveler, which is exactly what makes it one of the best drives in Portugal.

Northern Portugal

Route: Circular from Porto.

Renting a car in Portugal is a fantastic way to explore its northern regions. Often overlooked, Northern Portugal is an incredible destination full of landmarks, vineyards, and scenic roads.

Start your journey with a couple of days in Porto , stroll through its colorful neighborhoods, sample some exquisite port wine, and visit its most amazing monuments like the Carmo Church and Bolsa Palace.

Continue to Aveiro, the Venice of Portugal, and then head to Barcelos, a town famous for the European legend of the Rooster of Barcelos. Next is the stunning city of Braga.

Braga has a lot to offer and can be a great weekend getaway destination, but most people visit it to admire the nearby religious complex of Bom Jesus do Monte.

The remarkable stairway consisting of over 570 stairs, along with the monastery at the top, is truly an impressive sight.

End your northern Portugal road trip with a day in Guimaraes (and its castles), the founding city of the kingdom of Portugal, and visit the charming town of Viana do Castelo.

Madeira Island

Contributed by Darek from Darek and Gosia

Route: Circular from Funchal.

If you love driving and looking for something unique, you have to go for a  road trip around Madeira Island .

Located in the North Atlantic Ocean, this Portuguese island is known as the island of eternal spring – meaning it’s a perfect spring destination in Europe but is also great to visit at any time of the year!

You will start your trip in the capital of the island – Funchal. You should stay in Funchal for the night too and explore the main attractions of the city. Those will include the old town, the CR7 museum, and the Monte Palace tropical garden.

You can also head to Praia Formosa, one of the best beaches in Madeira , located only a short drive away from the city.

Start your second day on a high note – the Cabo Girao skywalk, which is one of the tallest viewing platforms in the world. Ponta do Pargo lighthouse and Porto Moniz and its natural pools will be the highlights of 3rd day on the road.

On the next day, explore the northern part of the island with its amazing viewpoints and São Vicente caves. You will be excited to see Casas Típicas de Santana on your 5th day, followed by one of the best hikes in Madeira – Ponta de São Lourenço.

If you love wildlife experiences, you could also book a tour of whale watching in Madeira .

For the best experience, it is recommended to dedicate at least 5-6 days to complete the road trip around Madeira, but nothing will stop you from spending a bit more time on the island – there are many incredible places to explore!

Central Portugal

Contributed by Cath from Passports and Adventures

Route: Circular from Faro/Lisbon/Porto.

Beginning and ending in Faro, one of the best road trips in Portugal is one in which you explore the Central Region of the country. This road trip can also start and end in Lisbon or Porto, covering the three airports in the country.

From Faro, this trip will take 7 days, covering towns and cities in Portugal from Lousã to Nazaré, Obidos to Sintra, and finally Lisbon before returning to Faro. The journey from Faro towards Lousã will take approximately 4-5 hours along the main A2 motorway.

Once in Lousã, you can explore the surrounding area, with a visit to the Praia Fluvial da Bogueira recommended. This river beach is great on a hot summer day, and you should also visit the small ruined castle.

After two nights, visit the historic city of Coimbra, which is only 30 minutes by car on your way to Nazaré.

Nazaré is famous for its surfing thanks to the huge waves that roll in from the Atlantic Ocean. However, it is also a great base for exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Sites nearby.

Three sites are easily accessible, being the monasteries of Alcobaça and Batalha, and the convent in Tomar. You could visit them over one or two days.

After two nights, head south towards Sintra, stopping at the historic walled town of Obidos and the Buddha Eden Garden in Bacalhôa, before reaching Sintra.

Stay overnight and spend a day exploring the Pena Palace and Moorish castle before heading to your destination of Lisbon, where there is a wealth of things to explore during the two to three nights we recommend for your stay before returning to Faro.

This  7-day road trip exploring Central Portugal  is ideal for couples, families, and solo travelers.

The Monasteries of Central Portugal

Contributed by Cate from Sacred Wanderings

Route: Coimbra to the monasteries.

For an amazing road trip through three  UNESCO World Heritage Listed Monasteries in Central Portugal , begin in Coimbra.

To see all three monasteries, and have some leisure time to explore the countryside of Central Portugal, allot 3 days and 2 nights to this itinerary. Coimbra is easily accessed via train from Porto or Lisbon and is a wonderful city to explore in itself.

From Coimbra, head to Batalha. Batalha Monastery is a stunning place, with abandoned cloisters and once-in-a-lifetime architecture. From Batalha, you can easily reach Alcobaça for the night and stay in one of many incredibl e hotels .

Walking around the monastery at night is a magical experience. There are also plenty of wonderful, intimate seafood restaurants to try.

Grab dinner in Alcobaça and then explore its UNESCO World Heritage monastery, very different from Batalha. Enjoy a leisurely drive through the countryside to get from Alcobaça to the city of Tomar.

Explore the city before heading to Tomar’s famous Convento de Cristo. A monastery and castle in one, the Convento is a wonderful place to explore with children or as adults.

Stay in adorable Tomar for the night at a leisurely pace, or turn in the rental car and take the train to Lisbon.

Costa Vicentina

Contributed by Paulina from Paulina on the Road

Route: Lisbon to Costa Vicentina.

One of the best road trips to undertake in Portugal is from Lisbon to Costa Vicentina in the south of the country. You can complete this road trip in a couple of days, stopping at various places in between.

When you happen to reach your destination, then one of the  best things to do in Costa Vicentina  is hiking the Rota Vicentina and admiring the beach and water views you get in the network of hiking trails spanning hundreds of kilometers.

One of the best hiking trails in the area is Almograve – Zambujeira do Mar, which provides 22.5 km (a little under 14 miles) of scenic landscapes. Another great hike is the Fisherman’s Trail.

When exploring the place, you should also visit tourist places like Zambujeira do Mar, Odemira, and Odeceixe.

On this road trip, you get to see a range of sceneries, from rolling hills and splendid wooded river valleys to olive groves and cultivated fields that back the exciting Atlantic coast.

When it comes to accommodation, you can book private rooms called ‘quartos,’ where the price ranges between 30-40 Euros.

Porto to the Douro Valley

Contributed by Stephanie from History Fangirl

Route: Porto to the Douro Valley.

One of the best Portugal road trip ideas is the drive from Porto to the Douro Valley, one of the top wine regions in Portugal .

Starting in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Porto, you can pick up your rental car at the airport but don’t skip visiting the city itself.

Sprawled over both sides of the Douro River, the city has one of the most beautiful (and colorful) skylines in the world. Set aside at least two days in Porto before moving on.

If you love seeing UNESCO sites, you will enjoy spending a day or two in the town of Guimaraes.

From here, you can move on to the Douro, where you should give yourself at least two days to enjoy  Port tasting at the Quintas (wineries) located alongside the river . The Duoro Valley is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and tasting wine has never been such an educational experience!

While the Duoro Valley is a joy to drive around, if you want to enjoy wine tasting once you get here, prepare to spend a bit extra on taxis or even hire a private driver to take you safely around the area.

If you have extra time, you can drive south and add a day in Fatima,  Tomar , or even Coimbra before heading back to Porto to drop off your car. 

Related Posts

• Free things to do in Lisbon
• What to pack for Lisbon

Do you love European road trips? You should also read:

• Best road trips in Spain
• The ultimate Andalusia road trip itinerary
• Places to add to your northern Spain road trip itinerary
• The best northern Italy road trip itinerary
• Northwest Italy road trip itinerary
• Best road trips in Italy
• Road trips from Milan

Planning an off-season trip? Here’s a great Portugal winter itinerary and the best winter city breaks in Europe (including Lisbon)!

Tell me in the comments and pin this post for later!

About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

21 thoughts on “Best Road Trips in Portugal: 10 Super Scenic Routes”

This site has inspired me! My husband and I planned on doing the “tour” thing, but really wanted to go at our own pace. He is a photographer and likes to stop if he sees something he wants to shoot pictures of! You have made my fears disappear! We are 66 & 70 years old, so we know there are a few limitations for us, but now I have a comfort level of striking out on our own using your itineraries and suggestions! We will probably go in October…any insights?

Your comment just made my day, Janet! Thank you! Portugal is a very tourist-friendly destination, so with the right preparation, you can totally explore it on your own. October is a great time to visit as there are fewer crowds than in summer and the weather is more than pleasant 🙂

Hello Or, I am planning an independent, self-guided road trip with my daughter sometimes in june-july for 12 days. I love your suggestions. Do you know any local and affordable agency in Portugal? I live in Augusta, GA, America.

Thank you for your help.

Hi Christine! I’m so happy you liked this post 🙂 Are you referring to a self-drive tour agency? I usually plan my own trips, so I don’t have any personal experience with these companies. If you want to share your budget (you can email me), I can try to consult some colleagues.

You’re welcome!

Thanks for the tips, I’ll read more when it’s time to prepare for our trip to Spain and Portugal.

You’re welcome 🙂 I’m here if you have any question.

I’ve always wanted to do a longer trip through Portugal after i did an Algarve road trip. This is so useful and has so mucj inspo for when I can next go back!!

I’m happy it was inspiring! Portugal definitely deserves to be visited over and over again 🙂

This is a great guide – Portugal is so high on my bucket list. I’ve only ever heard good things about it 🙂

Thank you! Portugal is truly amazing, and I think a road trip is the best way to explore it 🙂

We LOVE road trips! We spent a couple of weeks road tripping around Spain and Portugal last year, but clearly we need to go back. The monastery and coast hike look amazing.

I clearly love road trips too 🙂 I hope you get to go back soon!

We’ve done a road trip from Lisbon to Porto passing by Fatima, Aveiro and Cabo da Roca. I want to come back to explore more of those beautiful places! Great guide 🙂

That sounds like a great road trip 🙂 I’m glad you liked this post!

I love going on road trips. We stopped in Portugal while doing a road trip of southern Spain, but only for a few hours so I would love to go back!

Yeah, a few hours are definitely not enough! I hope you get to go back soon 🙂

OMG! Is it possible to say that I want to eat these pics? 😀 Why does Portugal have to look to appetizing and beautiful?

I think you’ve described it accurately – appetizing 😛

Amazing itinerary! I went to Lisbon a few years back & have been dying to go back to Portugal! There are so many beautiful places to see!

Thank you! And yes – there’s too much to see lol

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Hi, I'm Or!

I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

9 of the best road trips in Europe

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If you've got wheels, wanderlust and a spot of time, a road trip in Europe offers the chance to see the continent at a relaxed pace. From the sunny shores of Portugal to the dungeons of Dracula's castle in Transylvania in Romania , the following itineraries can be easily combined, shortened or altered to suit your wayfaring tastes. Here are 9 of the best road trips in Europe.

1. From the glamour of Paris to the glorious grit of Berlin (France to Germany)

2. surf and sun in the basque country and beyond, 3. the arctic fjords from bergen to trondheim (norway), 4. the unexplored east: bucharest to vienna (romania to austria), 5. to portugal and beyond.

• 6. High-altitude adventure on Germany's Alpine Road

7. Godly beaches and ancient highways in Greece

8. london to edinburgh and the highlands, 9. the secret shores of sicily and calabria, planning your european road trip, tailor-made travel itineraries for spain, created by local experts.

9 days  / from 2445 USD

Andalucía Explored

Discover the best of Andalucía's breathtaking palaces, churches, museums, vineyards, and more, as you travel through spectacular scenery dotted with pueblos blancos and bordered by rugged mountains and coast en route to Granada, Seville, Ronda and Jerez de la Frontera.

4 days  / from 637 USD

A culinary experience in Seville

Explore the cuisine and surroundings of Seville in Andalucia. From Iberian ham over sherry wines to the production and secrets of olive oil, this tour is an ideal weekend getaway. Decide yourself if you prefer a rental car or a chauffeur-driven car to explore the beauty of Andalucia.

10 days  / from 3756 USD

Spanish Honeymoon

Discover Andalusia, starting with the cultural city of Seville, then on to Córdoba and Granada, home of the stunning Alhambra Palace. Next you'll visit Granada and the Albayzin Arab quarter, then enjoy a stunning hot-air balloon ride, before ending your trip with a luxury boat trip from Marbella!

Leaving Paris , cruise through the gentle hills of Champagne and Reims to the quaint capital of Luxembourg City, and explore the small country’s many fairy-tale castles.

Trier , Germany’s oldest city, is less than an hour’s drive north-east, where ancient Roman baths and basilicas stand marvellously intact.

Spend a night in the medieval village of Bacharach in Riesling wine country, before wandering the riverside streets of Heidelberg . Onward to Nuremberg , and then to Leipzig for a strong dose of hot caffeine with your Cold War history, classical music and cake. Make sure to check out the complete guide to the UNESCO world heritage sites in Germany to visit some of the palaces and gardens , industrial heritage sites or historic town centres along the way.

Detour to Dresden , restored after the ruinous bombing in WWII, before ending in one of Europe’s coolest cities: the creative paradise of Berlin .

For a longer trip, start in London and take the ferry or channel tunnel to France , transforming this road trip into a pilgrimage between Europe’s holy trinity of artistic hubs.

• Best for: Culture vultures looking for bragging rights.
• How long: 1–2 weeks.
• Insider tip: If you’re driving in France, you’ll legally need to keep safety equipment in your car (a reflective vest and hazard signal). Additionally, be prepared with a cash or credit card to pay the French road tolls on the way.

Panoramic aerial view of Trier featuring the famous Trierer Dom © S-F/Shutterstock

Begin in Bilbao , where the surrounding beaches boast world-class surf, then drive along the Atlantic to San Sebastian : watersports wonderland and foodie heaven. From there venture south through the rugged wilderness of the Pyrenees to Pamplona . Climb the Roncesvalles Pass before looping back to the coast. Or continue along the Bay of Biscay to the attractive seaside resort of St-Jean-de-Luz.

Travellers with a little extra money lining their pockets will be happy to spend days lingering on boho beaches in Biarritz, while those looking for gargantuan swell can do no better than the surfer hangouts in Hossegor.

Finish the trip northward in Bordeaux – the Pearl of the Aquitaine – where café-strewn boulevards and world-class wines are your trophies at the finish line.

Bilbao to Bordeaux

• Best for: Sun-seeking surfers and foodies.
• How long: 1 week.
• Insider tip: Check seasonal surf forecasts before you go, and look into coastal campsites if you're on a budget.The Basque roads beg for a convertible – or a colourful camper van with surfboards strapped to the roof.

Biarritz City and its famous beach © Boris Stroujko/Shutterstock

Kick off in the city of Bergen , on Norway’s southwest coast, and make way past mighty fjords to Voss and the colossal Tvindefossen waterfall. Then check the world's longest road tunnel off your to-do list, a cavernous 24.5km route under the mountains.

Catch a quick ferry across the Sognefjord and carry on to the Fjaler valleys, a land of glaciers and snowy mountain peaks, to the waterside towns of Stryn or the mountain village Videster.

Work your way northward to the well-touristed towns of Geiranger, down the death-defying hairpin turns of Trollstigen (literally “The Troll Path”).

After the descent, ferry across the Eresfjord to Molde and Kristiansund. For the final stretch, drive the iconic Atlantic Road with its roller-coaster-style bridges, and conclude with some well-deserved downtime upon the still waters and stilted homes of Trondheim .

Bergen to Trondheim

• Best for: Thrill seekers and landscape junkies.
• How long : 5–7 days.
• Insider tip : This route is best tackled from late spring to early autumn. If you plan on road tripping during Norway’s winter months, be sure to check online ahead of time for road closures due to snow and ice.

The idyllic surroundings of Stryn in Norway © Mikolajn/Shutterstock

Start from Bucharest , travelling northward through the Carpathian mountains to Transylvania, and make a mandatory stop at Bran Castle (claimed to be the old stomping grounds of Dracula himself).

Take the Transfagarasan mountain road, one of the most scenic routes in the world, towards the age-old cities and countless castles of Sibu, Brasov and Sighisoara. Then set course to the unexplored architectural gems of Timisoara.

Carry on towards the tranquil hot springs and hip ruin pubs of bustling Budapest, and be prepared to stay at least a few days. Depart for Bratislava – a capital full of surprises – from where it's only an hour further to the coffeehouses and eclectic architecture of Vienna .

• Best for: Anyone looking for a break from the conventional tourism of western Europe.
• How long: 7–12 days.
• Insider tip: Exercise caution when driving through tunnels. Though the weather outside may be fine, tunnels are often slippery.

Bran (Dracula) castle in Transylvania, Romania © Kanuman/Shutterstock

Start in Braga , before driving south to the medieval town of Guimarães , a UNESCO World Heritage site. Then it’s onward to the breathtaking "second-city" of Porto , though it's nothing less than first-rate. Check here for the best places to stay in Porto .

Drive east to the vineyards and steep valleys of Penafiel and Amarante before hitting the coastal road to the vast white beaches of Figueira da Foz - among the best beaches in Portugal . From here it’s on to Peniche, Ericeira and then Lisbon : the country's vibrant capital that's on course to beat out Berlin for Europe’s coolest city. Check out the best areas to stay in Lisbon as well as the best places to eat to match your taste.

Drive south to Sagres , Arrifana and Carrapateira. After soaking up the sun on the picturesque shores of the Algarve, wrap this road trip up in the Mediterranean dreamland otherwise known as Faro .

If you’ve still got itchy feet when you reach Faro, take the ferry from nearby Algeciras in Spain to Morocco . Imagine the satisfaction of parking your ride in the desert village of Merzouga, before exploring the Sahara – that's right, it would feel awesome.

• Best for: Beach bums and oenophiles.
• How long: At least 10–14 days.
• Insider tip: As Portugal is among the more affordable destinations in Western Europe, this can be an especially great trip for travellers on a budget . 

Oliveira Square, Guimarães © Patricia Henriques Barros/Shutterstock

6. High-altitude adventure on Germany's Alpine Road

The Alpenstrasse, or Alpine Road, is your ticket to a bonafide Bavarian odyssey: a safe route through the unforgettable vistas of Germany 's high-altitude meadows, mountains, crystal-clear lakes and cosy village restaurants. Start lakeside at Lindau on the Bodensee and head to Oberstaufen for a therapeutic beauty treatment in the country’s “Capital of Wellness”.

Venture eastwards to the Breitachklamm gorge, where the river Breitach cuts through verdant cliffs and colossal boulders. Carry on to the town of Füssen – famous for its violin makers – stopping along the way at any quaint Alpine villages you please. The iconic Neuschwanstein Castle , the same structure that inspired Walt Disney to build his own version for Cinderella, isn’t far off either - one of those places even more beautiful in winter.

Speaking of winter, hit the slopes of Garmisch-Partenkirchen for some serious skiing if the season’s right. Stop at Benediktbeuern on your way to the medieval town of Bad Tölz, then up through the stunning wilderness scenes of the Chiemgau Alps before ending in the regional capital of Munich . If you’re missing the mountain roads already, carry on to Salzburg in Austria and stop in the ice caves of Werfen on the way.

Lindau to Oberstaufen

• Best for: Outdoorsy types.
• How long: 5–8 days.
• Insider tip: Give your road trip an extra purpose and pack your skis or snowboard. Garmisch-Partenkirchen ski season starts early December and ends early May. In the summer months, you can go hiking or climbing instead.

Church in Benediktbeuern © FooTToo/Shutterstock

Start in Athens and take the coastal roads south through the Athenian Riviera to Sounion, situated at the tip the Attic peninsula. Watch a sunset at the Temple of Poseidon, then drive northward through mythic mountains to the fortress of Kórinthos before posting up in the legendary city of Mycenae (home of Homeric heroes).

If you’re craving a luxurious seaside stay, look no further than the resort town of Nafplio. If not, carry onwards through the unforgiving landscapes to Mystra, the cultural and political capital of Byzantium.

Want more? Then it’s on to Olympia, sporting grounds of the ancients, and the mystic ruins of Delphi. Loop back towards Athens, approaching the city from the north.

• Best for: Sun-worshippers,and anyone who’s ever read Homer or watched overly action-packed flicks such as Troy and 300 .
• How long: 5–10 days, though it’s easy to trim a version of this road trip down to a long weekend.
• Insider tip: If you’re parking in central Athens keep an eye out for coloured parking spaces – these are reserved for locals, so if you park here you’ll get a ticket.

Aerial view of Nafplio city in the summer © Olga Kot Photo/Shutterstock

Leave the hectic pace of England ’s capital London behind. Make for Oxford, home of the world’s oldest English-language university, and a place of storied pubs where the likes of J.R.R Tolkien and Lewis Carrol regularly wet their whistles.

If you’ve got the time, it’s a quick drive to the cottages of the Cotswolds - check our guide to the prettiest villages to visit . If not, cruise up to Stratford-Upon-Avon, birthplace of Shakespeare.

Take the two-and-a-half-hour drive north to Manchester for a city fix and watch a football match. Carry on north to the Lake District National Park, one of the most beautiful places in England . Drink in the scenery that inspired England’s finest romantics, then head across the Yorkshire dales to the quirky medieval lanes of York, founded by the Romans nearly 2000 years ago.

From there it's north again past tiny villages to the majestic wonders of Edinburgh . If you’re craving the rugged comforts of the highlands go to Stirling, Inverness, or the Western Isles – worth the drive indeed. And if you are going by electric car, check out this great guide to plan your electric car road trip in Britain .

London to Inverness

• Best for: Locals that want to feel like foreigners, and foreigners that want to feel like locals.
• How long: 5–10 days.
• Insider tip: Destinations like Stratford-Upon-Avon and York (not to mention London) are true tourist hotspots in the summer. Plan your road trip for spring or autumn and you’ll enjoy the beautiful scenery along with fewer crowds.

Catbells  in The Lake District © Michael Conrad/Shutterstock

Hit the gas in the Sicilian capital of Palermo, the biggest historic centre in Italy after Rome and arguably the country’s most chaotic metropolis.

Adventure onwards along the Tyrrhenian coast to the golden sands of Cefalù – a great holiday spot for families, with a mellow medieval town centre to boot.

Get to the island’s heartland and the ancient city of Enna. Surrounded by cliffs on all sides, and built atop a massive hill, you'll feel as though you've walked on the set of Game of Thrones . Head southeast to the shores of the Ionian Sea and dock in Siracusa, once the most important in the western world while under ancient Greek rule with much of its historic architecture intact.

Then it’s up to Catania for a trip to molten Mount Etna, the tallest active volcano on the entire European continent.

Finish the trip in Messina, or ferry across into the Italian province of Calabria where rustic mountain villages, friendly locals and the idyllic sands of Tropea and Pizzo await – refreshingly devoid of foreigners.

Sicily to Pizzo

• Best for: Anyone looking for a truly authentic Italian experience, and of course, hardcore foodies.
• How long : 6–12 days.
• Insider tip: Remember that southern Italy can get very hot in July and August. Avoid the heat of the day with a leisurely lunch (go easy on the wine if you’re driving!) and travel in the early morning or evening instead.

Cefalù on a beautiful day with clear skies © Cezary Wojtkowski/Shutterstock

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4 weeks Portugal road trip itinerary

While planning our road trip through Europe, Portugal was immediately high on the list. Surfing, good food, plus a wonderful Indian summer were music to our ears. Now that we have been there, we understand very well why Portugal is so popular with campers. It is spotty, beautiful and wild camping is tolerated in many places. Unfortunately, we had to cut our road trip short after about 3.5 weeks, but we have already had a good taste of Portuguese life and this tastes like more. So this year we will definitely go back to do our road trip through Portugal one more time properly.

Book your flight

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Tip! No plan is the best plan. We had a few destinations we wanted to visit, but otherwise no concrete plan. Highly recommended for everyone! Want some inspiration for your road trip through Portugal, though? Then quickly check out our 4-week Portugal road trip itinerary.

Overview route road trip Portugal 4 weeks

• Campo Maior (2 nights)
• Nazaré (2 nights)
• Peniche (we stayed here for 10 nights, but 3 is enough)
• Ericeira (3 nights)
• Sintra (2 nights)
• Lisbon (3 or 4 nights)
• Creveiral (2 nights)
• Sagres (3 nights)
• Lagos (2 nights)
• Praia da Marinha (3 nights)
• Faro (2 nights)
• Tavira (3 nights)

Campo Maior

Our first stop in Portugal became the cozy village of Campo Maior. After a long drive of about 12 hours, we arrived with our van at Camping Os Anjos. The plan was to drive to Peniche in 2 days, as the World Surfing Championship would soon begin there. Once we arrived at Campo Maior, we were pleasantly surprised. The surroundings were beautiful and the campsite a lovely spot among the olive trees. The village is small, but has a few restaurants and supermarkets. There is also plenty to see in the surrounding area. The Dutch owner is happy to give you tips. The next day we decided to add another night.

Near Campo Maior you will also find parque Natural da Serra de São Mamede. one of the most beautiful natural parks in Portugal. Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to make a stop here, but it seems to be really beautiful there.

• Accommodation at Camping Os Anjos
• Have lunch or dinner at Taberna O Ministro (I chose a soup in the afternoon and it was truly divine!).
• Taking a walk through the area

Monstrously high waves that can reach as high as 30 meters! And not just any waves, because the coastal area of Nazaré is the place for big wave surfers. Yesss…indeed you read that right, there are indeed idiots who brave 30-meter waves with a surfboard. Consequently, the World Cup is held here annually.

Besides Nazaré’s giant surf waves, it is also a very nice fishing village. Nazaré is a little touristy, but well worth a visit. It is better to park the RV outside the town. In fact, the roads are very steep and quite narrow.

If you come in the early or late season, you can be right by the sea with a great view of Nazaré’s famous lighthouse.

• Wild camping at the lighthouse. Through Park4night, you can easily find the location. Be there early, though, as it can get very crowded later in the evening.
• Visit the lighthouse of Nazaré
• Stroll through the village

When we arrived in Peniche , we didn’t know how quickly we had to leave this fishing village again. The village was not very atmospheric, and thanks to a giant fish factory, it smelled like fish for much of the day. We spent the night in the middle of the village at ASA autohome Peniche, which looked more like an unsociable parking lot. But we were here for a purpose, which was to attend the World Surfing Championship. That sounds easier than it is. The World Cup is scheduled throughout October, as they have to wait for good surf conditions. So the motto of the Rip Curl tournament is “It’s on when it’s on,” and nothing could be further from the truth. Indeed, it is only on the day itself that a decision is made as to whether the World Cup will go ahead.

Because the World Surfing Championship had not started yet, we still stayed a night in Peniche, and then another, and another….. in the end we stayed there for almost 10 days and certainly not just for the World Cup. Peniche takes a while but eventually you start to love it. In fact, after 2 days we found it a lovely place. You have a nice street with several restaurants, a beautiful beach with ideal surfing conditions for beginners and nice beach bars.

• Staying overnight at ASA autohome Peniche. It may look a little unsociable, but this is really a very nice place to spend the night. An overnight stay costs about 8 euros. You do have to pay for the facilities, such as the toilet and shower. Which by the way are well cleaned throughout the day.
• Eating at Maharani Peniche is a MUST! Perhaps the best Indian restaurant I have ever eaten at. We went back to this 4 times.
• Visit the World Cup if you are in the area. A mega spectacle that you should definitely experience once.
• Surfing at Praia de Dunas

Although you can watch the annual World Surfing Championship in Peniche and Nazare is known for its huge surfing waves, it is the fishing village of Ericeira that runs away with the title Surfing Valhalla of Portugal. Ericeira breathes surfing! Surf schools, surfboard shops, cute concept stores with the cutest surf items, vegan lunch shops and so on. As a surfing enthusiast, this is the place to be. But even for non-surfers, a visit to Ericeira is a big tip. The town is super hip and packed with fun hotspots. The coastline is also beautiful.

• Surfing, surfing, surfing oh and more surfing
• Book a few nights at Surfin House. This was really a mega cool experience for us
• Visit the new shop 58 Surfshop for the coolest items and a delicious lunch
• Have dinner at Taberna Lebre or Sunset bamboo bar

About 30 km from Lisbon you will find the magical Sintra. This town looks like it came out of a fairy tale book. Many people visit Sintra from Lisbon on a day trip, but it’s actually much more fun to walk around here for a few days. Indeed, in the area you will find the most magnificent castles, imposing mansions and amazing gardens. You really do feast your eyes in Sintra. Since 1995, the city was designated a cultural landscape by UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town itself is also very nice to visit. If you have the dog with you (as we did) then you do have some bad luck. In fact, dogs are not allowed in most places.

How cute you are! After days of surfing, relaxing and being out in nature, Lisbon was an incredibly nice change. Drinking special beers outside on the stairs, visiting cool stores and eating lots of food. Lisbon is super hip, young and there is always something going on. Camping in the neighborhood is a bit difficult. Better to book a hotel or airbnb. If you do want to camp, we recommend doing so in Cascais, for example. From here you have a top connection to Lisbon.

• Walking through Bairro Alto
• Dining at Bao Bao
• Drinking special beers at Brewpub
• Visit the super hip Lx Factory
• Order a Pasteis da Nata at Manteigaria

In Creveiral, we left our camper for a while to spend the night at the beautiful Craveiral Farmhouse . This was without a doubt our favorite accommodation ever! Wow what a cool accommodation. Craveiral Farmhouse is really in the middle of nature. The dogs, cats are running around everywhere and are really too cute. In front of the reception you will find pigs, goats, chickens and a vegetable garden. The hotel is almost entirely self-sufficient. If they don’t have it in-house, they get it from local company. Besides the hotel being 100% sustainable, everything is right down to the last detail. So there is a wonderful indoor and outdoor pool, sauna you can join the whole at the fantastic restaurant. This is a really fat tip!

Located at the far western tip of the Algarve, Sagres is a delightful surfing town.

There is a lovely atmosphere and you can spend a few days there just fine. The village itself has a rich history. If you don’t feel like taking a surf lesson, you can also explore the beautiful surroundings, hike or relax on the beach.

And then suddenly we had to return to the Netherlands, so we were unable to complete our itinerary.

We still had the following destinations on our schedule:

According to many, Lagos is the pearl of the Algarve and a destination not to be missed.

Praia da Marinha

This place is known for its amazing beaches. Perhaps the most beautiful beaches in Portugal.

The Algarve’s capital, Faro, is relatively little visited. A shame, because the city seems to be very nice for a night or two.

The trip would end in Tavira. According to many, this is one of the most beautiful villages in Algarve.

Questions or any tips for our Portugal road trip itinerary? Let us know in a comment.

Travel further to

Ericeira: surfer’s paradise of Portugal

Useful tips for your road trip through Portugal

Lisbon City Guide

Nazaré: charming city of the big waves

Peniche: a cozy surf town

Our Favorite Campsites and Wild Camping Experiences

Portugal Road Trip Everything you need to know

Craveiral Farmhouse

Beste stranden portugal

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Top 7 road trips in Portugal

Dec 19, 2023 • 7 min read

Exploring Portugal’s natural beauty and enchanting cities is easy to do by car © FranciscoMarques / Shutterstock

Portugal is an ideal destination for a scenic road trip. The roads are generally in good shape, and the nation’s relatively small size allows you to see a diverse array of attractions, even if you have only a few days to spare. Throw together an Iberian soundtrack, and you're all set to hit the open road in Portugal .

Where you go will depend on your interests – you can plan a trip focussing on beach-hopping, seeing UNESCO World Heritage sites or drinking in the great views of the vineyard-covered Douro Valley. And backcountry lanes will take you to places you simply couldn’t reach without a car, including wild cliff-backed beaches, remote mountain villages and lone promontories perfect for watching the sunset over the sea.

Here are seven of the best road trips you can take in Portugal.

1. Coastline of the Alentejo and the Algarve

Best road trip for beach lovers

Vila Nova de Milfontes–Vila Real de Santo António, 320km (199 miles), 2-3 days 

Portugal’s southern coastline offers an almost Mediterranean idyll with scents of pine, rosemary, wine and grilling fish drifting over some absolutely stunning beaches. However, since this is the Atlantic rather than that sheltered sea, you can also count on seriously surfable waves, important maritime history and some great wildlife-watching opportunities. This drive takes in some of the finest beaches in the region as well as intriguing towns with tightly-knit, North African-inspired street plans. 

Highlights include the sandy paradise of Praia da Amoreira in Aljezur , the hulking and forbidding fortress of Fortaleza de Sagres and the vibrant, nightlife-loving town of Lagos . You can also ditch the car for the day and take a ferry ride to Ilha Deserta, a long, undeveloped island with a picture-perfect beachfront. The drive ends at the Portuguese border town of Vila Real de Santo António. If you’re not ready to quit, however, take a look around on the Spanish side. Seville is only 150km (93 miles) up the road.

2. The Central Coast

Best road trip for surfers and seafood fans 

Praia do Guincho–Aveiro, 330km (205 miles), 2-3 days

If endless crashing surf sounds like your idea of heaven, you’ve come to the right country. Get ready to ride the big ones on Portugal’s wild, wave-lashed west coast. This Atlantic strip is an alluring mix of first-rate (and inexpensive) surf camps, gleaming white towns and villages with authentic seafood restaurants, golden beaches fringed by dunes and pines, and memorable sunsets.

Surfers and kitesurfers of all levels will be in their element in the sparkling Atlantic surf, while the small towns along the coast make great stops for seafood feasts and après-beach cocktails. Highlights include the popular beach town and surfer hotspot of Peniche , the gorgeous swoop of sandy beach in Foz do Arelho and the big-wave town of Nazaré .

You can also take a boat ride through the sparkling canals of Aveiro – Portugal’s answer to Venice – and look for wildlife in the dune-backed coastal wilderness of the Reserva Natural das Dunas de São Jacinto .

3. The Douro Valley

Best road trip for wine lovers

Porto–Miranda do Douro, 358km (222 miles), 3 days

The Douro is a little drop of heaven. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed region offers some of Portugal’s most evocative landscapes with mile after swoon-worthy mile of vineyards spooling along the contours of its namesake river and marching up its terraced hillsides. Along seemingly every road, fabulous food, sumptuous wines, medieval stone villages, palatial quintas (countryside villas) and postcard views beckon.

Stop by the picturesque terraced vineyards at Quinta do Crasto or sample the world’s best port wine amidst the rolling hills of Pinhão . Just 4.5km (2.8 miles) from Pinhão is the stunning Casal de Loivos and its fine miradouro (viewpoint). From here, the uplifting view presents the Douro in postcard format, taking in a full sweep of stone-walled terraced vineyards, stitched into the hillsides and fringing the sweeping contours of the valley, with the river scything through it all.

4. North of Lisbon

Best road trip for UNESCO World Heritage sites

Lisbon–Tomar, 230km (143 miles), 1-2 days 

This drive takes you from Lisbon , Portugal’s romantic capital, through landscapes softened by cork oaks and pines. Before leaving the capital, stop at Belém , where you can see two architectural icons (and UNESCO listed sites) in one stop – the 16th-century Jéronimos Monastery and the equally majestic Tower of Belém , offering memorable views over the Tejo River. Be sure to pick up what could be the world’s best custard tart before leaving Belém.

Next up is Sintra , a village with palaces, whimsical mansions and enchanting woodlands, plus some enticing places to stay for the night.    

From here, you’ll head to a trio of stunning architectural monuments – all UNESCO World Heritage sites. At Alcobaça , you can wander the corridors of one of the finest monasteries in Iberia. About 30 minutes northeast, you can gape at the Gothic grandeur of Santa Maria da Vitória , yet another monastic masterpiece. The most mysterious site of all is in Tomar , home to the magnificent Convento de Cristo , built by the Knights Templar. 

5. The Minho

Best road trip for history lovers

Guimarães–Peneda, 217 km (135 miles), 1-2 days 

Portugal’s northwestern corner was made for road-tripping with splendid medieval cities, spirit-lifting pilgrimage sites and dune-flanked Atlantic beaches. Begin this road trip in Guimarães , where Afonso I, Portugal’s first king, was born in 1110. This UNESCO World Heritage site hides one of the most exquisitely preserved medieval centers in the country. Just north of Guimarães, you can explore the ruins of Citânia de Briteiros , a Celtic settlement founded more than 2,500 years ago.  

The Minho’s biggest town is Braga , an important center of Portuguese spirituality – home to the country’s oldest cathedral as well as Roman ruins and flower-trimmed plazas dotted with outdoor cafes. The Costa Verde’s biggest stunner, Viana do Castelo , offers a double shot for visitors in the form of medieval architecture and gorgeous beaches, while Ponte de Lima features the finest medieval bridge in all of Portugal – the 31-arched Ponte Romana . End the journey by taking walks amid the rocky hills and ancient stone villages of the Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês , Portugal’s most impressive wilderness reserve. 

6. The Alentejo

Best road trip for soulful, off-the-beaten-path adventures

Évora–Monsaraz, 360km (224 miles), allow 3 days

If you’re looking for the heart and soul of Portugal, head to the Alentejo , a region of clifftop castle towns, traditional villages and rolling plains covered in vineyards and olive groves. Start off in the beautifully preserved town of Évora . Here you can feel the centuries wind back while visiting medieval monuments , a chilling bone chapel and Portugal’s finest Roman temple . A short drive beyond the city gates, you can search for ancient symbols on the Cromeleque dos Almendres , Portugal’s most important megalithic site. 

You’ll leave the crowds behind as you head to Estremoz and Vila Viçosa, two photogenic towns where everything seems to be made of marble (visit the quarry nearby to see why). Further north, you can explore Marvão, a clifftop village with sweeping views over the sun-baked countryside. You can go on some surprising adventures nearby, including taking a spin along an abandoned railway line with Rail Bike Marvão . Looping south, you’ll ascend to Monsaraz , yet another mesmerizing hilltop village with a medieval castle and more astonishing views.

7. The Portuguese Highlands 

Best road trip for mountain adventures

Coimbra–Viseu, 390km (242 miles), 2-3 days 

This wide-ranging trip takes in many of Portugal's highlights, from a buzzing historic university town to stern borderland fortresses, intermingled with picturesque villages and the natural majesty of the Serra da Estrela mountains. The journey starts in Coimbra , a hilly city that’s home to one of Europe’s oldest universities. Grand views await in Monsanto, a stunning village that towers high above the surrounding plains. A stroll through its steep streets, lined with stone houses that seem to merge with the boulder-strewn landscape, is reason enough to make the drive.

Dramatic views come with every turn on the uphill drive into the Serra da Estrela, where you’ll find Portugal’s highest summit – 1,993m (6,539ft) Torre. Enjoying a spectacular natural setting cradled at the foot of the beautiful Vale do Zêzere, the lofty village of Manteigas is a great base for mountain walks. Here, craggy ridges and forest-draped slopes dominate the horizon in all directions. 

End the road trip in the well-preserved center of Viseu . This historic city is a delight to explore with its cobbled streets, meandering alleys, leafy public gardens, and its central square graced with flowers and fountains.

This article was first published Aug 27, 2020 and updated Dec 19, 2023.

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• Portugal Road Trip: Itinerary & Planning Tips for 2024

This is a non-pretentious guide for a Portugal road trip along the coastline. This will allow you to drive along one of the wildest areas and most idyllic landscapes of Portugal. Information fully updated for 2024.

It’s funny how all the conversations I have about my home country with foreigners follow a trend.

• Chit-chat about Cristiano Ronaldo. Yeah, he’s an awesome player, makes a lot of money and I don’t get his love life either, bla bla .
• Random discussions about Portugal as a country. May or may not include clarifications that Portugal is NOT part of Spain.
• Where do you recommend to go to in Portugal?

Now, #3 is where the conversation gets interesting. My answer is always: explore Costa Vicentina on a road trip!

This article is a full guide and itinerary to explore southwest Portugal on a road trip. Pumped up? Let’s start the engines!

Why do a road trip in Portugal?

See, Portugal has million of tourists but the overwhelming majority is heading to Porto , Lisbon and Algarve, neglecting the rest of the country.

And trust me: despite being a small country, Portugal has a LOT to uncover. For starters, 500 km of Atlantic coastline home to a tremendous set of landscapes and experiences. There are dozens of other reasons why Portugal is worth visiting .

Plus, a road trip alone is something magic by itself. It’s all about the journey , not the destination, right? The adventure. Sticking your head out of the window and feel the wind ride your hair.

A road trip is one of the best ways to practice slow travel and budget travel . Not rushing things, enjoying the moment and investing deeply in getting to know a country.

Costa Vicentina: Southwest Portugal’s coast

Costa Vicentina sits on the southwestern coast of the country, belonging to the Alentejo region.

It still retains the authenticity and wild feeling, but with the same delicious food, the friendly people and the stunning landscapes that you can find in the rest of Portugal.

It’s characterized by dramatic beaches separated by dramatic cliffs, untouched landscapes and a raw Atlantic ssence hard to find elsewhere. Apart from the kilometers of beaches, there are also quaint villages, blissful coastal cities and vast natural parks.

While it’s starting to get a lot of hype, it’s still overshadowed by Algarve and generally overlooked by foreign tourists.

Portugal road trip itinerary

After almost 10 years living in Lisbon, I had the chance to do a few road trips and several summer explorations. I’m now delighted to share with you my guide for a road trip in southwest coast of Portugal .

• Starting Point : Lisboa
• Ending Point : Faro
• Recommended Duration : 10 Days
• Journey : Going south from Lisbon, it includes beach paradises like Comporta and Odeceixe and the untouched natural landscapes of Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e da Costa Vicentina (70.000 ha of pure virgin landscapes in the west coast of Algarve ).
• Transportation : I highly recommend renting a car for this trip.

Here are the stops I recommended on this road trip if your trip is 10-day long.

If you have more time, great, spend more time in each place of just take some of my extra suggestions .

Portugal road trip map

Nothing like a map to see where you’re going, right?

I’m about to mention several places in this guide, so I created this map to follow the journey easily.

Orange pins : Main road trip stops – preferred places to base yourself Yellow pins : Scenic landscape spots – don’t miss these if you’re a nature lover Blue pins : Beaches within route – places for a dive along the way Green pins : Extra & Add-Ons to this route – try to squeeze these in!

You can also open the map in a new window following this link . Find detailed descriptions of some of these places below.

LISBON: Starting off big!

You’ll need at least 3 days to get to know Portugal’s capital. To help you plan, I’ve put together a 3-day itinerary for Lisbon, with detailed tips on what to see and do .

Walking around the downtown is a must, but more than ticking off tourist attractions off the checklist, you might want to explore the most typical neighbourhoods of Alfama , Sé and Graça .

The awe-inspiring miradouros (viewpoints) and the narrow steep streets crowded with the moorish castle on top – Castelo de São Jorge -are the true essence of Lisboa .

Make sure you reserve some time to indulge in some experiences not to miss in Lisbon and to explore some of its secret places .

Before you’re gone, don’t forget to grab a stock of pastéis de nata and start your trip south, crossing either the Vasco da Gama or the 25 de Abril bridges.

Best hotels in Lisbon

I’ve made the hard work for you. This is a pre-filtered list of hotels in the safest areas of Lisbon.

My choice: Hotel Fenix Music

Charmingly music-themed hotel, super close to the center. Oh it comes with this stunning rooftop swimming pool.

ARRÁBIDA: Green and blue landscapes

Stretching along the south coast of the peninsula of Setúbal , Arrábida natural park is rich in golden beaches edged by impressive green mountains. It’s home to some of my favorite beaches around Lisbon .

The ex-libris of this area is the stunning Portinho da Arrábida with azure waters and a 17th-century fort. Personally, I’d rather endure a 20-min hike and reach Praia dos Coelhos to a more off the beaten track experience in direct contact with nature.

Both options ensure an awesome beach day.

Getting around Arrábida

Arrábida is a special place to get around. First of all, the road along the coast is one-way which means you always need to start your journey in the city of Setúbal to get there.

Secondly, parking is a mess. Since 2018, parking can only be done until Praia da Figueirinha (paid). Especially in summer weekends, this can be a nightmare. I recommend you get there as early in the morning as possible.

★ Where to stay in Arrábida ★

Casa da Adôa

Superbly located between the sea and the mountains, it’s a refreshing place to spend a day or two.

COMPORTA: The perfect beach getaway

When you arrive here, you’ll officially be in the Alentejo region. I’ve praised Comporta before and how this perfect beach getaway is still kept a semi-secret beach destination is beyond me turned into a luxury getaway for the European elite doesn’t surprise me.

Imagine a small village, stuck between the Atlantic, endless rice fields and the plain landscape (sort of an european savana) of Alentejo . Oh and 15km of the wildest beaches you’ll find in Europe.

It’s the perfect pitstop to disconnect and step into a new state of mind for the rest of your trip. The Royal family of Monaco, who comes here every summer, appears to agree.

💰 My value-for-money hotel recommendation in Comporta 💰

Comporta Villa Suites

Comes with an outdoor pool, but the ocean is just 3km away.

PORTO COVO: Summertime charm

Title of a well-known and melancholic portuguese song, Porto Covo is also a little hidden gem close to the port city of Sines . Somewhere in the maze of bright blue, red and white houses you’ll find many family-run restaurants with delicious and inexpensive food.

A 5-min drive out of the town center takes you to beaches with golden sands and turquoise waters. Try Praia de São Torpes – popular amongst surfers – or Praia da Ilha – with a great view for the small Pessegueiro islet.

Where to stay in Porto Covo

Monte Cerro, Porto Covo

Peaceful country house, perfect to relax a few days in a rural setting.

ZAMBUJEIRA DO MAR: Music for your ears

Zambujeira do Mar is not particularly exciting as a town. Period.

Apart from the MEO Sudoeste summer festival happening each August (had a great time there partying my ass off at the sound of Calvin Harris!) there’s nothing much going on.

However, it’s a VERY interesting strategic point to spend a few days. There are lots of great affordable accommodation available as it generally attracts younger crowds.

Zambujeira is close enough to explore some of the best spots like the western most point of the whole Alentejo’s coast,  Cabo Sardão , and some more striking beaches such as Praia do Tonel and Praia do Carvalhal . Great hiking trails available as well.

Find your place to stay in Zambujeira

Search amongst the places to stay in Zambujeira do Mar with WiFi and a minimum overall rating of “Very Good” . Hard to go wrong with these!

ODECEIXE: Atlantic bliss

Where the river Ceixe meets the Atlantic, lies Odeceixe , technically already in the Algarve region. But this is not the typical Algarve you are used to.

Odeceixe is well known for one of the largest and glorious beaches in Portugal, surrounded by giant tree-covered cliffs of a giant natural park. Little confession to make: this is my favourite place of them all.

Save 2 or 3 days to explore the surroundings of Odeceixe . I’ve been here several times, but never stayed more than one full day. I REALLY want to come back not only for the top-notch local beach, but also to hike some of the surrounding cliffs.

💰 Where to stay in Odeceixe: my value-for-money suggestions 💰

Monte do Cardal, Odeceixe

A peaceful guesthouse surrounded by nature and the sound of the ocean in the morning. Breakfast with healthy homemade food.

Casa Vicentina, Odeceixe

Quiet, peaceful and charming, it’s the ultimate getaway spot. Just a short drive away from beaches.

Or… find your own!

Search amongst the places to stay in Odeceixe with WiFi and a minimum overall rating of “Very Good” . Hard to go wrong with these!

ARRIFANA: Cliff fantasy

Hidden at the bottom of a steep cliff, Praia da Arrifana is both a postcard landscape and a paradise for surfers. Down there,  Restaurante da Praia has great grilled fish, yummy salads and is also great for a relax drink at the evening at the sound of the waves.

Kayaking, windsurfing, SUP, surfing and water sports in general are HUGE in Portugal. If you haven’t tried these before, this is absolutely the time to do it. Arrifana in particular is a well-known destination for watersports lovers.

Where to stay next to Arrifana Beach

The Amazigh Bed & Breakfast is a great value place to stay next to the beach.

Utopia Guest House, Aljezur

Luminous rooms with private bathroom and breakfast included.

FARO/ALGARVE: The perfect farewell to Portugal

Although I prefer hands down the wild and vibe of Alentejo’s coastline, I got to say I’ve always enjoyed my time in Algarve .

Even though massive tourism threatens to take away some of its personality, it’s still home to some top-notch beaches in the world. There’s nothing wrong in saving 2 or 3 days to lay on them. It’s the perfect farewell to Portugal!

Faro is the only international airport in the region and it might be convenient to return back home. However there are much more beautiful places in Algarve, including some almost-deserted islands around – like the stunning Ilha do Farol . By all means don’t stick to Faro.

No matter what you do, it’s advisable to avoid the booze hotspots of Algarve: Albufeira and Vilamoura . These are nothing but bland touristy places with meh beaches nearby.

A slightly better option is Portimão , where there are excellent beach options: Praia do Vau or Praia dos Três Irmãos .

Lagos is one of my favorite areas in the Algarve . It’s a very tranquil place, even though the top beach there has suffered a massive reengineering project which made it unrecognizable. Faro airport is no far and there are transfer companies doing the journey.

There are some other great options around Lagos town like Praia do Camilo , Praia dos Pinheiros or Praia da Luz – where they say some are still looking for Maddie McCann.

Check the road trip map for other suggestions for beaches in Algarve .

⚠ Beware of the cliffs!

I remember hearing on the news some fatal accident involving cliffs in Algarve every single year. DON’T be the one on the news!

When you’re standing on top of the cliffs, watch your steps when you’re trying to get a better view for your photos and don’t get too close of the edge. Also, there are not usually fences on the cliff line so don’t be tempted to lay your towel right next to it. As good as a shade may feel in a hot summer day, cliff rock falls can happen anytime.

Where to stay in Algarve

Lagos is a great place to base yourself in the Algarve , giving you access to a series of top-notch small beaches.

Extra stops to add to this road trip itinerary

This itinerary has got a minimum recommended duration of 10 days, but if you have more time, make sure you explore other highlights of Portugal .

It’s relatively small country after all and you can easily add more places to your route and enrich your holidays. There are many other places in Portugal worth discovering.

Here are some suggestions:

Why not start your road trip route upper north in Portugal’s second largest city? Porto is very different from Lisbon – and of the rest of the country for that matter – in many ways.

But both are clearly national winners in two things: the sympathy of people and food. Read more about it in my Porto guide for dummies or in my weekend itinerary of the city.

The Essential Porto City Guide

Continue reading more about Porto on my complete city guide for dummies. Budget, itinerary and the best places to eat, it’s all in here!

Nazaré, Portugal

Nazaré is the most traditional fishing village in Portugal. Look around and notice the drying the fish and women with their typical set of seven-layered skirts.

While the main beach in the town is OK to get into the water, this is a place well-known for its GIGANTIC waves which has become a tourist attraction by itself. Praia do Norte is the location for the world record of the largest wave ever surfed – by Garret McNamara in 2013. The monster wave was 100ft or 30m high and can be seen in this video .

Sintra, Portugal

Located the northern-most extent of the protected Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, 30km from Lisbon, Sintra displays an alluring fairy-tale nature setting. This little town has been a summer retreat for the portuguese royal family for centuries and is lush with green forests, exotic flowers and exquisite architecture.

Make sure you don’t miss Castelo dos Mouros -the moorish castle overlooking the village – and Palácio da Pena , a Romanticist palace on a hilltop with great views over the entire Lisbon metropolitan area. Also, since you’re already in the area get a look at continental Europe’s most western point: Cabo da Roca . Beware of the wind!

Évora, Portugal

Since you’re at Alentejo already, venture out to the interior, entirely different from the coast. Évora in particular is drenched in history, heritage and culture, making it a constrasting break from all the beach and ocean. Also, a chance to have a sneak peek at how’s life in the interior of Portugal.

Warning: it can get VERY hot in peak summer months.

Seville, Spain

I know this road trip is about Portugal, but why not take a detour and include one more country in your itinerary? Iberian power! Seville is less than 200km away from the portuguese border and is the cultural centre of the region of Andalucía .

There’s a lot to do and specially to eat here. Grab some hot churros con chocolate , jamón or a freshly-made sangria in between your visit to the city’s main sights. Don’t miss El Alcazar , a royal palace built for Moorish kings, and the magnificent Plaza de España .

Driving in Portugal

While you can technically do this road trip with a scooter or motorbike (heck, even with a bike if you’re in the right shape!), renting a car is definitely the most convenient option to do this road trip, giving you total freedom and independence.

Public transportation is NOT reliable and will not reach most beaches and other spots mentioned here.

Renting a car in Portugal

For some reason I can’t understand, renting a car in Portugal is slightly more expensive than in other countries of Southern Europe.

That said, you can still find some great deals, specially if you book early! I always use this Skyscanner or my new favorite RentalCars to compare prices.

How are the roads in Portugal?

Driving in Portugal is not anywhere near like a Gran Turismo game and roads are usually in good shape. That said, you’ll need to be careful, as we’re talking about a country with one of the highest accident rates in Europe.

Although there is a direct highway from Lisbon to Algarve (A2 motorway), the cheaper and more scenic route for this road trip is through the regional and national roads. These skip the expensive toll system and go very close to the coast so it’s a more enjoyable journey.

If you happen to pass by any of the main tolls, take care NOT to use the green lanes Via Verde (a giant green V). These are strictly reserved for vehicles subscribed to their automatic toll payment system, so you will get fined and charged for the entire stretch of motorway!

Important information for drivers in Portugal

Some other useful driving numbers to remember – updated to 2024:

• Navigation: use Google Maps or Maze to drive around in Portugal.
• Alcohol Limit: 0.5g per liter. Equivalent to 2-3 small beers.
• Speed Limits: 50km/h in the built-up area, 90km/h outside of the built-up area and 120km/h on the motorways. Inside some limited residential areas and town historical centers the limit goes down to 30km/h.
• Safety: All vehicles should carry a safety triangle and reflective jackets.

Finding accommodation in Alentejo and Algarve

Having a lot of media attention lately, the accommodation in Alentejo has risen a lot in recent years, both in quantity and quality as resorts, rural houses and guest houses pop up like mushrooms.

My personal suggestion is Herdade do Amarelo , a stunning homestead next to Vila Nova de Milfontes , but there is a choice to all tastes and wallet sizes.

To make your life even easier, use this shortlist of the best-reviewed rural accommodation in the coast of Alentejo .

In the Algarve region, the offer accommodation is much higher but the best places can get fully booked with months in advance.

What is the best time of the year to do a road trip in Portugal?

Short answer: you should be fine to do this road trip anywhere between April and October, as warm weather in Portugal lasts for about half a year.

That said, along this route you’ll be driving along a wild Atlantic coastline, so weather can be chilly, rough and particularly windy very unpredictably.

If possible, avoid the month of August entirely. It will surely save you 20-30% of the overall budget, as everything since accommodation to a single bottle of water is inflated. Plus, it’s the default holiday month in Europe so all the towns I’ve mentioned turn into mini-Algarves .

In summary, if you can avoid peak months and at the same time maximize the probability of warm sunny weather, come to Portugal in May, June, July or September.

Should I visit Portugal in winter?

Between November and March it’s winter time and it can get especially cold next to the ocean. In Costa Vicentina, forget about beach weather it will be chilly and windy, although hiking is possible. It might be an interesting time for surfing enthusiasts.

Food in Portugal

OK, almost dinner time at the time I’m writing this, so let’s talk about food. I know this is suspicious coming from me *a bold statement is coming* but food standards in Portugal are simply great.

I honestly can’t find a better combination of taste, price, and healthiness in Europe . If you are really to take this road trip, I bet my pinkie finger you will not have one mediocre meal. #highexpectations

Take advantage of your time in Portugal to eat food generally unavailable or expensive elsewhere: fish. Grilled fresh fish with a simple pinch of salt and herbs to season is one of my favorite summer pleasures. Luckily, that’s not hard to find at all in the entire Costa Vincentina, with equally delicious prices.

What to eat in Alentejo

And speaking of Alentejo in particular… oh dear. We’re talking about one of Portugal’s gastronomic edens! Don’t miss the big peppery olives ( azeitonas ) for starters and a glass of regional wine to drink. After all, half of the country’s wine is produced here.

Bacalhau  (codfish) dishes are frequent as well as porco (pork), but you can’t miss to try a local plate and my personal favorite:  Carne de Porco à Alentejana – a mouth-watering combination of pork, wine, potatoes and clams.

PORTUGAL MINI TRAVEL GUIDE

How to get to portugal.

Lisbon and Porto are very well served by airline connections from all over Europe and also from the U.S., South America and Africa.

If you’re coming from the United States , take a look at Azores Getaways . They have great flight + hotel + transfers deals for Portugal.

If you’re not into travel packages or you’re not coming from the US, I recommend Skyscanner or the new online sensation TravelPerk to find the cheapest flight prices.

Where to stay in Portugal

To make your life easier, start your search with my pre-selection of the best hostels/hotels/guesthouses/villas for each of these amazing spots:

• Lisbon (heart of the city)
• Porto (heart of the city)

These include only accommodations with great-to-excellent rating and a good free WiFi . You can’t go wrong with these!

Best time to go to Portugal

While summers are long in Portugal and you can expect good weather anywhere between May and October, make sure you avoid August. Unless you have a thing for packed beaches!

The Ultimate Itinerary of São Miguel Island (Made By An Azorean)

The top azores hot springs & thermal baths in sao miguel.

• Furnas, Azores: Unique things to do in the Furnas Valley
• Ponta Delgada, Azores: 12 Things To Do In My Hometown
• The 13 Most Beautiful Azores Beaches
• When Is The Best Time to Go To Azores?
• 47 Reasons To Visit Portugal In 2024
• The Best Hotels in São Miguel, Azores For All Kinds Of Travelers
• Azores: 20 Travel Tips To Know Before You Go

Enjoy the ride and help me improve this guide!

You know I always love to put together a complex travel plan – just like I did with my Croatia road trip guide , my Japan itinerary or my island hopping guide in Thailand . This one is different though. Being my country, I did it with little or no research: it was written all from the heart 💖.

This guide will be updated regularly from now on, so after you use it and visit Portugal yourself, let me know of any additional suggestions or tips, I’d love to hear what I’ve missed!

Creating this guide made me want to do this road trip it all over again. It’s cheap, it’s still unspoiled by tourism and comes with a getaway feeling to it which is harder and harder to find nowadays.

I really hope you can have the same experience. Because contrarily to the immense coastline of awe-inspiring beaches of Alentejo , Cristiano Ronaldo does not need any more hype!

Reasons to Visit Portugal

Continue reading more about Portugal with these 40+ reasons why it should be on your immediate travel plans.

My travel tips valid anywhere

• 🏨 To find the best deals and book your stay with free cancellation, I recommend Booking.com (from my experience, often cheaper than Airbnb)
• 🚗 Always compare car rental prices before you book anything (and if possible use local rental shops!)
• ☑️ Travel insurance is a must these days – don’t overlook it! I recommend Allianz or Safety Wing if you’re always on the go
• 💰 Use Revolut to save in exchange rates and payments abroad; it’s a game-changer!
• ⚙️ Amazon has the largest offer in travel gear, clothing, and accessories – check out my Travel Store !
• ✈️ Are you dealing with a delayed or cancelled flight? Airhelp may help you get a compensation for it!

Did this help plan out your vacation? What have I missed for a memorable Portugal road trip? Leave a comment in the comments below 👇

You might also like these articles 💬

Japan Two Week Itinerary: The Best of Japan!

Destinations🌎

12 Best Road Trips in Europe

12 epic road trips to discover the beauty of europe.

Start packing your comfy clothes because we are about to go on a road trip through the best routes in Europe . If the idea of a road trip has been in your mind and you don’t know where to start, then we have you covered.

From mountain ranges to coastlines and everything in between, each moment on the road is an opportunity to slow down and fully immerse yourself in the beauty, culture and present of your surroundings. And that’s precisely our goal, we want to inspire you to choose the perfect road trip in Europe that will last in your memory.

So, let’s hit the road together and make these European road trips a reality. Buckle up!

1. Almalfi Coast

Location: Italy Start & End: Sorrento to Salerno Distance: Approximately 58 km Best time of the year: Late spring to early autumn (Summer is extremely busy)

Full of colors and romance. During the trip, you will see beautiful villages built into the dramatic cliffs, clear blue waters, and curvy roads along the coast. The road trip allows you to explore charming towns like Positano , Amalfi , and Ravello .

Each town has its unique attractions, like beautiful beaches, and delicious mediterranean with a focus on fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and traditional Italian dishes. Do not miss the chance to stop at the viewpoints along the road like Viewpoint.8-Amalfi or Terrazza dell’Infinito . For beaches easily reachable by car check these popular spots, Marina grande in Amalfi or Marina di Vietri in Vietri sul Mare.

2. The Transfagarasan

Location: Romania Start & End: Starts at Bascov, ends at Cartisoara Distance: Approximately 150 km Best time of the year: Summer and early Autumn

The Transfagarasan, located in Romania, is not just an ordinary road trip route; it’s a journey filled with adventure.

As you drive through the Transfagarasan, you’ll be greeted with mountain vistas , lush green valleys , and winding roads . However, let’s be honest—it’s not all smooth sailing. The road is known for its challenging twists and turns, adding a touch of excitement and thrill to the trip.

A perfect route for photography and nature enthusiasts. However, keep in mind that due to its remote location, facilities along the route are limited. So, it’s a good idea to pack some snacks and water. Famous stops along the road are: Balea waterfall and lake , Vidraru Dam and Poienari Fortress.

3. The Romantic Road

Location: Southern Germany Start & End: Wurzburg to Fussen Distance: Approximately 354 km Best time of the year: Spring to fall for mild weather and picturesque landscapes.

Let’s talk about love. In the enchanting region of Southern Germany, the Romantic Road awaits, ready to make you feel like living in a Disney movie.

Our recommendation is to begin your journey in Wurzburg , from here the most popular towns are Rothenburg, Nördlingen, Harburg and Steingaden . Plan according to the days you have available and take your time to wander the streets of these small towns.

The must-see stop along the way is Neuschwanstein Castle , which is said to have inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle. While it’s undoubtedly a popular tourist destination, the best way to experience the essence of the Romantic Road is through a road trip. This is why it is on our list.

With every km traveled, you will find yourself falling even deeper in love with the astounding beauty that Southern Germany has to offer.

4. The Ring of Kerry

Location: County Kerry, Ireland Start & End: Killarney Distance: Approximately 179 km Best time of the year: Late spring to early autumn

Clear skies and sandy beaches await as you set off from County Kerry to explore Ireland’s southwest coast. This road trip not only offers coastal views but also leads you to a famous stargazing destination, check out International Dark Sky Park for more information.

As you journey through this captivating route, be sure to visit the delightful towns of Kenmare and Cahersiveen . Experience the genuine warmth of Irish hospitality and savor the delectable local seafood cuisine, a true culinary delight.

Embrace the magic of the clear night skies and the coastal beauty on this unforgettable road trip, creating memories of Ireland’s best offerings.

5. The Grossglockner High Alpine Road

Location: High Austrian Alps Start & End: Bruck to Heiligenblut Distance: Approximately 48 km Best time of the year: Late spring to early autumn

Stretching approximately 48 km from Bruck to Heiligenblut, this route offers a drive through one of Europe’s most stunning mountain views .

As you drive through the High Austrian Alps, you’ll be surrounded by panoramas of snow-capped peaks and glaciers. The road’s well-engineered bends provide a thrilling driving experience amidst the grandeur of nature.

Late spring to early autumn is the ideal time to experience the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, as the weather is pleasant, and the road is open for exploration. Unfortunately, this road is closed during winter time due to adverse weather conditions and for the safety of everyone.

6. Costa Brava Coastal Drive

Location: Spain Start & End: Begins in Blanes and ends in Portbou Distance: Approximately 180 km Best time of the year: Spring or early autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds.

The beauty of Spain’s Costa Brava on a coastal road trip that promises sandy beaches, rocky coves, and charming seaside towns.

Starting in Blanes and ending in Portbou near the French border, this 180-km drive takes you along the stunning Mediterranean coast.

Explore picturesque fishing villages like Palamós, Cadaqués and Tossa de Mar , each offering its own unique charm and coastal allure. The spring or early autumn months provide milder weather and fewer crowds, allowing you to fully enjoy the serenity and natural splendor of the Costa Brava.

7. Tuscany Road Trip

Location: Italy Start & End: Begins in Florence and ends in Siena Distance: Approximately 145 km Best time of the year: Late spring or early autumn for pleasant weather and vibrant landscapes.

Vineyards, olive groves, and iconic landscapes on the way – what more could you ask for? Tuscany is simply amazing.

The roads in Tuscany are well-maintained, making driving a breeze and allowing travelers to explore the region at their own pace. Your journey starts in Florence , the birthplace of the Renaissance, and concludes in Siena , known for its historic architecture and squares. This 145-km route unveils the very best of Tuscany’s cultural and natural riches.

As you drive through the rolling hills of Chianti, take a moment to pause and savor the world-renowned wines. Do yourself a favor and indulge in traditional dishes like pasta, Pappa al Pomodoro, and Florentine steak, all crafted with fresh, local ingredients.

8. The French Riviera

Location: Southern France Start & End: Begins in Nice and ends in Saint-Tropez Distance: Approximately 115 km Best time of the year: Spring or early summer for mild weather and blooming landscapes.

A popular destination known for its world-famous beaches and luxury, and do you know what is the best way to explore it? – through a road trip.

Starting in Nice, a city of art and charm, and concluding in Saint-Tropez, a playground for the rich and famous, this 115-km route conveys the very essence of the Côte d’Azur. The region’s cities, like Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez, have a magnetic pull that attracts celebrities, jet-setters, and affluent travelers from all corners of the globe.

You’ll discover an array of experiences. Indulge in fine dining at Michelin-starred restaurants, delight in exclusive shopping at designer boutiques, or simply savor the simplicity of life while basking in the sunset views of this unique coast.

9. The Algarve Coastline Drive

Location: Portugal Start & End: Begins in Faro and ends in Sagres Distance: Approximately 116 km Best time of the year: Spring or early autumn for mild weather and fewer tourists.

Fishing villas, stargazing, history, authentic cuisine and coast. Places like Lagos and Alvor provide an insight into the region’s coastal culture and history. Also, Algarve is famous for its beautiful beaches, and the drive allows you to visit some of the best in the region. Whether you prefer secluded coves or vibrant seaside resorts, the Algarve has a beach for every taste.

Most recommended cities along the road are, Albufeira, Armação de Pêra, Portimao and Lagos, all of them offer a wide range of accomodations and cuisine for all budgets.

10. The Swiss Grand Tour

Location: Switzerland Start & End: Zurich – circular route Distance: Approximately 1600 km Best time of the year: Late spring to early autumn for pleasant weather and blooming landscapes.

Switzerland offers an amazing road trip experience with its well-maintained roads and organized system. The Swiss Grand Tour starts Zurich where the biggest airport is, taking you on a journey of approximately 1600 km, surrounded by awe-inspiring landscapes.

During this scenic drive, you can find glaciers , world-renowned mountain roads, breathtaking lakes , quaint rustic mountain villages, and the opportunity to experience luxury hotels along the way.

This road trip promises an adventure through one of Europe’s most beautiful and varied countries, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich cultural experiences, and the utmost in luxurious accommodations.

11. The Croatian Adriatic Coast

Location: Croatia Start & End: Begins in Dubrovnik and ends in Rijeka Distance: Approximately 600 km Best time of the year: Late spring to early autumn for warm weather and clear skies.

Explore the best of Croatia’s coastal splendor, from the stunning city of Dubrovnik to the vibrant port city of Rijeka. Discover islands, beaches, and charming villages, immersing yourself in the characteristic azure waters. Favorite stops along the way are the cities of Split and Zadar.

If you plan to go in summer, plan far in advance your accomodation to get the best deals and locations since Croatia is now one of the most popular beach destinations in Europe.

12. The Scottish Highlands

Location: Scotland, United Kingdom Start & End: Begins in Inverness and ends in Isle of Skye Distance: Approximately 480 km Best time of the year: Late spring to early autumn

This road trip will take you on a mystical adventure through rolling hills, ancient castles, serene lochs, and majestic mountains. As you wind through the Glencoe Valley, you will get a sense of ancient wonder as the rugged peaks surround you.

The highlight of the trip is the Isle of Skye, where the landscape seems like something straight out of a fairytale. Marvel at the Quiraing , a landscape formed by ancient landslides, and the Old Man of Storr , a towering rock formation that has captivated visitors for centuries.

Throughout the journey, you will encounter warm Scottish hospitality, delightful local cuisine , and the enchanting sound of traditional bagpipes .

From the sun-kissed shores of the Amalfi Coast to the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands, each destination holds a unique charm waiting to be explored. Always remember that road conditions and travel restrictions may change, so it’s essential to stay updated with the latest information to ensure a smooth and safe trip.

We really hope this blog post has inspired you to say “yes” to your next road trip adventure. So, let’s hit the road together and make these European road trip dreams a reality.

Lost Coconuts

Hi! We are María & Toni, digital nomads and creators of Lost Coconuts.

On our blog we share travel guides, tips for digital nomads and free tutorials with everything we’ve learned so that you too can start your own digital projects. About us

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Road Trips por Europa

A la hora de hacer un road trip, Europa es una buena opción gracias a la cercanía y a la facilidad de hacerlo, incluso, con tu propio vehículo.

Es un continente que tiene de todo y que, excepto algunas islas, la mayoría de países están conectados por carretera.

Europa tiene mucha historia y, por tanto, mucho que ver y de lo que aprender. Son muchas las opciones de rutas por carretera que se pueden hacer en el viejo continente.

Road Trips por cada País de Europa

Artículos de Road Trips por países de Europa

La fv889: así es la carretera de havøysund en noruega, trollstigen: así es la escalera del troll en noruega, atlantic ocean road: así es la carretera del atlántico en noruega, ruta panorámica de jæren: la carretera costera del sur de noruega, rutas panorámicas de noruega: la mejor forma de descubrir el país, qué ver en dinamarca: historia y naturaleza en la península de jutlandia.

A continuación, vamos a darte las pinceladas de algunos de los Road Trips por Europa que hemos hecho, para que te sirvan de inspiración para tus próximas vacaciones.

En cada uno de ellos, encontrarás información práctica para organizar tu propia ruta, así como nuestra propia experiencia y consejos, para facilitarte la planificación y el viaje.

Road trips por Francia

Francia es un país increíble para recorrer por carretera y está súper preparado.

Encontrarás información sobre nuestras rutas por Francia en los siguientes enlaces:

Ruta por la Bretaña francesa y el Mont Saint Michel

La Bretaña Francesa es una de las mejores rutas por Francia que se pueden hacer. Recorrer sus acantilados, sus bosques y sus pueblecitos medievales es un plan ideal para pasar unas vacaciones en pareja , aunque también es una buena ruta para hacer con niños . Si buscamos la Bretaña Francesa en un mapa, verás que está junto a Normandía , dos zonas que tienen mucho que ver en Francia. La ruta de la Bretaña y Normandía es una ruta perfecta para hacer en coche desde España, o, si lo prefieres, recorrerla en autocaravana, furgo, moto e, incluso, bicicleta.

Ruta Transpirenaica en coche y en furgo

La Ruta Transpirenaica , es decir, recorrer los Pirineos por carretera, es una ruta muy conocida entre moteros o ciclistas, pero hay poca información para hacerla con un vehículo de motor.

Nosotros hicimos esta ruta para probar nuestra furgo “ la Germeneta ” y nos pareció una ruta ideal para disfrutar con calma de la naturaleza y de la diversidad de paisajes a un lado y al otro de los Pirineos. Es decir, de atravesar de Francia a España  y viceversa constantemente y ver que hay diferencias, pero no tantas como podemos imaginar.

Road trips por Holanda

Holanda , uno de los países bajos, es una buena opción para recorrer también por carretera.

Encontrarás información sobre los siguientes road trips por Holanda:

Road trip por Holanda: ¿qué ver cerca de Ámsterdam?

Toda la información sobre esta ruta por los lugares con más encanto de Holanda y los pueblecitos más pintorescos cerca de Ámsterdam .

Molinos, tulipanes, pueblecitos, queso, puertos… y todo lo que te puedas imaginar que encontrarás en una ruta por Holanda.

Esta propuesta es perfecta para volar a Ámsterdam y alquilar allí un coche para recorrer los alrededores.

Road trips por Irlanda

Irlanda , la isla Esmeralda, es una opción perfecta para hacer una ruta por carretera.

Sitios salvajes, apenas habitados, que guardan una sorpresa en cada curva a modo de paisaje.

Hay varios road trips que se pueden hacer en Irlanda, pero en nuestro caso te vamos a hablar de la ruta que hicimos por el salvaje oeste:

Road trip por Irlanda: la Wild Atlantic Way o Ruta Costera del Atlántico

Dicen que es la zona más auténtica de Irlanda , y no podemos estar más de acuerdo.

Carreteras sinuosas por las que solo te cruzas con ovejas que están tranquilamente descansando o con algún otro aventurero que, como tú, se ha lanzado a recorrer esta zona de Irlanda.

Encontrarás ciudades con mucha historia y mucha vida muy cerca de paisajes salvajes y acantilados que te dejarán sin aliento.

Recorrer la Ruta Costera del Atlántico en coche es una experiencia muy recomendable para cualquier amante de la naturaleza y la carretera.

Road trips por Noruega

Explorar el norte de Europa por carretera es sinónimo de aventura y naturaleza en estado puro.

Noruega es el paraíso de los road trips por Europa y uno de los destinos mejor preparados para este tipo de viajes.

A continuación, toda la información sobre nuestros road trips por Noruega :

Road trip a Cabo Norte desde España

Ya habíamos estado en Noruega pero este era uno de los viajes de nuestros sueños, esos que siempre tienes en mente hacer.

En esta ruta de 6 meses vamos a publicar toda la información de nuestro viaje con la Germeneta desde España hasta Cabo Norte, pasando por Francia, Alemania, Dinamarca, Suecia y Finlandia. Durante 3 meses estuvimos recorriendo Noruega desde el extremo sur hasta el extremo norte y te vamos a enseñar una forma de recorrer el país a través de sus Rutas Panorámica o Rutas Turísticas de Noruega .

Road trip por los fiordos de Noruega

Noruega es un país con una naturaleza indescriptible y muchas zonas para disfrutarla.

En esta ruta te dejamos la información del road trip que hicimos por la zona de los fiordos noruegos , quizá la más conocida y la que cada vez más gente se decide a hacer, gracias a las facilidades que da el país para recorrerla.

Road trips por Portugal

Portugal , el país vecino, cada vez recibe a más viajeros de todo el mundo dispuestos a recorrer sus carreteras y dejarse envolver por sus encantos.

A continuación, los road trips por Portugal disponibles en el blog:

Road trip por Portugal en 9 días: la ruta de la UNESCO

En este road trip por Portugal encontrarás información sobre las distintas etapas, que hemos dividido por zonas dentro del país.

En total, encontrarás los datos prácticos del road trip por la zona norte del Portugal, el Centro, Lisboa y el Alentejo.

Recorremos la mayoría de puntos declarados Patrimonio de la Humanidad por la UNESCO que se pueden encontrar en Portugal y la ruta para recorrerlos.

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