A country edging the Atlantic
Looking out toward the open sea, Portugal enjoys an undeniable asset: some of the finest coastlines in Europe! From the wild shores of the Costa Verde to the dizzying cliffs of the Algarve, swimmers, surfers and walkers share this coastline. From remote beaches to fishing villages, follow the Portuguese coast in sync with the tides and get swept up in its exhilarating scents: the aromas of olive trees and rosemary, the appetizing smell of grilled sardines and bacalhau fritters, to name just a few. With the engine purring, head to Faro and the lagoons of Ria Formosa, Ericeira and its renowned waves, Porto Covo and its secret coves, and more. Everything here offers a welcome invitation to switch off, which is all the more enjoyable in spring or fall.
Gentle inland landscapes
Far from the hustle and bustle of the shore, the Portuguese hinterland boasts an unadorned beauty. The cork oak forests of Alentejo, the snowy mountains of Serra da Estrela, the terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley, and more. A host of faces over such short distances is one of the happy surprises in store on a road trip around Portugal.
Along the way, the roads are by turns winding and scenic, and small villages invite you to take a pleasant break: the fortress of Marvão like an eagle’s nest, the rocky chaos of Monsanto, Monsaraz’s narrow white streets, Piódão’s houses laid out in the shape of an amphitheater, and more. Small towns that seem forgotten by the world, which come to life during romarias, festivals celebrated in honor of a patron saint… and futebol matches, a Portuguese passion!
City stops
Between adventures along Portugal’s roads, make a stop in one of the country’s lively urban hubs. History buffs will go for a stroll around Évora’s Moorish courtyards or Coimbra’s time-honored university. In Lisbon, one of the most enchanting European capitals, bite into delicious pastéis de nata in front of Belém Tower and let yourself be caught up in a fado melody in the Alfama neighborhood. In Porto, the economic and cultural center of the North, enjoy vinho verde and port in a wine cellar, before spending the night in a charming pousada (historic accommodation) in the region. A complete change of scenery!
