There’s no better way to experience Portugal than by road. This 10-day itinerary takes you along the stunning Atlantic coast, from historic cities to hidden beaches, with plenty of pastéis de nata stops along the way. I’ve driven this route three times—each trip uncovering new gems—and now I’m sharing the perfect balance of must-see spots and off-the-radar treasures.
Day 1-2: Start in Porto (The Northern Charm)
Must-Do:
- Explore Ribeira District (colorful houses along the Douro River).
- Tour Livraria Lello (Harry Potter’s inspiration) early to avoid crowds.
- Day trip to Peneda-Gerês National Park (waterfalls and wild horses).
Sleep:
- Hotel Teatro (theatrical boutique hotel).
Drive to Next Stop: 1 hour to Aveiro.
Day 3: Aveiro & Costa Nova (The “Venice of Portugal”)
Highlights:
- Ride a moliceiro boat through canals.
- Photograph Costa Nova’s striped beach houses.
- Try ovos moles (local egg-yolk pastries).
Detour: Buçaco Forest (fairytale woodland with a palace hotel).
Drive: 1.5 hours to Coimbra.
Day 4: Coimbra (Medieval University Town)
Don’t Miss:
- Biblioteca Joanina (gold-leaf library with resident bats).
- Fado ao Centro (raw, academic-style fado).
Road Trip Snack: Chanfana (goat stew) at Zé Manel.
Drive: 2 hours to Nazaré.
Day 5-6: Nazaré & Alcobaça (Giant Waves & Monasteries)
Adventure:
- Watch surfers tackle 100-foot waves (Nov-Feb).
- Visit Alcobaça Monastery (tombs of star-crossed lovers).
Coastal Secret: São Martinho do Porto (shell-shaped bay, perfect for kids).
Drive: 45 minutes to Óbidos.
Day 7: Óbidos (Storybook Village)
Wander:
- Walk the medieval walls (go early—no railings!).
- Sip ginjinha (cherry liqueur) in chocolate cups.
Quirky Stay: The Literary Man Hotel (book-themed rooms).
Drive: 1 hour to Peniche.
Day 8: Peniche & Berlengas Island (Fortresses & Turquoise Waters)
Boat Trip:
- Hike Berlengas’s rugged trails.
- Snorkel in clear Atlantic coves.
Eat: Cataplana de marisco (seafood stew) at Restaurante Mar d’Areia.
Drive: 1.5 hours to Sintra.
Day 9: Sintra (Palaces & Mystical Forests)
Pro Route:
- 7:30 AM: Beat crowds to Pena Palace.
- 11 AM: Explore Quinta da Regaleira’s secret tunnels.
- 3 PM: Sunset at Cabo da Roca (Europe’s westernmost point).
Drive: 30 minutes to Lisbon.
Day 10: Lisbon (Grand Finale)
Local Favorites:
- Miradouro da Senhora do Monte (best viewpoint).
- Time Out Market (food hall with top Portuguese chefs).
- LX Factory (hipster nightlife under a bridge).
Car Return Tip: Drop off near Santa Apolónia Station (easy airport transfer).
Road Trip Essentials
- Car: Rent a compact (narrow streets!).
- Tolls: Get a Via Verde device (saves 40% on highways).
- Soundtrack: “Portugal. The Man” (obviously).
Final Advice:
Book one night ahead in summer (especially Algarve). Pack layers—coastal weather shifts fast. And never trust GPS in Alfama (those alleys eat rental car mirrors).
