How Long Do You Need to Road Trip Portugal?

By Alice Nichols

Are you dreaming of embarking on an epic road trip through Portugal? The country’s stunning coastline, charming towns, and delicious food make it a perfect destination for a memorable adventure.

But how long do you need to road trip Portugal? The answer might surprise you.

The Short Answer
The short answer is that you can drive from one end of Portugal to the other in about 6 hours. However, if you want to truly experience everything that this beautiful country has to offer, we recommend spending at least two weeks on the road.

Why Two Weeks?
With two weeks, you’ll have enough time to explore all of Portugal’s must-see destinations without rushing through them. Here’s a suggested itinerary:

Week 1: Lisbon and the South

Start your journey in Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital city. Spend a few days exploring its historic neighborhoods and sampling its delicious food.

Then, head south to the Algarve region, known for its stunning beaches and picturesque villages. Spend some time relaxing on the sand before heading east to the charming town of Tavira.

Day 1-3: Lisbon

  • Explore Alfama neighborhood
  • Visit Belem Tower
  • Eat Pastel de Nata at Pasteis de Belem
  • Take a sunset cruise on Tagus River

Day 4-6: Algarve Region

  • Visit Praia da Rocha Beach
  • Try fresh seafood at Lagos market
  • Kayak through Benagil Caves
  • Hike along Rota Vicentina

Day 7-9: Tavira and Surroundings

  • Visit Tavira Castle
  • Relax at Praia do Barril Beach
  • Explore Ilha de Tavira Island
  • Go birdwatching at Ria Formosa Natural Park

Week 2: Porto and the North

Next, head north to Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city. Spend a few days exploring its historic center and tasting its famous wine. Then, venture further north to the Douro Valley, known for its stunning vineyards and picturesque villages.

Day 10-12: Porto

  • Visit Sao Francisco Church
  • Try Francesinha sandwich
  • Taste Port Wine at Vila Nova de Gaia Cellars
  • Climb Clérigos Tower for panoramic views of the city

Day 13-14: Douro Valley

  • Cruise along Douro River
  • Taste wine in Pinhão village
  • Hike through Peneda-Gerês National Park
  • Visit Braga Cathedral and Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary

The Bottom Line:

While you can technically road trip Portugal in as little as a few days, we highly recommend taking your time to fully experience all this country has to offer. With two weeks on the road, you’ll have plenty of time to explore both the south and north regions, soak up some sun on the beach, savor delicious food and wine, and create unforgettable memories.