The greatest way to discover lesser-known areas of Portugal is by car, as each detour and incorrect turn might lead to another lovely town or village. we’ll get you started with some of Portugal’s finest road adventures.
Douro Valley
Begin in Porto and drive through the Douro Valley, the most popular wine region in Portugal. There is plenty to see and do here, and the length of the trip will depend on the experience you’re seeking. If you’re looking for a quick day trip, make the nearly two-hour drive from Porto to Pinhão to sample delicious wine (you might want to bring a designated driver for this one). Stop en route for lunch in a small, family-run restaurant to try the traditional food from the north.
Tras-os-Montes
Turn off the popular highways and hit the path less travelled. Tras-os-Montes – literally Beyond the Mountains – is easily the wildest and least visited region in the country. It’s a scenic destination – ideal for photo taking and hiking – and the few travellers who have explored the rocky region fall in love with everything from the friendliness of the locals to the cuisine and the customs.
Serra da Estrela
The Serra da Estrela is the highest mountain range in mainland Portugal and an excellent location for a weekend adventure. Spring, summer and autumn are all great times to visit, but winter is precarious since this is one of the only regions in Portugal that receives snow – plan accordingly. One mini-break (two or three days) worth considering is from Seia to Guarda with stops at the Bread Museum and the medieval Folgosinho Castle.
Beach hopping down the Atlantic coast
Driving along the Atlantic coast and visiting each major beach is a no-brainer. Key towns to visit include Aveiro, Figueira da Foz, Nazaré, Peniche, Ericeira and Lagos. Don’t forget to bring your surfboard and towel.
Sintra
One of the best day and weekend trips from Lisbon will take you to Sintra, the most mesmerising fairytale town in the country. The lush, windy roads through the Sintra mountains are amazing by themselves but are enhanced by the beautiful castles, palaces and manor estates that have given this town its reputation as one of the most stunning in Europe. Take the coastal road and stop in Estoril and Cascais on the way unless you prefer hopping on the train at Rossio station in Lisbon.
Madeira
Driving around the main island of Madeira is probably the most convenient way to get around, but it’s not for the faint of heart. The highways that curl around the mountains, through tunnels and along the stunning coast, also lead drivers to rural and narrow country roads. Don’t forget to pack your hiking gear, since Madeira is one of the top destinations for exploring on foot, too.
São Miguel, Azores
The beautiful island of São Miguel, can be driven around in one day, but where’s the fun in that? Take a few days to get to know this beautiful Azorean island. From Sete Cidades to Furnas village and the green, rolling farmland of Nordeste, this destination is a treasure trove of phenomenal sights.
Take your time touring Sao Miguel to stop at beautiful locations such as Lagoa do Fogo, a volcanic lake
