Ready to hit the open road and discover the real Portugal — one pastel de nata, seaside sunset, and medieval town at a time?
This 10-day Portugal road trip itinerary takes you from the rolling green hills of the north to the golden beaches of the south, weaving through charming cities, vineyard valleys, and coastal villages that feel straight out of a dream.
Overview: The Ultimate 10-Day Portugal Road Trip
Route: Porto → Douro Valley → Coimbra → Lisbon → Évora → Algarve
Total distance: ~1,000 km (620 miles)
Best time to go: April–June or September–October (fewer crowds, perfect weather)
Day 1–2: Porto — Wine, Tiles & Riverside Charm
Start your adventure in Porto, a city that’s as colorful as it is soulful. Wander the cobbled streets of Ribeira, admire the tiled façades, and fall in love with that laid-back northern vibe.
Top Things to Do:
- Take a river cruise on the Douro for postcard views of the city.
- Visit a Port wine cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia — tasting included, of course
- Snap photos at Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores.
- Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge at sunset — it’s pure magic.
Eat this: Try a francesinha (a local meat sandwich drenched in spicy sauce) — hearty, messy, and 100% delicious.
Day 3: Douro Valley — Vineyards & River Views
Drive east into the Douro Valley, where rolling vineyards line the riverbanks and time seems to slow down. This UNESCO World Heritage region is one of the world’s oldest wine-producing areas — and one of Portugal’s most breathtaking landscapes.
Must-Do Experiences:
- Visit a quintas (wine estate) for a tasting and tour.
- Drive the N222 — voted one of the world’s most scenic roads!
- Take a short boat trip from Pinhão to see the valley from the water.
Stay overnight in a wine lodge overlooking the river — it’s the perfect mid-trip reset.
Day 4: Coimbra — The City of Students
Next stop: Coimbra, Portugal’s ancient university town perched on the banks of the Mondego River. It’s smaller and quieter than Porto or Lisbon but full of history and charm.
Highlights:
- Visit the University of Coimbra, one of Europe’s oldest.
- Step inside the Joanina Library, a Baroque masterpiece that feels like Hogwarts.
- Listen to a Fado de Coimbra performance — a soulful local tradition.
Local bite: Try chanfana, a slow-cooked goat stew that’s a regional favorite.
Day 5–6: Lisbon — The City of Light
Welcome to Lisbon, Portugal’s sun-kissed capital, where old-world charm meets creative energy. Two days is just enough to soak in its highlights — but fair warning, you’ll want to stay longer!
What to See:
- Alfama: Lisbon’s oldest district — get lost in its alleys and listen to live fado.
- Belém Tower & Jerónimos Monastery: UNESCO icons.
- LX Factory: Trendy shops, street art, and great coffee spots.
- Ride Tram 28 for a classic city experience.
Eat this: Don’t leave without trying pastéis de nata from Pastéis de Belém — still warm, crispy, and utterly perfect.
Day trip option: Head to Sintra for a fairytale escape — colorful palaces, misty forests, and ocean views await.
Day 7: Évora — History in the Heart of Alentejo
Drive east to Évora, a beautifully preserved medieval town surrounded by golden fields. The pace slows down here, and every corner tells a story.
Must-Sees:
- Roman Temple of Évora (Temple of Diana) — ancient and awe-inspiring.
- Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos): A little eerie, but fascinating.
Wander through the whitewashed old town and browse artisan shops.
Insider tip: The Alentejo region produces some of Portugal’s best red wines — sample a few at a local adega (winery).
Day 8–10: The Algarve — Golden Beaches & Coastal Bliss
Time to end your road trip with some sun, sea, and relaxation. The Algarve in southern Portugal offers dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters — the perfect finale to your journey.
Top Spots to Explore:
- Lagos: Great beaches like Praia Dona Ana and a lively old town.
- Benagil Cave: Take a kayak or boat trip to this stunning sea cave.
- Sagres: The wild western tip of Portugal — windswept and beautiful.
- Tavira: A quieter eastern gem with charm and authenticity.
Eat this: Grilled sardines by the sea with a cold Vinho Verde. Simple, local, and divine.
Stay: Choose a coastal guesthouse or eco-lodge — wake up to the sound of waves and seagulls.
Road Trip Tips for Portugal
Driving: Highways are excellent, but some require tolls — use Via Verde or pay online.
Fuel stops: Gas stations are frequent, but prices vary — fill up before remote areas.
Navigation: Google Maps or Waze works perfectly (and saves you from confusing roundabouts!).
Don’t drink and drive: Portugal’s wines are amazing — but save the tastings for your overnight stops.
Learn a few phrases: “Bom dia” (Good morning) and “Obrigado/a” (Thank you) go a long way!
Final Thoughts: A Journey Through Portugal’s Heart
From Porto’s riverside charm to the golden cliffs of the Algarve, this 10-day Portugal road trip is more than just a journey — it’s a story you’ll tell for years.
Every curve of the road brings a new flavor, a friendly face, or a view that makes you stop and breathe it all in. You’ll fall in love with Portugal’s rhythm — where mornings start with espresso and evenings end with laughter and wine.So pack your bags, cue your playlist, and start your engine.
Your Portuguese road trip adventure awaits.
