The warm glow of southern Portugal | Portugal Itinerary

Route

The journey begins in Lisbon and immediately heads towards Évora, the historic heart of the Alentejo. From here you explore fortified villages such as Monsaraz and marble towns like Estremoz and Vila Viçosa. The route then continues south to the Algarve. There you discover the lagoons of Ria Formosa, charming towns such as Tavira and the beaches along the Atlantic coast.

Pace

The trip is divided into two parts. First, you spend three nights in Évora to explore the peaceful countryside of the Alentejo. Afterwards, you stay three nights in the Algarve, where the atmosphere shifts to sea, beaches and coastal villages.

Highlights

The Roman temple and narrow streets of Évora. The fortified village of Monsaraz overlooking the Alentejo. The marble town of Estremoz and the impressive aqueduct of Elvas. Along the coast, the Algarve offers the Ria Formosa nature reserve, the historic town of Tavira and long sandy beaches.

Accommodation

You first stay in a characterful hotel in or around Évora. Afterwards, you spend three nights in a stylish hotel in the Algarve, ideal for exploring the coastline and lagoons.

Profile

For travellers who want to discover southern Portugal through contrasts: the quiet countryside of the Alentejo and the relaxed coast of the Algarve. Ideal for combining culture, nature and the sea.

Day 1: Departure to Lisbon - Évora

Your adventure begins today! At the airport, you will pick up your rental car which will take you to the renowned Évora, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Day 2: Évora

Explore this cosy city, surrounded by a 6 km city wall from the 14th century. Évora offers an abundance of monumental buildings, museums and Roman temples. Stroll through the Moorish arched alleys and admire the bright white houses with flowers and tiled patios.

Day 3: Monsaraz - Vila Viçosa - Estremoz - Elvas

Drive via the picturesque fortified village of Monsaraz to Redondo and Vila Viçosa, the residence of the powerful Dukes of Bragança. Admire the splendour of the Ducal Palace. Continue your journey to Elvas, also a fortified city, known for its immense aqueduct. Return via Estremoz, a charming town among marble quarries with a Vauban-style city wall.

Day 4: Évora - Faro

Drive via Beja, the capital of the Baixo Alentejo, with a beautifully restored historic centre, to Mértola: a town with remnants of the past, set at the foot of a keep and the ruined ramparts of a 12th-13th-century castle. Continue your journey to the Algarve, parallel to the Spanish border, where you will stay 3 nights at Octant Hotel Vila Monte, the stylish boutique hotel Grand House Algarve or the luxurious Vilalara Thalassa Resort.

Day 5: The Algarve

Explore the eastern part of the Algarve, from the Spanish border to Faro. Characterised by unusual lagoons and miles of sandy islands, this area is part of the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa nature reserve, home to many bird species. Tavira is a particularly charming town with a beautiful historic centre, where the typical white houses and windows with wooden railing stand out.

Day 6: The Algarve

Relax on one of the beautiful beaches or explore the coastline as far as Sagres, Europe's most south-westerly point, with its ochre-yellow sandstone cliffs and steep cliffs. Faro has an atmospheric old centre where you can linger.

Day 7: Going home

Time to say goodbye. After a short drive, you arrive at Faro airport. When you return your rental car, you fly back home. Would you like to extend this fantastic holiday anyway? Don't hesitate to contact us!

Frequently asked questions about this round trip

Do you need a rental car for this trip?

Yes. A rental car makes it easy to explore the Alentejo countryside and reach smaller places such as Monsaraz or Vila Viçosa. It also gives you the freedom to stop at viewpoints or villages along the way.

What is the best time for this round trip?

April to June and September to October are ideal. Temperatures are pleasant in the Alentejo countryside and perfect for exploring the Algarve.

What makes the Alentejo so special?

The Alentejo is known for its wide landscapes, white villages and historic towns. Life moves at a slower pace here and the region feels authentic and peaceful.