Embark on a scenic 5-day journey through the heart of Portugal—from the historic streets of Porto to the golden beaches of the Algarve. This unforgettable road trip covers charming towns, medieval villages, dramatic coastal cliffs, and buzzing city life, all while immersing you in Portugal’s culture, cuisine, and natural beauty.

Day 1 – Explore Porto

Start your adventure in Porto, one of Europe’s oldest and most vibrant cities. Known for its riverside charm and famous port wine, Porto offers a perfect mix of old-world charm and modern energy.

Wander through Ribeira, the colorful UNESCO-listed riverfront district.
Visit Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world.
Tour a Port wine cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia and enjoy a tasting with Douro River views.
Catch sunset at Miradouro da Vitória or on the Dom Luís I Bridge.
Overnight in Porto.

Day 2 – Porto to Coimbra

Driving time: ~1.5 hours

Head south to Coimbra, Portugal’s former capital and home to one of Europe’s oldest universities.

Explore the University of Coimbra, including the ornate Biblioteca Joanina.
Stroll through the Old Cathedral (Sé Velha) and historic center.
Enjoy dinner by the Mondego River and consider catching a traditional Fado performance.
Overnight in Coimbra.

Day 3 – Coimbra to Lisbon via Óbidos and Nazaré

Driving time: ~3.5 hours total

This day is packed with picturesque towns and coastal views.

Start with a morning visit to Óbidos, a stunning medieval village enclosed by stone walls.
Stop for lunch in Nazaré, famous for its dramatic cliffs and massive surf waves.
Arrive in Lisbon in the late afternoon. Explore the Alfama district, ride Tram 28, and enjoy river views from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte.
Dine in Bairro Alto, Lisbon’s lively nightlife hub.
Overnight in Lisbon.

Day 4 – Lisbon to Lagos via Setúbal and the Alentejo Coast

Driving time: ~4.5 hours total

Take the scenic route down the Atlantic coast to Portugal’s southern Algarve region.

Catch the ferry from Lisbon to Setúbal (optional), then explore the local market and harbor.
Drive through the wild beauty of the Alentejo coast, stopping at beaches like Praia da Comporta, Porto Covo, or Vila Nova de Milfontes.
Arrive in Lagos, one of the Algarve’s most charming towns. Visit Ponta da Piedade and relax on Praia Dona Ana.
Overnight in Lagos.

Day 5 – Lagos to Faro (Drop off rental car)

Driving time: ~1.5 hours

Wrap up your trip in the eastern Algarve.

Morning visit to Sagres and Cape St. Vincent, the southwesternmost tip of Europe.
Continue to Faro, the capital of the Algarve. Wander the cobbled streets of the Old Town, see the Arco da Vila, and explore the Bone Chapel.
Drop off your rental car in Faro (airport or city center).

Travel & Booking Tips

Car Rental: Opt for a one-way rental from Porto to Faro. Be sure to book in advance for better rates.
Accommodation: Choose centrally located stays in each town for easy sightseeing. In Lisbon and Porto, neighborhoods like Baixa, Chiado, or Ribeira offer the best mix of access and atmosphere.
Best Time to Go: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer ideal weather with fewer crowds.

This 5-day Portugal itinerary is the perfect introduction to the country’s rich history, scenic routes, and coastal charm. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, this route promises unforgettable experiences from north to south.

5-Day Portugal Road Trip Itinerary: From Porto to Faro