Explore Portugal via Motorhome: A 20-day Journey from Lisbon to the Algarve
Exploring Portugal in a Motorhome: A 20-Day Adventure
Embark on a captivating journey through Portugal with this 20-day motorhome itinerary. Starting in the vibrant city of Lisbon, this route takes you along the southwest coast, showcasing a diverse mix of cities, beaches, natural parks, and charming towns.
Day 1-3: Discovering Lisbon and Costa Caparica
Kick off your adventure in Lisbon, exploring its cultural sights, city life, and historic neighborhoods. Nearby Costa Caparica offers golden sandy beaches and cool Atlantic waters, perfect for a relaxing start to your trip.
Day 4-7: The Wild Beauty of Costa Vicentina
Next, head southwest to Costa Vicentina Natural Park, renowned for its wild beaches and untouched nature. This region is a surfer's paradise, with Praia do Malhão offering natural dunes and breathtaking scenery.
Day 8-12: Exploring the Algarve
Spend the following days in the Algarve region, known for its beaches, surfing, hiking trails, and charming towns. The area's flexibility demands a personal vehicle, making a motorhome an ideal choice.
Day 13-15: Cultural Experiences in Nazaré and Sintra
Travel northwards to Nazaré, famous for its giant waves and ocean views, ideal for surfing enthusiasts. Continue to Sintra, where you can explore palaces and lush gardens.
Day 16-20: Finishing in Porto
Conclude your journey in Porto, enjoying river views and port wine bars. This historic city offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition, making it the perfect end to your adventure.
Tips for Motorhome Travel in Portugal
- Big cities like Lisbon can be challenging for motorhome parking. Use the Park4Night app to find motorhome-friendly parking sites, though some may be less ideal near city centers.
- Portugal's southwest and southern coasts have many remote, unspoiled beaches perfect for motorhome stays and beach activities. Always check local regulations to avoid fines.
- Popular destinations like Sintra and Nazaré offer nearby motorhome-friendly spots.
Additional Considerations
- Motorhome owners from across Europe visit Portugal during summer, spending around €52/night on average on camping or motorhome service areas (ASAs).
- Apps like Park4Night are essential for discovering parking and service points.
- If surfing is a priority, consider bringing your own board and vehicle for cost and convenience.
This travel style offers a unique way to experience Portugal, combining mobility and flexibility with access to its rich coastal and cultural sites. Enjoy the journey at your own pace!
Highlights Along the Way
- Tavira, a historic and elegant town in the Algarve, known for its white houses with gabled roofs, cobbled streets, and squares with orange trees.
- The Monument to the Discoveries, the Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery, the historic quarter, and the Belem Bakery in Lisbon.
- The best way to see the surrounding area of Lisbon is by bike or public transportation.
- The Troia peninsula, Comporta, and Sines are other destinations along the southwest coast of Portugal.
- Setúbal is surrounded by the Arrábida Natural Park and is home to one of Europe's most beautiful beaches, Praia de Galapinhos.
- Praia da Bordeira, in the municipality of Aljezur, is one of the largest beaches in the Algarve and a favourite destination for surfers due to its constant waves.
- Ilha de Tavira is a true island escape accessible only by ferry from the city, with miles of white sand and a peaceful atmosphere that rarely feels crowded.
- Cabo Sardão is a dramatic cliff area on the Vicentine coast, known for its wildlife and scenic beauty.
- Praia de Odeceixe is one of the most unique beaches in Portugal, situated at the mouth of the Seixe River, which separates the Alentejo from the Algarve.
- Faro is the Algarve's quieter, more relaxed capital, with an old town centre surrounded by Moorish and Roman walls.
- Cape St. Vincent is one of the most emblematic places in the south of Portugal, considered for centuries as "the end of the world".
- Porto Covo is a small village with white houses and blue stripes, known for its coves and natural beauty.
- Vila Nova de Milfontes is a more touristy spot with quiet river beaches, ideal for families and water sports.
Travelingin a motorhome, explore the Algarve region's beaches, surfing spots, hiking trails, and towns, making use of a personal vehicle's flexibility (Day 8-12).
After visiting Porto, revel in its blend of modernity and tradition, then head to Praia de Odeceixe, one of the most unique beaches in Portugal, situated at the mouth of the Seixe River (Day 20-onwards).
