Self Drive Tour of Portugal

Tour highlights

• Eat pasteis de Belem and soak up romantic city views
• Lose yourself in the Gothic quarter of Castelo de Vide
• Grab a glass and get to know the locals in Oporto
• Relax on the inviting beaches of Figueira da Foz

The waters of the Atlantic have been a major driving force in Portugal’s history – influencing its conquests and invasions. This self-driving tour allows an exploration of this unique country, with its abundance and diversity of attractions. From the modern to the traditional, you can find mediaeval walled cities, rustic villages and captivating views. Begin your journey in Lisbon, travelling to famous sights such as Castelo de Vide, Oporto and Figuiera da Foz before concluding your trip back in Lisbon.

Tour Itinerary

Start point
Lisbon Airport, Alma Lusa, Aeroporto de Lisboa, Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal

End point
Lisbon Airport, Alma Lusa, Aeroporto de Lisboa, Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal

Day 1 ARRIVAL LISBON
You’ll be welcomed to Lisbon, Europe’s second oldest capital, by a representative from the tour upon your arrival at the Lisbon International Airport. Your travel documents and rental car can be picked up from there before you start exploring this city of rich history – once home to some of the world’s greatest explorers. You have the day at leisure to discover its classic and unexpected sites, cultural offerings, and idyllic landscapes which are perfect for walking and taking photographs. At night, make your way to the first hotel in order to check in and rest for the evening. Overnight in Lisbon awaits!

Day 2 LISBON – EVORA – ALTER DO CHÃO (223km – 2.45 hrs)
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before setting off to Alter do Chão for your next night. Along the way, you can explore Evora- a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site full of exceptional architecture, gastronomy and handicrafts. This ancient city spans two thousand years of history with its winding streets inspired by Moorish design and beautiful squares flooded with light. Experience the unique atmosphere created by an array of diverse cultures that have left their mark on this remarkable place. End your day in Alter do Chão where you will spend the night.

Day 3 ALTER DO CHÃO – CASTELO DE VIDE – TOMAR – COIMBRA (241km – 2.55 hrs)
We advise that the morning after breakfast you set off on a trip from Alter do Chão to Coimbra. Before departing, make sure to explore Castelo de Vide’s historical and delightful village. During your way to Coimbra relish a pause in Tomar. Regarded for being the prior residence of the Order of Knights Templar, Tomar is an intensely appealing city due to its cultural and artistic heritage, with its finest tribute found in Convent of Christ – one of Portugal’s premiere Renaissance creations. Spend the night in Coimbra when you arrive there.

Day 4 COIMBRA – OPORTO (125km – 1.5 hrs)
Today, get ready to explore the amazing city of Porto. Start by having a hearty breakfast at the hotel before setting out for Coimbra. Here stands one of Portugal’s most ancient cities, with its remarkable University and Library that are renowned around the world. Next up is a trip through Bussaco Forest, an enchanting wooded area that has roughly 700 species of trees! For added grandeur, marvel at the neo-Manueline Bussaco Palace in its very centre – truly one of Europe’s spectacularly splendid small palaces. After this awe-inspiring journey, you will spend the night in Porto. Overnight in Porto.

Day 5 OPORTO – GUIMARAES – OPORTO (115km – 1 hrs)
Start your morning off right with a delectable breakfast at the hotel before enjoying a peaceful day of respite. Why not take some time to explore the beautiful city of Porto? The second biggest city in Portugal, it is located on the hills alongside Douro River and was named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO due to its remarkable buildings and storied monuments. This captivating city has both ancient and modern attractions, making it an unforgettable destination. Those wanting something different can visit Guimaraes; also designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001 for its century-old houses and architectures from medieval time periods. End this memorable day back in Porto where you will retire for the night.

Day 6 OPORTO – ESPINHO – OVAR – AVEIRO – FIGUEIRA DA FOZ – COIMBRA (212kms – 3 hrs)
Before you drive along the coast to Coimbra, be sure to explore some of the stunning areas near Aveiro. Start with Espinho, a small fishing village that is now appreciated for its beach which plays host to small boats on the sands. Then proceed to Ovar, renowned for producing ornate ‘azulejos’ – an ancient form of art originating from Arab times – and delighting visitors with their Pão de Ló sponge cake recipe that has been passed down since the 18th century. Lastly, visit Aveiro – sometimes referred to as ‘Portuguese Venice’ – and stroll through its city centre admiring its Art Deco façades and picturesque canals. You can also visit the wonderful resort at Figueira da Foz before finally checking in at your hotel in Coimbra. Overnight in Coimbra.

Day 7 COIMBRA – SINTRA – LISBON (250km – 2.5 hrs)
Begin your journey back to Lisbon after a hearty breakfast at the hotel, taking in the beauty of the Portuguese countryside as you go. Consider stopping for a break in Sintra, with its captivating old centre and Royal Palace. After reaching the capital and checking into your accommodation, spend some time exploring on foot and discover shops bursting with character – not forgetting to try Pasteis de Belem! In the evening, make sure to visit San Jorge castle and indulge in a glass of delicious wine while taking in an alluring view from up top. Finally, finish off by treating yourself to dinner at one of Lisbon’s charming eateries before spending an overnight stay there.

Day 8 DEPARTURE LISBON
On your last day in Portugal, begin the morning with a delicious meal at your hotel. When you’re feeling prepared, take a few moments to savor this experience and then it’s time to depart. Drive back to Lisbon Airport, where you will drop off your car before catching your flight home.

What’s included

Accommodation
7 night’s accommodation
Day 1,7 Lisbon:
Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Vila Galé Opera or similar 4*
Superior Hotel Category = Vila Galé Alter do Chão or similar 4*
Superior Hotel Category = Vila Galé Coimbra or similar 4*
Superior Hotel Category = Vila Galé Porto Hotel or similar 4*
Superior Hotel Category = Vila Galé Coimbra or similar 4*
Car Group Y = Renault Clio or similar

Meals
7 Breakfasts

Additional Services
Day 2 Alter do Chão:
Day 3 Coimbra:
Day 4-5 Oporto:
Day 6 Coimbra:
CAR HIRE OPTIONS
Meet and greet (Day 1)

Transport
MEALS:
Unlimited Mileage
Road Assistance 24 hours
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Subject to an excess
Road tax & VAT

What’s not included

Additional Services
Items of a personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, laundry, drinks and meals not stated explicitly in the programme, including drinks during meals
Tour guide
Tips and porterage
City tax not included, payable on the spot
Airport service fee
Any charges not mentioned in the included items
International or domestic flights
All types of travel or personal insurance
Optional tours, entrance fees
Fuel, Fines, Tolls, Parking

Know before you go

No refund for unused services. Splitting of package is not allowed
Due to the fleet updating, the models of Car Hire can be replaced by similar ones
It is necessary that the client presents a credit card for Car Hire
Please note that local conditions prevalent at the time of travel may result in modifications to the tour contents without prior notice.