9-Day Portugal Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Faro to Lagos and Lisbon
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Portugal as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Faro, Lagos, Vila do Bispo, Sagres, Madalena, Lisbon, Ajuda, Alcântara, Sintra, Cascais, Evora, and Amieira e Alqueva.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Portugal takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Faro, 2 nights in Lagos, and 3 nights in Lisbon. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Portugal. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Faro, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Portugal on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Portugal. Praça Do Comércio and Belém Tower are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable National Palace Of Pena, learn more about the unique Castelo De S. Jorge, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Quinta Da Regaleira.
As you hit the open road and drive through Faro, Lagos, Vila do Bispo, Sagres, Madalena, Lisbon, Ajuda, Alcântara, Sintra, Cascais, Evora, and Amieira e Alqueva, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Portugal. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Portugal.
Throughout your road trip in Portugal, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Portugal.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Portugal fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Portugal today!
Travel details
Set your travel details to find the best price
Flights
Compare and choose from the best flights to Faro
Car
Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Faro - Arrival day
- More
- Faro Marina
- More
Welcome to Faro, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Portugal! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Faro's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Faro is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Faro Marina, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Faro. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Faro, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Xic, a popular restaurant in Faro. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Faro at Taco y Tequilla, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated The Woods. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Faro tonight.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Rooftop Eva, known for its lively atmosphere. Rrudy's is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Boheme offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Portugal!
Day 2
- Faro
- More
Drive 14 km, 42 min
- Parque Ribeirinho de Faro
- Algarve Life Sciences Center
- Igreja de Santa Maria
- Municipal Museum of Faro
- Arco do Repouso
- Parque Natural da Ria Formosa
- More
On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Faro. You’ll stay in Faro for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Faro, including a park, a science center, a church, a museum, a historical landmark, a nature reserve and much more! Start your day with a visit to Parque Ribeirinho De Faro. This beloved park is a must-visit in the city.
One of the best things about exploring Faro on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Santa Maria Cathedral, a worthwhile church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Municipal Museum Of Faro and Arco Do Repouso. End your day with a visit to Parque Natural Da Ria Formosa, an often recommended nature reserve that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Portugal is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Faro. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Papaya, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Wax RestoBar offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss A Venda. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Faro.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Poncha's Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Columbus is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Lab Terrace is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Portugal!
Day 3
- Faro
- Lagos
- More
Drive 96 km, 1 hour 56 min
- Ponta da Piedade
- Praia do Camilo
- Praia de Dona Ana
- Igreja de Santo António
- Old Town Lagos
- More
On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Portugal, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Lagos. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lagos, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Today’s itinerary in Faro covers several incredible sights, including a cliff, a beach, a church, a historical landmark and much more! Start your adventure at Ponta Da Piedade. This interesting cliff is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the mesmerizing wonders of Praia Do Camilo, a must-see beach in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Praia Dona Ana. This beloved beach offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Igreja De Santo António, where you can take in heritage-rich features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Old Town Lagos. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Lagos, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Lagos's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Studio: Coffee Roaster & Brunch Cafe, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurante Camilo? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at McCabe's Bar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Lagos.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Peppers Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Three Monkeys Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bon Vivant offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Portugal!
Day 4
- Lagos
- More
Drive 82 km, 2 hours 2 min
- Cabo de São Vicente Lighthouse
- Cabo de São Vicente
- Praia do Tonel
- Sagres Fortress
- Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Graça
- Ponta da Atalaia
- More
On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Lagos, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Lagos, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Cabo De São Vicente Lighthouse, a captivating lighthouse in the city. Then, head to Cabo De São Vicente Lighthouse and soak in the ambiance of this serene cliff.
There are many interesting places to see in Lagos, and when you are ready for more, go to Praia Do Tonel. This is one of the city’s most beloved serene spots of interest. After exploring the beach, visit the well-known Sagres Fortress. Not far away, you'll also find Igreja De Nossa Senhora Da Graça. This church is a picture-perfect highlight in Lagos. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Ponta Da Atalaia, a locally appreciated cliff in the city.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Lagos and your accommodation.
As you explore more of Lagos, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Don Toro - Angus Grill, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try BARBOSA Bar & Kitchen? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Joe's Garage as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Lagos.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Amuras Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Lionheart Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Mellow Loco also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Portugal.
Day 5
- Lagos
- Lisbon
- More
Drive 305 km, 3 hours 25 min
- Castelo de S Jorge
- Lisbon Cathedral
- Rua Augusta Arch
- Praça do Comércio
- More
Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Portugal. Today you will explore Madalena and Lisbon, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Lisbon. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at the spectacular Castelo De S. Jorge, a majestic castle in Lagos. Next, go to Lisbon Cathedral.
After visiting Castelo De S. Jorge and Lisbon Cathedral, have a stroll along Lagos's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Rua Augusta Arch. This romantic monument offers a unique experience. Praça Do Comércio is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lisbon. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lisbon. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at Delirium Café Lisboa, a top-rated dining destination in Lisbon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider daPrata52 - Petiscos ¦ Tapas, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at A Provinciana. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lisbon this evening.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Lisboa Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Toca Da Raposa is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, O Bom O Mau E O Vilão offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Portugal and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6
- Lisbon
- More
Drive 24 km, 1 hour 51 min
- Belém Tower
- Padrão dos Descobrimentos
- Jerónimos Monastery
- Museu de Arte, Arquitetura e Tecnologia
- LX Factory
- Tram 28
- More
At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Lisbon, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Lisbon. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await! Belém Tower is the perfect place to start. This monument is one of the most spectacular places to visit in Lisbon. Next, head to Padrão Dos Descobrimentos, an impressive monument, known for its picture-perfect features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Jerónimos Monastery. This inviting monastery is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Museu De Arte, Arquitetura E Tecnologia and Lx Factory. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey. Finish the day with a visit to Tram 28, a visually striking tramway in Lisbon.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Lisbon.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Lisbon's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Delfina-Cantina Portuguesa, a highly-rated dining destination in Lisbon. If you're eager to try something different, consider Gambrinus, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Duque. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lisbon this evening.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into 4 Caravelas. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, British Bar Lisboa offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two.
Head back to your accommodation in Lisbon and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Portugal!
Day 7
- Lisbon
- More
Drive 105 km, 2 hours 57 min
- Park and National Palace of Pena
- Quinta da Regaleira
- Initiation Well
- Cabo da Roca
- Boca do Inferno
- More
On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Lisbon, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Sintra and Cascais. You still have 1 night left in Lisbon.
At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Cascais Historic Center, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Sintra. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Lisbon today. One of the most extraordinary attractions included on the itinerary is National Palace Of Pena. This visually striking palace will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Quinta Da Regaleira and learn what makes this visually striking palace unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the captivating Initiation Well. After exploring the monument, head to Cabo Da Roca. This impressive cliff is a highlight in Lisbon. As your day continues, stop by Boca Do Inferno, known for its instagrammable features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Lisbon and your accommodation.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lisbon. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Dine in style at The George, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Belcanto boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Brown's Central Hotel. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lisbon.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Portugal!
Day 8
- Lisbon
- Faro
- More
Drive 397 km, 4 hours 52 min
- Cathedral of Évora
- Giraldo Square Fountain
- Praça do Giraldo
- Chapel of Bones (Évora)
- Praia Fluvial da Amieira
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Portugal. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Evora and Amieira e Alqueva. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Faro. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready for an exciting day in Lisbon. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a public square, and a beach. Begin your adventure at Cathedral Of Évora. This is an increasingly popular church you should not miss. Another must-see is Giraldo Square Fountain, a worthwhile public square in Lisbon.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Praça Do Giraldo. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Chapel Of Bones (évora), another of the city’s intriguing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Praia Fluvial Da Amieira, a serene place of interest in the city.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Faro. Faro offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Faro. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Dine in style at Elementos, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Sto. António boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurante Chefe Branco. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Faro.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Café Bar Apolo. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Portugal!
Day 9
- Faro - Departure day
- More
- Igreja de São Pedro
- More
Day 9 of your road trip in Portugal is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Faro before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Igreja De São Pedro. This up-and-coming church is a popular place to see in the city.
As your final day in Portugal unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Faro's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Portugal.
Before you conclude your road trip in Portugal, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Faro.
You’ll then say farewell to Faro. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Portugal!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Portugal
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.