Lisbon | Portugal's Enchanting South Independent Tour

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8-day Self-drive tour. From the historic heart of Lisbon to romantic Sintra and the medieval charms of Obidos & Evora, to the natural exuberance of Arrabida National Park and the golden sands and lively towns of the Algarve, this 8-day Self-drive showcases the best of Portugal's South!

Day 1: Lisbon | Estoril

Bem-Vindo a Portugal! On arrival at Lisbon airport, clear customs and pick-up your rental car. As short drive will take you to Estoril located just west of Lisbon on the coast known as the Portuguese Riviera". Check into your hotel and the remainder of the days is free to relax and explore this lovely seaside resort.

Day 2: Lisbon & Sintra

No vacation to Portugal would be complete without a visit to Lisbon and today we suggest you explore this bustling city with its many World Heritage monuments, magnificent plazas & picturesque ancient quarters. Visit the Tower of Belém, the Monument of Discoveries and the Jerónimos Monastery. Explore the Baixa District, the heart of Lisbon featuring magnificent plazas, grand 18th-century architecture and avenues lined with cafés & restaurants. Then perhaps take a walk through the Medieval quarters of Alfama and Mouraria, crowned by the magnificent St. George’s Castle, and feel the atmosphere of this old historic town. On your return drive to Estoril, take the seaside road “Marginal”  through the famous harbour of Belém where you can stop to taste the "Pastel de Nata" or "Pastel de Belém", a speciality of the traditional Portuguese cuisine. Or set out to the delightful hilltop village of Sintra, the former summer retreat of Portuguese, where you can visit Sintra Castle and the romantic 19th-century Pena Palace. Then return and enjoy a leisurely evening in Estoril. (B)

Day 3: Obidos, Batalha, Alcobaça, Nazaré

Take a short drive northwest to the charming Medieval town of Óbidos set within the old castle walls and known by its typical white houses, flower-covered windows and narrow cobblestone streets. Make sure to try the typical Ginginha (cherry liqueur) in Óbidos, served in a chocolate cup! The monuments and Gothic monastery in Batalha, the town of Alcobaça - the heart of the Portuguese ceramic industry and home of the XII-century Santa Maria Cistercian Monastery and the picturesque fishing village of Nazaré, are also worth a visit. Return to your hotel in Estoril. (B)

Day 4, 5 & 6: Estoril | Evora | Albufeira

On your way to the Algarve region for a three-night stay, drive inland to Évora, the capital of the Alentejo — a true “living museum” classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage City. This charming town is the perfect place to experience the rich Alentejo cuisine and its warm hospitality.  In Évora, we recommend a walking tour starting from Giraldo Square, strolling through the narrow handicraft streets to admire the Roman Temple, the Cathedral, and the Church of St. Francis, famous for its hauntingly beautiful Chapel of Bones.  Continue your journey south toward the Algarve coastline, one of Europe’s most popular destinations, blessed with a warm Mediterranean climate and stunning golden beaches. Spend your stay in Albufeira at the Hotel Vila Galé Cerro Alagoa, and let the contrast of golden sand and dramatic cliffs, whitewashed houses, sunshine, and excellent cuisine create unforgettable memories. Enjoy free time to relax by the sea and explore at your own pace.  During your stay, we suggest visiting several of the Algarve’s most remarkable towns of Lagos, Sagres, Silves, Monchique, Faro, Olhao, Santa Luzia and Tavira. (B)

Day 7: Albufeira | Sesimbra | Lisbon

For your final night in Lisbon, drive through the Alentejo region and take the opportunity to visit Sesimbra, a charming coastal town. Enjoy panoramic views of the bay from Sesimbra Castle and savor lunch at a seaside restaurant with stunning ocean views.  Continue through the exuberant Arrábida Natural Park, a protected area known for its pristine beaches, dramatic cliffs, and unique vegetation. The scenic Arrábida mountain range leads you directly to the gates of Lisbon, offering a final taste of Portugal’s natural beauty.  In Lisbon, explore the vibrant streets of Bairro Alto and Madragoa, soaking in the city’s lively atmosphere. End your journey with an authentic dinner at a local Fado restaurant, where you can listen to this soulful, quintessentially Portuguese music, a perfect farewell to your trip. (B)

Day 8: Lisbon

Unfortunately, today marks the end of your Portugal's Enchanting South Self-drive vacation. Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and, at a time to suit your flight, drive back to Lisbon airport to return your rental car and begin your journey back home. Or ask about extending your Portugal vacation with additional nights in Lisbon or other destination. (B)

Daily Departures

Minimum 2 passengers.