The Ultimate Portugal Road Trip - 2 Week Itinerary

From the pine-scented beaches south of Lisbon, and the wild coastlines of the Algarve, to the vineyard-draped valleys of the Douro Valley, there’s nothing quite like a road trip in Portugal.

Whether you're flying into Lisbon, Porto, or Faro, renting your campervan from Siesta Campers gives you the freedom to explore the country at your own pace.

This looped 14-day Portugal road trip itinerary covers the highlights of central, southern and north Portugal, weaving through national parks, surf towns, medieval cities, and coastal hideaways. Along the way, you’ll discover wild beaches, ancient castles, natural wonders, and charming campsites perfect for van life.

Itinerary Highlights

• Start in Lisbon, Porto or Faro
• Do the loop in either direction
• Road trip in Portugal year-round
• Parque Natural da Arrábida
• Costa Vicentina
• Cabo de São Vicente
• Ria Formosa Lagoon
• Serra da Estrela
• Douro Valley terraces
• Parque Nacional Peneda-Gerês

Portugal Road Trip Itinerary: Total driving time: 26-30 hours / 1,950 km

Where to Start Your Road Trip

We recommend starting in Lisbon, Porto or Faro. Siesta Campers has campervan hire locations near Portugal’s three main international airports:

• Campervan hire in Lisbon near Lisbon Airport (LIS)
• Campervan hire in Porto near Porto Airport (OPO)
• Campervan hire in Algarve near Faro Airport (FAO)

No matter where you start, our Portugal road trip itinerary loops through the country and brings you back to your starting point. It can also be done in reverse without losing any spark.

Portugal Road Trip Itinerary - 14 Days

Day 1: Lisbon to Comporta – Relaxed Coastlines

After collecting your campervan in Lisbon, head south across the Tagus River. First stop, Praia do Meco, a naturist friendly patch of sand on the Atlantic coast.

Once you get your first beach fix, continue on a scenic drive through Parque Natural da Arrábida, one of the natural wonders of Portugal.

Head towards the Setúbal Peninsula and catch the ferry from Setúbal to Tróia, where golden beaches and peaceful pine forests await.

Spend the afternoon in Comporta, a stylish but low-key beach town with wooden boardwalks, rice fields, and laid-back vibes.

Driving: 2.5 hours / 150 km

Praia do Meco

Day 2: Comporta to Aljezur via Costa Vicentina

Wind down the spectacular Costa Vicentina, one of Portugal’s last wild coastlines. This protected natural park stretches from Sines to Sagres and offers jaw-dropping sea cliffs, hidden coves, and uncrowded surf.

Stop for lunch in Vila Nova de Milfontes, a breezy seaside town with a wide sandy estuary perfect for swimming. Continue south through Zambujeira do Mar and Odeceixe, stopping to explore windswept cliffs and empty beaches.

Set up for the night in Aljezur, a hilltop village nestled near Arrifana, one of the best places to surf in Portugal.

Driving: 2.5–3 hours / 190 km

Odeceixe

Day 3: Aljezur to Sagres – Surf, Kayaking & Sea Cliffs

Cruise south to Sagres, the southwestern tip of Europe. Stark cliffs, crashing surf, and a sense of isolation give this area a raw, elemental beauty.

Visit Cabo de São Vicente, the legendary “end of the world,” where sheer cliffs drop into the Atlantic.

Do some day kayaking through the sea caves at Ponta da Piedade and spend the evening watching the sun disappear into the ocean.

Driving: 1 hour / 50 km

Day 4: Sagres to Lagos – Coastal Charm

Head east into the Barlavento Algarve, where dramatic sea stacks and hidden coves define the coastline. Stop at Salema, a sleepy fishing village, before continuing to Lagos, one of Portugal’s most vibrant coastal towns.

Don't miss a chance to take a kayak or paddle board tour to the Benagil Caves.

Spend the rest of the day lounging at Praia do Camilo, or exploring Lagos' lively old town.

Driving: 40 mins / 40 km

Benagil caves

Day 5: Lagos to Faro via Silves and Loulé

Drive inland to Silves, once the Moorish capital of the Algarve, with an impressive red sandstone castle and quiet cobbled streets. Continue through the Serra de Monchique, stopping at Caldas de Monchique for natural springs and eucalyptus groves.

Drop down into the Algarve coast again via Loulé, a market town with beautiful tiled buildings and traditional handicrafts.

Arrive in Faro by evening. Base yourself near the Ria Formosa Natural Park, another natural wonder of Portugal you cannot miss.

Driving: 1.5–2 hours / 120 km

Ria Formosa Natural Park

Day 6: Faro to Évora – Into the Alentejo

Spend the morning exploring Ria Formosa. If you have more time this is a good place to spend an extra day.

Next, leave the coast behind and head north into the Alentejo, Portugal’s slow-paced heartland. Olive groves, cork forests, and rolling plains lead you to Évora, a UNESCO-listed city packed with Roman ruins, medieval walls, and whitewashed houses.

Visit the Temple of Diana, the Chapel of Bones, and the lively central square. Dine on local specialties like black pork or açorda (bread soup).

Driving: 3 hours / 230 km

Evora

Days 7-8 Évora to Serra da Estrela – Hiking Portugal’s Highest Peaks

After soaking in the sunbaked charm of Évora, trade olive groves for alpine trails in Serra da Estrela — Portugal’s highest mountain range and a haven for hikers, wild swimmers, and stargazers.

This lesser-visited region in central Portugal offers dramatic granite peaks, glacial valleys, crystal-clear mountain lakes and some of the best hikes in Portugal. It’s a rewarding contrast to the coast and a chance to see a quieter, wilder side of the country.

Driving: 5 hours / 370 km

View of a lake along the Covão dos Conchos hike in Serra da Estrela

Days 9: Serra da Estrela to Douro Valley – Vineyards & Views

Today you’ll cut diagonally across the country toward the Douro Valley, Portugal’s premier wine region and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Follow the curves of the Douro River, where terraced vineyards cling to the hillsides and river cruises glide by. Base yourself near Peso da Régua or Pinhão, both excellent wine towns.

Driving: 2.5 hours / 170 km

Day 10-11: Douro to Gerês – Portugal’s Wild North

Craving more wilderness, hot springs, and epic mountain scenery? Enter Peneda-Gerês National Park — Portugal’s only national park and a haven for outdoor lovers.

This region feels like a different world. Winding mountain roads lead to centuries-old granite villages, waterfalls hidden in forested valleys, and thermal springs where you can soak under the stars. The park is also home to wild Garrano horses, golden eagles, and roaming ibex.

Driving: 2.5 hours / 150 km

Days 12: Gerês to Porto – The Gem of the North

After a couple peaceful days immersed in the wild, it’s time to head back toward the city. Wind your way south through the green hills and rural villages of northern Portugal before arriving in Porto, a city that blends historic elegance with a creative edge.

Explore the tiled churches and narrow alleyways of the Ribeira district, stroll across the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, and sample port wine at the riverside cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia. From sunset viewpoints to cozy taverns, Porto is a perfect place to reflect on your journey.

If you’re finishing your trip here, return your campervan to the Siesta Campers Porto — conveniently located near the airport. Or, if you started in Lisbon or Faro, continue south to close the Portugal road trip loop.

Day 13: Porto to Coimbra via Aveiro

Break up your return journey with a stop in Aveiro, Portugal’s “Venice,” known for its colorful boats and canals. Try ovos moles, a local egg-yolk sweet.

Continue to Coimbra, a historic university town perched on a hill over the Mondego River. Tour the ancient university library and soak in the student-town vibe.

Driving: 2.5 hours / 160 km

Aveiro

Day 14: Coimbra to Lisbon – Return to the Capital

If you began in Lisbon, complete your loop with a final early morning drive south towards the capital. On the way, stop in Óbidos, a medieval walled town worth a wander.

If time allows, take a detour into the fairytale hills of Sintra, where colorful palaces like Palácio da Pena and the mystical Quinta da Regaleira await. After soaking in the romance and history, wind your way down to the coast for a relaxing stroll or seaside lunch in Cascais, a charming beach town known for its relaxed vibe and dramatic ocean views.

Return your van at Siesta Campers Lisbon and enjoy one last night in the city before flying out.

If you started your Portugal road trip in Faro, then your adventure is far from over!

Driving: 2 hours / 200 km

Palácio da Pena

Where to Camp

One of the best parts of a road trip in Portugal in a campervan is the freedom to stay in places that bring you closer to nature — whether it’s under the stars in a pine forest, by a cliff overlooking the Atlantic, or on a vineyard terrace in the Douro Valley.

Wild Camping in Portugal

While wild camping was once common across Portugal, the rules have changed in recent years. It’s still possible in some areas, but you need to understand the legal restrictions — especially in protected natural parks like Costa Vicentina or Ria Formosa. For a detailed breakdown of what’s allowed and what’s not, check out our full guide to wild camping in Portugal.

Campsites with Character

Portugal has an excellent network of official campsites, from family-run eco-campgrounds to well-equipped holiday parks with pools and laundry. To help you find the perfect pitch, we've rounded up our top recommendations in our guide to the best campsites in Portugal — including spots with sea views, vineyard stays, and hidden forest gems.

Want to Go Off-Grid?

If you're planning to find your own spots or combine wild camping with official sites, don't miss our article on the game-changing camping apps. These apps will help you locate legal overnight areas, camper-friendly parking, and off-the-beaten-path gems — complete with user reviews and GPS directions.

No matter how you choose to park it for the night, Portugal’s landscapes will do the rest. Just be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles and respect local communities — and you’ll be welcomed back again and again.

FAQ

Q: Can I wild camp in Portugal?

A: wild camping in Portugal is restricted, especially in protected areas. Always look for designated camper spots or try camping apps for legal options.

Q: Is Portugal safe for campervan travel?

A: Yes, Portugal is considered very safe, with excellent roads, friendly locals, and well-established infrastructure.

Q: Best time of year to do this trip?

A: Portugal has a mild year-round climate, but Spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) offer warm weather, fewer crowds, and lower campsite prices.

Q: Can I start the trip in Porto or Faro instead?

A: Absolutely. This route forms a loop, so starting from Siesta Campers Porto, Lisbon, or Faro works equally well.

Q: How long should I plan for this route?

A: 14+ days is ideal for this itinerary. You can stretch it based on your pace.

Q: How much do campsites in Portugal cost?

A: Campsites typically cost €10–€15/night for basic rural sites and €20–€35/night for well-equipped sites with showers, electricity, and laundry. Many offer discounts for off-season stays. Electric hook-up usually adds €3–€5 per night.

Q: Do I need to book campsites in advance?

A: During summer and in popular areas (like the Algarve or Douro Valley), it’s smart to book ahead. In spring and autumn, many campsites have availability without reservations.

Q: Which Siesta Campers campervan or motorhome is best for this trip?

A: There’s no wrong choice — all vans are road-trip ready. Couples or solo travellers often prefer compact models, while families or those wanting more comfort should consider a larger motorhome with extra space, a toilet, and a shower.

Q: What’s included in a Siesta Campers rental?

A: All vans come fully equipped with a kitchenette, fridge, bedding, cooking gear, and outdoor furniture. Most models have solar panels for off-grid use, and larger vans may include a toilet or shower. You can also add extras like Wi-Fi, child seats, or surf racks.

Q: Do I need an international driving permit?

A: If you hold a valid license from the EU, UK, US, Canada, or Australia, you do not need an international driving permit to rent or drive in Portugal. 

Q: Are there toll roads in Portugal?

A: Yes, many major highways are toll roads. Your Siesta Campers van comes with a pre-installed toll transponder, and fees are billed automatically at the end of your trip. You can avoid tolls by taking scenic national roads, though they may take longer.

Road Trip in Portugal with Siesta Campers

When you're exploring Portugal by road, your campervan isn’t just your vehicle — it’s your home, your lookout point, and your connection to the places you visit. That’s why choosing the right van makes all the difference. Siesta Campers offers thoughtfully designed, stylish, and fully equipped campervans and motorhomes that are perfect for exploring Portugal’s coastlines, mountain passes, and medieval towns in comfort and style.

Siesta Atlantic campervan from Siesta Campers

Here’s Why Travellers Choose Siesta Campers:

• Three Convenient Pick-Up Locations in Portugal: Rent from Lisbon, Porto, or Faro — each location is just minutes from an international airport, making it easy to start your trip wherever you land.
• One-Way Hire Option: Siesta Campers offers one-way campervan rentals between their locations in Faro, Lisbon, and Porto. You can pick up your van in one city and drop it off in another, making it easy to plan your Portugal road trip.
• Fully Equipped Vans: All Siesta Campers vehicles come with a fitted kitchen, fridge, bedding, outdoor furniture, and essential camping gear. You’re road-trip ready from the moment you drive off.
• Campervans for Every Style: Whether you want a retro VW van with vintage charm or a modern motorhome with extra space and a shower, there’s a model to suit couples, families, and solo adventurers.
• Family-Owned & Traveller Approved: As a Portugal-based company with deep local roots and hundreds of five-star reviews, Siesta Campers knows the roads, campsites, and hidden gems better than anyone.
• Eco-Friendly Travel: Our vans are designed for low-impact camping, helping you travel sustainably while exploring the country’s protected natural parks and coastlines.
• 24/7 Roadside Assistance: Peace of mind comes standard. Should you need help on the road, you’ll always have support just a call away.
  
  

With over two decades of experience and a passionate team behind the scenes, Siesta Campers is more than just a rental company. We’re your trusted co-pilot on an unforgettable road trip in Portugal, helping you discover the best of the country on your own terms.

Ready to Hit the Road?

Whether you're starting in Lisbon, Porto, or Faro, this Portugal road trip itinerary gives you the full spectrum of experiences: surf and sun, wine and history, cliffs and castles.

Choose campervan hire in Portugal from Siesta Campers, hit the open road, and discover why a road trip in Portugal is one of Europe's most rewarding experiences.