The perfect Self-drive holiday

While Algarve is Portugal's most popular destination, there's so much more to explore in Portugal, and it’s really easy to combine different destinations, including Sintra. This is why a self-drive is the perfect holiday to consider. 

Driving in Portugal is hassle-free, and you’ll be surprised by just how easy it is once you get acquainted with driving on the right.  

We’ve got an amazing two-week-long, self-drive holiday that covers Portugal’s cosmopolitan cities, historical highlights, hidden wonders, and amazing beaches. With our tried and tested luxurious accommodation thrown in for good measure along the way, what are you waiting for? 

Starting in Lisbon, you’ll be able to discover Portugal’s nostalgic soul with a Fado in Chiado show, a classical guitar and song performance in the musical style epitomized by Amália Rodrigues. Start your second day in one of the city’s iconic pastry shops with a culinary tour that lets you sample Lisbon’s speciality food and drink, from Iberian ham and bacalhau (salt cod), to cherry liqueur and regional cheese, before finishing the day with a sundowner cruise on Tagus River.  

You’ll then head to Portugal’s Alentejo region, where you can discover the historic capital of Evora and the renowned ‘white city’ of Estremoz, exploring sites dating from the Roman times to the Renaissance. You’ll also get to savour a local winery tour and masterclass, before staying a couple of nights in the medieval village of Monsaraz.  

Sintra is next on the itinerary so you can explore our favourite fairytale town, before you head to sunny Santa Cruz to spend time by the pool or on the beach.

After a few days of pure relaxation, venture to Coimbra, a picturesque medieval town that’s filled with architectural and academic delights, followed by a drive out to Portugal’s highest mountain range, Serra da Estrela (Mountain of the Stars). You can enjoy self-guided walks through granite peaks and glacial valleys, or simply gaze at the majesty from the comfort of your hotel.

Spend the next couple of days in the famous wine region of Douro Valley, where you’ll embark on relaxing cruises, discover the scenic town of Pinhao, and enjoy plenty of vineyard visits, port and wine tastings, and a rustic picnic lunch under the olive trees.

Spend your final full day in the coastal city of Porto, where a local guide will navigate you through the narrow cobbled streets as you visit historical wine cellars, beautiful churches, and get an introduction into the local azulejos tile-making. You’ll even get to explore a few city attractions that other tours don’t access!

Finish your incredible holiday tucking into Portugal's famous pastries, followed by an evening cruise along Douro River, and a fabulously local three-course meal.