Hugged by the sea and geographically small, Portugal makes for the perfect road-tripping destination. Not only are automatic vehicles readily available (if that’s your preference) and road rules similar to Western countries, it’s also fast and easy to drive a vehicle from one coastal town to another. In fact, mapping out a coastal road trip, with the proper car technologies, in Portugal is the perfect way to ensure you make the most of the country’s gorgeous landscapes—and take advantage of the incredible seafood.
Depending on how long you have earmarked for a Portugal getaway, you might be able to see all ten of these stunning coastal towns. 1.Albufeira. Algarve became famous because of this beach town, full of charm and catering to tourists. Known for its stellar restaurants, and thriving nightlife, it attracts a younger crowd (as well as young at heart looking for an inspiring Portuguese experience).
2.Aljezur. A favorite of locals, this is where you’ll find some of the most breathtaking beaches—all with underdog status. Sunbathing and surfing are equally popular activities here, and you can bet you’ll be one of the few (if any) tourists taking advantage of these long stretches of beach.
3.Aveiro. Known as the Venice of the country, it’s the perfect romantic getaway where you’ll find boats styled like gondolas drifting through canals. Aveiro is a choice spot for a honeymoon or for anyone looking for the penultimate sleepy little town. It’s closer to Porto than Lisbon, so plan this stop either flying into Porto or later in your trip if flying into Lisbon.
4. Azenhas do Mar. Situated near Sintra, this destination is a real getaway. You’ll find it just a few miles from Lisbon with staggering cliffs perfect for photo opportunities. Also a fishing town, it’s quiet and peaceful. Keep an eye out for the natural formations within the cliffs, or spend the day walking along the sandy beaches. Here, you’ll want to try the local seafood available in every restaurant (but the best is the street food available on main roads).
5. Cascais. The ultimate fishing town has a popular marina, but it’s contrasted with one of the prettiest coastlines anywhere in the country. You can easily spend an entire day picking out the various rock formations. Plus, it’s a short trip from Lisbon (where many travelers fly into), making it a natural fit for your first coastal stop. Although it’s well-known for its beauty, it’s also surprisingly lacking in tourists. You can have much of Cascais to yourself.
6. Ferragudo. Some of the best beaches in all of Portugal are located here, making it a favorite for surfers, swimmers, and beach bums. Another fishing village, it’s known for its relaxed vibe. Take a look at the homes whitewashed from the saltwater and the various colorful boats peppering the horizon. It’s also where you’ll find a medieval fort that used to be a watchtower but now serves as a landmark and photo opportunity.
7. Peniche. One of the most well-known tourist spots in Portugal, you have it all here including some of the best surfing in the country. However, the tourism industry is just one economic boom. It’s also a thriving fishing town with a rich history. It’s best to start your exploration in the heart of the town before branching out to sea. For a different kind of experience, take a tour of the former prison center along the sea and find out more about Portugal’s lesser-known history.
8. Ponta Delgada. At the capital, Azores, this lovely archipelago is where the beginning of volcanic islands can be found. It’s full of tourist attractions, like the Sao Bra Fortress, but well worth the trip. Plan your day around museum visits and guided tours to make sure you don’t miss out on the unique history of the area.
9. Tavira. One of the oldest towns in Algarve, you’ll find golden beaches here that aren’t as well-known to tourists. Churches styled by Moorish designers and some hints at castles that once peppered the landscape also draw history buffs to this village. If you want a blend of a beach vacation with historic charm, this is the destination for you.
10. Viana do Castelo. Spilling over with medieval touches and fantastic beaches, you’ll find old world charm at this beach destination. Visitors come for the architecture and to check out landmarks like Santa Casa da Misericordia. You’ll want to add this stop on your trip to get a unique taste of Portugal’s history.
No matter where you begin or end your journey, a trip to Portugal demands the freedom of being behind the wheel. Map out your journey in advance, and don’t forget to pack your bathing suit and appetite. Portugal is a once in a lifetime trip that you’ll never forget. The only trouble will be deciding for yourself which beach town deserves top billing.
Author Bio: Trevor is a freelance writer and a self-proclaimed “Travelholic”. He enjoys traveling to parts unknown, sampling local cuisines, and sharing his experiences with the world. In his free time, you can find him planning his next trip or outside enjoying about any type of fitness activity imaginable.
