Explore Southern Portugal Self Drive

Upon arrival in Lisbon, pick up your car and drive to the seaside resort area of Estoril, known as the Portuguese French Riviera. Spend 3 nights in first class accommodations. Discover the surrounding areas at your own pace with your rental car. Distance Lisbon - Estoril: 25km.

Don't miss the opportunity to see the romantic city of Sintra with its unique Palaces. Once a place where the royals and wealthy of Portugal have built grand homes, the area is dominated by the famous Pena Palace, located on the top of one of Sintra's hills. Lisbon is also a must with its World Heritage monuments, Jerónimos Monastery and the Tower of Belem, walk along the medieval quarters of Alfama and Mouraria, crowned by the magnificent St. George's Castle and feel the atmosphere of this old historical town. On your way back to Estoril, drive along the famous harbour of Belem and taste the famous Pastel de Nata, a specialty of the traditional Portuguese cuisine.

Today, perhaps drive northwest towards the magical city of Obidos. In this charming medieval walled town you will find its beautiful fortified castle, narrow streets and endless bookshops due to its UNESCO designation as the Creative City of Literature. Try the typical Ginja (sour cherry liqueur) in Obidos served in a chocolate cup! Hit the road again towards the northwest to stunning examples of monasteries in Alcobaca and Batalha. Spend the rest of the afternoon discovering picturesque fishing villages and beach areas of Nazare or Peniche.

Enroute to Albufeira, drive inland towards the Evora, the capital of the Alentejo region, known for its gastronomy and UNESCO World Heritage City. In Evora, discover the city such as Giraldo Square, the Roman Temple, the Cathedral and St. Francis Church with its unique Bones Chapel. Continue your journey driving south along the coastline towards the Algarve, one of Europe's warmest Mediterranean regions with its beautiful sandy beaches. Spend three nights in Albufeira discovering golden sands and stunning cliffs and white houses. Distances Estoril - Evora: 155km, Evora - Albufeira - 204km.

Spend your days on the beach or head west to the popular villages of Lagos, Sagres, Silves and Monchique. Lagos, known as the pot of gold because of its yellow rocks along the coast, you can admire the promontory named Ponta da Piedade with its caves and rocks. In Sagres, the most south-westerly village in mainland Europe, perhaps visit the promontory of the fortress of Cape St Vincent, the symbol of the Portuguese discoveries. In Silves, you can discover the ancient Arab capital of the Algarve with its Moorish Castle and XII century Cathedral. Finally, in Monchique, explore the typical village located in the scenic range of rounded hilss, known as the 'garden' of the Algarve. Take time for shopping for handicrafts.

From your hotel in Albufeira, drive east towards the capital of the Algarve, Faro. Take some time to walk through the Old Town and visit the XIII century Cathedral. Continue to Olhao, a city built under Arabic influences. Be sure to visit the waterfront markets and old quarter. Pass through Santa Luzia, the most picturesque fishing and unspoilt village in the Algarve until you reach the old roman town of Tavira. Visit the old castle ruins, Santa Maria do Castelo church and the famous IV century Roman bridge.

On your way back to Lisbon, perhaps make a stop to Sesimbra, a picturesque fishing town located on the coast of Portugal. Visit the Moorish castle or stop for lunch at a seafood restaurant with views of the sea. For nature lovers, head to Arrabida Natural Park and discover beautiful beaches, unique vegetation and unspoilt nature. Enjoy your last night in Lisbon, exploring the typical streets of the Barirro Alto or Madragoa or checking out a local Fado restaurant and listen to the beautiful sounds of Portugal. Distance Albufeira - Lisbon: 259km.

Check out of your hotel and make your way to the airport to return your car or extend your holidays to another destination.