Lisbon to Algarve driving along Coastline

Alcacer do Sal - Elegantly positioned on the right bank of the Sado River and ascending a gentle slope, Alcácer do Sal has been inhabited since ancient times. Archaeological discoveries date back to the Neolithic era, with evidence of Greek, Phoenician, and other Mediterranean cultures passing through.

The Romans named it Salacia Urbs Imperatoria, recognizing its strategic location along the Sado River, a vital trade route. It was used to transport local goods like wheat, olive oil, and wine throughout the Roman Empire. Alcácer was a significant inland port on the Western peninsula, known for salt production and fish processing, which is reflected in its name.

During the Moorish occupation from the 8th century, Alcácer became the capital of the Al-Kasser province. The old fort’s walls were fortified, with the Muslim city protected by two rings and 30 towers, making it one of the largest defensive forts on the Iberian Peninsula.

In 1217, King Afonso II, with the help of Crusaders traveling from Syria and the Holy Land, conquered it. It was then given to the Military Order of Santiago to establish its headquarters.

Sines - Once a traditional fishing town, Sines has evolved with tourism and industry. Today, it is a major port and oil-tanker terminal, crucial to the Portuguese economy.

Overlooking the bay are the ruins of a medieval castle, restored in the 16th century. Vasco da Gama (1468-1524), the famous navigator, is believed to have been born here, the son of Sines’ governor general. One of the castle towers houses a small museum dedicated to him.

Sines also features an intriguing Archaeological Museum, showcasing regional archaeological finds that highlight its ancient occupation.

Vila Nova de Milfontes - This charming town at the mouth of the River Mira has seen recent growth due to increased tourism. The serene and picturesque beaches along the Costa Vicentina are popular for retaining their natural beauty and offering excellent water sports conditions.

The town’s historical center boasts several notable buildings, including the Fortress (constructed between 1599 and 1602 to defend against pirate attacks), the Parish Church, and the Cabo Sardão Lighthouse, built in the early 20th century.

Lagos - Lagos has a rich maritime history. Its original name, Lacobriga, indicates its Celtic origins around 2000 BC. The Phoenicians, Greeks, and Carthaginians followed, but it was the Romans who brought prosperity. The Moors fortified Lagos in the 10th century, naming it Zawaia, until the Christians conquered it in 1249, integrating it into Portuguese territory.

The 15th century marked Lagos’ golden age, as it played a key role in the Age of Discoveries. Its port, directly across from Africa, became a major departure and arrival point for ships exploring the continent. Lagos thrived as a trading hub for exotic goods like ivory, gold, and silver from Africa, leading to a surge in housing, trade, and monuments.

New walls were built in the 16th century to accommodate the city’s growth, and from 1572, Lagos became the bishopric’s seat and the Algarve governors’ official residence. The 17th century saw further fortifications. The 1755 earthquake and subsequent seaquake devastated much of the city, but it began to recover in the 19th century with the rise of the canned fish industry and increased trade. Today, Lagos is a vibrant city, proud of its heritage.

Ponta da Piedade - Discover one of Lagos’ serene hidden treasures at Cova da Piedade, a scenic cliffside viewpoint offering breathtaking Atlantic views. Enjoy tranquil coastal trails, dramatic rock formations, and the Algarve’s authentic natural beauty away from the crowds. Ideal for photography, relaxation, and connecting with the region’s wild coastline.

Lagos to Faro driving along Coastline

Portimao - Situated at the River Arade estuary, Portimão is renowned for its excellent sandy beaches with warm, calm waters, making it a highly attractive holiday spot.

Portimão has a rich fishing tradition, particularly flourishing between the 19th and 20th centuries with the rise of the canning industry and tourism. The historic center’s streets and squares feature buildings from this era, including the Portimão Museum, a superbly refurbished old cannery that won the Museum of the Year award from the Council of Europe in 2010. It honors the people and city that have lived by and for the sea for centuries.

Don’t miss the simply styled Chapel of São José de Alcalar or the impressive Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição (Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception), built in the 15th century on a hill, standing out in the city’s skyline. Although damaged by the 1755 earthquake, it retains its beautiful original Gothic portal. For a break, relax in the shade of the Manuel Bivar Garden’s trees to watch fishing boats and pleasure craft sail by, or stroll along the lively Marina promenade.

Faro - During the Roman era, this region developed and gained prominence, known as Civitas Ossobonensis, with borders extending to modern Tavira, including towns with specific productive, rural, and maritime functions.

This historical past is revealed through archaeological finds in the city, now displayed in the Infante D. Henrique (Prince Henry the Navigator) Archaeological Museum and the Milreu Ruins in Faro’s suburbs.

In the 9th century, the town was renamed Saint Mary Ibn Harun after the ruling Arab family. The name evolved into Faro. During Muslim rule, Christian religious practices were permitted, hence “Saint Mary” remained part of the name. Archaeological remains from that period, including the Arab Gateway (part of the Arco da Vila (Town Arch)), recall one of the entries into the walled center, known as Vila-Adentro (Inner Town).

Vila-Adentro was permanently returned to Christian rule in 1249, during King Afonso III’s reign. The Sé Cathedral was built on the former Mosque site, and the walls were reinforced to signify new rulers.

In the 16th century, Faro became a significant trading center in the Algarve, maintaining this role for centuries. It became a city in 1540, and the Bishopdom, formerly in Silves, was relocated to Faro. Many of the city’s religious monuments date from this period, reflecting economic prosperity in the artistic grace of the Church of Misericórdia (Compassion) and the convents of Saint Francis, Nossa Senhora da Assunção (Our Lady of the Assumption - now the Infante D. Henrique Archaeological Museum), Santiago Maior, and Saint Anthony of Capuchin.

Olhao - To uncover Olhão’s hidden charm, ascend to the top of the main church tower, the highest point. From there, observe the hundreds of roof terraces - the “açoteias” - typical of the Algarve, creating a unique urban panorama, as if a multitude of cubes were scattered across a flat surface, their regular shapes repeating in three dimensions.

Back at ground level, wander through the fishermen’s quarter, nestled between the quay on the Ria Formosa and the city’s earth defined by the main church. The small, white houses have walls topped with geometric decoration, serving as verandas for the roof terraces. The streets bordering Avenida da República, a symbol of urban development at the turn of the century, reflect a city of industrialists and ship-owners who prospered from the fish processing business and trade, showcasing their wealth with verandas, tiles, carved stonework, and wrought iron.

A tour of Olhão should conclude in the refreshing gardens and open-air cafés along the long quayside. But first, immerse yourself in the vibrant market atmosphere, where stands sell fish straight from the sea, fresh vegetables, and sweet fruit from inland farms.

If time permits, regular boat connections to the islands of Armona and Culatra offer a chance to explore the Ria and visit its beautiful beaches.

Tavira - In the Algarve, archaeological remains trace settlement back over 6,000 years. However, it was under the Roman Empire that the southern coastline was more systematically settled. The city of Balsa was established in the 1st century AD on the route between Ossonoba (Faro) and Baesuris (Castro Marim), focusing on fishing and fish salting. With a favorable geographical location between the Algarvian hills and the Gilão River, it was also chosen by the Moors for settlement between the 8th and 9th centuries, named “Tabira,” the root of the current Tavira. However, there is no conclusive evidence linking Balsa and Tabira to the exact same site.

The Christian Reconquest took Tavira in 1242 under Paio Peres Correia, a knight of Sant’Iago. Two years later, King Sancho II granted these lands to the Order for reorganization and settlement. Also in the 13th century, the Castle and walls were strengthened, and the Church of Santa Maria (Saint Mary) was built.

A period of great expansion began in the 15th century after the Conquest of Ceuta in 1415, leading to the Voyages of Discovery. Tavira became an important fishing port, supporting armies and armadas defending the Portuguese coast and coastal cities conquered in North Africa. It exported salted fish, dried fruits, wine, and other products. In 1489, King João II resided here for several months, and in 1520 it became a city under Manuel I. This royal patronage is reflected in the architectural heritage and the city’s expansion.

Along the riverbanks and main thoroughfares, more humble families settled, while the nobility chose the center to be near the political and administrative powers in the Castle. The Church of Misericórdia (Compassion) remains as a testament to those times.

In the 17th century, Tavira remained a major commercial center in the Algarve. Much of the cultural heritage from this period reveals a profound religious influence. Today, there are 21 churches in the city, including highlights like the Church of São Paulo (Saint Paul), the Church of Santo António (Saint Anthony), the Church of Carmo (Carmel), and the Church of São Francisco (Saint Francis).

In the 18th century, Tavira lost economic prominence but recovered in the following century, mainly due to tuna fishing and preserving.

Vila Real de Santo Antonio - In the 16th century, there was a town known as Vila de Santo António de Arenilha, likely closer to the sea. By the 18th century, this town had vanished, engulfed by the sea and sand. However, it was necessary to control goods flowing up the Guadiana River, place Monte Gordo’s fishing business under royal supervision, and stand firm against the Spanish, with whom Portugal had been at war in 1762/63.

The construction of Vila Real de Santo António, bringing evident economic and political advantages, was more than a mere royal whim.

The successful reconstruction of Lisbon after the 1755 earthquake was repeated in Vila Real de Santo António. First, there was the careful grid-like urban planning, facilitated by the flat terrain. Next, there was adherence to rigid architectural units. Finally, pre-fabricated standard building blocks, like square-hewn stones from Lisbon, were used, cut and shaped for immediate laying.

To appreciate Vila Real de Santo António’s town planning, stroll through the city’s streets. Begin in Praça Marquês de Pombal, the town’s heart, with black and white cobblestones radiating from the central obelisk built in 1776. This square contains three major urban features common in the 18th century: the church, Town Hall, and old guardhouse. Then, walk a few blocks to see privately commissioned buildings, which still adhere to an obvious architectural formula.

Benagil - Enter a magical world on this guided Benagil Caves tour.

Faro to Lisbon driving along Alentejo - center region

Setubal - Setúbal was inhabited in ancient times by the Phoenicians and Romans, who settled on the south bank of the River Sado (in Tróia, opposite the present town), calling it Cetobriga, from which Setúbal’s name is derived.

The Romans initiated one of the region’s most traditional activities - gathering salt and preserving food in salting tanks, remnants of which still exist on the Tróia Peninsula.

Setúbal’s development has always been linked to seafaring activities, facilitated by its location at the River Sado’s mouth, making it one of the country’s main ports in the 14th century.

Its agricultural produce is also significant, with records dating back to the 14th century, particularly grapes, wine, oranges, and fish. The wines produced in the surrounding area remain famous today, especially table wines and the moscatel called Setúbal, which can be tasted in nearby Azeitão cellars, also known for excellent cheeses and delicious tarts.

The city was the birthplace of notable Portuguese cultural figures, particularly Bocage (a 19th-century poet known for his ironic tone and social criticism) and Luísa Todi (a prominent lyric singer). The Convent of Jesus, housing the Municipal Museum, is in the Gothic-Manueline style, and the Fort of São Filipe, now a “Pousada” (country-house hotel) offering fantastic views of the city, River Sado, Tróia, and the Arrábida mountain range, also deserve special mention.

Santuario Nacional de Cristo Rei - The Cristo Rei Statue is a magnificent statue of Christ, standing on the south bank of the Tagus River overlooking Lisbon. The statue is popular (and highly recommended) for its 80-meter high observation deck, offering fantastic views of Lisbon and the suspension bridge.

• 2 nights accommodation (2 person for each room)
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Private tour
• All taxes, fees and handling charges
• Wine tasting
• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
• Transport by air-conditioned minivan
• Personal driver/guide

• Gratuities

Embark on a distinctive 3-day private tour from Lisbon to explore the Algarve and Alentejo coastal areas. This comprehensive package includes 2 nights in a 5-star hotel (standard room) with breakfast, along with 3 lunches and 2 dinners. Accompanied by a professional guide, discover the Algarve from Sagres to Vila Real de Santo António, traversing the entire coastline. Delight in stops at breathtaking viewpoints, enjoy beachside lunches at top local eateries, and immerse in regional traditions. Enhance the experience with a visit to a local winery for a tasting and unwind on a boat tour through Ria Formosa, one of Portugal’s most stunning natural parks. This blend of scenery, culture, gastronomy, and exclusive activities offers an exceptional way to experience southern Portugal.

• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Coronavirus Safety Measures - The safety and well-being of everyone who uses our services are always our priority. We are actively monitoring the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation and are taking steps to help keep our customers safe.
• We’re certified by the Official Tourism entity ‘Turismo de Portugal’ with the hygiene certification stamp ‘Clean & Safe’.
• For our safety, we operate only private tour and pick-up/drop-off all passengers. We clean and disinfect our vehicles every tour and we provide hand sanitizer and masks to our customers.
• Our guides are experienced professionals, courteous and drive defensive and safety with only one objective to ensure your safety and satisfaction.

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.