Embarking on a road trip in Portugal in a campervan means choosing autonomy and freedom to discover the riches of this multi-faceted country at your own pace. Whether it’s the cosmopolitan city of Porto, picturesque small villages, or the charming Faro, this journey is rich in discoveries and emotions.
For this type of road trip, if you do not own a motorhome or campervan, several motorhome rental companies in Portugal offer one-way vehicles, which is very convenient and avoids the hassle of having to return the vehicle to the original agency. Naturally, this service comes at a cost.
Let’s embark on a 14-day discovery
Our journey begins in Porto, a city steeped in history but decidedly forward-looking. Here we discover the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, the astonishing Lello Bookstore, considered one of the most beautiful in the world, and the Porto cellars in the Ribeira district. It’s also an opportunity to stroll through the picturesque alleyways of old Porto, visit the Sé cathedral, and sample local specialties at the Bolhão market.
Our campervan then takes us southwards, towards Coimbra, famous for its prestigious university, one of the oldest in Europe. Seen as the cradle of the Portuguese Fado tradition, the city boasts a unique vibe, blending history, culture, and a very lively student life.
Visits, Hikes, and Meetings in Portugal
After Coimbra, we make a stop at Fatima, a globally known pilgrimage site. The basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary impresses with its size and architecture. It’s then time to enjoy the breathtaking nature of the Serras de Aire and Candeeiros natural park, perfect for a hike or picnic.
Heading further south, we pass through Obidos, a small fortified city from medieval times, listed as one of the seven wonders of Portugal. Its charm is undeniable, with its narrow streets and flowered white houses.
We are now in Lisbon, a charming city with its historic neighborhoods like Alfama or Bairro Alto, its trams from another era, and its viewpoints offering breathtaking views. Not forgetting the Tower of Belem, the Jeronimos Monastery, or Eden Park for a well-deserved break.
Long live the warmth of the South!
We now set course for the south and the Algarve region. We make our first stop in Lagos, known for its superb beaches and stunning cliffs. A boat trip to visit the caves of the Ponta da Piedade is a must.
At the end of our journey, Faro welcomes us with its peaceful streets, its old medieval quarter, and its bustling marina. A few kilometers away, the natural park of Ria Formosa invites us to explore a protected flora and fauna, with lagoons, islets, and fine sandy beaches.
When to embark on this campervan road trip in Portugal? Spring (April-June) and fall (September-October) are the ideal times: temperatures are pleasant without being sweltering, tourist sites are less crowded, and rates are often more advantageous. In summer, the Algarve, in particular, can be very crowded, although travelling in a campervan has the advantage of being able to avoid the most touristy areas.
This campervan road trip from Porto to Faro offers unique discoveries for all tastes: cities loaded with history, breathtaking natural landscapes, paradise-like beaches, and a delicious local cuisine. The more adventurous can even extend the adventure to the southernmost tip of the country, Cape St. Vincent, to witness a memorable sunset. No matter the length of your journey, Portugal will not fail to seduce you.
