Portugal Road Trip: Itinerary, stops & tips

Escaping the Winter Blues: A Vanlife Odyssey through Portugal.

Lucinda Norris (@vanlifewithluci) recently escaped the winter blues and embarked on a 12-week Vanlife winter road trip starting in Spain across Portugal, solo, in her converted campervan, and it looked like a pretty epic trip.

In her own words: “My vanlife adventure through Portugal exceeded all my expectations. The off-season offered a unique perspective, allowing me to experience the country's charm without the summer crowds. The diverse landscapes, from the rugged coastline to the rolling hills of the Alentejo, captivated me at every turn.”

So, if you’re planning a road trip in Portugal, explore the 4 main stops on the itinerary from Lucinda’s first-hand experience, including must-do activities and Lucinda’s top tips for road tripping Portugal in a campervan.

Why you should road trip to Portugal?

Portugal is so much more than a land of pastelarias overflowing with pastéis de nata, sun-drenched beaches, and charming cobbled streets. It was a respite from grey skies this winter in the UK with an escape into Iberian paradise. Offering year-round campsites, incredible views, food, wine, and scenery, you’ll also meet a significant community of Vanlifers on your travels, this is a European road trip must-do.

(Sines, Portugal. Image credit: Lucinda Norris)

How to get from the UK to Portugal by driving

My journey began in Santander, Spain. I opted for a two-night sleeper ferry from Portsmouth. As a solo traveller, I wanted to skip out some driving miles and opt for a more comfortable and scenic way to begin my adventure.

Please be warned the Bay of Bascal is notoriously choppy as a crossing point. I took seasickness tablets and felt fine, but if you aren’t a fan of longer passenger ferries, the alternative route would be to go through the Euro tunnel and drive down through France, arriving in nearby San Sebastian.

Portugal road trip summary

When I arrived in Santander, I stayed for a few days to explore the city, which is rich in architecture and history. A lot of the ancient town visited by the Romans was burnt down in a fire, so there are many beautiful modern buildings, including the modern art gallery on the harbour. I would advise visiting at dusk as the sun sets over the water on the harbour, turning the building into a disco ball of reflecting coloured light. 

 

(Plaza de Espana, Seville. Image credit: Lucinda Norris)

I made my way south via northern Spain's stunning vineyards and green mountains. I didn’t know Spain would be so green or vibrant for biodiversity. Suppose you are in this region. Make time to visit the Pics De Europa a 45-minute drive West from Santander. Stop off at the stunning church caves of Covadonga and take the winding road into the mountains to take a walk around the lakes at the top of the mountain pass. This is a simple and accessible day trip if you have a vehicle.

After stopping off in the mountains of north Spain, I drove Southwest to Porto, a city that seamlessly blends historic grandeur with a youthful, bohemian spirit. The city has spectacular cobbled streets and classic Portuguese tiled buildings. Take a look around the famous bridge and the train station which is made from thousands of tiles. The city itself is very accessible, with trams up most of its major hills. There is some city parking for campervans, but I would advise using public transport if you want to head into the city centre and use one of the many parks and rides. You can find more information about the Park & Ride system on the official Metro do Porto website.

 

(Caraces, Spain. Image credit: Lucinda Norris)

After driving 3 hours south, I arrived in Lisbon and slept near the Harbour, which was free and paid for the bus into the city centre. Lisbon was one of my favourite cities with the Time Out Market being a food haven in the city centre to try so many national dishes. The vibrant capital is brimming with history and culture, and the old city is built away from the sea.

The old town has back-to-back streets that lead out to beautiful rooftop gardens and squares like the Miradouro da Graça. This viewpoint offers stunning panoramic city views, including the São Jorge Castle and the Alfama district. It's a popular spot for photos, especially during sunset. At Christmas, I was treated to live music in the square and fireworks. Check with the local website for free events and music in the city, as it has great nightlife and a vibrant LGBT community. 

 

(Alfama, Lisbon, Portugal. Image credit: Lucinda Norris)

Next, I headed south towards Sines and used a campervan aire, which was a paid-for parking place in a compound with showers, bins and facilities all included in the £14 daily price. Sines is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and rich maritime history. I took a surfing lesson here as schools and surf hire shops are open all year round. 

(Carvoeiro, Portugal. Image credit: Lucinda Norris)

Finally, I made our way to the Algarve, a region known for its dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and charming fishing villages. Instead of Lagos, I chose the charming town of Alvor. This is a place that welcomes campervan culture with a large aire near the beach with free toilet and water facilities. The town has a relaxed atmosphere and easy access to the coast with a 5-minute walk to the beach and famous caves.

(Lagos, Portugal. Image credit: Lucinda Norris)

Portugal Road Trip itinerary, timings, campsites and things to do:

As Lucinda travelled on an epic 12-week trip, she visited a huge number of places, so she summarised the best 4 places to stop during a Portugal road trip. For full details of extra activities and places to stay, check out our full guide later in the blog.

Santander

Santander accommodation: Camping Puntal de la Peña. This well-located campsite has easy access to the city and ferry terminal.

Santander to Lisbon: 7 hours

 

(Lisbon, Portugal. Image credit: Lucinda Norris)

Lisbon accommodation: Parque de Campismo e Caravanismo de Lisboa. This is a well-maintained campsite with easy access to public transportation.

Top things to do in Lisbon: Ride the iconic Tram 28, explore the Alfama district, and visit the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower.

Lisbon to Sines: 2.5 hours

 

(Sines beach, Portugal. Image credit: Lucinda Norris)

Sines accommodation: Parque de Campismo da Atalaia - A peaceful campsite with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Top things to do in Sines: Relax on the beach, visit the Fortaleza de Sines, and explore the charming historic centre.

Sines to Alvor: 2 hours

 

(Algarve Rock Caves, Portugal. Image credit: Lucinda Norris)

Alvor accommodation: Camping Orbitur Algarve - A modern campsite with excellent facilities and close proximity to the beach.

Top things to do in Alvor: Relax on the beach and soak up the sun. Explore the Ria de Alvor, a natural lagoon teeming with birdlife. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of this charming town.

Top tips for road-tripping and driving in Portugal:

• Tolls: Be prepared for tolls on many highways. Consider purchasing a Via Verde device for easier and potentially cheaper toll payments.
• Driving: Portuguese drivers can be quite spirited, so be prepared for some enthusiastic overtaking manoeuvres.
• Language: While English is spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic Portuguese phrases will enhance your interactions with locals.
• Food: Embrace the local cuisine! Indulge in fresh seafood, hearty stews, and the ubiquitous pastéis de nata.
• Weather: Be prepared for unpredictable weather, especially in the shoulder seasons. Pack layers and be ready to adapt to changing conditions.

Highlights & challenges:

 

(Image credit: Lucinda Norris)

Highlights:

• The breathtaking scenery of the Algarve.
• The charming medieval villages of the Alentejo.
• The vibrant atmosphere of Porto and Lisbon.
• The charming coastal town of Sines.
• The delicious food and wine throughout the journey.

Challenges:

• Finding good campsites with open spaces during the off-season.
• Navigating some of the smaller, more rural roads, especially in the mountains.
• Paying tourist prices rather than some of the cheaper, more local places.

 

Road-tripping Portugal in November, December and January

The weather in Portugal was more reliable and warmer than in the south of Spain, with average temperatures in November, December, and January ranging from 13°C to 16°C (55°F to 61°F) in the Algarve. This mild climate, combined with the abundance of year-round campsites and aires, thanks to a significant community of wintering vanlifers, allowed me such a fun and social time as I made lots of new friends whilst camping. This vanlife adventure through Portugal exceeded all my expectations.

Lucinda's Portugal travel guide:

For extra information on the best places to stay in a campervan in Portugal and Spain, and the best activities to do whilst you visit, read below:

Santander

Scenic & Natural Spots Nearby Santander

• Playa de Mataleñas – A stunning beach with turquoise waters and hiking trails nearby.
• Cabo Mayor Lighthouse – Panoramic views of the coast, great for photography.
• Dunas de Liencres Natural Park – Sand dunes, forests, and wild beaches, perfect for a peaceful walk.
• Playa de Langre – A remote, cliff-backed beach, great for surfers or a quiet retreat.
• Picos de Europa National Park – A day trip from Santander, offering breathtaking mountain views and hiking routes.

Cultural & Historical Sights Nearby Santander

• Palacio de la Magdalena – A royal summer palace with stunning coastal views.
• Santander Cathedral – A historic cathedral with an impressive crypt.
• Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico – A maritime museum showcasing Santander’s deep connection with the sea.
• Cuevas de Altamira (near Santillana del Mar) – Famous prehistoric cave paintings (replica cave visit required).
• Santillana del Mar – A perfectly preserved medieval village, one of Spain’s prettiest towns.

Adventure & Unique Experiences Nearby Santander

• Boat Trip to Somo & Pedreña – A scenic ferry ride across the bay, ideal for vanlifers who want a break from driving.
• Surfing in Somo – One of the best surf spots in northern Spain, with surf schools available.
• Cueva El Soplao – Impressive cave formations, perfect for an underground adventure.
• Fuente Dé Cable Car (Picos de Europa) – Stunning views of the mountains from a high-altitude cable car.
• Try Local Pintxos – Santander has some great pintxos bars, especially around Plaza Cañadío.

Campervan-Friendly Parking & Stay Options in Santander

• Área de Autocaravanas de Santander – Free motorhome parking near the ferry terminal (limited facilities).
• Laredo Camper Park – A well-equipped camper area near a long sandy beach.
• Playa de Somo Parking – Overnight parking spot with beach access, great for surfers.
• Cabárceno Nature Park Overnight Stay – A wildlife park where you can park overnight and wake up near free-roaming animals.
• Aires & Wild Camping Spots – Use the Park4Night app to find scenic coastal spots and quiet rural locations nearby.

Porto

Scenic & Natural Spots Nearby Porto

• Miradouro da Serra do Pilar – Best panoramic view over Porto, especially at sunset.
• Foz do Douro – Stunning coastal area where the Douro River meets the Atlantic, great for a seaside walk.
• Parque da Cidade – Porto’s largest park, ideal for a relaxing break from driving.
• Praia de Matosinhos – A popular beach near Porto, great for a swim or surf.
• Douro Valley (Day Trip) – Breathtaking wine region with terraced vineyards and river views.

Cultural & Historical Sights Nearby Porto

• Livraria Lello – One of the world’s most beautiful bookshops (inspiration for Harry Potter fans).
• Clérigos Tower – Climb to the top for incredible city views.
• Ribeira District – Porto’s charming old town along the river, full of cafés, bars, and traditional houses.
• São Bento Train Station – Famous for its stunning blue and white azulejo tilework.
• Palácio da Bolsa – A historic palace with an incredible Arabic-style room.
• Dom Luís I Bridge – Walk across this iconic bridge for amazing views of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.

Adventure & Unique Experiences Nearby Porto

• Wine Tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia – Visit famous port wine cellars like Sandeman, Graham’s, or Taylor’s and ask for a taster tray to try a little bit of each wine. 
• Boat Cruise on the Douro River – Take a traditional rabelo boat for scenic views of the city and bridges.
• Ride the Historic Tram – The No. 1 tram takes you along the waterfront to Foz do Douro which is £3
• Bolhão Market – A traditional market with fresh local produce and Portuguese snacks.
• Try a Francesinha – Porto’s famous (and very indulgent) sandwich covered in cheese and sauce.
• Visit a Fado Show – Experience Portugal’s traditional soulful music in an intimate setting.

Campervan-Friendly Parking & Stay Options in Porto

• Parque da Cidade Motorhome Parking – Free parking near Porto’s biggest park, a peaceful overnight stay.
• Vila Nova de Gaia Camper Park – Well-equipped site with easy access to Porto via public transport.
• Canidelo Beach Parking – Coastal parking spot near the beach, great for a scenic stay.
• Douro Riverside Parking – Some spots along the river allow campervans, check Park4Night for updates.
• Wild Camping – Some scenic coastal spots near Matosinhos and further south, but overnight restrictions may apply.

Lisbon 

Scenic & Natural Spots Nearby Lisbon

• Miradouro de Santa Catarina – Stunning city and river views, great for sunsets.
• Parque Eduardo VII – A peaceful green space with a panoramic view of Lisbon.
• Praia do Guincho – A wild, scenic beach near Cascais, perfect for surfers and nature lovers.
• Serra de Sintra (Day Trip) – Lush, magical forested hills with castles and palaces.
• Arrábida Natural Park – Breathtaking coastline with turquoise waters and hidden beaches.

Cultural & Historical Sights Nearby Lisbon

• Belém Tower – An iconic symbol of Lisbon on the Tagus River.
• Jerónimos Monastery – A stunning Manueline-style monastery and UNESCO site.
• Alfama District – Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhood, full of narrow streets and Fado music.
• Castelo de São Jorge – A medieval castle with spectacular views of the city.
• LX Factory – A cool, artsy district with street art, independent shops, and cafés.
• Palácio da Pena (Sintra) – A colourful, fairytale-like palace on a hilltop.
• Quinta da Regaleira (Sintra) – A mystical estate with underground tunnels and the famous Initiation Well.

Adventure & Unique Experiences Nearby Lisbon

• Tram 28 Ride – A classic Lisbon experience, winding through the city’s historic districts.
• Time Out Market – A food lover’s paradise with top Portuguese dishes.
• Sunset at Cristo Rei Statue – Amazing panoramic views from the huge Christ statue across the river.
• Try a Pastel de Nata in Belém – The best Portuguese custard tarts from the original bakery, Pastéis de Belém.
• Boat Trip on the Tagus River – Take a ferry or a sunset cruise for a unique perspective of the city.
• Explore Cascais – A charming seaside town with beaches, great seafood, and coastal views.
• Visit Cabo da Roca – The westernmost point of mainland Europe, with dramatic cliffs and ocean views.

Campervan-Friendly Parking & Stay Options in Lisbon

• Lisboa Camping & Bungalows – A full-facility campsite near the city, good for a secure stay.
• Costa da Caparica Camper Park – A campervan-friendly area near stunning beaches, just south of Lisbon.
• Belem River Parking – Some overnight parking allowed near the Belém area, great for sightseeing.
• Sintra Free Parking (P1/P3) – Decent spots for campervans outside Sintra’s historic center.
• Arrábida National Park Wild Camping – Scenic nature spots, though overnight stays may be restricted in high season.
• Use the Park4Night App – Find updated, hidden gems for camper-friendly stays in and around Lisbon.

Alvor (Wider Algarve)

Scenic & Natural Spots Nearby Alvor

• Praia dos Três Irmãos (Alvor) – Stunning rock formations, golden sands, and caves to explore.
• Ria de Alvor Nature Reserve – A peaceful spot for birdwatching, walking, and paddleboarding.
• Benagil Cave – Famous sea cave with a skylight, best reached by kayak or boat. The collection points are along the coast but the cheapest is from Lagos.
• Ponta da Piedade (Lagos) – Dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters, perfect for photography.
• Serra de Monchique – A lush mountain escape with panoramic views, hot springs, and hiking trails.
• Sagres & Cabo de São Vicente – Europe’s southwesternmost point, known as ‘the end of the world’ with epic cliffs and sunsets.
• Praia da Marinha – One of the most beautiful beaches in the world, ideal for snorkeling and photography.
• Ilha de Tavira – A beautiful offshore island with pristine beaches, accessible by boat from Tavira.

Cultural & Historical Sights Nearby Alvor

• Silves Castle – A well-preserved Moorish castle with amazing views over the town.
• Lagos Old Town – Cobbled streets, historic buildings, and a lively atmosphere.
• Faro Old Town – A charming walled city with cobbled streets and a relaxed vibe.
• Alte Village – A picturesque traditional Algarve village with whitewashed houses and natural springs.
• Loulé Market – A great place to experience authentic Portuguese culture, with local crafts and fresh produce.
• Fortaleza de Sagres – A historic fortress with rugged coastal views.

Adventure & Unique Experiences Nearby Alvor

• Dolphin Watching from Portimão or Lagos – Take a boat trip to see wild dolphins.
• Surfing in Arrifana or Amado Beach – Some of the best surf spots in Portugal.
• Cliff Walking from Alvor to Praia do Vau – A stunning coastal hike with breathtaking views.
• Wine Tasting in Lagoa or Silves – The Algarve has some fantastic wineries to explore.
• Off-Road Jeep Tour in Monchique – A great way to explore the Algarve’s rugged interior.
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding or Kayaking in Alvor Lagoon – A peaceful way to enjoy the natural beauty.
• Boat Tour from Albufeira – Explore hidden caves and secret beaches along the coast.
• Traditional Fado Night in Tavira or Lagos – Experience Portugal’s soulful music in an intimate setting.

Campervan-Friendly Parking & Stay Options

• Alvor Campervan Parking – A simple but convenient area near the town and beach.
• Figueira Caravan Park (Near Sagres) – A quiet, well-maintained spot with great facilities.
• Lagos Motorhome Park – Secure parking within walking distance of the city center.
• Silves Riverside Parking – A popular and scenic free parking spot near the castle.
• Faro Beach Parking – A great coastal overnight spot close to the city.
• Manta Rota Camper Area – One of the best campervan parks in the eastern Algarve, right by the beach.
• Wild Camping in the West Algarve – Areas around Carrapateira and Vila do Bispo are popular but check local restrictions.
• Use Park4Night – Find the best and latest campervan-friendly spots throughout the Algarve.

Sines & Alentejo Coast

Scenic & Natural Spots Nearby Sines

• Praia de São Torpes – A great beach for surfing, with warm waters due to the nearby power station.
• Praia da Samoqueira (Porto Covo) – Stunning rock formations and turquoise water, perfect for vanlifers looking for a wild beach.
• Porto Covo – A charming fishing village with whitewashed houses and incredible coastal views.
• Vicentine Coast Natural Park – A rugged and unspoiled coastline with scenic hikes and remote beaches.
• Praia da Amália – A hidden gem with waterfalls cascading onto the beach.
• Cabo Sardão – A unique spot where storks nest on the cliffs right above the ocean.
• Praia de Odeceixe – A beautiful river-meets-ocean beach, great for paddleboarding.

Cultural & Historical Sights Nearby Sines

• Sines Castle – A historic castle with fantastic sea views, birthplace of explorer Vasco da Gama.
• Vila Nova de Milfontes – A picturesque riverside town with beautiful architecture and a laid-back vibe.
• Zambujeira do Mar – A small coastal village with stunning cliffside views and fresh seafood restaurants.

Adventure & Unique Experiences in Sines

• Surfing at São Torpes or Arrifana – Some of the best waves in Portugal.
• Hiking the Rota Vicentina – A world-famous trail following the dramatic coastline.
• Dolphin Watching from Sines or Setúbal – Take a boat tour to see wild dolphins.
• Horse Riding on the Beach (Comporta) – A unique way to experience the wild coastline.
• Wine Tasting in Alentejo – The region is famous for its bold red wines.

Campervan-Friendly Parking & Stay Options Sines

• Porto Covo Campervan Area – A great spot near the village with ocean views.
• Vila Nova de Milfontes Riverside Parking – A peaceful riverside overnight spot.
• Zambujeira do Mar Camper Area – Scenic location with basic facilities.
• Wild Camping Along the Costa Vicentina – Some spots are still accessible but check restrictions with Park4Night.

 

Ready to travel Portugal in your campervan or motorhome? You might want to also consider getting specialist motorhome and campervan insurance, for peace of mind as you travel Europe. Get a free online quote today.