Portugal Inland Paths, Self-drive

Portugal Inland Paths, Self-drive

106 Views
8 Days From

$1147

$1093

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating self-drive adventure through Portugal's inland paths, exploring the country's rich history and stunning landscapes. Begin your journey in Monchique, a picturesque region perfect for hiking, cycling, or canoeing, and unwind at the thermal villa Caldas de Monchique. Discover the dramatic cliffs and legends of Cabo São Vicente and the historic fortress of Sagres. Continue to Grândola, a charming town surrounded by diverse landscapes, and explore the architectural sites of the Carnation Revolution. In Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage city, immerse yourself in Portuguese art history and the local poetic spirit. Enjoy the flexibility of car hire with unlimited mileage and 24/7 road assistance, staying in superior 4-star accommodations throughout your journey. With included breakfasts and optional dinners, this tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation in the heart of Portugal. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Monchique: picturesque region offering hiking, cycling, and adventurous canoeing.

  • Cabo São Vicente: unspoiled coastlines and dramatic cliffs with historical myths and legends.

  • Sagres: explore the fortress and its maritime adventure history.

  • Grândola: charming town with diverse mountainous and coastline surroundings.

  • Évora: a UNESCO World Heritage city, rich in Portuguese art history.

  • Alqueva: visit the largest artificial lake in Europe and enjoy stargazing.

  • Comporta: relax on the beach and explore the unique Cais Palafítico da Carrasqueira.

Itinerary

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Day 1 : ARRIVAL FARO – MONCHIQUE (80 km – 1 h)

Location: Faro, Monchique

Accommodation Name: Hotel Central Monchique or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast

Arrive at Faro International Airport, meet and greet by our local representative who will assist you with your car hire and inform you how to proceed on your departure day. Make the most of your time in the Algarve. Drive to the capital of the Algarve – Faro (just 10 minutes from the airport) and explore this city with centuries of history, starting in the Moorish and medieval times. Stroll downs the narrow streets and whitewashed houses, walk inside the walls, perhaps have a drink at one of the cities iconic bars facing the beautiful sea view or taste shellfish at one of the local restaurant. Afterwards, drive to Monchique, check-in to your hotel and the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing at the thermal resort. 



Overnight in Monchique.


Day 2 : MONCHIQUE – CAPE ST. VICENTE – MONCHIQUE (180 km – 2.5 hrs)

Location: Monchique, Caldas de Monchique, Sagres, Cape São Vicente, Pedralva, Lagos, Ponta da Piedade

Accommodation Name: Hotel Central Monchique or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast

Have an early breakfast at the hotel and after, take a short walk along the Caldas de Monchique, to find Fonte dos Amores – the Love Fountain. Today, you will be heading towards the Edge of Portugal in the South, Sagres and Cape São Vicente. If you drive straight to Cape São Vicent, besides the magnificent view over the Atlantic Ocean you will see Sagres, the fortress that witnesses all the legends of maritime adventure during the Moorish pirates’ attacks. Later on visit the Village of Pedralva and experience the rural life in the Algarve. Perhaps stop at the Gourmet Grocery or enjoy lunch at the local restaurant. On the way back, drive along the coast, pass through Lagos, and finish this day with the romantic sunset at Ponta da Piedade.


Overnight in Monchique.


Day 3 : MONCHIQUE – FOIA – GRANDOLA (180km – 2h30m)

Location: Monchique, Foia, Aljezur, Vila Nova de Milfontes, Grândola

Accommodation Name: Sobreiras Alentejo Country Hotel or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After your leisure breakfast at the hotel, check-out and follow your drive to Grandola. En-route visit the village of Monchique, starting point for a hike up to Foia Peak, the highest point in the Algarve. Continue driving to Aljezur, a small charming village that stretches along the coastline and admire breath-taking views over the ocean. Perhaps stop for a lunch at the local restaurant and try Perceves, typical speciality of this region. Passing Vila Nova de Mil Fontes, you will be arriving at the hotel that is settled in the beautiful Valley of Sobreiras. After the check-in, spend the rest of the day at leisure, enjoying all facilities of the hotel and admiring the charming rural atmosphere of its landscape. Dinner at the hotel (included).

Overnight in Grândola.

Day 4 : GRANDOLA – COMPORTA – GRANDOLA (120 km – 2.45 hrs)

Location: Grândola, Comporta Beach, Cais Palafítico da Carrasqueira, Melides, Santiago do Cacém

Accommodation Name: Sobreiras Alentejo Country Hotel or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel and get ready for exploring Grândola. Walk along its archaeological sites and discover the monuments of Carnation Revolution, memorable for ending fascism in Portugal. Drive to Comporta beach, located on the south of Troia. Lay back and relax at the beach and continue to Cais Palafitico da Carrasqueira, a masterpiece of popular architecture. This port, built on irregular wooden piles and boards, is a popular photography destination. The wharf and its mooring lines are used by local fishing boats. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this rural place and return back to your hotel visiting picturesque villages, such as Melides and Santiago de Cacém and discover more about the Alentejo region and its unique rustic spirit. Dinner at the hotel (included).


Overnight in Grândola.


Day 5 : GRANDOLA – ALQUEVA – EVORA (197 km – 2.45 hrs)

Location: Grândola, Alqueva Reservoir, Aldeia da Luz, Reguengos de Monsaraz, Évora

Accommodation Name: The Noble House Hotel or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast

Begin your day with a breakfast at the hotel, check-out and get ready for your following destination, Évora, the city commonly known as the book of Portuguese art history. You will drive along the Great Lake resulting from the Alqueva Reservoir, the largest artificial lake in Europe, surrounded by an enviable natural landscape. Alqueva Sky is the first certified place in the world by Starlight Foundation as a Starlight Tourism Destination, the perfect place to observe sky and stars. Drive to Aldeia da Luz, village submerged by the dam waters, visit the Museum and explore deeper about its tragic history. Not far from Évora, there is a Reguengos de Monsaraz, well-known for its delicious wines. Once in Évora, check-in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. 



Overnight in Évora.


Day 6 : EVORA – ELVAS – BADAJOZ (SPAIN) – EVORA (205 km – 2.45 hrs)

Location: Évora, Evoramonte, Estremoz, Elvas

Accommodation Name: The Noble House Hotel or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel. Today you will extend your driving experience for Badajoz, located in Spain. En-route stop at the Evoramonte parish and admire simple white houses, traditionally painted with white lime and unique ornaments. Follow to Estremoz, simple provincial town, busy trading center, with lots of shops selling farm tools, earthenware pottery and gourmet delights – all of which are available at the great market that takes part at the huge central square on Saturday. The town also boasts some excellent eateries. In Elvas visit the largest bulwarked fortification in the world that had major importance during the battles of independence of Portugal in the mid-17th century, and served as a base for General Wellington during the Napoleonic Wars in the early 19th century. Afterwards you will be crossing the border with Spain and you will arrive at Badajoz. Badajoz has a handful of good museums and a hilltop Alcazaba. Return to Évora and spend the rest of the afternoon walking down its romantic streets, perhaps taste the local gastronomy at one of the restaurants. 



Overnight in Évora.


Day 7 : ÉVORA – MONCHIQUE (210 km – 2.45 hrs)

Location: Évora, Monchique

Accommodation Name: Hotel Central Monchique or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast

After the breakfast at the hotel, check-out and head to Évora. The name came from the Celtic word, Ebora and nowadays it is one of the most romantic cities of Portugal, classified in the UNESCO World Heritage. Templo de Diana (Diana Temple), Catedral da Sé, Capela dos Ossos, are just a few sites to visit, on which you will learn why this city was chosen by the Portuguese kings as their residence. Delicious local gastronomy cannot be ignored, as its Migas com Carne, leftover bread, soaked in water, garlic, spices and combined with braised pork, is a luscious experience for the foodie lovers. Big farewell to Évora because in the afternoon you will drive back to Monchique in Algarve. 



Overnight in Monchique.


Day 8 : MONCHIQUE – DEPARTURE FARO (80 km – 1 h)

Location: Monchique, Faro

Meals Included: Breakfast

Spend your last morning in Portugal savouring your breakfast. After check-out from your hotel and drive back to Faro Airport where you will return the rental car and prepare for your return flight.


What's Included

  • Car Hire

    The tour includes car hire with unlimited mileage, Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW), theft protection, 24/7 road assistance, replacement vehicle in case of an accident or breakdown, safety equipment, road map, airport fees, and tax.

  • Meet & Greet

    A meet and greet service is included upon arrival.

What's Not Included

  • Flights

    Domestic and international flights are not included in the tour package.

  • Drinks

    Drinks during meals are not included unless specified otherwise.

  • City Tax

    City tax is not included and is payable on the spot.

  • Porterage and Gratuities

    Porterage and gratuities are not included in the tour package.

  • Tour Guide

    A tour guide is not included in the package.

  • Personal Expenditures

    Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks, meals, or items not explicitly stated in the program are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays or accidents is not included.

  • Car Hire Exclusions

    Fuel, fines, tolls, parking, Personal Accident Insurance (PAI), damage due to negligence, theft with keys left in the ignition, and additional drivers are not included in the car hire.

Requirements

Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Portugal. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.

Please Note

  • Drivers age from 26 to 75 years old (must have had their driver´s license for a minimum of one year)
  • Pick-up hours are Monday through Sunday, 07:00 to 22:00 hrs. Pick-up outside of these times is subject to a surcharge.
  • Drivers who are not citizens of the European Union must present an international driver’s license together with the original from their country of origin.
  • If the customer returns the vehicle earlier than the agreed upon drop-off date stated in the rental contract, the rental company will not refund the customer for any unused days
  • Deposit credit card Visa or MasterCard only
  • Accident/theft reporting must be notified within 48 hours of the incident
  • In cases where, following the return of the vehicle, additional cleaning is required due to the car being dirty beyond the level expected from normal vehicle use, an additional charge shall apply, against evidence of the cost of the service provided
  • Return procedure and the exact designated area will be advised by the rental car company when you pick up the car on arrival day
  • We reserve the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical problems or security reasons.
  • Late check-out, early check-in, connecting or adjoining rooms at the hotel are all subject to availability and not guaranteed.

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1-2 Monchique:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Central or similar 3*

Day 3-4 Grândola:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Sobreiras Alentejo Country Hotel or similar 4*

Day 5-6 Évora:

  • Standard Hotel Category = The Noble House Hotel or similar 4*

Day 7 Monchique:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Central or similar 3*

CAR HIRE OPTIONS:

  • Car Group Y =  Renault Clio or similar

Mode of Transport

Travel at your own pace with a self-drive tour, featuring car hire options like the Fiat 500 or Renault Clio, complete with unlimited mileage, road assistance, and essential safety equipment.

Accommodation

Enjoy 7 nights of superior accommodation in 4-star hotels, including Hotel Central Monchique, Sobreiras Alentejo Country Hotel, and The Noble House Hotel, offering comfort and quality throughout your journey.

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1-2 Monchique:

  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Central Monchique or similar 4*

Day 3-4 Grândola:

  • Superior Hotel Category = Sobreiras Alentejo Country Hotel or similar 4*

Day 5-6 Évora:

  • Superior Hotel Category = The Noble House Hotel or similar 4*

Day 7 Monchique:

  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Central Monchique or similar 4*

CAR HIRE OPTIONS:

  • Car Group A =  Fiat 500 or similar
  • Car Group C =  Renault Clio or similar

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of car can I hire for the self-drive tour?

    You can hire a car from Car Group A, such as a Fiat 500 or similar, or from Car Group C, such as a Renault Clio or similar.

  • What meals are included in the tour package?

    The tour package includes 7 breakfasts and 2 dinners on Day 3 and Day 4. There is also an optional half board supplement available for an additional 5 dinners on Day 1, 2, and 5 to 7.

  • What is included in the car hire package?

    The car hire package includes unlimited mileage, Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW), theft protection (TP), 24/7 road assistance, a replacement vehicle in case of an accident or breakdown, safety equipment, a road map, airport fees, and tax.

  • Are there any age restrictions for drivers on this tour?

    Yes, drivers must be between 26 to 75 years old and must have had their driver's license for a minimum of one year.

  • What should I wear when visiting religious or official buildings in Portugal?

    Visitors should avoid wearing sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts, or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious, or official buildings.

  • What are some of the highlights of the tour in Monchique?

    In Monchique, you can enjoy picturesque hiking or cycling excursions, adventurous canoeing, and visit the thermal villa Caldas de Monchique and the Love Fountain.

  • What can I expect to see at Cabo São Vicente?

    At Cabo São Vicente, you can expect to see marvelous landscapes, unspoiled coastlines, and dramatic horizons of cliffs, along with myths and legends from the Discoveries Era and the enigmatic figure of Prince Henry the Navigator.

  • What is special about the Alqueva Sky?

    The Alqueva Sky is the first certified place in the world by the Starlight Foundation as a Starlight Tourism Destination, making it a perfect place to observe the sky and stars.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.

  • Do you offer any travel insurance?

    We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure. 

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers

  • When are there specific hotel names confirmed?

    Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client's arrival

  • Are Visa fees included in the price?

    No, visa fees are not included

  • Are flights included in the tour?

    No, they are not included

  • What does the price include?

    What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.

  • Is there any option for solo traveller?

    Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.

Reviews of this operator

TG  

Portugal Discovery, Self-drive

04-Nov-2022

Great itinerary. Hotels were quite nice with breakfast included. Highways in Portugal may be the best in the world.

Mary Ann  

South of Portugal

17-Sep-2022

This tour was so much more than I expected. The hotels were great especially the Villa Gale in Lagos. We had busy days and saw so much. There were only a few of us on my tour so Fernando, our driver, and Miguel, our guide, were flexible about doing independent things plus the regular tour. They were always willing to help and very sociable. I found Portugal to be a hidden gem and would love to return to spend more time in some areas. ...more ...less

Diego  

The Best of Portugal

14-Apr-2022

This tour has a lot of walking it’s well educated on the history of Portugal I had a wonderful driver his name was Fabio Gomes and I tour guide Cristina Evo she was wonderful she was very well educated and She knew a lot of information I really like to thank them both it was a great trip ...more ...less

Tony  

Wondrs of Portugal

06-Jun-2022

A wonderful Tour Will definitely book again

Robert  

Lisbon Cultural Experience, City Break, 6 Days

18-Aug-2022

Great communication from the Tourradar team. Everything worked out as planned / promised. Would use them again.

Leo B.  

South of Portugal

17-Feb-2022

What an amazing experience! Surprises around every corner. We really learned about the culture, ate great meals and visited several hidden gems! Highly recommend!! Thank you to our awesome guide, Joao!

Jay C.  

Portugal North and South, Self-drive

30-Oct-2022

It was a wonderful experience. The hotels are way above my expectations. Just one little thing not too important is that there is drop off fee at Faro airport. I totally recommend this tour to my friends.

Pauline  

The Best of Portugal

15-Mar-2022

Our tour guide Kristina was fabulous. Our driver Fabio was excellent. Our initial trying to find our tour at Marquis de Pombal Square in Lisbon was very nerve wracking with anxiety as the name Tour Radar was nowhere to be seen. It was under the name Cityrama. Luckily Kristina found us wandering in the parking lot with rolling suitcases. Other than that everything went well and the breakfasts were great and hotels were very good. ...more ...less

1 Select your preferred date

Friday - Friday

Jan 02, 2026 - Jan 09, 2026
$1147 $1093 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$54 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

Jan 03, 2026 - Jan 10, 2026
$1147 $1093 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$54 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Jan 04, 2026 - Jan 11, 2026
$1147 $1093 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$54 (USD)

Monday - Monday

Jan 05, 2026 - Jan 12, 2026
$1147 $1093 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$54 (USD)

Tuesday - Tuesday

Jan 06, 2026 - Jan 13, 2026
$1147 $1093 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$54 (USD)

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jan 07, 2026 - Jan 14, 2026
$1147 $1093 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$54 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Jan 08, 2026 - Jan 15, 2026
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Travel Club discount: -$54 (USD)

Friday - Friday

Jan 09, 2026 - Jan 16, 2026
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Travel Club discount: -$54 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

Jan 10, 2026 - Jan 17, 2026
$1147 $1093 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$54 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Jan 11, 2026 - Jan 18, 2026
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Travel Club discount: -$54 (USD)

Monday - Monday

Jan 12, 2026 - Jan 19, 2026
$1147 $1093 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$54 (USD)

Tuesday - Tuesday

Jan 13, 2026 - Jan 20, 2026
$1147 $1093 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$54 (USD)

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jan 14, 2026 - Jan 21, 2026
$1147 $1093 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$54 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Jan 15, 2026 - Jan 22, 2026
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Travel Club discount: -$54 (USD)

Friday - Friday

Jan 16, 2026 - Jan 23, 2026
$1147 $1093 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$54 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

Jan 17, 2026 - Jan 24, 2026
$1147 $1093 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$54 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Jan 18, 2026 - Jan 25, 2026
$1147 $1093 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$54 (USD)

Monday - Monday

Jan 19, 2026 - Jan 26, 2026
$1147 $1093 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$54 (USD)

Tuesday - Tuesday

Jan 20, 2026 - Jan 27, 2026
$1147 $1093 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$54 (USD)

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jan 21, 2026 - Jan 28, 2026
$1147 $1093 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$54 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Jan 22, 2026 - Jan 29, 2026
$1147 $1093 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$54 (USD)

Friday - Friday

Jan 23, 2026 - Jan 30, 2026
$1147 $1093 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$54 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

Jan 24, 2026 - Jan 31, 2026
$1147 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Jan 25, 2026 - Feb 01, 2026
$1147 (USD)

Monday - Monday

Jan 26, 2026 - Feb 02, 2026
$1147 (USD)

Tuesday - Tuesday

Jan 27, 2026 - Feb 03, 2026
$1147 (USD)

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jan 28, 2026 - Feb 04, 2026
$1147 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Jan 29, 2026 - Feb 05, 2026
$1147 (USD)

Friday - Friday

Jan 30, 2026 - Feb 06, 2026
$1147 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

Jan 31, 2026 - Feb 07, 2026
$1147 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    CTS demo white label allows you to make 20 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

    CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of 55% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.

Portugal Inland Paths, Self-drive

8 Days Starting and ending in Faro, Portugal

Visiting: Faro, Monchique, Caldas de Monchique, Sagres, Cape São Vicente, Pedralva, Lagos, Ponta da Piedade, Foia, Aljezur, Vila Nova de Milfontes, Grândola, Comporta Beach, Cais Palafítico da Carrasqueira, Melides, Santiago do Cacém, Alqueva Reservoir, Aldeia da Luz, Reguengos de Monsaraz, Évora, Evoramonte, Estremoz, Elvas ...more ...less

Tour code:

447813

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

23-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Meat

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

From: $1147 $1093 (USD) Travel Club discount: -$54

NB: Prices correct on 12-Apr-2025 but subject to change.

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