9 Days in Portugal: Algarve Drives, Castles, and Culinary Finds

Portugal had been on our list for a while—and Spring of 2022, we finally made it happen. We started in the Algarve, hugged the Atlantic coast, wandered through historic villages, and wrapped up in Porto. From private fishing charters and castle hikes to gelato breaks and sunset views, every day brought something new. Whether you’re a first-timer or planning your next adventure, here’s how we did 9 days in Portugal by car—complete with tips, links, and a few unexpected gems.

Day 1: Faro Arrival & Salema's Seaside Calm

✈️ Rotterdam to Faro → Drive to Salema

After landing in Faro, we picked up our rental car and headed west toward Salema, a sleepy fishing village tucked into Portugal’s southwestern corner. The drive along the Algarve coast was easy and scenic, passing small towns, olive groves, and glimpses of the ocean.

Salema itself felt like a step back in time—fishing boats pulled up on the sand, tiled houses, and just enough cafés to keep you fed and happy. We settled in with a stroll on the beach and a laid-back dinner by the water.

🧭 Pro Tip: Book your rental car in advance and be sure to request an automatic if needed. Faro Airport is small, but lines can be long at peak hours.

🛍 Local Find: Stop at an Intermarché or Continente along the way to stock up on water, snacks, and local cheeses for your road trip.

Day 2: Private Fishing Charter in Portimão

🎣 Salema → Portimão (day trip)

We booked a private deep-sea fishing charter with Tightlines Fishing Portugal out of Portimão—and it was one of the best choices of the trip. Our captain Jaoao was welcoming and wonderful, the equipment top-notch, and the pace tailored just for us. Being on the water early in the morning, with cliffs behind us and open sea ahead, was something special.

Mike caught a blue shark which we released to swim another day and other Atlantic species, all while learning a few tricks from the locals. The boat was stocked with cold drinks and all the gear you could need. It felt more like fishing with friends than a commercial experience.

🧭 Pro Tip: If you want your catch cooked for dinner, ask the crew ahead of time—they often know local restaurants happy to prepare it for you.

🐟 Local Find: Walk the marina afterward and grab lunch at one of the low-key seafood spots near the dock—fresh fish doesn’t get fresher than this.

Day 3: Sagres Fortress, Odeceixe Lunch, Lisbon Arrival

🏰 Salema → Sagres → Odeceixe → Lisbon

We started our drive north with a stop at Sagres Fortress, perched on a dramatic bluff with panoramic Atlantic views. Wind-whipped and rich with maritime history, it's an essential Algarve experience. This was once the edge of the known world—and you feel it in your bones.

Next, we took the scenic coastal road to Praia de Odeceixe, a picturesque village where the river meets the sea. We grabbed lunch in the sun, wandered the quiet streets, and then hit the road again toward Lisbon.

We arrived in time to meet my sister at Pharmacia in the Bairro Alto district—a quirky, pharmacy-themed restaurant with sunset views over the Tagus River. Dinner was at Páteo, where fresh seafood and a buzzy courtyard made for the perfect Lisbon welcome.

🧭 Pro Tip: Always check toll costs when routing your drive—some backroads are prettier and more affordable, even if a little longer.

🥂 Local Find: Ask for the cocktail menu at Pharmacia—it changes seasonally and the garden seating is perfect for golden hour.

Day 4: Scooters, Monasteries, and Waterfront Wanderings

🛴 Exploring Belém & Lisbon

We grabbed Bird scooters and made our way to Belém, Lisbon’s historic riverside district. First stop: the Museu de Marinha, packed with ship models, globes, and navigational gear that tells Portugal’s seafaring story.

We stopped for lunch (and a much-needed gelato) at Nosolo Italia, right on the river, before heading to Jerónimos Monastery—an architectural wonder that deserves time to admire. From there, we cruised along the Tagus River with views of the 25 de Abril Bridge, Lisbon’s answer to the Golden Gate.

Dinner was at A Brasileira, a historic café known for its literary past and Art Deco vibe. The crowd was lively, the food rich and satisfying.

🧭 Pro Tip: Belém is flat, scenic, and scooter-friendly. Start early to avoid crowds at the monastery.

🍦 Local Find: Skip the line at Pastéis de Belém and try the custard tarts at Manteigaria near Cais do Sodré—locals swear they’re better.

Day 5: Sintra Castles & a Seaside Stay in Atouguia da Baleia

🏰 Lisbon → Sintra → Atouguia da Baleia

We left Lisbon early for Sintra, and yes—it’s as magical as everyone says. Misty forests, tiled palaces, and romantic ruins make this UNESCO town feel like a fairytale. We explored Pena Palace and walked the forested trails of Freedom Park (Parque da Liberdade) before continuing our journey north.

Our next stop, Atouguia da Baleia, is a quiet seaside town just south of Peniche. It's small but full of character, with surf beaches, historic charm, and a peaceful rhythm that was just what we needed after city life.

🧭 Pro Tip: Parking in Sintra is tough. Take the shuttle from the town center or arrive early to beat the tour groups.

🐚 Local Find: Visit the Igreja de São Leonardo in Atouguia da Baleia—one of Portugal’s oldest churches and an unexpected architectural treasure.

Day 6: Peniche, Consolação Beach & Poolside Capirinhas

🌊 Exploring the Silver Coast

We kicked off the morning at the Peniche municipal market, a vibrant indoor space where locals shop for everything from fresh sardines and produce to handmade baskets and pastries. Walking the aisles gave us a real glimpse into daily life here—and we couldn’t resist picking up a few snacks (not snails) for the road.

From there, we made our way to Consolação Beach, where golden sand meets dramatic cliffs and a centuries-old fort watches over the Atlantic. It’s less crowded than Nazaré and perfect for a long shoreline walk or just gazing out at the surf.

Later in the afternoon, we traded sea breezes for a laid-back visit to the community pool in Atouguia da Baleia. With a poolside café and a relaxed, local vibe, it turned into one of those perfect unscripted afternoons. We sipped caipirinhas, chatted with locals, and basked in the sun until we were fully on Portugal time.

Dinner that evening was back at Clube da Praia, where the seafood was simple, fresh, and served with a side of beachy charm.

🧭 Pro Tip: Many Portuguese towns have covered markets that are open in the morning—great for browsing local goods or grabbing picnic supplies.

🍹 Local Find: Portugal’s municipal pools are often open to visitors for just a few euros—bring cash, towels, and an appetite for whatever’s grilling at the café.

Day 7: Nazaré Waves & a Scenic Drive to Porto

🚘 Atouguia → Nazaré → Figueira da Foz → Porto

We started the day in Nazaré, home to some of the world’s tallest waves. The morning fog lifted just in time for us to catch surfers training below the famous Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo.

Breakfast at Village Brunch & Coffee was cozy and creative—think smoothie bowls, great espresso, and sea views. Then we drove the winding coastal roads through Figueira da Foz and up into the hills before descending into Porto.

In Porto, we checked out Livraria Lello, the famed bookstore said to have inspired Harry Potter. Later we grabbed an afternoon snack at Lazy Breakfast Club, stumbled onto the buzzing Bar Aduela, and ended the night with dinner at Obicà Mozzarella Bar.

🧭 Pro Tip: If you're driving into Porto, park outside the city center and walk or tram in—old town traffic can be tight.

📚 Local Find: Skip the Livraria Lello line by booking your entry online in advance. It’s small but worth it for the atmosphere.

Day 8: Slow Wanders & the Bone Chapel in Porto

🏙️ Exploring Porto & Capela dos Ossos

We kept our final full day flexible, letting the city lead us. Porto is a place that rewards curiosity—around every corner, there’s something unexpected.

After a slow morning strolling through the Ribeira district and people-watching along the river, we made our way to Igreja de São Francisco, one of Porto’s most ornate churches. But tucked beneath its gilded beauty is something a little darker: the catacombs and ossuary, where thousands of bones are displayed behind glass in a haunting yet strangely peaceful chapel.

The contrast between the opulence above and the silence below was striking—and deeply memorable. It’s not the most talked-about site in Porto, but it might be one of the most impactful.

Later, we crossed the Dom Luís I Bridge one last time, wandered through boutique-lined streets, and stopped for a relaxed lunch. We ended the day sipping wine and taking in the rhythm of the city from a quiet terrace.

🧭 Pro Tip: Entry to Igreja de São Francisco includes both the main church and the catacombs—buy tickets at the church, and go early to avoid the midday groups.

☠️ Local Find: The ossuary is easy to miss—it’s located in the museum section next to the church, down a quiet set of stairs. Respectful dress and silence are appreciated.

Day 9: Departure from Porto

✈️ Return to Rotterdam

We returned the car and boarded our flight back to Rotterdam, already plotting our return. Maybe next time: the Douro Valley, the Azores, or even a rail journey across northern Portugal.

Portugal has a way of pulling you in—with its beauty, its soul, and it's quiet surprises. We left with full hearts, new stories, and sandy shoes.

Let me help you create a tailor-made itinerary that goes beyond the guidebook. Whether you're after wine tastings in Porto, road trips along the Silver Coast, or secret beaches in the Algarve—I can make it happen.

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