Discovering Algarve and Alentejo, Self-drive

Discovering Algarve and Alentejo, Self-drive

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15 Days From

$1225

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Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating 14-night self-drive journey through Portugal's enchanting Algarve and Alentejo regions. Begin in Faro, the Algarve's vibrant capital, and explore its rich history and stunning architecture. Discover the charm of Silves, with its well-preserved castle and cobbled streets, before heading to Beja, a town steeped in Roman and Moorish history. In Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site, immerse yourself in Portuguese art and culture. Continue to Tavira, a picturesque fishing village, and finally, Olhão, known for its bustling port and exquisite seafood. Enjoy comfortable accommodations and the freedom of unlimited mileage car hire, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Delight in local delicacies and soak in the region's unique blend of Moorish and Portuguese influences, making this a truly unforgettable cultural adventure. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Faro: Explore the capital of Algarve with its picturesque streets and historical sites like the Faro Municipal Museum and Igreja do Carmo.

  • Silves: Discover the charming town with its well-preserved castle and cobbled streets that reflect its rich history.

  • Évora: Visit this UNESCO World Heritage city, known as the book of Portuguese art history, with landmarks like the Templo de Diana and Capela dos Ossos.

  • Olhão: Experience the vibrant fishing village, famous for its seafood and as one of the major ports of Algarve.

  • Beja: Explore the historic town with its medieval castle and Roman influences, set in the beautiful Alentejo region.

  • Tavira: Enjoy the blend of Moorish and Portuguese architecture in this quaint fishing village with superb island beaches.

  • Moura: Delve into the Moorish legends and visit the Castle of Moura, surrounded by a landscape of rose-covered hills.

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Arrival Faro

Location: Faro

Accommodation Name: Dom Bernardo Hotel or similar

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. Check-in to your hotel in Faro and if you’re itching to start exploring this fascinating capital of Algarve, stroll down its picturesque streets walking through the Arco da Vila that gives access to the old town, perhaps visit the Faro Municipal Museum and learn about the seafaring history of this city in a 5 long time exhibitions that present the origins of Faro from the Roman time until the present day. Igreja do Carmo, the Algarve's most prized historical church built in majestic Portuguese Barroque architecture, and the Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones) unveil you the mystery of the monks ‘lives and their theory of the ephemeral nature of human existence. 



Overnight in Faro.



Day 2 : Faro – Silves (65 Km – 1 H)

Location: Silves

Accommodation Name: Colina dos Mouros or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast


Wake up to your tasty breakfast and get ready for your next destination. Silves is a delightful town, settled on the top of the hill above the Arade River. It was an ancient capital of Algarve, and Castle of Silves is still living evidence of the wealth and popularity of this town. Just below the castle there is a Silves Cathedral, Roman Bridge and Cruz de Portugal. While in Silves try typical local cake called Morgado de Silves. Is is made from almond and chila candy, stuffed with soft eggs and topped with royal icing, decorated with stands of eggs and marzipan shaped into small shapes that represent elements of the Algarve nature. 


Overnight in Silves.


Day 3 : Silves

Location: Silves

Accommodation Name: Colina dos Mouros or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast


Enjoy your morning breakfast at the hotel. Today you can carry on exploring the Silves region. As a regional capital in one of the kingdoms of Taifa and a commercial and cultural centre, the roots of the Arabic influence are still presents in the local architecture and some of the local gastronomy. Walk down its alleys and streets and admire the Arabic elements and azulejos, decorative tiles that are shaping local frameworks. You can go to see the lovely resort town of Lagos, and take a swim in one of the golden sandy beaches. 



Overnight in Silves.



Day 4 : Silves

Location: Silves

Accommodation Name: Colina dos Mouros or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast


Wake up to delicious breakfast at the hotel and spend your last day in Silves.


Overnight in Silves.

Day 5 : Silves – Beja (140 Km - 2 Hrs)

Location: Beja

Accommodation Name: Hotel Vila Galé Clube de Campo or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast


Start your day with the breakfast at the hotel and get ready for your following destination. Today you will drive to Beja, small historic town, capital of the roman ages under the Julius Ceasar regime. Beja was not only roman city but its architecture disclose the Moorish impact on the local building design, visible in the cobbled streets and houses in the old town. Medieval Castle from 13th century, the important fortress in the battles to defend Portugal's borders. Interesting spot to see is Sé Cathedral, Church of Santo Amaro, Rainha D Leonor Regional Museum and St. Mary of the Market Church.



Overnight in Beja.



Day 6 : Beja

Location: Beja

Accommodation Name: Hotel Vila Galé Clube de Campo or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast


Begin your day with the tasty breakfast at the hotel and continue exploring the beautiful region of Alentejo. Today you can drive to the charming villages of Serpa and Aljustrel, settled in the beautiful landscape created by the river Guadians. The landscape of Serpa is stunning, not only because of beautiful architecture and historic walls in the historic centre, but also on the magnificent, extensive plain and the rose-covered hills around the village. Serpa historic city centre hides monuments worthy to visit, such as Gothic-style Mother Churches, Nossa Senhora da Saúde or Misericórdia, as well as archaeological and ethnographic museums. Third oldest Tower clock is located here. Encourage yourself to try some of the local dishes, lamb stew, açorda, grains with garlic and laurel, and traditional sweets such as gila puffs and curd cheese, delight everyone´s senses. Drive to another roman village, Aljustrel and en-route admire the tranquil landscape, green valleys and rocky hills that surrounds this hidden roman gem of Alentejo region.



Overnight in Beja.



Day 7 : Beja – Évora (95 Km – 1.5 Hrs)

Location: Évora

Accommodation Name: Hotel Vitoria Stone or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast


Morning breakfast at the hotel is a great beginning of your new venture. Drive to Évora, city commonly known as the book of Portuguese art history. 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 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 luscious experience for the foodie lovers. 


Overnight in Évora.



Day 8 : Évora

Location: Évora

Accommodation Name: Hotel Vitoria Stone or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast


After the morning breakfast at the hotel, stroll down the narrow streets of Évora again, and absorb it´s romantic atmosphere. Explore the hidden corners of the city, and enjoy the well tasted sweets and dishes at one of the local restaurant. Get a deeper insight into the local culture by visiting the Museu de Évora and learn why this city is so welcoming and charming throughout the centuries.

Overnight in Évora.

Day 9 : Évora – Moura – Évora (240 Km – 3 Hrs)

Location: Évora

Accommodation Name: Hotel Vitoria Stone or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast


Enjoy your luscious breakfast at the hotel and get ready to explore the Moorish legends. drive to town Moura, named after the Moorish Princess Moura Saluqia. The legend says the story of Saluquia that threw herself from one of the towers of the castle, after she discovered that her lover was killed. Visit the Castle of Moura on your own and explore further the history of this heartbroken story. Further on Convento das Dominicanas, Convento do Carmo and Azeite de Moura are worthy site to visit in the city centre, and relaxing cup of coffee in the heart of the city, is an excellent meeting point, with coffee shops, sidewalk cafés and many local shops. Return to Évora for your overnight stay.

Overnight in Évora.

Day 10 : Évora – Tavira (70 Km – 1.5 Hrs)

Location: Tavira

Accommodation Name: Hotel Vila Gale Tavira or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast


After the breakfast continue to Tavira. Tavira is small finishing village located on the bank of the river Gilãi and with superb island beaches in easy to reach, it is a wonderful destination for ending your trip. Coquet mixture of the Moorish and Portuguese architecture is very present in here, and Torre de Tavira, Catelo de Tavira and Igreja da Misericordia are some of the proofs that perceive this unique and fascinating history. Concealed within the labyrinth of narrow streets are traditionally tiled houses, local restaurants, and many decorative churches.


Overnight in Tavira.



Day 11 : Tavira

Location: Tavira

Accommodation Name: Hotel Vila Gale Tavira or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast


Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel and the last moments in this tranquil atmosphere of Tavira. Today you can visit surrounding villages of Olhão, Vila Real de Snato Antonio and Cabanas and learn more about the local lifestyle and tradition. 


Overnight in Tavira.



Day 12 : Tavira

Location: Tavira

Accommodation Name: Hotel Vila Gale Tavira or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast


Wake up to the tasty breakfast at the hotel. While in Tavira do not forget to taste de typical cake; Folhado de Tavira, they areround-shapped puff cakes made with flour, margarine, lard and eggs. Once cooked, they are passed through shap sugar and wrapped in cellophane. Near Tavira you can also visit Cabanas de Tavira and Santa Luzia.

Overnight in Tavira.

Day 13 : Tavira – Olhão (30 Km – 0.5 H)

Location: Olhão

Accommodation Name: Quinta dos Poetas or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast


Begin your day with a delicious breakfast before driving to Olhão. Olhão is a breath-taking sight, surrounded by immersing golden beaches. Enjoy these relaxing atmosphere of the fishing town, perhaps taste the local sea food at one of the restaurant to appease your gastronomic interest, or stroll down the narrow streets of the old quarters of the town and visit the Igreja Nossa Senhora do Rosário, Museu da Cidade, Mercado de Olhão.



Overnight in Olhâo.



Day 14 : Olhão

Location: Olhão

Accommodation Name: Quinta dos Poetas or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast


Olhão is a town of many "faces". It is a major port and actually the largest fishing port in the Algarve. In Olhão region you can find fantastic beaches but also the best seafood in the Algarve. Also try the local gastronomy, the Arroz de Lingueirão, it is a rice dish made with razor clam. Also please try the Folar de Olhão , also called Folar de Leaves or Folar do Algarve. It is know for ist layered composition, coated with sugar, butter and cinnamon, which creates a unique looking caramelized leaves.

Overnight in Olhâo.

Day 15 : Olhão – Departure Faro (15 Km – 0.5 H)

Location: Faro


Spend your last morning in Olhão savouring your breakfast. Then, hop in to your car and drive back to Faro, return the rental car at the Faro Airport and prepare for your return flight.


What's Included

  • Accommodation

    14 nights' hotel accommodation in standard hotel categories.

  • Meals

    14 breakfasts are included during the tour.

  • Car Hire

    Car hire includes unlimited mileage, Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW), Theft Protection (TP), Vehicle License Fee (VLF), Airport Service Charge (ASC), and tax.

  • Other

    Meet & Greet service is included.

What's Not Included

  • Flights

    Domestic and international flights are not included.

  • Meals and 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.

  • Tour Guide

    A tour guide is not included.

  • 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, and additional drivers are not included in the car hire.

Please Note

  • Driver’s 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 from 07:00 to 22:00 hrs. Additional surcharge will be paid if pick-up out of the office hours.
  • 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
  • Instructions for the car collection
  • Day 1: Heading first to the rent a car shuttle stop. Exact indications to be advised upon confirmation
  • Day 8: Return procedure and the exact designated area will be advised by rent a 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 Faro

  • Standard Hotel Category = Dom Bernardo Hotel or similar 3*

Day 2, 3, 4 Silves

  • Standard Hotel Category = Colina dos Mouros or similar 3*

Day 5, 6 Beja

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Vila Galé Clube de Campo or similar 4*

Day 7, 8, 9 Évora

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Vitoria Stone or similar 4*

Day 10, 11, 12 Tavira

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Vila Gale Tavira or similar 4*

Day 13, 14 Olhão

  • Standard Hotel Category = Quinta dos Poetas or similar 4*

CAR HIRE OPTIONS

  • Car Group Y =  Renault Clio or similar

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1 Faro

  • Standard Hotel Category = Dom Bernardo Hotel or similar 3*

Day 2, 3, 4 Silves

  • Standard Hotel Category = Colina dos Mouros or similar 3*

Day 5, 6 Beja

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Vila Galé Clube de Campo or similar 4*

Day 7, 8, 9 Évora

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Vitoria Stone or similar 4*

Day 10, 11, 12 Tavira

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Vila Gale Tavira or similar 4*

Day 13, 14 Olhão

  • Standard Hotel Category = Quinta dos Poetas or similar 4*

CAR HIRE OPTIONS

  • Car Group C =  VW Polo or similar

Mode of Transport

This self-drive tour includes car hire with unlimited mileage, featuring a VW Polo or similar vehicle, allowing you to explore the beautiful regions of Algarve and Alentejo at your own pace.

Accommodation

Enjoy 14 nights of comfortable hotel accommodation, staying in standard hotel categories such as Dom Bernardo Hotel in Faro, Colina dos Mouros in Silves, and Hotel Vila Galé Clube de Campo in Beja, among others, offering 3 to 4-star amenities.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of car is included in the car hire for the tour?

    The car hire includes a vehicle from Car Group C, such as a VW Polo or a similar model.

  • Are there any specific requirements for drivers on this tour?

    Yes, drivers must be between 26 to 75 years old and have had their driver's license for at least one year. Non-EU citizens need to present an international driver's license along with their original license.

  • What is the policy if I return the rental car earlier than planned?

    If you return the vehicle earlier than the agreed drop-off date, the rental company will not refund you for any unused days.

  • What meals are included in the tour package?

    The tour package includes 14 breakfasts.

  • What are some of the local delicacies I can try during the tour?

    You can try local delicacies such as Morgado de Silves, a cake made from almond and chila candy, and Arroz de Lingueirão, a rice dish made with razor clam. Other local treats include Folhado de Tavira and Folar de Olhão.

  • What are some of the historical sites I can visit in Évora?

    In Évora, you can visit the Templo de Diana, Catedral da Sé, and Capela dos Ossos, among other historical sites.

  • What is the significance of the town of Moura in the itinerary?

    Moura is known for its Moorish legends, including the story of Princess Moura Saluqia. You can visit the Castle of Moura and other historical sites like Convento das Dominicanas and Convento do Carmo.

  • 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

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$1447 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Destination Services Portugal requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of destination services portugal charges.

    At 45 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Discovering Algarve and Alentejo, Self-drive

15 Days Starting in Faro, Portugal and ending in Olhão, Portugal

Visiting: Faro, Silves, Beja, Évora, Tavira, Olhão

Tour code:

334050

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

EASY

Age range:

26-75

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Trip Styles:

Small Group

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $1225 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 15-Feb-2025 but subject to change.

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