Hidden Secrets of Algarve & Alentejo, Self-drive
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating self-drive adventure through the hidden gems of Portugal's Algarve and Alentejo regions. Begin your journey in Faro, the charming capital of Algarve, and explore its rich history and stunning architecture. Discover the picturesque town of Silves, home to the Algarve's most well-preserved castle, and savor the local delicacy, Morgado de Silves. Continue to Beja, a town steeped in Roman and Moorish history, before heading to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Évora, renowned for its artistic heritage and romantic ambiance. Experience the tranquility of Alcoutim, nestled among lush hills, and conclude your tour in Tavira, a delightful fishing village with a unique blend of Moorish and Portuguese architecture. Enjoy seven nights of comfortable accommodation, daily breakfasts, and the freedom of unlimited mileage with your rental car, as you uncover the cultural and historical treasures of Portugal. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : ARRIVAL FARO / CAR PICK-UP
Location: Faro, Faro International Airport, Arco da Vila, Faro Municipal Museum, Igreja do Carmo, Capela dos Ossos
Accommodation Name: Hotel Dom Bernardo or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Arrive at Faro International Airport, meet and greet by our local representative who will assist and inform you how to proceed on your departure day and your car rental. 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 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 Baroque 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 (65km – 1hr)
Location: Faro, Silves, Castle of Silves, Silves Cathedral, Roman Bridge, Silves, Cruz de Portugal, Silves
Accommodation Name: Hotel Colina dos Mouros or similar 3
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. It is made from almond and chilli 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. 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 present 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.
Overnight in Silves.
Day 3 : SILVES – BEJA (125km – 1.4hrs)
Location: Silves, Beja, Serpa, Aljustrel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Vila Galé Clube de Campo or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start your day with 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 Julius Ceasar regime. Beja was not only a 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 the 13th century, the important fortress in Rainha D. Leonor Regional and St. Mary of the Market Church. Today you can drive to the charming villages of Serpa and Aljustrel, settled in the beautiful landscape created by the river Guadiana. 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. Drive to another roman village, Aljustrel and admire the tranquil landscape, green valleys and rocky hills that surround this hidden roman gem of Alentejo region.
Overnight in Beja.
Day 4 : BEJA – ÉVORA (80km – 1hr)
Location: Beja, Évora, Templo de Diana, Évora, Catedral da Sé, Évora, Capela dos Ossos, Évora
Accommodation Name: Hotel Vitória Stone or similar 3
Meals Included: Breakfast
Morning breakfast at the hotel is a great beginning of your new venture. Drive to Évora, the 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 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 con Carne, leftover bread, soaked in water, garlic, spices and combined with braised pork, is a luscious experience for the foodie lovers.
Overnight in Évora.
Day 5 : ÉVORA
Location: Évora, Museu de Évora
Accommodation Name: Hotel Vitória Stone or similar 3
Meals Included: Breakfast
After the morning breakfast at the hotel, stroll down the narrow streets of Évora again, and absorb its romantic atmosphere. Explore the hidden corners of the city, and enjoy the well tasted sweets and dishes at one of the local restaurants. Get a deeper insight into the local culture by visiting the Museu de Évora and learn why the city is so welcoming and charming throughout the centuries.
Overnight in Évora.
Day 6 : ÉVORA – ALCOUTIM – TAVIRA (260km – 3hrs)
Location: Évora, Alcoutim, Alcoutim Castle, Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição, Praia Fluvial do Pego, Tavira
Accommodation Name: Hotel Vila Gale Tavira or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy your luscious breakfast at the Hotel and the last moments in the beautiful atmosphere of Évora. Today you will drive to Alcoutim, hidden treasure in the Algarve region. This charming river town is set among beautiful green hills and valleys, and emanate the tranquillity of the surrounding nature. The main attractions in Alcoutim are the Alcoutim Castle, the Church of Nossa Senhora da conceição and the river beach, Praia Fluvial do Pego. You can also visit the ruins of Roman settlements in Alamo and Montinho das Laranjeiras. After discovering Alcoutim drive to Tavira and check in to your hotel.
Overnight in Tavira.
Day 7 : TAVIRA
Location: Tavira, Tavira Castle, Church of Misericordia, Tavira
Accommodation Name: Hotel Vila Gale Tavira or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is your last day. After breakfast at the hotel venture into Tavira, a small finishing village located on the bank of the river Gilão and with superb island beaches easy to reach, it is a wonderful destination for ending your trip. Coquet mixture of Moorish and Portuguese architecture is very present here, and Tavira tower, the Castle of Tavira and the church of 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 8 : TAVIRA – FARO (40km – 30min) / CAR DROP-OFF
Location: Tavira, Faro
Meals Included: Breakfast
Spend your last morning in Tavira. Then, hop into your car and drive back to Faro, return the rental car at the Faro Airport and prepare for your return flight.
What's Included
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Car Hire
The tour includes car hire with unlimited mileage, Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW), Theft Protection (TP), Vehicle License Fee (VLF), Airport Service Charge (ASC), and tax.
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Meet & Greet
A meet and greet service is included upon arrival at Faro International Airport.
What's Not Included
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Visa Fees
Visa fees are not included in the tour package.
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Flights
Domestic and international flights are not included in the tour package.
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Drinks During Meals
Drinks during meals are not included unless specified otherwise.
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Optional Tours
Optional tours, if any, are not included in the tour package.
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City Tax
City tax is not included and is payable on the spot.
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Unmentioned Visits
Any visit not mentioned in the program is not included.
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Porterage and Gratuities
Porterage and gratuities are not included in the tour package.
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Entrance or Tour Fees
The package does not cover any applicable entrance or tour fees.
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Personal Expenditures
Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks, and meals or items not stated explicitly in the program are not included.
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Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Drinks
Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, and camera/video camera fees (if any) are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc., is not included.
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Car Hire Exclusions
Fuel, fines, tolls, parking, Personal Accident Insurance (PAI), damage to a third party or to the hire vehicle due to negligence or inappropriate driving, loss or damage to vehicle components, damage to the engine through negligence, theft of the vehicle with keys left in the ignition, damage caused by driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, fines due to breaking traffic laws, costs for leaving the car outside of designated areas, each additional driver, and any extra equipment (GPS, baby seat, etc.) are not included in the car hire. ...more ...less
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 Faro
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Dom Bernardo or similar 3*
Day 2 Silves
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Colina dos Mouros or similar 3
Day 3 Beja
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Vila Galé Clube de Campo or similar 3*
Day 4-5 Evora
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Vitória Stone or similar 3
Day 6-7 Tavira
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Vila Gale Tavira 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 a Fiat 500 or Renault Clio, complete with unlimited mileage, Super Collision Damage Waiver, Theft Protection, and more for a seamless journey through Portugal.
Accommodation
Enjoy 7 nights of comfortable accommodation in standard 3-star hotels, including Hotel Dom Bernardo in Faro, Hotel Colina dos Mouros in Silves, Hotel Vila Galé Clube de Campo in Beja, Hotel Vitóira Stone in Évora, and Hotel Vila Gale Tavira in Tavira.
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1 Faro
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Dom Bernardo or similar 3*
Day 2 Silves
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Colina dos Mouros or similar 3
Day 3 Beja
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Vila Galé Clube de Campo or similar 3*
Day 4-5 Evora
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Vitória Stone or similar 3
Day 6-7 Tavira
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Vila Gale Tavira or similar 3*
CAR HIRE OPTIONS
- Car Group A = Fiat 500 or similar
- Car Group C = Renault Clio or similar
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides 7 nights of accommodation in standard hotel categories, including Hotel Dom Bernardo in Faro, Hotel Colina dos Mouros in Silves, Hotel Vila Galé Clube de Campo in Beja, Hotel Vitória Stone in Évora, and Hotel Vila Gale Tavira in Tavira, or similar 3-star hotels. ...more ...less
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What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour package includes 7 breakfasts.
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What is included in the car hire for the tour?
The car hire includes unlimited mileage, Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW), Theft Protection (TP), Vehicle License Fee (VLF), Airport Service Charge (ASC), and tax.
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Are there any specific requirements for drivers on this tour?
Drivers must be between 26 to 75 years old and have had their driver's license for a minimum of one year. Non-EU citizens must present an international driver's license along with the original from their country of origin.
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What are some of the highlights of the destinations visited on this tour?
Highlights include exploring the historic town of Faro, visiting the well-preserved Castle of Silves, experiencing the UNESCO World Heritage city of Évora, and discovering the charming river town of Alcoutim.
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What are some of the cultural experiences included in the tour?
Cultural experiences include visiting the Faro Municipal Museum, exploring the Arabic-influenced architecture in Silves, and enjoying local gastronomy such as Morgado de Silves and Migas con Carne in Évora.
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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.
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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.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers
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When are there specific hotel names confirmed?
Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client's arrival
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Are Visa fees included in the price?
No, visa fees are not included
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Are flights included in the tour?
No, they are not included
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Hidden Secrets of Algarve & Alentejo, Self-drive
8 Days Starting and ending in Faro, Portugal
Visiting: Faro, Arco da Vila, Faro Municipal Museum, Igreja do Carmo, Capela dos Ossos, Silves, Castle of Silves, Silves Cathedral, Roman Bridge, Silves, Cruz de Portugal, Silves, Beja, Serpa, Aljustrel, Évora, Templo de Diana, Évora, Catedral da Sé, Évora, Capela dos Ossos, Évora, Museu de Évora, Alcoutim, Alcoutim Castle, Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição, Praia Fluvial do Pego, Tavira, Tavira Castle, Church of Misericordia Tavira ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
440582
Group Type:
Independent
Guide Type:
Self Guided
Age range:
23-75
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Gardens & Nature Tours, History, Ruins-Archaeology
