The motorway from Lisbon to the Algarve takes around three hours, and most people drive it without a second look. But the land in between — the Arrábida mountains, the wild Atlantic coast and the golden plains of the Alentejo — is some of the most beautiful in Portugal.
A one-way private tour lets you start your beach holiday a day early, in spirit at least: leave Lisbon in the morning, stop at two places you would never otherwise see, and arrive at your Algarve hotel relaxed, with your luggage never leaving the car.
Two routes south
The coastal route
Head south across the river to the Arrábida Natural Park, where limestone mountains drop straight into turquoise water. Then continue down the Costa Vicentina, one of the best-preserved coastlines in Europe: dramatic cliffs, empty beaches and small fishing villages, protected as a natural park. A long seafood lunch overlooking the Atlantic is almost compulsory.
The Alentejo route
Or turn inland through the Alentejo, a region of rolling plains, cork oaks and whitewashed villages. Stop in Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage city with a Roman temple at its heart, and add a visit and tasting at an Alentejo wine estate — the region produces some of Portugal's finest reds.
Which route is right for you?
- Beach and nature lovers: the coastal route, Arrábida + Costa Vicentina.
- History and wine: the Alentejo route, Évora + a wine estate.
- Travelling in summer? Inland Alentejo gets very hot in July and August; the coastal route is usually more comfortable.
Why a private tour
- Hotel to hotel. No bus stations, no car hire paperwork, no returning a rental in the Algarve.
- Your luggage stays safe in the car while you explore.
- Flexible timing. Leave when it suits you and stay longer wherever you like.
- Great value for groups. The price is per vehicle, so for four to seven people in a van the cost per person drops significantly.
Lisbon → Algarve — Full-Day One-Way Tour
Hotel pickup in Lisbon, hotel drop-off in the Algarve, a professional chauffeur and two curated stops of your choice.
From 315€ (up to 3, Mercedes Station) · 631€ (up to 7, Mercedes Van) — total per vehicle · No payment required to enquire
Plan your trip: Lisbon to the Algarve
Tell us your date and group. We reply by email within 24 hours with a route and a confirmed price. No payment is needed to enquire.
