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Summary

This 10-day road trip through Portugal offers a blend of coastal charm, rural beauty, historic cities, and stunning landscapes. From the authentic allure of Olhão and the serene Ria Formosa to the historic depths of Évora and Tomar, and the vibrant city life of Porto, this itinerary is a comprehensive exploration of Portugal's diverse offerings. Highlights include a boat tour through the Ria Formosa, a stay in the tranquil Casa do Roxo in Alentejo, exploring the Douro Valley's vineyards, and concluding with the rich cultural tapestry of Porto.

🌅 Day 1 & 2: Olhão & Ria Formosa

Starting the journey in Olhão, exploring its authentic charm, vibrant markets, and the serene Ria Formosa Natural Park.

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🏙️ Olhão

Olhão, a less touristy town, is known for its narrow streets, whitewashed buildings, and as a gateway to the Ria Formosa Natural Park. The town exudes a laid-back atmosphere, with its ornate tiles, bougainvillea-draped buildings, and a picturesque harbor.

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Tips

Enjoy the early evening stroll through the narrow streets, soaking in the rose-gold glow, and marvel at the nesting storks atop chimneys and church towers. Don't miss the vibrant morning market and indulge in local delicacies at Chá Chá Chá for a delightful tapas experience.

🏞️ Ria Formosa Natural Park

The Ria Formosa Natural Park is a coastal lagoon offering boat tours to explore its marshy channels, wading birds, and white sandbanks. The park is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering a tranquil escape amidst its stunning natural beauty.

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Tips

Opt for a boat tour with Sabino for a comprehensive experience, including a seafood lunch in Culatra, a working fishing community. Take the opportunity to swim off near-deserted sandbanks, reminiscent of a tropical paradise.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +351 289 700 210
🌐   Website: https://natural.pt/protected-areas/parque-natural-ria-formosa
📍   Address: 8700-225 Faro, Portugal

🏨 Pure Formosa Concept Hotel

The Pure Formosa Concept Hotel is a stylish accommodation option with minimalist rooms, an underground parking facility, and a stunning rooftop pool terrace and bar with sweeping views over the town and lagoon. The hotel offers a quiet and comfortable stay, providing excellent value for money.

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Tips

Book in advance to secure the best rates and make the most of the rooftop pool terrace, offering panoramic views of Olhão and its picturesque surroundings.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +351289144005
📍   Address: Av. da República 34, 8700-310 Olhão, Portugal
🔗   Profiles: LinkedIn Facebook

🌄 Day 3: Alentejo Countryside

Exploring the rural beauty of Alentejo, staying at Casa do Roxo, and experiencing the region's tranquility.

🏡 Casa do Roxo

Nestled by a serene lake in the heart of the Alentejo countryside, Casa do Roxo offers a contemporary interpretation of traditional Alentejo barns. The hotel boasts stylish rooms adorned with cork and pine, exuding a minimalist yet inviting ambiance that perfectly complements the surrounding natural splendor.

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Tips

Indulge in the breathtaking sunset views while savoring a delightful spread of local wine, artisanal cheese, and freshly baked bread. Additionally, take advantage of the well-stocked honesty bar and feel free to enhance your culinary experience by bringing your own delectable treats to complement the offerings.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +351284400592
📍   Address: Rua Grande N.°41, Mina da Juliana, 7800-731 Santa Vitória, Portugal
🔗   Profiles: Facebook

Day 4: Historic Évora

Discovering the UNESCO-listed city of Évora, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture.

Évora Olive Hotel

A modern, minimalist hotel offering quiet rooms, an outdoor pool, and a prime location near the old town.

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Tips

Consider dropping off your car at the airport and using public transport to explore Évora.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +351266760050
🌐   Website: https://www.artsoulgroup.com/evoraolivehotel?utm_source=MyBusiness&utm_medium=botao&utm_campaign=websiteolive
📍   Address: R. de Eborim 18, 7000-649 Évora, Portugal
🔗   Profiles: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

🇵🇹 Day 5: Tomar & Neolithic Sites

  • Visiting the Cromeleque dos Almendres and exploring Tomar, including the Convento de Cristo and medieval streets.

🏰 Convento de Cristo

The Convento de Cristo, a former Knights Templar stronghold, boasts stunning cloisters and gardens, offering a glimpse into Portugal's rich history and architectural grandeur. The gothic fortress, once the headquarters of the Knights Templar, exudes an aura of mystery and intrigue, with its intricate tile work and serene gardens.

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Tips

Visit in the morning to avoid crowds and revel in the tranquil atmosphere, allowing for an immersive experience amidst the historical splendor.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +351 249 315 089
🌐   Website: http://www.conventocristo.gov.pt/
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: JH3J+99 Igreja do Castelo Templário, Estr. do Convento 8, 2300-000 Tomar, Portugal
🔗   Profiles: Facebook

Day 6: Coimbra's Charm

Exploring Coimbra's historic university, art museums, and the tranquil botanic garden.

University of Coimbra

Portugal's oldest university, offering a glimpse into the country's rich academic history.

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Tips

Avoid driving into central Coimbra due to narrow streets and limited parking.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +351 239 859 900
🌐   Website: https://www.uc.pt/
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
🔗   Profiles: Facebook Instagram YouTube X (Twitter)

🌊 Day 7: Aveiro's Canals

  • Enjoying Aveiro's canals on a moliceiro boat tour, admiring Art Nouveau architecture, and relaxing at Aveiro Palace.

🏨 Aveiro Palace

Aveiro Palace is a historic hotel that first opened its doors in 1937, offering a prime canalside location with stunning views of the colorful boats and the vibrant city life. The hotel's beautiful lounge provides a perfect vantage point to watch the boats sail past, creating a serene and picturesque setting.

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Tips

Stay overnight at Aveiro Palace to fully immerse yourself in the town's quieter, more relaxed evening atmosphere. This allows you to experience the charm of Aveiro at its best, away from the hustle and bustle of the day.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +351234421885
🌐   Website: http://www.hotelaveiropalace.com/hotel-overview.html
📍   Address: Rua de Viana do Castelo 4, 3800-275 Aveiro, Portugal
🔗   Profiles: LinkedIn Instagram TikTok Facebook

Day 8: Douro Valley Vistas

Experiencing the Douro Valley's stunning landscapes, vineyards, and river views, staying at Douro Palace Hotel.

Douro Palace Hotel

A hotel with modern amenities, an outdoor pool, and breathtaking views of the Douro Valley.

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Tips

Explore the valley by train and boat for different perspectives of the stunning landscapes.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +351254880000
🌐   Website: http://www.douropalace.com/
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: Lugar do Carrapatelo, 4640-423 Santa Cruz do Douro, Portugal
🔗   Profiles: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

🇵🇹 Day 9 & 10: Porto's Splendor

Concluding the trip in Porto, exploring its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning river views.

🏨 1872 River House

The 1872 River House is a luxurious hotel nestled on the banks of the Douro River, offering an intimate stay with exceptional views of the river and the picturesque city of Porto. The hotel exudes charm and elegance, providing a perfect blend of modern comfort and historic allure.

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Tips

Drop off your car at the airport and use public transport to explore Porto's dense city center. Embrace the local tram system to navigate the city's narrow streets and discover its hidden gems.
The content summary has been expanded using the reference information, providing a more detailed description of the 1872 River House and offering practical tips for exploring Porto.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +351961172805
🌐   Website: https://oliviahouses.com/en/1872-river-house/
📍   Address: Rua do Infante D. Henrique 133, 4050-080 Porto, Portugal