Portugal, with its sun-drenched coastline, charming towns, and laid-back vibe, is a road tripper’s dream. The country is compact yet packed with diversity, with an ideal blend of scenic drives, cultural encounters, and family-friendly experiences. Whether you’re traveling with kids or seeking a blend of luxury and leisure, the Land of Explorers invites you to explore it on four wheels, with the Martinhal Resorts providing perfect, well-placed pit stops along the way.
Start in Lisbon: City Buzz Meets Family Comfort
Your journey begins in Portugal’s capital—Lisbon. Wander through the cobbled streets of Alfama, where Fado music drifts from traditional taverns. Explore the Jerónimos Monastery and the iconic Belém Tower, and indulge in pastéis de nata at the original Pastéis de Belém bakery. Ride the historic Tram 28 for a city tour with a vintage twist. For family fun, visit the Lisbon Oceanarium or enjoy riverside bike rides in Parque das Nações.
Stay: For family-friendly urban living, Martinhal Lisbon Chiado offers stylish serviced apartments in the heart of the city. Housed in a historic building from 1855, the property has been meticulously refurbished to offer modern living spaces without compromising its original 19th-century architecture. For more space and modern comforts, Martinhal Lisbon Oriente in Parque das Nações provides easy access to the Oceanarium and riverside parks. Set in one of Lisbon’s most modern and family-friendly neighborhoods, the hotel is surrounded by interactive science museums, cable car rides with panoramic views over the Tagus River, and wide pedestrian promenades perfect for cycling and evening strolls. It’s an ideal base for families looking to blend urban adventure with waterside relaxation. The hotel features contemporary family suites, a kids’ club, indoor play areas, and an on-site restaurant designed with families in mind, making it a comfortable and engaging space for guests of all ages.
Drive South via Alentejo: Wine Country and Ancient Charm
From Lisbon, hit the road and head into the sun-soaked Alentejo region. The drive itself is part of the magic, as gentle hills stretch out before you, punctuated by whitewashed villages and vast open skies. Stop in Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can explore the Roman Temple, the Chapel of Bones, and meander through medieval streets. Visit a local vineyard for a wine tasting while kids enjoy farm experiences or picnic in the countryside. It’s the kind of leisurely detour that road trips are made for.