Hi we are planing a trip to Portugal in October this year. We will start in Lisbon and plan to rent a car for some of the time We are still trying to decide upon our route.
As its late in the year I thought we would travel to Porto first then head south.
Thoughts on weather related direction ?
Do we need a car when travelling south of Lisbon or are trains sufficient?
Can someone recommend a reliable car rental company ?
Thank you
Posted by
Cascais, Portugal
1826 posts
October is really a good month to visit as the biggest tourist hordes have died down and the weather is still warm. The biggest issue you may face would be some rain. And, it will likely be wetter in the Porto area than in the Algarve..
It’s actually easy to get both places by train. And, very inexpensive if you book up to 30 days ahead. IMO you don’t really need a car until you get to the Algarve. Unless you want to explore the Douro on your own. But you definitely need a car in the Algarve.
I’ve used Auto Europe for years and have always had good results.
Posted by
Tunbridge Wells
6113 posts
How long are you travelling for? If 2 weeks, there is plenty to keep you occupied between Lisbon and Porto or Lisbon and the Algarve. Porto to the Algarve is a long journey, taking the best part of a day.
I have visited both the Algarve and the Porto area at various times in October and have had similar good weather, but in both locations, I have also experienced heavy rain within the same trips.
The Algarve is more about mass tourism, beaches and golf, whereas the Porto area is less spoilt.
Trains are good for city to city travel, but a car is essential if you want to experience the countryside. Car driving is easy other than in Lisbon.
Posted by
OP
Canada
16 posts
Thank you both for the helpful replies.I will now refine my plans re must see sights to visit !