Hi, We are using one day to drive from Lisbon to Portimao. We are planning on taking the scenic route along the coast. Any places we should definitely stop? Any favorite restaurants on this route?
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From Lisbon I would drive to Setúbal, take the ferry to Tróia ( long beach, sometimes dolphins can be seen), continue South along the Tróia península to Sines ( sometimes Sines has a strong smell from a petrochemical plant depending on the wind).
From Sines continue South to Vila Nova De Milfontes ( lunch), from there either go to Portimão or if you have the time Sagres to Portimão.
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OP
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The car ferry is an excellent idea!
Any great places for lunch and dinner along this route?
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Ferry site from Setúbal to Tróia
https://www.atlanticferries.pt/en/
Restaurants in Vila Nova de Milfontes
On the beach with good views of the beach area, Quebramar (€€).
In town with no views, in typical white with blue trim low rise building, Tasca do Celso (€) more for locals than tourists.
Restaurants in Sines
With ocean views ( not on the beach) depending on the table, Portico (€€).
In town with no views, in typical white with blue trim low rise building, Adega de Sines (€) more for locals than tourists.
In Portimão if you want to try typical sweets from the Algarve ( almond paste with sugar in various shapes and colors) try Casa Inglesa, they also serve light meals but I only go there for the sweets.
If it's your first time to Portugal be aware that almost everything that is brough to the table is a separate charge not included in the price of the plate you've chosen, ex: each bread is extra, same with butter, olives, etc.
I've seen plenty of arguments with tourists thinking they're being ripped off, that's not the case, it's just the way it is. If you don't want to be charged for it don't touch it.
The exception is the complete meal deal that some restaurants offer but items included vary from restaurant to restaurant and only a few offer it .