I'm going on a Rick Steves tour in early September with a friend. It starts in Lisbon and ends in Porto. Doesn't go to the southern part of Portugal. I'm considering going down there for a few days via train or bus. I would stay in some place I find in his book over toward the east. I want to swim primarily as well as just enjoy a little hiking and scenery. Thoughts?
Posted by
midwest
42 posts
We spent 5 fabulous nights in September 2025 in a little former fishing now tourist village Burgau. Stayed at Apartamentos os Descobrimentos which was both reasonable and fabulous. The village is on a steep seaside bluff which connects to the scenic Fisherman’s Trail for hiking. There is a nice public, uncrowded sand beach. The water was pretty cold.
It’s not easy to travel to the Algarve region. We had a driver pick us up from the airport (big splurge for the jet lagged oldsters). We rented a car once we arrived. I think using public transportation would require careful planning, however it would probably be tolerable when not in a bleary jet lagged state!
Posted by
OP
Sicily
5 posts
Thank you! Now I'm considering going to the northern end of the fisherman's trail for a few days. Even getting there seems a challenge. I won't be jet lagged as it's at the end of my tour. How did you find a driver? Thanks again! Mary
Posted by
Mid-Atlantic area
8605 posts
I wouldn’t head south of Lisbon if you’re coming from Porto. Seems like a lot of travel time when there are probably equally interesting coastal areas just north of Porto.
Posted by
Bellingham, WA
1893 posts
If you have the time, why would you not extend the trip? Maybe rent a car instead of relying on public transport? It's probably not very expensive, compared to the RS Tour.
Posted by
Georgetown,KY
161 posts
I’ll echo Elaine’s comments. We also stayed in Burgau at the same place! We loved it. Used it as a base for day trips west and east. Dinner each evening in Burgau. We like beaches and warm weather. So while I love cities and museums, it was a fun detour.