Visiting Portugal in 7 Days: Discover the Best Itinerary along the National Road 2

Looking to explore Portugal via the National Road 2 (EN2)? Get ready to discover breathtaking landscapes, historic villages, and the cultural richness that makes each stop unique.

In just seven days, you can travel one of Portugal's most iconic routes, connecting the south to the north, from Faro to Chaves. Here's how to do it.

Keep reading to uncover the best stops, practical tips, and the most beautiful places along the National Road 2 for one of the most immersive trips you'll ever take.

When is the Best Time to Visit Portugal via the N2?

Spring (April to June) or autumn (September to early November) are undoubtedly the best times.

The weather is mild, avoiding the summer heat and winter rains, making the trip more pleasant and safe.

How to Plan Accommodation for the Trip?

If you’re just looking for a comfortable place to rest, opt for economical inns or guesthouses at each day's destination.

However, once you reach the north, we suggest taking the time to stay overnight at one of the region’s vineyard estates – the experience will be unforgettable.

Where to Rent a Car to Start the N2 Itinerary?

If you begin your road trip in the Algarve, you can rent a car in Faro, which is right at the starting point of the EN2.

If your journey starts in the north, convenient rental options are also available in Vila Real, Porto, and other locations in this region.

N2 Itinerary: A 7-Day Journey from Faro to Chaves

The National Road 2, spanning nearly 750 km and over 75 years old, traverses Portugal from north to south—a journey not to be missed!

Get your N2 passport stamped at the sites along the route – discover the stops

Experience the heart of Portugal through 35 municipalities, 13 rivers, and 11 mountain ranges. Explore places full of diversity, culture, landscapes, demographics, cuisine, and world-renowned heritage.

We’ll start in southern Portugal, in Faro, and finish in the north, in Chaves. However, this route can also be done in reverse: Chaves to Faro.

Day 1: Faro to Almodôvar

N2 Route: Faro; São Brás de Alportel; Almodôvar

On the first day, you’ll transition from the Algarve coast to its more authentic and welcoming interior.

The route takes you to São Brás de Alportel, a town with a strong cork tradition and a peaceful village with typical whitewashed houses, a hallmark of southern architecture.

As you continue, the sea fades, and the mountains come into view. You’ll find the Bispo and Caldeirão viewpoints, where you can stop and admire the beautiful Serra do Caldeirão.

Finally, you arrive in Almodôvar, now in the Beja district, the heart of the Alentejo.

Useful Travel Information

• Approximate total distance: 78 km;
• Driving time without stops: 1h 40m.

Day 2: Almodôvar to Montemor-o-Novo

N2 Route: Almodôvar; Castro Verde; Aljustrel; Ferreira do Alentejo; Alcácer do Sal; Viana do Alentejo; Montemor-o-Novo

The second day on the National Road 2 is a fascinating journey where the mountains give way to the plains of the Alentejo.

Contemplating the Alentejo landscape at sunset is a unique experience

The road passes through Castro Verde with its rich tiles, Aljustrel with its unmissable Santa Maria do Castelo viewpoint, Alcácer do Sal with its Moorish castle and the Sado River, and Viana do Alentejo, where the Nossa Senhora d'Aires sanctuary offers a contemplative pause.

Upon reaching Montemor-o-Novo, the town invites you to a peaceful exploration, and it’s worth visiting the castle and capturing the landscapes in photos.

The walls of Montemor-o-Novo Castle

Useful Travel Information

• Approximate total distance: 149 km;
• Driving time without stops: 2 hours.

Day 3: Montemor-o-Novo to Abrantes

N2 Route: Montemor-o-Novo; Coruche; Mora; Avis; Ponte de Sor; Abrantes

Prepare for another change in scenery from the lower to the upper Alentejo.

Heading towards Abrantes, you’ll pass through the charming town of Coruche, known as the “Cork Capital of the World,” and Mora, which is worth visiting for its magnificent freshwater aquarium, the Fluviário de Mora.

Continuing towards central Portugal, the National Road 2 follows the Montargil dam reservoir, offering spectacular views.

Further along, you can stop in Ponte de Sor to relax by the riverbanks.

Enjoy the tranquil waters of the Sor River

Now, head to your destination for the day, Abrantes, a historic city founded by Portugal's first king, D. Afonso Henriques.

Useful Travel Information

• Approximate total distance: 116 km;
• Driving time without stops: less than 2 hours.

Day 4: Abrantes to Vila Nova de Poiares

N2 Route: Abrantes; Sardoal; Vila de Rei; Sertã; Pedrógão Grande; Góis; Lousã; Vila Nova de Poiares

Prepare to discover the enchanting beauty of central Portugal and a winding stretch of the National Road 2.

Leaving Abrantes, head towards Sardoal. The route takes you to the geographic center of Portugal in Vila de Rei, where the viewpoint offers spectacular views.

Geographic Center of Portugal - Vila de Rei

After meeting the king (Vila de Rei), you’ll find his queen, Sertã. Always beautifully dressed, this village is simply lovely and welcoming.

On this journey, connecting with pure nature is inevitable, especially in Pedrógão Grande, Góis, and Lousã. In Lousã, you can visit some of the beautiful Schist Villages.

Finally, you arrive in Vila Nova de Poiares. If you have time, about a 30-minute drive away is Coimbra and its many charms to visit.

Useful Travel Information

• Approximate total distance: 130 km;
• Driving time: About 3 hours.

Day 5: Vila Nova de Poiares to Viseu

N2 Route: Vila Nova de Poiares; Penacova; Mortágua; Santa Comba Dão; Tondela; Viseu

On the fifth day, continue exploring the Beiras region (central Portugal), now in the company of the Mondego River.

Start your journey towards Penacova, stop at the Livraria do Mondego viewpoint, enjoy the river’s waters, and relax.

Mortágua also invites a stop with its typical villages. Then, Santa Comba Dão and Tondela, with their rich wine tradition, are great places to taste the local flavors.

Casal dos Loivos Viewpoint: between the districts of Viseu and Vila Real

In Viseu, you’ll find a blend of the city’s historical past and present. Visit the historic center and the imposing cathedral, and enjoy the richness of this region.

Useful Travel Information

• Approximate total distance: 85 km;
• Driving time without stops: less than 2 hours.

Day 6: Viseu to Vila Real (Northern Region)

N2 Route: Viseu; São Pedro do Sul; Castro Daire; Peso da Régua; Lamego; Santa Marta de Penaguião; Vila Real

On the penultimate day of the journey, you’ll dive into the beauty of northern Portugal, known as the Douro Wine Region.

Hit the road, passing through São Pedro do Sul, famous for its relaxing thermal waters, Castro Daire, and the traditional city of Lamego, where a stop is a must to visit the imposing Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios.

Landsapes that shape the Douro Wine Region

The next stop is Peso da Régua, in the heart of the Douro wine region, where you can visit vineyards and taste the famous Port wine. Surrounded by beautiful vineyards, it offers a perfect setting for photos and tastings.

Finally, Vila Real awaits you with its stunning natural landscapes and the majestic Mateus Palace, which deserves your visit.

Useful Travel Information

• Approximate total distance: 110 km;
• Driving time: About 2 hours.

Day 7: Vila Real to Chaves

We’ve reached the final day of this itinerary. Today’s journey is shorter, so take advantage of the time to explore Vila Real a bit more, visiting the churches of São Paulo and São Pedro and the majestic Cathedral (São Domingos Church).

Returning to the EN2, head towards Vila Pouca de Aguiar, where Pena de Aguiar Castle offers incredible panoramic views.

To finish, the beautiful city of Chaves, full of history and charm.

Here, you can explore the castle and the famous thermal baths, dating back to Roman times.

Stroll through the historic center and discover the iconic Roman bridge over the Tâmega River.

Roman Bridge over the Tâmega River, in Chaves

This is the perfect conclusion to your journey, offering history, culture, and natural beauty, accompanied by a delicious regional meal and a fine Douro wine.

Useful Travel Information

• Approximate total distance: 70 km;
• Driving time without stops: About 1 hour.

Final Notes

At the end of this incredible journey along the National Road 2, you’ll have experienced Portugal’s cultural, historical, and natural richness in a unique and unforgettable way. Every stop along the EN2 offers a new opportunity to connect with Portuguese roots.

And if you need to rent a car for this adventure, Drivalia has over 30 car rental stations across the country. This way, you can start your journey conveniently and smoothly.

Get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime. Bon voyage!