Trips and Adventures
1-Month Roadtrip Along Portugal’s Silver Coast: Discover it All with Xtracars
If you're looking for a destination that blends breathtaking nature, living history and postcard-worthy beaches, the Silver Coast is your go-to. Stretching from Aveiro to Torres Vedras, this lesser-known region of Portugal has everything to surprise you — especially when explored at your own pace on a roadtrip. And with Xtracars’ monthly car subscription, you get total freedom to get lost (and found) in the most authentic corners of the country. In this article, we suggest a 1-month itinerary to explore this unique region behind the wheel of a subscription-based rental car from Xtracars. A flexible roadtrip, with zero commitments. Ready to hit the road?
From North to South – A Roadtrip Through the Silver Coast
Week 1 – Canals, Moliceiros and Striped Houses: Aveiro, Costa Nova and Ílhavo
Start your journey in Aveiro, known as the "Portuguese Venice.” The canals, moliceiro boats and the sweet treat ovos moles are just the beginning. Explore the Beira Mar neighbourhood, filled with colourful façades and local charm.
Just a few kilometres away, Costa Nova wins you over with its iconic striped houses and long golden beaches — the perfect stop to relax at sunset. Before moving on, don’t miss the Ílhavo Maritime Museum and the Santo André Ship Museum, both of which reveal the region’s deep maritime heritage.
Week 2 –Beach, Culture and Tradition: Figueira da Foz, Buarcos and Coimbra
Continue south to the vibrant town of Figueira da Foz, where the iconic Praia da Claridade is perfect for some dolce far niente. At night, the local casino adds a surprising touch of glamour.
Nearby, the fishing village of Buarcos offers amazing views over the Atlantic and waves that attract surfers from around the world. Got a little extra time? Make a detour to Coimbra, one of Portugal’s oldest cities, home to a historic university and charming streets filled with history and character.
Week 3 – Historical Treasures: Nazaré, Alcobaça and Óbidos
Week three begins with a burst of energy in Nazaré, world-famous for its giant waves and epic surf scene. But there’s much more. The Sítio viewpoint offers stunning ocean views and a deep connection to local fishing traditions.
In Alcobaça, the impressive Monastery (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) stands out for its Gothic architecture and the tragic love story of Pedro and Inês. Wrap up the week in the magical town of Óbidos, with medieval walls, cobbled streets and the must-try cherry liqueur ginjinha, served in a chocolate cup.
Sea, Islands and Castles: Peniche, Berlengas and Torres Vedras
In the final stretch, dive into the coastal energy of Peniche, a surfer’s paradise with famous beaches like Supertubos and a strong maritime identity. Save a day to visit the Berlenga Islands — a nature reserve with clear waters, dramatic cliffs and perfect hiking trails. End your roadtrip in Torres Vedras, a relaxed town with lovely beaches like Santa Cruz and a quaint historic centre full of charm and heritage.
Where to Stay and Eat Along the Silver Coast
Great food and welcoming accommodation are easy to find along the way — here are a few suggestions:
- Aveiro: Hotel Moliceiro and dinner at Salpoente
- Figueira da Foz: Hotel Universal and Restaurante Bijou
- Nazaré: Hotel Mar Bravo and A Tasquinha
- Óbidos: Hotel Real d’Óbidos and Alcaide
- Peniche: MH Peniche Hotel and Profresco
Discover Portugal’s Silver Coast Behind the Wheel with Xtracars
This kind of trip calls for freedom, flexibility and comfort — all of which Xtracars offers through its monthly car subscription. Pick the model that fits your lifestyle and hit the road, without worrying about maintenance, insurance or long-term contracts.
It’s all fully digital, hassle-free and you can swap cars whenever you like. Because exploring Portugal should be as easy as pressing "start”.
