Portugal van life: Coastline meets countryside

Welcome to sunny Lisbon – a city that's been on your bucket list for ages and one that you're finally about to explore! You hop on the metro, tram or another mode of transport (optional, payable on site) and ride to your accommodation. After a quick check-in, nothing stands in the way of your city adventure!

Colourfully tiled houses and the salty Atlantic breeze on the seemingly endless waterfront promenade – your expectations of Lisbon are exceeded with every step you take through its winding alleyways. At Praça do Comércio, the triumphal arch Arco da Rua Augusta and the Equestrian Statue of King José I pose for your camera and lead you to Bairro Alto. Not only does wacky street art await you in this lively district but also a vibrant selection of restaurants, bars and clubs – the perfect opportunity to raise a glass to your dream trip. 'Saúde!' 

Your big adventure begins today! Buzzing with excitement, you set off to collect your trusty new companion: your fully equipped campervan. You grab the keys, slide into the driver's seat and now nothing stands in the way of your road trip adventure. Where to? The decision is all yours! You can already hear the sound of the waves, and no wonder, as your first stop has you driving towards the surf town of Peniche. But first, a particularly colourful detour awaits. Stop off in Sintra and hike up the glowing green hiking trail to the Palácio Nacional da Pena, an extraordinary palace dressed in vivid yellow, vibrant red and dreamy lilac. Afterwards, it's just a stone's throw to your campsite. How about one right by the beach?

Recommended campsite: Kampaoh Peniche

Up and at ‘em! All it takes is one look at the waves to get totally hyped. Want to grab a surfboard and let off some steam? Ride the barrels at Supertubos or visit your favourite beach spots before following the call of your campervan and finding a new pitch. Then it’s off into the country's interior, to the pristine expanse of the Alentejo. Make sure to check out the world-famous surf town of Nazaré on the way there, then say goodbye to the sea and hello to the hinterland. Everywhere you look, you'll see huge stretches of olive trees, cork oak forests and vineyards, only interrupted by the sparkling waters of the Tagus – an almost magical place. Set up camp, kick back and bask in the incredible silence. Time to relax!

Recommended campsite: Bubulcus & Bolotas

Before heading to your destination for the day, you make a detour to Évora, the capital of Alentejo and a real hotspot for history buffs. Already from afar, you're able to make out the ruins of a Roman temple – a nice taste of what awaits you in the alleyways of the historic old town. The beat of the street musicians accompanies you as you check out the colourful hustle and bustle and stroll through the many small backstreets. It's all definitely impressive, but Monsaraz, your next stop, is also oozing with history vibes. High up on a mountain, the small village with its whitewashed houses and medieval castle seems to have been frozen in time. Soak up the tranquillity of this dreamy little place and take in the spectacular views of the surrounding countryside before jetting off to your next campsite. The best part? If you stay at the recommended campsite, you'll have a lovely pool to cool off in. Van life is the best life!

Recommended campsite: Camping Rosário