Choose your transport wisely

Though much improved in recent years, Portugal still has one of Europe’s worst road safety records and many of its roads are in poor condition. Conversely, the toll-paying autoroutes are fast, well-maintained and virtually empty. Just be aware that some of the toll roads use numberplate recognition systems: check with your car hire company on the best way to pay for these.

Inter-city trains aside, Portugal’s rail routes are generally cheap, charming and slow: if speed is of the essence, take one of the fast and efficient coaches which serve all the main towns.