Updated 2026
This is one of the first travel guides I ever wrote, after my first visit in 2017. Since then I visit Vila Nova de Milfontes at least once a year and update this travel guide after every visit.
Situated in Portugal‘s Alentejo region just 2 hours south of Lisbon, this mid-sized resort town is a popular summer holiday spot for the Portuguese and an overnight for hikers taking on the Fisherman’s Trail. During summer the town is full to the brim but in the shoulder seasons you can experience a slower pace and untainted natural beauty.
VNDM’s sandy beaches and coves are improved only by the fact that it is this stretch of coast that the stunning Mira river chooses to meet the sea. Top it all off with a collection of breezy beach restaurants and alfresco cocktail bars and there’s no need to read anymore – add it to your itinerary right now.
Planning a trip to Portugal? You’re in the right place! Welcome to Travel Planning and Itinerary design by Candy. Olá! I’m an independent travel advisor living in Portugal (since 2016). I help people plan their dream trip to Portugal, Spain and Italy. You’re currently reading a post from my collection of travel guides. I also offer personal travel consultation and a bespoke itinerary service.
Plan a Trip to Alentejo
If this is your first visit to my site you’ve been spared my constant “going on” about Alentejo -my favourite region of Portugal. The pace in Portugal’s most undiscovered region is slower and warmer and to me it still feels closest to the Portugal I fell in love with all those years ago.
Alentejo is a big region (Portugal’s largest) but can be split into Alto (high), Baixo (low) and Litoral (coastal). Vila Nova de Milfontes is in Litoral Alentejo, and is the main town on the small stretch of coast the Alentejo occupies.
When to Visit Vila Nova de Milfontes
VNM is a seasonal place so it is at it’s most functional between May and October. Just before and after you can still find restaurants with limited opening. In the middle of he winter services drop dramatically (but don’t close completely). I’ve visited at all times of year and spring (anywhere between March and June) remains my favourite time. The peak summer months are very busy and more expensive. Arrive with patience and enjoy the beach life.
How to get to Vila Nova de Milfontes
The town is a 2.5-3 hour bus ride from Lisbon or 2h10 by car. There is ample free-parking in the town except in the most busiest periods (Easter, Summer and sunny weekends).
Costa Vicentina Road Trip
Vila Nova de Milfontes is part of the Costa Vicentina which dominates the SW coast of Portugal. It’s one of the most wild and protected areas of the country and thanks to that, also one of my favourite places to road trip. VNM is the perfect stop between Lisbon and Algarve so if you have a car as part of your time in Portugal, this is a great route to follow.
Need ideas for a road trip route? You need the Portugal Travel Map.
Still too much work? I can plan your trip for you.
Best things to do in Vila Nova de Milfontes
Vila Nova de Milfontes is Algarve’s most popular beach “resort” and it’s main draw is the stunning Mira river and white sand beaches.
- Rent kayaks or join a kayak tour to venture up the Mira
- Take the small “ferry” boat across to Praia das Furnas
- Eat fresh fish at the wooden stilted restaurant A Choupana
- Hike a section of the Fisherman’s Trail
- Bask in sunshine of the softest sand
- Stroll around the ivy-clad fortress
- Watch one of the best sunsets in Portugal from the dunes
Hike the Original Fisherman’s Trail
Vila Nova de Milfontes is on the Original Fishermans Trail, a 230km coastal trail running from Sines to Lagos. Most people do the trail from Porto Covo which makes VNM the first stop. If you don’t have time to do the full trail, it is possible to do a day hike from Lisbon.
THE ORIGINAL FISHERMAN’S TRAIL
Where to Eat & Drink in Vila Nova de Milfontes
New cafes and restaurants are always popping up in VNM and I’ll be honest, there are quite a few underwhelming options that come naturally with the touristic territory. However there are plenty of gems amongst the rubble.
- Tasca do Celso Let’s start with everyone’s favourite. This typical restaurant is a must-visit while in Vila Nova de Milfontes (book in advance)
- Raízes no Rossio offers a small, but excellent quality menu and alfresco seating. If you’re here in winter they also have cosy indoor seating.
- A Choupana Wooden stilted overlooking the water. In my opinion the quality of this place has droppe dover the years but there’s no denying it. It’s the best view in VNM.
- Paparoca Sandwicheira Cheap, cheeful and super friendly
- Laréu Cafetaria Speciality coffee (seriously good) and brunch
- Bar Cá P’Ramim The place for afternoon drinks in the sunshine, snacks and dishes available too
Where to Stay in Vila Nova de Milfontes
The town is very seasonal so there are plenty of holiday apartments for rent. Out of season some of these close and some stay open for low prices. VNM draws in a combination of visitors. It is a popular stop on the Fisherman’s Trail so there are lot of hikers passing through and staying the night. In the summer it is a huge draw for locals and you’ll be greeted mostly by Portuguese. Thanks to the Mira it is also a popular place for school / adventure groups.
- Pirata private rooms and hostel shared outdoor area, great if you need to work
- MUTE hostel and private rooms
- Casa do Lado boutique guesthouse
- Alentejo Charm Guesthouse
- One bedroom suite in the centre
Planning an Alentejo trip?
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