Travel

The Open Road: Driving From Portugal to Spain

A drive from Lisbon, Portugal to Seville, Spain is one of the best ways to experience the landscape and culture of the Iberian Peninsula, with many noteworthy stops along the way.

Travelers to Europe often rave about how great it is getting around via trains. Though there is no doubt that this is one the fastest and most efficient ways to travel the continent, my preference is keeping it old school with a nice, laid-back road trip.

Start in Lisbon, but tour this beautiful city like a local, by foot and tram. Lisbon is all about the hills (think San Francisco) and those trams are the best ways to get over them. One of the most popular tram 28, which takes you through popular neighborhoods such as Alfama, the oldest district in Lisbon, and other tourist destinations. Also, tram 15 follows a route along the River Tagus River, which offers beautiful views.

2015-01-20-Road1.jpg
Image courtesy of Girl Gone Travel

Don’t leave Lisbon without trying the sardine pâté and grabbing a bottle of Port. Artichoke is another local favorite and you will easily find it included in many recipes. Visit Pastéis de Belém, where warm cream pastries that have been a part of the general Lisbon culinary culture since 1837 are served. And definitely make sure to take in an evening of Fado where your love for Portuguese culture will be sealed.

2015-01-20-Road2.jpg
Image courtesy of Girl Gone Travel

Sintra, only 30 minutes from Lisbon, is a wonderful place to spend the day. A visit to this UNESCO Heritage Site is like taking walking into a fairytale with its small shops and winding limestone covered streets. The Moorish Castle and the National Palace of Sintra are must-sees.

2015-01-20-Road3.jpg
Image courtesy of Girl Gone Travel

Evora gained its popularity among Portuguese royalty after an earthquake in 1755 left Lisbon in ruins. It is noted for its architectural beauty and its many museums.

2015-01-20-Road4.jpg
Image courtesy of Girl Gone Travel

Things to do a short drive from Lisbon, include a day trip to the beautiful village of Monsaraz and an afternoon sail along the Guadiana River, enclosed by the largest (man-made) dam in Portugal, separating the country from Spain.

2015-01-20-Road5.jpg
Image courtesy of Girl Gone Travel

Seville is a perfect way to end your trip. I would allot a few days to discover this beautiful city. From the architectural influences of the Moors to the lush parks and museums providing an escape from the city bustle, to the scent of 30,000 orange trees that decorate the streets and gardens, there is no doubt you will have plenty to enjoy.

2015-01-20-Road6.jpg
Image courtesy of Girl Gone Travel

If I had to narrow down my visit to one perfect day in Seville, it would consist of porros (or churros) and hot chocolate at a local cafe, followed by a day at Cordoba touring the Mosque and admiring the painters who flock to the area, and ending with a night of Flamenco while sipping on a cold glass of sangria.

2015-01-20-Road7.jpg
Image courtesy of Girl Gone Travel

If you like the idea of road tripping through Iberia, but don’t really want to take on…

Read more…

Back to top button