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Scenic drives from Lisbon

Must-Experience Scenic Routes Departing Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal's captivating capital, is not just a treasure in itself, but it also serves as the perfect starting point for a multitude of scenic drives that showcase the beauty and diversity of the country's landscapes. Securing a car rental or hire in Lisbon gives travelers the freedom to explore these picturesque routes at their own pace.

Scenic drives from Lisbon 1
Scenic drives from Lisbon 1

1. Lisbon to Sintra: A Royal Retreat

A mere 30 minutes from Lisbon lies Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a town straight out of fairy tales. With its romantic palaces, historic castles, and lush forests, Sintra offers a dramatic shift from the urban charm of Lisbon.

  • Tips for the Journey: While the journey is short, it's worth starting early to beat the tourist crowds in Sintra. Before you embark, make sure to familiarize yourself with the Lisbon car hire procedures.

2. Lisbon to Cascais: Coastal Wonders

Heading west from Lisbon, a beautiful coastal road will lead you to the sophisticated town of Cascais. Renowned for its stunning beaches, marina, and historic sites, it makes for a perfect day trip.

  • Tips for the Journey: The coastal road offers numerous spots for photo ops. It's advisable to check out a comprehensive car rental in Lisbon guide for the best vehicles suited for coastal drives.

3. Lisbon to Évora: A Dive into History

Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Alentejo region, boasts a rich history dating back over two millennia. From Roman temples to medieval cathedrals, this town is a history buff's dream.

  • Tips for the Journey: The Alentejo region can get hot during summers. Ensure your vehicle's AC is in top shape. If you're considering switching your vehicle for this leg, the car hire locations in Lisbon offer a wide range of options.

4. Lisbon to the Douro Valley: Wine Country

As you drive north from Lisbon, the Douro Valley, known for its terraced vineyards along the Douro River, welcomes wine enthusiasts. This region is the birthplace of Port wine.

  • Tips for the Journey: Ensure to book your winery visits in advance. Also, considering the lengthy drive, it might be worth looking into cheap car rentals in Lisbon for the best deals.

5. Lisbon to Porto: A Tale of Two Cities

Another fascinating drive north leads to Porto, Portugal's second-largest city known for its port wine, historic districts, and beautiful riverfront.

Lisbon
Lisbon

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to drive from Lisbon to Sintra?

It takes approximately 30 minutes to drive from Lisbon to Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its palaces and lush forests.

What attractions can I expect when driving to Cascais from Lisbon?

The drive from Lisbon to Cascais offers a scenic coastal road that leads to the sophisticated town of Cascais. The town is well-known for its stunning beaches, marina, and historic sites, making it a perfect destination for a day trip.

Are there any precautions to take when driving to Évora in the summer?

Yes, when driving to Évora, especially in the summer, it's important to ensure that your vehicle's air conditioning is functioning well as the Alentejo region can get quite hot.

What is the Douro Valley known for?

The Douro Valley is renowned for its terraced vineyards along the Douro River. It's a must-visit for wine enthusiasts, especially since it is the birthplace of the famous Port wine.

Can I explore Lisbon without a car?

Absolutely! While having a car provides the flexibility to explore regions beyond Lisbon, the city itself has excellent public transportation and bike rental options for those who prefer to navigate its interiors without a vehicle.

Conclusion

While public transportation and bike rentals in Lisbon are excellent for exploring the city's interiors, nothing beats the freedom and flexibility of having your own vehicle to explore the surrounding regions. Whether you're after history, nature, or gastronomy, the routes departing from Lisbon have something for every traveler. Safe travels and happy exploring!

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