Fellow Travelers! I am considering a 2 week whirlwind trip from Amsterdam to Portugal. I have 2 weeks. I have been to Italy 3 times and have enjoyed taking my time. However, I'm in the mood for adventure and would like to go a little quicker this time. Do you think this is realistic? Any itinerary ideas would be welcomed. I would love any input I could get. Thanks. Bill
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16894 posts
Does this replace the France-only trip that you were contemplating earlier? If you're still thinking of driving, it's much cheaper to both pick up and drop off a car within France than in different countries. Of course, trains from Amsterdam to Paris run frequently (but are cheaper when booked ahead).
If you're thinking of taking trains all the way, note that rail connections from Spain to Portugal are very minimal: a night train from San Sebastian, a night train from Madrid, or regional daytime trains with connections if you have already made your way as close as Santiago de Compostela. This map has a snapshot overview of train travel time, then How to Look Up Train Schedules and Routes Online gives you the DB train schedule link and tips for using it.
If your interest is not really Spain or the Basque area, then look at flights from any part of France to Portugal at www.skyscanner.com.