I heard that the drive from Lisbon to Madrid via Coimbra and Salamanca was a very scenic drive, especially in Portugal. We have to do this drive in one day and I figure that it will take 8 to 10 hours and more with stops. Is this drive worth the extra time or should we just go the direct route to Madrid from Lisbon? If we go the most direct route then is there anything to see along the way?
Posted by
Bay Area
3551 posts
Can't speak for Salamanca but I would bypass Coimbra.
Posted by
Atlanta
3262 posts
Hi Cathy.
I haven't made the drive between Lisbon and Coimbra but on the map it looks like a coastal route and it probably would be a nice drive. We did drive from Salamanca and Coimbra and then north--I enjoyed staying in both cities but don't think that either would be worth a stop unless you have time to stay awhile. With the time and distance I'd be inclined to take the more direct route. Hopefully you'll hear from someone that's actually made the coastal drive!