Discover The N2 – Portugal’s Route 66 (Road Trip – Part 2)
If you are like us, you love a good road trip. There is nothing like the freedom of driving through beautiful landscapes, stopping wherever and whenever you want. Besides, driving allows you to see the most remote areas, away from tourist spots.
The most famous road in Portugal links the mountainous North to the sun-drenched south. It is called Estrada Nacional 2, EN2, or N2 (National Road 2). While it has not turned into a major tourist attraction yet, it is popular among the natives.
Portugal offers a remarkable journey along its historic National Road 2. This scenic route stretches from the northern border to the Algarve region. Thus, you will uncover the heart of Portugal through winding roads and diverse landscapes.
In part 2 of this series, discover more about N2 and its must-visit destinations. Plus, get tips on planning your perfect EN2 adventure!
Discovering the Estrada Nacional 2
Going off the regular tourist track is the best way to dive into the local culture. However, most locals in inland Portugal speak little English, if they speak it at all. Thus, learning some Portuguese will be your best chance at communication.
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The Estrada Nacional 2 reveals hidden villages, stunning countryside, and rich cultural experiences. Beyond typical tourist paths, this road provides an authentic Portuguese experience. Adventurers and road trip enthusiasts will find the N2 a captivating way to explore the country. Learn more about this historic road.
What is the Estrada Nacional 2?
The Estrada Nacional 2 (N2) is a scenic road 739 kilometers long. It was first included in the national road network in 1945. Thus, this year, the road celebrates its 80th birthday. Despite having lost some of its span, it still spans the entire length of Portugal, from Chaves in the far North to Faro on the Algarve coastline.
Because of its stretch and unique scenarios, it is also known as the Portuguese Route 66. It passes through the rural and authentic heartland of Portugal. Through it, you will explore popular areas, like the renowned Douro River valley. You will also discover lesser-known regions, such as the Alentejo.
This road is a popular destination for bikers, cyclists, and road trippers looking for a unique experience. You will make lasting memories, whether you want to drive the country from North to South or explore a section of it.
N2 Route Overview
The N2 can be divided into three sections:
- The mountainous North
- The rolling countryside of Central Portugal
- And the arid Alentejo and Algarve regions
The Northern Territory is full of the most interesting towns from the medieval period. You will also pass through the Douro Valley, known for its slow, winding roads and picturesque scenery. In the Central region, you will find a mix of traditional towns, villages, and rolling hills.
Moving further south into the Alentejo region, you will see a peaceful countryside, with olive trees and small villages. Finally, reaching the Algarve will show you wonderful views of the ocean and the stunning Ria Formosa.
Must-Visit Destinations Along the N2
The N2 is just over 700 kilometers long. You can create your itinerary, or opt for a premade plan like this one, created by ACP (Automóvel Clube de Portugal). Here are some places you can not miss during your road trip.
The AMREN (Associação de Municípios da Rota da Estrada Nacional 2) created the N2 passport. It is a small passport-like document that you can get stamped as you go along your trip. It also has useful information, including the location of the tourist offices and places to stay and eat throughout the route.
Douro Valley, Peso da Régua, and Lamego
As mentioned above, the N2 route passes through the Douro Valley. This unique area, famed for its wine production, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001. In it, you will find picturesque towns like Santa Marta de Penaguião, beautiful mountains, and natural waterfalls.
You can also explore Peso da Régua, a city known for its Port wine production, dating back to the 13th century. Moving southward, you will discover the ancient Castle of Lamego, a medieval castle built on top of a hill.
Viseu, Penacova, and Melriça
Moving toward the center of Portugal, you will go through the city of Viseu. This incredible city is full of tradition and is known for its local craftsmanship. Elected in 2018 as the healthiest, safest city, with the highest quality of life in Portugal, it is a must-see on your road trip.
Further south in Penacova, you will explore the wonders of Portuguese natural sights. There is much to do, whether you are ready for adventure or need a break. You can go rafting on the River Mondego or rest in the thermal waters of Luso town.
Finally, you must stop at Picoto da Melriça. Built in 1802 on top of Serra da Melriça, this monument marks the Geodesic Center of Portugal. It is right by the N2 and a landmark for anyone traveling in the region.
Évora and Castro Verde
Évora is the capital city of Alentejo. Known for its culture and ancient history, it has several monuments dating back to the Roman Era. For example, you can still visit the ruins of one of the best-preserved Roman temples in the Iberian Peninsula.
The Alentejo is known for its peaceful lifestyle and incredible cooking. Castro Verde, closer to the Algarve, is a typical town with tile-lined houses. It makes for a nice pit stop to taste the local cuisine and rest before finishing your trip.
The Rich History of Estrada Nacional 2
The N2 has been a Portuguese national road since 1945. It was created as a royal pathway to serve the Portuguese kingdom. Throughout it, you will come across landmarks that witnessed and were part of Portuguese history. For example, to traverse the Tâmega river in Chaves, you will cross a Roman bridge built in the 1st or 2nd century CE.
It is unique because not only is it the longest road in Portugal, but it also runs the whole length of the country. Only two other roads in the world match its characteristics: Route 66 in the USA and Ruta 40 in Argentina.
Today, N2 is the perfect trip to discover Portugal’s inland areas, often overlooked by tourism. This route passes through four mountain ranges, eleven rivers, eleven Portuguese districts, and 35 municipalities. It was formed by the union of existing roads, including Roman roads and segments built in the following decades. Thus, you can imagine the spectacular scenery and diverse landscapes you will find.
Planning Your N2 Road Trip
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Now that you know more about the Portuguese National Road 2, get our best tips on organizing your road trip.
Driving
The current 706 kilometers of the Nacional 2 take about 11 hours to drive. Instead of driving it all in one go, you can break it up into a few days. In fact, there is so much to discover that your trip can take as long as you want.
For example, if you want to make a three or four-day road trip, you can organize one-night stays in Chaves, Coimbra, Évora, and Faro. Conversely, you can add more days if you prefer to spend longer in each area or want to make more stops. Covering about 100 kilometers a day will result in a one-week journey.
Cycling
For a cycling holiday, it takes a minimum of five days to cover the N2, but seven to ten days is the norm. It allows you to enjoy the trip without rushing too much. If you prefer, you can always go slower and extend your journey.
Because of its length and terrain, the N2 is not for the inexperienced. The road should be well-maintained, but you will come across many hills and curvy stretches.
Tips and Essentials
The best time to organize your trip is during the shoulder season. You can go from March to May and later in the year, from mid-September to mid-November. During those months, prices are cheaper, there is less traffic, and the weather is milder.
As for any long road trip, check your car beforehand and prepare for any issues that could come up. For example, you might want to extend your insurance coverage and buy a small first aid kit. Additionally, remember to take some cash. Many small markets and businesses inland do not accept card payments.
Portugal is generally safe, but you should be aware of any possible dangers. Keep the national emergency number, 112, on hand. Besides, always know your current location in case you need to call for help.
North to South or South to North?
Most people start their trip in Chaves, close to the Northern Spanish border. But many have loved going the other way around and kicking their journey off in Faro, on the Southern end. Of course, if you have already run the N2 in one way, you can always go for the other. You will see the same breathtaking sights while having a whole different experience.
The N2 – Portugal And Its Route 66
Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, the N2 has something special for you. This incredible road offers more than just a journey between destinations. It provides a living, breathing experience of the heart and soul of Portugal.
From the northern mountains to the southern coast, you will find unique stories that make up inland Portugal. You will taste the local cuisine and create memories that last a lifetime. The N2 is not just a road. It is a gateway to understanding the local culture, history, and traditions.
The N2 was named among the Best Places to Go by American travel guide publisher Frommers in 2019. The perfect itinerary will change from person to person. But if you grab a map and pack your sense of adventure, you will have an unforgettable expedition.
