Introduction
The E40 highway, which connects Ghent to Porto via a network of European routes, follows a corridor once used by medieval wool traders moving between Flanders and Iberia. This 1,600-kilometer drive crosses three distinct geological zones: the North European Plain, the Massif Central foothills, and the Iberian Meseta. Belgian drivers are known for strict adherence to speed limits in residential zones, a habit worth noting as you depart. The journey presents a practical question: is it worth driving Ghent to Porto? For those with time to explore beyond the direct route, the answer lies in the variety of landscapes and urban experiences along the way. Planning such a trip requires knowing how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities, a skill detailed in resources like how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities. This guide provides concrete data to help you decide.
Best Stops
Between Ghent and Porto, several locations merit a pause. In France, the city of Tours on the A10 offers the Pl. Plumereau, a square with timber-framed houses from the 15th century, 35 minutes from the highway exit. Bordeaux’s Cité du Vin, a museum dedicated to wine, sits 10 minutes from the A630 junction. In Spain, Burgos on the AP-1 features a Gothic cathedral whose construction began in 1221, accessible via a 20-minute detour. Salamanca’s Plaza Mayor, built between 1729 and 1755, is 15 minutes from the A-62. For coastal variety, consider Biarritz off the A63, where the Rocher de la Vierge provides Atlantic views. Things to do between Ghent and Porto include sampling pintxos in San Sebastián’s Parte Vieja district or visiting Coimbra’s university library in Portugal, a 45-minute drive from the A1. Each stop adds depth to the journey without requiring lengthy detours.
3-Day Itinerary
A Ghent to Porto itinerary 3 days allows for a balanced pace. Day 1: Depart Ghent at 8 AM via E17, reaching Lille by 9 AM. After a brief stop, continue on A1 to Paris, arriving by noon. Spend the afternoon at the Musée d’Orsay (open 9:30 AM–6 PM, closed Mondays), then drive 3 hours on A10 to Tours, overnighting there. Day 2: Leave Tours at 8 AM, drive 4 hours on A10 to Bordeaux. Visit the Miroir d’Eau, a water mirror on the Garonne riverfront, then continue 2 hours on A63 to San Sebastián for an evening meal. Day 3: Depart at 9 AM, take AP-68 and A-52 for 5 hours to Salamanca. See the university’s 16th-century façade, then drive 3 hours on A-62 and A-25 to Porto, arriving by 8 PM. This schedule covers 6–7 hours of driving daily with key cultural stops.
Route Logistics
| Segment | Highway | Distance | Driving Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ghent to Lille | E17 | 85 km | 1 hour | Toll-free in Belgium; French tolls start after border. |
| Lille to Paris | A1 | 215 km | 2 hours 15 min | Heavy traffic near Paris; consider périphérique bypass. |
| Paris to Bordeaux | A10 | 585 km | 5 hours 30 min | Longest uninterrupted stretch; frequent rest areas. |
| Bordeaux to San Sebastián | A63 | 200 km | 2 hours | Crosses into Spain at Irún; switch to AP-8. |
| San Sebastián to Porto | AP-68, A-52 | 720 km | 7 hours | Spanish toll roads; Portuguese A24 is toll-free. |
Total direct driving time is approximately 18 hours non-stop, covering 1,605 kilometers. Fuel costs average €250-€300 for a standard gasoline car, with tolls adding €150-€200. The best stops Ghent to Porto often appear when you deviate from these main arteries.
Continue Your Adventure
Frequently Asked Questions
How long to drive Ghent to Porto?
Direct driving time is about 18 hours non-stop via E17, A1, A10, A63, AP-68, and A-52, covering 1,605 km. With stops, plan for 2–3 days.
Is it worth driving Ghent to Porto?
Yes, if you have time to explore intermediate cities like Bordeaux or Salamanca. The drive offers varied scenery, but requires tolerance for long highway stretches.
What are things to do between Ghent and Porto?
Visit Tours’ medieval square, Bordeaux’s wine museum, Burgos Cathedral, Salamanca’s Plaza Mayor, or coastal Biarritz. Each is within 45 minutes of the main route.
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