Kartódromo de Odivelas

In Pontinha, in the municipality of Odivelas in the near northern suburbs of Lisbon, the Outdoor Karting Lisboa kartódromo offers an outdoor layout a short way from the capital. People come to string together timed laps in the open air, without having to leave the city, which makes it a handy spot for a spur-of-the-moment outing with friends or family. It is one of the gathering points for speed lovers in the Lisbon area.

Karting stays open to everyone, no licence or experience needed: a briefing, a helmet, and off you go chasing your best lap. The format suits beginners trying it out as well as groups set on challenging each other against the clock, and people happily return to beat their time. As the track runs outdoors, it is best to check the hours before coming.

Odivelas is a town on the northern edge of Lisbon, well linked to the centre of the capital by metro and main roads. It gives easy access to everything Lisbon offers, from the lanes of the Alfama and the Belém district to the Tagus quays and the great museums. The Portuguese capital, spread over its hills by the river, is worth several days of a visit on its own. The district, residential and well served, makes a handy base for exploring the capital and its river. The area is reached without trouble from the city centre, about twenty minutes away.