The ferry crossing from England to somewhere on the continent can be an exciting experience there are several ports you can sail from on the south and east coasts of England. If you want to see as much of France as you can and you like driving, Dover to Calais takes about one and a quarter hours - just enough time to get a meal on board, tour the ship and have a look in the shop.
Sailing to Santander in Spain will mean spending two nights on board your boat but of course a lot less driving.
There are a lot more options open if you contact the different ferry companies.
Then there is the channel tunnel. I have no experience of this.
Fly! there are lots of flights available throughout the year check out the many airlines and get the best prices to Lisbon airport.