One of the best and most fun ways to see Lisbon, Porto & more is to travel Portugal by train.
With its awesome rail network, you can easily hop between buzzing cities like Lisbon and Porto, cute coastal towns, and lovely countryside villages.
Whether you want to zoom along on the high-speed Alfa Pendular or take in the sights on regional trains, Portugal’s train system has comfy rides, great prices, and stunning views along the way.
In this guide, you’ll get the scoop on everything you need to know about train travel in Portugal, including the different types of trains, ticket advice, and must-see spots you can reach by train.
So, get ready for a smooth and memorable adventure!
Jump To:
Types of Trains in Portugal
Portugal offers a variety of trains for different travel needs:
Regional & Local Trains: Serve smaller towns and rural areas with scenic routes like the Douro Valley. Basic amenities, perfect for short trips or day excursions.
Alfa Pendular (High-Speed): Fast and modern, connecting cities like Lisbon, Porto, and Faro. Features Wi-Fi, dining, and spacious seating.
Intercity Trains: Affordable and comfortable, linking major cities with slightly longer travel times. Ideal for budget travelers.
How To Travel Portugal By Train
Portugal’s extensive train network makes it easy to explore the country, and Lisbon is an excellent starting point for your journey.
With many international flights landing in Lisbon, it’s convenient to begin your trip here and take advantage of the numerous train routes that connect to key destinations across the country.
Another great option is starting in Porto, where you can visit the scenic Douro Valley before heading south to explore Lisbon, the nearby gems of Cascais and Sintra, and finally the Algarve region, with its stunning coastline in Lagos.
Below, you’ll find the most popular train routes in Portugal, along with travel times to help you plan your adventure:
Popular Train Routes
- Lisbon to Porto (2.5–3 hours)
- Lisbon to Sintra (45 minutes–1 hour)
- Lisbon to Braga (3 hours 16 minutes)
- Lisbon to Coimbra (1.5–1.8 hours)
- Lisbon to Faro (3.5 hours)
- Lisbon to Cascais (30–40 minutes)
- Lisbon to Évora (1.5 hours)
- Lisbon to Lagos (3.5-4 hours)
- Porto to Guimarães (1 hour)
- Porto to Douro Valley (2–3 hours)
- Faro to Lagos (1.5 hours)
Travel Portugal By Train: How To Buy Tickets
Where To Buy Train Tickets
Train tickets in Portugal can be purchased in several ways:
- Online: The Comboios de Portugal (CP) website and mobile app offer a convenient way to buy tickets for most train types and routes.
- Ticket Machines: Available at all major train stations, these machines have English language options and accept card payments.
- Ticket Counters: For personalized assistance or if you prefer to buy in person, visit a ticket counter at any major station.
- Travel Agencies: Some agencies also sell train tickets and may offer helpful travel tips.
When To Buy Train Tickets To Get The Best Price
- Book Early: For the best fares, especially on high-speed Alfa Pendular trains, book your tickets at least a few weeks in advance.
- Look for Promotions: CP frequently runs sales, so keep an eye out for limited-time offers.
- Avoid Peak Times: Prices are higher during holidays and weekends; traveling on weekdays and during off-peak hours can save you money.
- Consider Round-Trip Tickets: If your plans are fixed, buying a round-trip ticket can be cheaper than two one-way tickets.
Pay Attention To Train Type And Number of Transfers
- Direct vs. Transfers: Alfa Pendular and Intercity trains offer direct services, while regional trains may require multiple transfers.
- Duration and Convenience: Direct trains are faster and more convenient, while trains with transfers can take longer and may involve waiting at stations.
- Ticket Pricing: Transfers can affect ticket prices, so check if the cost difference aligns with your travel plans.
First-Class vs. Tourist Class Train Tickets
- Tourist Class: Comfortable and more affordable, suitable for most travelers. It includes basic seating and access to standard amenities.
- First-Class: Offers more spacious seats, quieter cars, and additional perks like complimentary snacks or drinks on certain trains. Ideal for longer trips if you want extra comfort.
- Choosing Between the Two: Consider your budget and how long your journey will be. For short trips, tourist class is usually sufficient, while first-class can be worth it for long-distance travel.
Travel Portugal By Train: Essential Tips
- Double-Check Your Train Station Name: Ensure you’re heading to the correct station, as some cities have multiple train terminals.
- Arrive Early If Buying Tickets at the Station: Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to allow time for ticket purchases and any potential delays.
- Give Yourself Time at the Station: Allow extra time to find your platform, especially in larger stations.
- Self-Service Machines Are in English: Use ticket machines with English-language options for quick and easy transactions.
- Cheap Tickets Are Non-Refundable: Be aware that discounted tickets cannot be refunded or changed, so plan your travel carefully.
- Pack a Picnic: Bring snacks and drinks for longer journeys as food options onboard may be limited or pricey.
- Don’t Freak Out If You Don’t See Your Train on the Board: If your train isn’t listed, check the platform for updates, or ask station staff for assistance.
Extra Tips for Travelers
Budget-Friendly Train Travel Strategies
Book tickets early for discounts, use regional trains for short trips, and check CP promotions.
Students, seniors, and youth can also enjoy special fares.
Currency When Traveling Internationally
The euro is used in Portugal, Spain, and France.
Carry some cash, use no-fee credit cards, and exchange currency in advance for non-euro countries.
eSIMs and Travel Data Plans
Get an eSIM or travel data plan for easy connectivity.
Download the CP app for schedules and delays, and use offline maps for areas with weak coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make reservations for trains in Portugal?
You can reserve train tickets online via the Comboios de Portugal (CP) website or app, or purchase them at train stations.
Can I travel with luggage, pets, or bikes on Portuguese trains?
Yes, trains allow luggage, small pets in carriers, and bikes, though some services may require reservations or tickets.
Do the trains in Portugal have Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi is available on Alfa Pendular and some Intercity trains, but not on regional or local services.
How can I get train timetables in Portugal?
Timetables are available on the CP website, app, or at stations, with printed copies often provided at major hubs.
How do I buy international train tickets from Portugal to Spain, France, or beyond?
Tickets for international routes can be purchased via CP, Renfe, SNCF, or Rail Europe’s online platforms.
Portugal’s train system is your ticket to endless travel fun, whether you’re hitting up historic cities or uncovering hidden gems in the countryside.
With some planning, you can soak in the country’s diverse landscapes and culture without worrying about driving.
Whether you’re speeding along on a high-speed train or taking in the charm of local routes, train travel is a chill, eco-friendly, and scenic way to explore Portugal.
I hope this post helps you to plan your train journey through Portugal.
Enjoy your trip!
Leave a Reply