is train travel easy in portugal

Portugal Trains: How to get around Portugal by Train

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Portugal has a great train service. It’s old, and it’s a little slow in comparison to the trains in many other European countries, but it’s functional. Sometimes the air con even works as well!

There are four different types of train in Portugal:

• Alpha-Pendular: The fastest trains in Portugal. These are usually the newest and the most comfortable, and have additional luxuries like audio channels that you can listen to and televisions. This type of train is the most expensive, but the difference between Alpha-Pendular and Intercidades is usually only a few euros. 
• Intercidades:  This train is slightly slower than the Alpha-Pendular trains as it makes more stops, but it isn’t really significantly slower. Theses trains are older, the bar is a bit more basic, and they’re a little less comfortable. 
• Regional (R) and Interregional (IR):  These trains cover much shorter distances and are much more basic again. Tickets cannot be purchased in advance or online. 
• Urban (U):  These trains are common in larger cities like Lisbon and Porto and, again, are quite simple. Tickets cannot be purchased in advance or online. 

Train routes run throughout Portugal and connect all of the major regions by rail. Not every town has a train station, but the majority of the large towns and cities do. If you can’t find a train to the town that you want to visit, it may be worth looking at taking a bus or renting a car instead. 

In fact, sometimes it’s worth looking at where the train station is before booking a train: in some towns, the train is 5 or 10 km outside of the town (meaning you’ll need to get a taxi from the train station to the town centre). Bus stations, on the other hand, are usually always fairly close to the town centre. 

It’s cheap (and here’s how to get it cheaper)

What’s amazing about Portugal’s train service is the cost. Here are some sample prices (accurate at the time of writing in September 2023, and for booking around two months in advance): 

• Porto to Lisbon: €26.60 for a single
• Faro to Lisbon: €9.50 for a single
• Albufeira to Lisbon: €9 for a single
• Faro to Coimbra: €19 for a single
• Vila Real de San Antonio to Valenca (a 715km journey): €55.80 for a single.

All of those prices are for second class tickets booked more than eight days in advance to take advantage of the discounts. These are:

• Up to 56% off if you buy your tickets at least 5 days in advance
• Up to 65% off if you buy your tickets at least 8 days in advance

Note: Discounts aren’t available on all the tickets. The 7 am train pictured below doesn’t have any discounts available, for example. 

Those are for the Intercidades (IC) and Alpha-Pendular (AP) trains. The Urban trains (which can’t be booked in advance) are often even cheaper. These trains aren’t everywhere in the country, but are especially common around Lisbon and Porto. 

As well as advanced tickets, there are also discounts for:

• Under 25s: 25% off for those under 25.
• Under 30s: 12-30 year olds get 25% off with a European Youth Card .
• Group travel:  Travel as a group of 3 or 4 people on the Alfa Pendular or Intercidade trains and get up to 50% off.
• Those with special needs: Up to 75% off for you, and 25% off for your carer.
• Senior Citizens: Over 65s get 50% off. (It’s a good idea to take ID with you as you may need to show this at the ticket office and also on the train). 
• Under 3s: Half-price tickets for under 3s that don’t occupy a seat.

You can select any of these discounts when you’re booking online. If you have booked in advance, this is usually the best discount you can get. You can select a Senior Citizen or Under 25 discount, but this will actually be less than the advanced promo price. Unfortunately, you can’t combine discounts e.g. 5 days in advance and under 25.

Tickets can be booked through cp.pt , which is the official website for Comboios de Portugal (the Portuguese train company). You can pay with a credit or debit card or with PayPal. Some people have problems paying with a foreign credit or debit card: if that happens to you, try paying through PayPal (you don’t need a PayPal account to do this). 

Read more about discounted train travel in Portugal

1st class vs 2nd class

First class on Portuguese trains is a bit disappointing, at least in comparison to other countries like Spain and the UK where you are served a meal and drinks. It depends on the type of train, but first class on Portuguese trains could just mean more legroom and comfier seats. 

There are three types of train used in Portugal (Alpha-Pendular, Intercidades, Regional (R) and Interregional (IR), and Urban (U)) and only Alpha-Pendular and Intercidades offer a first and second class option. 

First class on Alpha-Pendular usually means you get a drink, a newspaper or magazine, and headphones. First class on Intercidades usually just means that you get larger and comfier seats and, on some seats, a plug socket (plug sockets are also available on some seats in second class). 

You can also book single seats on both Alpha-Pendular and Intercidades trains. This alone could be worth it if you’re travelling alone, and want a bit more space to yourself. The difference between first and second class is often less than 5 Euros, so it’s not a lot to spend to treat yourself to a little extra comfort. 

Do the trains have Wi-Fi?

Increasingly more and more trains in Portugal have wi-fi, especially the Alpha-Pendular routes, and sometimes it even works (but usually it’s very slow). 

Unfortunately, although some trains do have working wi-fi, it’s not a given which means you can’t rely on it if you want to work. Mobile internet connections are also pretty unreliable on the train, particularly when you’re going through more rural parts of the country, and the trains are also quite jiggly which can make you feel sick if you’re staring at a laptop screen. It’s fine for watching a movie, but not great for trying to work. 

Buying Train Tickets

The Comboios De Portugal (Portugal Trains) website is reasonably easy to use, and is one of the easiest ways to buy train tickets. There’s also an app for both iOS and Android, or you could buy your tickets at the counter in a train station.

You can get your ticket sent to your by SMS, which is much easier than having to print it off. You can also get your ticket delivered via the app.

A lot of people use Rail Europe for booking train tickets while travelling in Europe, but it’s much better to use the official website. Rail Europe doesn’t always have all the timetables, you can’t book tickets same day or next day for Portuguese trains, and you don’t get access to the discounts. Just use cp.pt instead.

Note: Regional train tickets (marked ‘R’ on the trains website) and Urban train tickets (marked ‘U’ on the trains website) aren’t normally sold in advance. You can buy them on the day from the train station or on-board if there isn’t a ticket office at the station.

If your long distance train journey includes a change onto a regional train, sometimes you can buy the whole journey in one ticket (this is the case when going from Lisbon to many places in the Algarve, for example). This isn’t always the case, though, and you may need to buy that ‘R’ ticket of your journey on the day. 

Tip: Try to avoid clicking ‘Train times’ (in English) or ‘Consultar Horários’ (in Portuguese). This section of the website feels like the section of the website where you buy tickets, but you can only look up the timetables. If you’re wondering why there’s no ‘buy now’ button, this is probably why.

Credit card problems? Try paying with PayPal instead (you’ll see the option at checkout). You don’t need to have a PayPal account to do this: you can pay with your card using PayPal. 

Ticket details for tax purposes? In Portugal, it’s common to add your personal tax number (known as a NIF ) to a receipt when making a purchase. Doing so can allow you to claim some taxes back.

If you don’t have a NIF number (which you probably won’t unless you’re living in Portugal) and you don’t want to add your personal tax number from your country of residency, you can skip this section.

Travelling with luggage 

A lot of people have asked questions about travelling on the trains with luggage. 

Yes, you can bring a suitcase or backpack onboard the train. Every passenger is entitled to bring one piece of luggage (such as a suitcase or a backpack) and a small bag like a laptop bag or handbag. Any more than that is considered excess baggage and you should have to pay extra to bring it but it’s not monitored. 

Luggage storage is generally in a rack above the seats. The racks are wide and can easily take a backpack or a cabin-size suitcase, but may not be suitable for a very large suitcase.

On the long distance AP and IR trains, there is normally a space for extra large bags at the entrance to each carriage (and sometimes in the middle of the carriage as well) however these can fill up. 

If you’re concerned about travelling with luggage, especially large suitcases, consider taking a coach instead. Baggage is stored underneath the bus so there’s more room for wider suitcases and you don’t have to lift it above your head. 

Travelling with pets

Yes, you can travel with a pet (for free) on the trains in Portugal as long as the pet is not dangerous, is housed in a properly enclosed transportation box, and as long as they don’t smell or there isn’t any reason that other passengers might object to travelling with them. 

On some trains, it’s also possible to travel with a dog that’s not in an enclosed transportation box. The dog will need to be muzzled and on a short lead, and the owner will need to bring the dog’s vaccination card and valid licence with them. They’ll also need to buy a ticket for the dog as well. 

Guide dogs can travel with the owner on all trains for free. 

For more information about travelling with a pet on Portuguese trains, visit CP.pt . 

Bringing your bike

Yes, you can bring your bike onboard any intercity train (e.g. from Lisbon to Faro). There is normally space for 1-2 bikes per carriage, and passengers are normally limited to 1 bike per passenger. 

More information about travelling with a bike can be found on CP.pt . 

Getting Train Timetables

If you want to see the train timetables, the easiest thing is to enter your dates and do a search. If you click the (+) button, you can see a list of all the stops on the journey.

International Tickets: Portugal to Spain, France & the rest of the world

It’s not possible to book international train tickets with CP.pt. There’s a route from Lisbon to Madrid, for example, but you need to book this through the Spain train website, Renfe.es .

Travelling further than that is even more complicated. I wanted to see if it was possible to book a train ticket from Lisbon to Barcelona or Lisbon to Paris, but neither RailEurope, GoEuro, or thetrainline.eu could do that for me. If you want to do an international trip like this, you will need to book all of the train tickets for each individual leg.

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How to buy train tickets in portugal | guide to portugal train tickets.

Everything you need to know about finding the cheapest train tickets in Portugal.

Transportation

Portugal has exploded in popularity and visitors are welcomed with a fairly modern train network ready to whisk them throughout the country. And while train ticket prices are affordable in Portugal, I’ve created this guide on how to buy train tickets in Portugal so you can get the best train tickets at the cheapest price.

Buying Train Tickets in Portugal: A Quick Guide

The Comboios de Portugal is the official Portugal Rail Service. Anyone can buy train tickets directly from the Comboios de Portugal  website but it suffers from some weird translation issues and some international users might have trouble making credit card payments—so I recommend sticking to the booking websites below (especially for non-Europeans). You also can’t buy international train tickets (i.e. Lisbon to Madrid) on Comboios de Portugal .

Omio  is my preferred rail service booking service because they find the lowest train tickets and it’s much more user-friendly than the Official Portugal Rail website—no issues using a foreign credit card, no translation issues, etc. Omio charges a small service fee (around $1-$2 per ticket) but the ticket prices are the same.

Most train tickets you book on Omio are electronic so you’ll receive an e-ticket sent to your phone (via email or the Omio App)—you simply have to the train conductor when he/she comes by to check tickets. If e-tickets aren’t available, you can print your tickets at the train station using your booking confirmation code.

Trainline  is similar to Omio so it finds the same tickets as Comboios de Portugal and you’ll pay a small booking fee of around $1-$3. Again, you’ll either get an electronic ticket sent to your email/smartphone app or you can print tickets at the station.

Buying Tickets At The Train Station

You always have the option of buying your train ticket from any train station in Portugal. The quickest and easiest way to buy train tickets is via the automated ticket machines (the machines all have English language options). However, sometimes these machines don’t accept foreign credit cards.

You can also buy tickets from the ticket window but the lines can get very long during busy times. Most of the ticket sellers will speak passable English but not always. That said, the ticket window can generally accept any credit card so try the window if you’re having issues with the machines.

IMPORTANT: Ticket windows (especially at smaller stations and on weekends) often open later in the morning so this can pose a problem if you want to catch an early train! Book the day before if possible.

Travel Tip:  You’ll want reliable high-speed data for your phone if you’re taking the train in Portugal. I’ve written a few different articles about getting cheap mobile data in Portugal/Europe:  Guide To Mobile Data Plans and Smartphone Phones in Europe ,  How To Buy A SIM Card and Mobile Data Plans in Europe , and  The Best eSIM Data Plans For Portugal .

Step-By-Step Guide To Booking Train Tickets In Portugal

Ok, so now that you know where to buy Portuguese train tickets, let’s jump into my step-by-step guide on how to buy train tickets in Portugal. In this section, I’ll cover the different types of train tickets, strategies for getting the best price, and other things to keep in mind when searching for your train tickets.

Enter Your Train Travel Details

The first step is to visit a booking website (I like  Omio ) and enter your travel details—this is pretty straightforward but I’ve listed a few below that you should keep in mind:

• Departure & Arrival Stations:  Make sure you’re entering the correct train stations because many large cities have multiple train stations.
• Number Of Transfers: Routes with zero transfers are always the best option if it’s available.
• Type Of Train (High-Speed vs Regional):  High-speed trains are always my top choice.
• Departure Time:  Most routes will have multiple departure times so click around to find one that works for you. The departure time can also have an impact on the price of the ticket.

NOTE: If your search comes back with no trains then you’re probably trying to book too far in advance. Trains can typically only be booked 60 days prior to departure.

Choose Your Ticket Type

Booking sites like  Omio  or  Trainline  display the cheapest second-class ticket by default. A 1st class will cost about 50% more than second-class tickets but second-class seats are plenty comfortable.

The cheapest tickets are “promo fares” which just means they can’t be refunded or exchanged—so don’t miss your train. “Normal fare” tickets can be canceled with a fee up to 15 minutes before departure but these tickets are much more expensive than the cheaper promo fare tickets.

What Is The Pricing Structure Of Portugal Train Tickets?

Like many European countries, train ticket pricing in Portugal can change based on train type (high speed vs local), demand, time of day, etc.

Luckily, train tickets in Portugal tend to be affordable so even full-priced fares aren’t very expensive but let’s take a look at what affects the train ticket prices:

Alpha-Pendular (AP) High-Speed Trains

The Alpha-Pendular is the fastest and most modern train in Portugal—it reaches speeds of 125mph. These high-speed trains connect Portugal’s largest cities and have limited stops. Ticket sales begin 60 days prior to departure and get more expensive as the departure date approaches—I suggest buying at least two weeks early to get the cheapest prices.

Ticket prices will also fluctuate based on the departure time so the more popular travel times are more expensive than less popular travel times.

Intercidades (IC) Trains

Intercidades are relatively fast trains that run similar routes are the Alpha-Pendular trains but they make more stops so the journey will be longer—the trains are also a little older and more basic.

As with Alpha-Pendular trains, Intercidades Trains are cheaper when purchased early and prices raise are the departure date approaches.

Regional (R), Interregional (IR), and Urban (U) Trains:

These slow, short-haul regional trains connect smaller towns/regions/suburbs. Prices are fixed and can’t be purchased online.

How Early Should You Buy Train Tickets?

Long-distance, high-speed train tickets can be booked around two months in advance. These tickets start cheap and then get progressively more expensive as the departure date gets closer. For example, a ticket might be around €10 if booked a month early but can cost €35 if booked the day of travel—so it pays to buy your train tickets early.

In general, tickets purchased 5 days early will be 50% off the full-price fare and tickets bought 8 days in advance will about around 60% off the full-price fare.

The only downside is that these cheap tickets are not refundable or changeable so you’ll need to have your plans set. You can pay more for refundable tickets if you’re worried about your plans.

Collecting Your eTickets or Physical Train Tickets

Nearly all train tickets purchased online are mobile eTicket tickets. If you buy your tickets via  Omio  or  Trainline  the tickets will be stored in the booking app or you can have the tickets emailed to you. You simply show the train conductor your e-ticket on your phone and they’ll scan its QR code.

Physical tickets purchased at the train station must be validated if there isn’t a specific time printed on the ticket. You validate the ticket by scanning it at the ticket machines stationed around the train platform. Failure to validate could lead to an expensive fine.

Most Popular Train Routes In Portugal

A majority of travelers only visit Lisbon but there are plenty of other places in Portugal worth checking out. Below are a few of the most popular routes:

LISBON TO SINTRA BY TRAIN (AROUND 45MIN-1HR)

Sintra is the most popular day trip from Lisbon. It uses a local train that takes around one hour and costs €2.30 each way. There are multiple trains every hour—sometimes as often as every 10 minutes during peak travel times.

Tickets can only be bought at the station. Ticket lines get very long during the busy season so arrive early to avoid the lines.

LISBON TO PORTO BY TRAIN (2.5H-3H)

Traveling between Lisbon (Oriente Station) and Porto (Campanhã Station) by train is easy and there are multiple direct trains daily. The Alfa Pendular high-speed train will take around 2h40min and the slightly slower Intercity train takes around 3h10min.

Ticket prices start around €32 but you can save 50%+ by booking early. Check prices at  Omio .

LISBON TO BRAGA BY TRAIN (3HR 16MIN)

Braga is a great city in the far north of Portugal. Braga is about 3hr15m from Lisbon via the high-speed train and 40m from Porto via the high-speed train.

There are only a few direct trains between Lisbon and Braga but most require a change in Porto (which can add anywhere from a 10-minute stopover to over an hour stopover). So look for a direct train for the shortest and most convenient route.

There are multiple daily departures between Lisbon and Braga and tickets cost between €30-€40 but can get down to €12-€15 if booked early. Check prices at  Omio .

LISBON TO COIMBRA BY TRAIN (1H30MIN-1HR50MIN)

The riverfront city of Coimbra is about halfway between Porto and Lisbon so it makes a popular trip from both cities. Direct trains between Lisbon and Coimbra take 1.5-2 hours depending if you take the AP or IC train.

Standard train tickets between Lisbon and Coimbra cost around €20-€26 or €10-€15 if booked early. Check prices at  Omio .

LISBON TO FARO BY TRAIN (3HR 30MIN)

Sun-soaked Faro is the best-known city in Portugal’s famous Algarve region. The high-speed AP train takes about 3 hours and the IC train takes about 3.5 hours from Lisbon. Check prices at  Omio .

General Portugal Train Travel Tips

Here are a few more things to consider when taking the train in Portugal. You can also check out my Portugal Train Guide for more in-depth advice.

Check Your Train Station

Many cities in Portugal have multiple train stations so double-check that you have the correct station.

Luggage Allowance

You’re technically only allowed a personal bag and a suitcase on trains in Portugal but this isn’t monitored unless you’re taking a crazy amount of luggage on the train. There are large luggage spaces between the train cars and smaller racks above the seats.

Seat Reservations on Trains

Your ticket automatically comes with a seat reservation on the high-speed AP and IC trains. Local and regional trains have open seating.

Food and Drink On Trains

You’re free to bring food and drinks (including alcohol) on any train. Most high-speed trains also have a cafe car with snacks, coffee, and alcohol. Some trains will also have a restaurant car with a range of options.

International Trains

Portugal is geographically removed from the rest of Europe but the most popular international train route is Lisbon to Madrid, Spain—the journey takes around 14 hours. So most people choose to fly.

More Portugal Travel Tips From The Savvy Backpacker

Here are some more articles I’ve written about traveling through Portugal and Europe:

• The Savvy Backpacker’s Lisbon Travel Guide
• Lisbon Price Guide
• Best Hostels in Lisbon
• The Best Travel Backpacks
• The Best Travel Shoes for Women and The Best Travel Shoes for Men
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Portugal is not a large country and you can get almost everywhere easily and efficiently by train or bus. Regional trains are often cheaper and some lines very scenic, but it’s almost always quicker to go by bus – especially on shorter or less obvious routes. You’ll obviously have a great deal more flexibility if you drive , and you’ll be able to visit more out-of-the-way places in a short trip.

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Comboios de Portugal ( CP ; enquiries on 707 210 220) operates all trains. For the most part it’s an efficient network with modern rolling stock, while there are some highly picturesque lines in the north that are among the country’s best attractions, notably the Douro line from Porto to Pocinho. Be aware that rural train stations can sometimes be a fair way from the town or village they serve – Loulé station and town in the Algarve are 6km apart, for example. Timetables ( horários ) for all lines are available from stations and on the CP website, which has a good English-language version.

Most train services are designated Regionais (R) or Interregionais (IR), covering the country from Faro in the south to Valença do Minho in the north. Intercidades (IC) are faster and more expensive services, connecting Lisbon to the main regional centres; while the modern, high-speed Alfa Pendulares (AP) trains run from Lisbon to Faro, and from Lisbon to Braga via Santarém, Coimbra, Aveiro and Porto. Urban services ( urbanos ) in Lisbon (to Cascais, Sintra, Setúbal and Vila Franca de Xira) and Porto (to Aveiro, Braga and Guimarães) provide a useful commuter link to local towns, while both cities also have an underground metro system.

Tickets, fares and rail passes

Most visitors simply buy a ticket every time they travel; first-class is primeira classe or conforto , second-class is segunda classe or turística . Always turn up at the station with time to spare since long queues often form at ticket offices. However, at unstaffed regional stations you can just pay the ticket inspector on board, while major stations have credit-card ticket machines for long-distance IC or AP tickets (on the day of travel or up to thirty days in advance); and you can also buy IC and AP tickets on the CP website.

Fares are extremely good value. A typical regional journey, across the Algarve from Faro to Vila Real de Santo António for example, only costs around €5.20; the Lisbon–Porto route costs around €25 second-class/€36 first-class by Intercidade, or around €32/43 on the fastest Alfa Pendular service. There are fifty-percent discounts for children under 13 (under-5s go free), and for over-65s (ID required; ask for a bilhete terceira idade ), and 25 percent discounts for those under 25 (ID required). Seat reservations are obligatory on IC and AP trains, though they are included in the ticket price.

The major pan-European rail passes (InterRail and Eurail) are only worth considering if you’re visiting Portugal as part of a wider European tour. However, both schemes also have single-country Portugal passes, which might prove better value. The InterRail Portugal Pass ( raileurope.co.uk ) is only available to European residents and allows three, four, six or eight days’ train travel within one month, with under-25, adult, family and senior plus second- and first-class versions available. Non-European residents can buy a Portugal rail pass with Eurail, typically offering three, four, five or eight days’ travel within a month, again in various classes. You can check current prices on the websites, but bear in mind that it often works out cheaper to buy individual tickets as you need them, rather than passes, and it’s certainly more convenient to be able to choose buses on some routes. All these passes also have to be bought before you leave home, and you might still be liable for supplements and seat reservations on long-distance and high-speed trains.

Buses connect almost all of the country’s towns and villages, with services operated by a wide array of private companies. It can be a little confusing at times: at some bus stations you may find two or more companies running services to the same towns; conversely, buses going to the same destination may leave from different terminals. However, there is a national network of express buses , with Rede Expressos offering a daily service to destinations across the country. Other key busoperators include Rodonorte in the north, Rodotejo in the Ribatejo, Rodoviária do Alentejo in the Alentejo and, in the Algarve, EVA and Frota Azul .

You can book tickets online or buy them at bus stations and ticket desks (often in cafés by the bus stop/station). Buying tickets in advance is a wise idea, but even in summer in tourist areas the day before is usually fine. Fares are good value: the Lisbon–Porto express route and Faro–Lisbon both cost around €20. Under-4s travel free, under-13s half-price, and there are discounts for under-29s and senior citizens over 65 with relevant identification.

Local and rural bus services go virtually everywhere you’re likely to want to go, with the notable exception of remote beaches and some of the natural parks, including much of the Serra da Estrela, Serra de Malcata and Montesinho. Note, however, that services are often restricted to one or two departures a day, or geared towards school dropoffs/pickups and market times – meaning early-morning weekday departures, sometimes only during term times. Many local services are reduced – or nonexistent – at weekends.

The local bus station – Rodoviária or Camionagem – is usually the best place to check services and routes. Most companies have timetables posted in the ticket-office window and copies to give away, though outside the Algarve it’s rare to find anyone who speaks English. Turismos often have bus timetables too.

A massive EU-funded construction programme has improved roads right across the country – particularly in previously remote areas such as Trás-os-Montes and central Portugal – and what appears to be a minor route on a map can turn out to be a beautifully engineered highway. But there are still plenty of winding, poorly maintained rural roads – and you can expect to encounter highway repairs, farm vehicles, roaming animals and locals laden with wood or produce on almost any countryside journey. Other than on city approaches and during rush hour, traffic is generally light, though as car ownership has increased dramatically in recent years so too has congestion. It’s worth noting, too, that Portugal’s accident statistics are some of the worst per capita in the EU, and drink-driving is not uncommon, despite the strict laws and advertising campaigns.

Most main roads are prefixed EN – Estrada Nacional – or just N, with the faster regional highways denoted as IP (Itinerário Principal) or IC (Itinerário Complementar). On the whole, they are two-lane roads, with passing lanes on hills, though stretches near some towns and cities are dual carriageway. You can pay by credit card at most petrol stations for fuel ( gasolina ) – unleaded is sem chumbo , diesel gasóleo .

Please note that weather can affect road conditions. To avoid any difficulties, read our guide to the weather in Portugal .

Motorways and tolls

The motorway ( auto-estrada ) network (prefixed with “A”) comprises four- or six-lane toll roads (signposted “Portagem”) that link the Algarve with Lisbon, Porto, the main inland towns and the north. Most of the motorways have toll gates – take a ticket when you join the motorway, then hand it in at the next toll gate or when you leave, and you’ll be told what to pay. Don’t drive through the lane marked “Via Verde” (an automatic debit-payment lane), but use any lane with a green light above it – you pay in cash, or with Visa or MasterCard.

Many of the formerly formerly toll-free motorways now use number plate-recognition cameras to charge. If you have your own car, there are three somewhat complex ways to pay: full details are on portugaltolls.pt . Most car rental companies offer a transponder device which records any tolls used; you have to pay extra for these (typically around €20 a week), and the toll fees are settled by way of credit preloaded by the rental company, or by visiting a post office (as you would in a car without a transponder): just tell the post office your car registration number and they will tell you what you owe. However, you can currently only pay two to five days after you have used the road, which is not much good if you’re using the motorway to the airport for a flight home. In theory, you could be chased for the bill, but it is unlikely.

The tolls are considered expensive by the Portuguese, who tend to use the older routes where possible; driving from Lisbon to Porto or the Algarve costs around €22. However, it’s always much quicker by motorway and, with some sections virtually deserted, they are a pleasure to drive.

Rules of the road

Traffic drives on the right: speed limits are 50kph in towns and villages (often enforced by tripped “Velocidade Controlade” traffic lights), 90kph on normal roads, and 120kph on motorways and interregional highways. Unless there’s a sign to the contrary at road junctions (and there rarely is), vehicles coming from the right have right of way – it can be horribly confusing, but most drivers use common sense to interpret whose turn it is. Other road signage is also poor, particularly at roundabouts, city exits and highway access roads, where signs simply dry up for no reason; often, too, there’s little or no warning of turnings at slip-roads and junctions; or destinations may be signposted in one direction and not the other.

Many car insurance policies cover taking your car to Portugal; check with your own insurer. However, you’re advised to take out extra cover for motoring assistance in case your car breaks down: try motoring organizations like the RAC or the AA . Alternatively, you can get 24-hour assistance from the Automóvel Clube de Portugal , which has reciprocal arrangements with foreign automobile clubs.

Driving licences from most countries are accepted, so there’s no need to get an international one before you leave. If you’re stopped by the police in Portugal, they’ll want to see your personal ID or passport, driving licence, and papers for the car (including ownership papers if it’s your own car). By law, you should also have a red warning triangle and a fluorescent yellow jacket in the car (provided in rental cars). It pays to be patient and courteous since the police can – and do – levy on-the-spot fines for speeding, parking and other offences. Pleading ignorance won’t get you anywhere.

Many towns and beach resorts are now flooded with traffic, especially in summer, so you may find problems finding a central parking space. Some cities, such as Coimbra, have park-and-ride schemes, while in Porto there are huge car parks at suburban metro stations. When parking in cities , do as the locals do and use the empty spaces pointed out to you. A tip of €0.50 to the man doing the pointing will pay them for “looking after” your car. On-street parking is usually metered, even in the smallest towns. The price varies, but averages €0.80 an hour, though it’s generally free from 8pm until 8am the next morning on weekdays, on Saturday afternoons and all day Sunday. Garage parking is always more expensive – up to €10 a day – but where available it's the most secure option.

Car and motorbike rental

Car rental is relatively inexpensive and usually cheapest of all arranged in advance through one of the large multinational chains. Check websites for special offers . Otherwise, rental agencies (including local firms) are found in all the major towns and at the airports in Lisbon, Porto and Faro. Local rates start at €150 a week with unlimited mileage, theft cover and collision damage waivers; you’ll also pay extra for a toll-road transponder (see above). Minimum age for rental is 21, though up to and including the age of 25 you’ll have to pay a supplement. Note also that when renting a car, UK drivers will need to show a driving licence and provide a licence code , which allows the rental company to check if you have any penalty points. The code should be obtained before you travel via gov.uk/government/news/hiring-a-vehicle .

Collision insurance is vital, since without it you’ll be liable for costs should the vehicle be damaged – and this includes even minor scratches, easily acquired down unmade tracks or in crowded car parks. Ensure that all visible damage on a car you’re picking up is duly marked on the rental sheet. It’s definitely worth considering paying the extra charge to reduce the “excess” payment levied for any damage, but these waiver charges (by the day) soon add up. However, you can avoid all excess charges in the event of damage by taking out an annual insurance policy with Insurance4carhire.com , which also covers windscreen and tyre damage.

You can also rent mopeds, scooters and low-powered (80cc) motorbikes in many resorts, with costs starting at around €30–60 a day. You need to be at least 18 (and over 23 for bikes over 125cc) and to have held a full licence for at least a year. Rental should include helmet and locks along with third-party insurance. Helmet use is obligatory.

Travelling by taxi in Portugal is relatively cheap by European standards, and meters are used in towns and cities – an average journey across Lisbon or Porto costs around €10–13. Additional charges are made for carrying luggage, travelling at weekends or between 10pm and 6am (twenty percent more), and for calling a cab by phone – these charges are all posted inside the cab. You may have to rely on taxis more than you expect, since bus and railway stations are often some way removed from town centres, while in rural areas there may be no other way to reach your next destination. Outside town limits, the journey is usually charged by the kilometre – the driver should be able to quote you a figure for the trip.

Cycling is increasingly popular in Portugal, both as a sport and a way to get from A to B, despite the hilly terrain of the interior. In addition, dedicated cycle paths are beginning to appear in major cities, such as Lisbon and Porto, as are long-distance paths along former railways lines, such as the Ecopista do Dão near Coimbra and the Ecopista da Linha do Tâmega near Amarante and the Ecopista near Évora. Specialist outlets, plus hotels, campsites and youth hostels, rent bikes from €10–20 a day. A collective of bike-friendly hotels throughout the country, which have repair stations and local cycling routes, is listed at bikotels.com .

Portugal’s woeful road-accident statistics mean that defensive riding is essential – reflective and fluorescent clothing (or sashes) at night is recommended. In general, it’s best to assume that drivers will not obey road signs or regulations – just be prepared. Minor country roads have far less traffic to contend with, but locals know them backwards and so speeding – even around blind corners – is the norm. For more information on cycling abroad, contact the UK’s national cycling organization, the CTC , though you’ll have to join to access their tours and notes on cycling in Portugal.

Collapsible bikes can be taken for free on regional and interregional trains (ie, the slow ones), so long as they’re dismantled and stowed in a bag or other cover. Otherwise, bikes can be taken on the Lisbon and Porto urban lines and regional trains from Coimbra – there’s usually a small charge during the week, free at weekends. The CP website has the latest details.

• From Entre-os-Rios, the N222 heads high above the south bank of the Douro, before hugging the water as far as pretty Pinhão.
• Drive across the highest mountains in Portugal, from Seia to Covilhã on the N339.
• The trans-Trás-os-Montes N103 snakes around northern Portugal’s wildest terrain, skirting the Parque Natural de Montesinho.
• The vertiginous N379-1 crosses the Serra de Arrábida mountains high above the Baia de Setúbal, providing stunning coastal views.
• The N265 from Serpa to Mértola is a bucolic back-route through the Alentejo’s stunning Parque Natural do Vale do Guardiana.

The Rough Guides to Portugal and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Portugal

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Portugal

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• How to get to Portugal
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• Travel Tips

written by Mani Ramaswamy

updated 17.04.2024

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Trains in Portugal make exploring the country even the more beautiful. Routes take you along the Atlantic coast and down to the golden beaches of the Algarve . Ride comfortable trains through the green hills of Braga , to thrilling cities Lisbon and Porto and get connected with Portugal's unique, rich and glorious history.

Train types in Portugal

You can travel all over Portugal on trains run by the national railway company CP (Comboios de Portugal). With pleasantly modern and hassle-free train services, it's an experience that leaves you with fond memories of the country. Times of Portuguese trains are always available in the Interrail timetable .

• International

Regional and Intercity trains in Portugal

Regional (RE / TRN) and Inter-Regional (RE)

• Trains connecting larger cities such as Lisbon and Porto to smaller towns. They make frequent stops over short distances. 
• No reservation required.

Intercity / Intercidades (IC)

• Faster trains connecting major towns and cities and making fewer stops along their routes. 
• Reservations are required.

Urbanos (SUB)

• Suburban commuter trains operating in and around Lisbon and Porto. 
• No reservation needed. 
• Lisbon to Azambuja, Lisbon to Cascais, Lisbon to Sintra (a traveller favourite!) and Lisbon to Sado 
• Porto to Aveiro, Porto to Braga, Porto to Caíde/Marco de Canaveses and Porto to Guimarães

High-speed trains in Portugal

Alfa Pendular  (AP)

Domestic high-speed train connecting Guimarães, Braga, Porto, Coimbra, Lisbon and Faro.

Portugal's fastest train.

A reservation is required.   

International trains in Portugal

Celta (INT)

• International train linking Porto (Campanha) with Vigo (Guixar) in Spain.
• A cooperation between CP and RENFE of the Spanish railways.
• A reservation is required (no fee at the railway station).

IC & Regional train (RE)

• Lisbon/Porto – Entroncamento with connecting trains. 
• Entroncamento – Badajoz. 
• Badajoz – Madrid by IC. 
• Reservation required for Lisbon/Porto – Entroncamento and Badajoz – Madrid.

Popular connections

• Domestic routes
• International routes

Here are approximate train times between Portugal's most popular cities by either high-speed or regional trains.  If you wish to take a high-speed train, you usually have to reserve your seat in advance.

By travelling with slower regional trains you do not need to make reservations. You'll need to change trains on one or more occasions, which will lengthen your journey time.

The following cities in nearby countries have rail connections with Portugal:

Reservations

How can i make reservations for trains in portugal.

• At local railways stations in Portugal. This is extremely easy to do. Make them up to 60 days in advance, from any of the CP Ticket Offices.
• When you want to book a seat for an International train, this can only be done at an international train station.

If you require assistance, you can call CP on (+351) 707 210 220. You can also learn more about train reservations by reading our Reservation Guide .

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Tips and tricks for Portugal

What are the main train stations in portugal.

You can travel to all the main cities in Portugal as well as international destinations from the country's 2 hub stations:

Lisbon train station,  Santa Apolónia

Porto train station,  Campanha

Which station in Portugal is the most beautiful?

If you get the opportunity, don't miss checking out this railway station, known for it's awesome interior decoration:

São Bento  train station in Porto

What are the facilities like?

Train stations in Portugal range from small, beautifully tiled rural stations to well-equipped city stations, which feature:

Luggage lockers

Cash machines, bureau de change and tourist info

Restaurants or cafés

Elevators, escalators and disabled access

Are there lounges at Portuguese train stations?

Yes, there's a CP lounge at  Lisbon Oriente  station. If you have a train reservation for an Alfa Pendular you can access the lounge for free up to 2 hours before your departure.

Spelling of city names in Portugal

You'll usually find local spellings of Portuguese cities on trains in Portugal. Here's the name you'll probably need to know!

Lisboa = Lisbon

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Portugal Trains: Map, Timetable and Tickets Booking

Discover wonders of Portugal in the most adventurous way possible

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Most traveled portugal train lines, lisbon to porto trains, porto to lisbon trains, lagos to lisbon trains, albufeira to lisbon trains, lisbon to faro trains, coimbra to porto trains, porto to faro trains, lisbon to coimbra trains, faro to porto trains, lagos to faro trains, faro to lisbon trains, lisbon to lagos trains, porto to coimbra trains, coimbra to lisbon trains, lisbon to albufeira trains, ​aveiro to porto trains, albufeira to porto trains, aveiro to lisbon trains, braga to porto trains, why our customers travel with us.

Take advantage of the great onboard amenities and enjoy the exceptional level of comfort during the entire journey.

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Rail Travel to Portugal

If you are visiting Portugal as part of a longer trip around Europe a European Rail Pass may be more economical. There are a number of rail passes available covering certain regions as well as individual countries. There are reductions for passengers under 26.

The Inter-Rail Pass for 16 days consecutive travel in Zone F (Spain, Portugal & Morocco). The EuroDomino Pass is valid for a number of journeys on consecutive days within a specified month.

The Iberic Rail Pass (available to non-European residents) allows: Any 3-10 days unlimited train travel in a 30 day period and 1st class train travel.

Full information and online booking for all rail passes is available from Rail Europe.

Rail Routes into Portugal

London to Lisbon via the Channel Tunnel on Eurostar and riding the French TGV takes over 24 hours. From Gare d'Austerlitz in Paris the journey to Lisbon is scheduled at 20 hours. Madrid to Lisbon is 10 hours, 30 minutes overnight. Trains from Seville in the south of Spain run to Huelva and then bus.

There are 2 main rail routes into Portugal: From Paris via Bordeaux, Biarritz, Irún, San Sebastian and Guarda to Coimbra & Lisbon. Change at Combra for Porto. From Irún to Madrid and then on to Lisbon. For journeys on to the Algarve change at Lisbon.

The Sud-Expresso leaves Santa Apolónia Station daily arriving in Hendaye the following day; there is a connection here with the French TGV-Atlantique that runs from the French-Spanish border to Paris.

Passengers can choose between 1st and 2nd class bunks or 2nd class reclining seats.

The Lusitânia Comboio Hotel train departs from Santa Apolónia Station every evening for Madrid. Travelers can choose from 1st or 2nd class seats or beds.

The Celta service runs daily between Campanhã Station in Porto and Vigo in Spain. There are stops at Nine, Viana do Castelo and Valença .

Rail Travel in Portugal

The Portuguese national rail company CP operates all trains in Portugal. Faro , Lisbon , Coimbra and Porto are all connected by high-speed trains.

Train Types in Portugal

Rápidos - the fastest, most expensive service on the Lisbon, Coimbra, Porto main run. Known as alfa . Intercidades - inter-city services; advanced booking necessary. There are two classes conforto (1st) and turistica (2nd). Inter-regional - these trains stop at the main stations. Regional - slow, local services.

There are also car-train services available on the main routes where you can take your car on the train. Full information and schedules on express and local trains in Portugal are available at www.cp.pt

For information on city stations see our Portugal City Guides

Full information and online booking for all rail passes is available from ACP Rail .

Trains in the Algarve

There are four trains a day from Lisbon to Faro on about a three or four-hour journey. There are local trains from Faro to Albufeira (30 mins), Lagos (105 mins), Loule (20 mins), Tavira (40 mins) and Vila Real de Santo Antonio on the border with Spain. There are no direct train connections from Faro to Sevilla and travellers should take a bus for this journey.

The railway line in the Algarve (Linha do Algarve) runs from Lagos Station in the west to Vila Real de Santo Antonio in the east but passengers must change in Faro. From Lagos the stations to Faro are Meia Praia, Mexilhoria Grande, Portimão , Ferragudo, Estombar-Lagoa, Silves, Porco-Barreto, Alcantarila, Algoz, Tunes, Albufeira-Ferreiras, Boliqueime, Loule, Almansil, Parque des Cidades and Faro. From Faro to Vila Real de Santo Antonio the stops are at Bom Joao, Olhao , Fuzeta-A, Fuzeta, Livramento, Luz, Tavira, Porta Nova, Conceicao, Cacela, Castro Marim, Monte Gordo and Vila Real de Santo Antonio.

Lisbon Trains

Local train services in Lisbon include the Linha de Cascais with trains from Cais do Sodre Station to Estoril and Cascais via Oeiras, the privately operated Fertagus Line with connections south to Setubal and the Sintra Line with trains from Rossio Station to Sintra Station via Sete Rios and Campolide .

Cascais Line Trains

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Transportation in Portugal: Find the Best Way to Travel Around the Country

Feeling unsure about how to travel around Portugal?

Do you want to find the most cost-effective and most comfortable option?

In this article we will talk about what types of public transport you should use depending on your travel needs.

Portugal offers a wide variety of transportation services such as trains, buses, trams, metros, taxis, and planes. Public transport in Portugal is safe, clean, mostly reliable and affordable.

How to travel around Portugal by train

Portugal has a broad railway network, making it easy to travel between destinations. Whether you travel to towns in the north or want to see the coastal caves of the Algarve, the reliable train system in Portugal provides a great way to discover the country with picturesque scenery.

Type of trains in Portugal

There are six main types of trains in Portugal:

• InterRegional;
• Intercities (“Intercidades”);
• Alfa Pendular;
• Fertagus; and

Regional (R) is slower and stops frequently. If you are on a budget and not in a hurry to get to your destination, then this type of train will suit you the most. The trains are pretty comfortable and have have air-conditioning. They are second class quality only so sorry, no first class travel here.

Interregional

Interregional (IR) is reasonably fast, running mainly on secondary lines.

Intercidade

Intercidades (IC) is the long distance express train connecting the capital of Lisbon to many other larger Portuguese cities. The trains all have air-conditioning and you can get a first class or a second class seat.

Alfa Pendular

Alfa Pendular (AP) deluxe trains are the fastest way to get around Portugal with speeds of up to 220km per hour (137 miles per hour). It connects all of the major cities in Portugal. They offer a mini bar, meals, wifi, audio and video channels. It is also the priciest option you can choose.

Fertagus (FERT) (website is in Portuguese) is a private operator running suburban trains from Lisbon across the Tagus River (“Tejo”) to Setubal and serves 14 stations. They all have air-conditioning with second class seats only.

Celta (CEL) are international express trains that run between Porto and Vigo with stops at Nine, Viana do Castelo and Valença operating twice a day.

Main train stations in Portugal

Here is a list of the main train stations in Portugal

In Lisbon there are:

• Santa Apolónia ;
• Oriente ; and
• Sete Rios .
• Campanhã ; and
• Porto São Bento .

In Coimbra:

• Coimbra (Estação Nova); and
• Coimbra B (Estação Velha).

To see the Comboios de Portugal (CP) train map of Portugal, click here .

Train ticket prices in Portugal

The train transportation in Portugal is very affordable compared to a lot of western European countries.

I recently travelled to Porto paying only €25 for one-way on a second class train. If you buy a return ticket you can get 10% discount for long-distance journeys, but only if you book your trip in advance.

Discount train tickets

Comboios de Portugal (CP) (the state-owned railway company) offers various discounts for children, youngsters, senior citizens and more.

Here are a few of the options you can take advantage of:

Family & Friends 50% discount. Discount applies for weekends for groups of three to nine people.

Children half-price. Children under the age of three can travel for free in Portugal and they can enjoy further discounts between the ages of three to 12 years old.

Trainsharing up to 50% off. If you travel with a group of three or four people on the Alfa Pendular or Intercidade trains on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday, you can get up to 50% discount.

Senior citizen 50% off. Discount applies for people aged 65 and above. As long as you provide your age with your ID, you get 50% discount on train prices.

Youth ticket 25% discount if you travel with Alfa Pendular or Intercidades tickets up to the age of 25.

Find more discounts for specific occasions at the CP website here .

Travelling around Portugal by bus

The networks of these bus companies cover most of the country’s main towns and local destinations. Compared to other national bus services in Europe, I found Portugal’s to be clean, comfortable and with a window seat the scenery makes a pleasant journey.

Major bus companies in Portugal

Rede expressos.

Some of the major bus companies have united under Rede Expressos . Their website offers services between almost every major city and smaller towns across Portugal as well as to Spain. You can reserve your trip online. They offer onboard media, free wifi and power sockets.

You can travel to Porto or Faro for only €19 even if you don’t book your ticket in advance and you are eligible to get discounts if you have REFLEX Card .

The Rodonorte bus company is serving the north of Portugal with services radiating out of Vila Real. Rodonorte buses connect with:

• Guimarães ;
• Mirandela ;
• Povoa de Varzim;
• Viana do Castelo ; and

The Eva bus company operates in the Algarve region. If you are planning to travel across the whole region, Eva bus offers a very affordable option to accomplish that.

With their tourist pass, you are eligible to use vast network of intercity transport. A three-day pass costs €30.40 and a seven-day pass costs €38.

Metro in Portugal

The transportation service in Portugal is quite broad, however only Lisbon and Porto have a metro system. Both are safe, clean and most of the time efficient. During the day, the metros run very regularly, but in the evening you might have to wait up to 10 to 12 minutes to catch one.

Metro in Lisbon

Currently, Lisbon Metro has 56 stations and four lines:

• Red: São Sebastião to Aeroporto.
• Yellow: Odivales to Rato.
• Blue: Amadora este to Baixa Chiado.
• Green: Cais do Sodré to Telheiras.

The Lisbon Metro opens at 6:30 am and closes at 1 am. However, note that some stations close before this time. A single ticket is €1.50 and a daily ticket costs  €6.40. At the moment, a monthly Viva card costs  €36.70 which is due to decrease in April 2019 to €30.

Click here for the Lisbon Metro map.

Metro in Porto

Porto’s Metro has 6 lines and 81 stations.

• Line A (Blue): Estádio do Dragão to Senhor de Matosinhos.
• Line B (Red): Estádio do Dragão to Póvoa de Varzim.
• Line C (Green): Estádio do Dragão to ISMAI.
• Line E (Purple): Estádio do Dragão to Aeroporto.
• Line F (Orange): Fânzeres to Senhora da Hora.

Porto Metro opens every day at 6 am and the last train departs at 1 am. Depending on the time of day, the metro can pass every 4 to 15 minutes. The cheapest ticket is €1.20, and can go up to €5.20 depending on how many zones you need to go through.

Click here for the Porto Metro map.

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Portugal airports

Mainland Portugal has three international airports, Lisbon, Porto and Faro. These three airports cover the entire country, and provide numerous international routes.

Lisbon Airport

Lisbon Airport is located within the city limits and is connected to the Metro and bus network, making it very convenient to travel to the city centre. The highest number of international flights depart from this airport. In Lisbon, the low-cost airlines arrival is handled by terminal one but passengers depart from terminal two The only way to go from terminal one to two is by a free coach.

Have a look at our full guide on Lisbon Airport here.

Porto Airport

More and more low-cost airlines travel to Porto and the number of flights from outside of Europe is increasing. The Porto airport is well-connected to the Metro and is easy for onward travel.

For more detailed information, read: Porto Airport

Faro Airport (Algarve Airport)

Faro is located in Algarve and is a beloved destination for tourists, especially from the UK. The number of flights and passenger levels fluctuates during the year with most travellers passing through the airport during the summer season.

There is almost no public transport from Faro airport, so you should think about the transportation to your accommodation prior to your flight.

Fo a full guide on getting to and from Faro Airport read:  The Algarve Airport: Tips to Plan Your Trip to The Algarve, Portugal

Driving in Portugal

As I previously mentioned, public transportation in Portugal is very convenient, fast and affordable, however, if you prefer to be more flexible and visit small towns and villages where otherwise you couldn’t get to, driving a car might be the best solution for you.

If you decide to rent a car , there are multiple car rental services you can choose from. Rentalcars is a good site where you can compare the prices between companies.

With most companies offering free cancellation, you can always get your money back if you spot a better offer or change your plans. Car hire is typically charged per 24-hour period. Whether you travel alone or with family or friends, you will find many options to choose from. You can find small cars for only €11.88 per day.

You might find cheap weekly deals, so try to change your search for seven days and see if it’s a better fit for you.

You should also be aware of toll roads in Portugal (website is in Portuguese). This means that you will be expected to pay to drive on certain roads. This is more frequent in the north of Portugal, but it is worth being aware of this for any trip you may take.

A car rental should include a chip on the windscreen to allow you to pass through the toll booths quickly. Sometimes they include these costs in the rental price and sometime you have to pay extra at the end. It’s worth asking the car rental company about this when you pick up your car.

Also, you should know that petrol/gas costs in Portugal are amongst the top 10 most expensive in Europe.

Taking taxi, Uber, Taxify or Cabify in Portugal

Taxis in portugal.

Most licensed taxis in Portugal will have a taxi sign on the roof and the driver’s identity will be displayed inside the cab. Lisbon’s taxis are painted black and green or cream. By law, all taxi fares are calculated using a taximeter, so always insist that the metre is running..

Are Lisbon cabs safe?

Yes. All drivers have to be registered and their registration card will be displayed in the car. You might find the driving culture different to what you are used to. But if you are a super cautious person, I would recommend using an app like MyTaxi (website is in Portuguese) where you can see the driver’s profile and reviews from other passengers.

The basic Lisbon taxi fare is €0.47 per km, and there is a minimum fare of €3.25 when you get in.

Uber in Portugal

Uber has become a very popular solution to turn to amongst tourists especially. The app is easy to use and the cost of the service is very low unlike in a lot of other European cities. Sometimes I pay only €3 to €4 for a 10 minute trip.

Find out more here: Uber in Portugal.

Other alternative taxi hailing apps

Taxify (now called bolt).

Bolt (formerly Taxify) taxi service has become very popular in Portugal, especially in Lisbon. Although they’re only offering €3 free credit to new customers, they’re usually one of the cheapest options overall.

Cabify is only present in Latin America, Spain and Portugal. This service is only available in Lisbon and Porto. The fare is relative cheap at €1.10 per kilometre.

Enjoy your journey with affordable transportation in Portugal

The best way to choose which method to use will be down to your destination. If you travel in between cities on a budget and you are in less of a rush, I would recommend travelling by bus, otherwise upgrading to a faster and more comfortable train is recommended.

For more flexibility on your journey and to get to more remote locations, driving a car is the best way. Just be aware of aspects like parking, tolls and fuel.

With the beautiful Portuguese scenery, most journeys regardless of method, can be a nice way to sit back and see Portugal on the move.

Let us know in the comments below if you have any question on transportation in Portugal.

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1 week in Portugal by train

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Portugal is ideally set up for rail travel. It’s a long, slender country on the far west side of Europe - this makes north to south (or south to north) rail travel particularly easy. 1 week in Portugal will give you enough time to get an overview of the country’s top sights. You'll get to see the likes of Porto, Lisbon, and a few smaller towns and villages in between.

Itinerary highlights

Port wine, bridges, and wooden trams in Porto; University of Coimbra; castle and walled town of Óbidos; nightlife, food, history, and architecture in Lisbon; a glimpse of the laid-back coastal lifestyle on the Costa do Sol.

Days 1 - 3: Lisbon

Walk the old  Alfama district and visit Castelo de São Jorge .

Take the train to the Belém district to see the splendid  Mosteiro dos Jerónimos  and the  Torre de Belém . You can also find the best pasteis de nata  (local custard delicacy) here!

Have a night on the town in the many bars of the Bairro Alto .

Spend a day exploring the gardens, palaces and castles of Sintra .

Take a day trip to the fishing village of Cascais, and visit Boca do Inferno, the Mouth of Hell .  

Day 4: Óbidos

Walk the ancient town walls for panoramic views of Óbidos and the surrounding plains.

Have a meal or stay overnight in the Castle of Óbidos , a well-preserved medieval castle.

Explore the labyrinthine streets of the walled town.

Day 5: Coimbra

Explore the campus of the  University of Coimbra . Dating back to the 13 th century, it's one of the oldest universities in the world.

Visit Sé Velha , a remarkable 12th-century cathedral.

Get lost in the books at Biblioteca Joanina , a beautiful and extravagant 18th-century library.

Days 6 - 7: Porto

Walk across the Dom Luís I Bridge for aerial views of Porto.

Take a walking tour or get lost on your own in Porto's historical centre .

Take a boat cruise up the Douro River to view the Port cellars on the other side. Visit them to get a taste of the best Port wines!

Catch the wooden tram (Tram 1) to the river mouth and lighthouses.

Is 1 week in Portugal enough for me?

This itinerary might not get you all the way to the Algarve, but it'll give you time to explore some of Portugal’s most vibrant and noteworthy cities, as well as get a taste of its coastal atmosphere. With a Eurail Pass and at least 1 week in Portugal, you’ll have enough time for a truly remarkable trip in a culturally and historically fascinating country.

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Trains in Portugal

Portugal is not only known for its sun and beaches, but also for its wine and a sumptuous history that makes it an attractive destination to explore using rail transport. The railway system of Portugal is run by five companies and managed by   Infraestruturas de Portugal.

Regional Trains in Portugal

Regional (R)   and   InterRegional (IR)   trains make stops in smaller towns throughout the country, whereas the   Intercidades (IC)   trains connect the major towns and don’t make as many stops.

Urbanos   trains operate solely in cities such as  Lisbon , Oporto , and Coimbra  and are similar to municipal light rail or subway systems.

High-Speed Trains in Portugal

The domestic high-speed train in Portugal is the   Alfa Pendular (AP) , connecting the major cities in Portugal such as Braga, Porto, Coimbra, Lisbon, and Faro.

Celta   trains operate between the major cities of Porto and Vigo, Spain.

Night Trains in Portugal

Portugal's proximity to France and Spain allows for easy night-time travel. The Spanish RENFE trains that are used for this are the   Trenhotel Lusitania   and   Trenhotel Sud Expresso.   The Trenhotel Lusitania is the quickest way to travel between Lisbon and Madrid, Spain, with only an eleven-hour ride. Trenhotel Sud Expresso travels from Lisbon to Hendaye, in the south of France , where you can switch to a TGV train to Paris.

Reservations on Trains in Portugal

Reservations are not required on Regional or InterRegional trains. Reservations are required for IC and AP trains, as well as overnight trains into Spain and France.

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Traveling in Portugal with Your Eurail Pass: Unlock the Hidden Gems

Ah, Portugal! The sun-kissed land of Fado music, enchanting history, and delectable pastries. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a novice, Portugal offers a timeless charm that’s tough to resist. And when you’re packing your Eurail pass for a European adventure, Portugal should undoubtedly be on your list. But where to go, you ask? Well, keep reading, because we’re about to reveal five incredible destinations and their train connectivity that will make your Eurail trip a Portuguese dream come true.

1. Lisbon – Where Past Meets Present

Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, is a harmonious blend of ancient history and modern culture. Here, you’ll find the historical Alfama district with its winding, narrow streets and breathtaking views from São Jorge Castle . Don’t forget to ride the iconic Tram 28, which traverses through the city’s most picturesque neighborhoods.

Train Connectivity: Arriving in Lisbon is a breeze with the high-speed train connection from major European cities. You can hop on the Sud Express from Madrid or take the night train from Irun. Your Eurail pass will get you a comfortable seat or even a cozy cabin for the journey, reservation required.

2. Porto – A Culinary Adventure

Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, is a food lover’s paradise. Known for its world-famous Port wine, this city is a delightful concoction of medieval architecture, stunning riverfront views, and mouthwatering cuisine. Stroll through Ribeira, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and savor the local flavors.

Train Connectivity: Porto is well-connected to Lisbon, making it a convenient addition to your Eurail trip. High-speed trains like Alfa Pendular and Intercidades whisk you from Lisbon to Porto in under three hours. Porto’s train station is also one of the most beautiful in Europe so be sure to mooch around a bit on your arrival.

3. Sintra – A Fairytale Escape

Sintra, a short train ride from Lisbon, is a fairytale escape you won’t want to miss. This charming town is known for its enchanting palaces, lush gardens, and mystical atmosphere. Explore the colorful Pena Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and don’t forget to take a stroll through the historic center.

Train Connectivity: Reach Sintra easily from Lisbon by taking a regional train from Rossio Station. Your Eurail pass covers the fare, and the journey takes about 40 minutes.

4. Faro – Gateway to the Algarve

Faro is the gateway to the stunning Algarve region. This coastal town offers a laid-back atmosphere and pristine beaches. Explore the historic old town, visit the Arco da Vila, and take a boat trip to Ria Formosa Natural Park.

Train Connectivity: Faro is well-connected by train, with daily services from Lisbon. Your Eurail pass will ensure a smooth journey to this charming coastal town.

5. Évora – A Taste of Medieval Portugal

For a taste of medieval Portugal, head to Évora. This picturesque town is famous for its well-preserved historic center, ancient Roman temple, and Gothic cathedral. It’s like stepping back in time to a bygone era.

Train Connectivity: Évora is easily accessible by train from Lisbon. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours, and your Eurail pass covers the fare.

Q: Can I use my Eurail pass on all train routes in Portugal?

A: While your Eurail pass covers most train routes in Portugal, some high-speed and international trains may require seat reservations and additional fees.

Q: Is it worth getting a Eurail pass for Portugal?

A: If you plan to explore multiple European countries, a Eurail pass is a fantastic investment. It offers flexibility and significant savings on train travel within Portugal and beyond.

Q: Are the train stations in Portugal easily accessible from major tourist destinations?

A: Yes, Portuguese train stations are conveniently located, making it easy to access major tourist destinations. Plus, the train rides often offer scenic views of the country.

Q: What’s the best time to visit Portugal for a Eurail trip?

A: Spring and early autumn are the ideal times to visit Portugal for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. However, the country is beautiful year-round.

Q: Can I travel on night trains with my Eurail pass in Portugal?

A: Yes, you can! Portugal offers several night train services that allow you to save on accommodation and make the most of your travel time.

Portugal, with its diverse landscapes, rich history, and delectable cuisine, is a perfect destination for Eurail travelers. With your Eurail pass in hand, you can effortlessly explore Lisbon, Porto, Sintra, Faro, Évora, and other hidden gems. The excellent train connectivity and the sheer beauty of Portugal make it an unforgettable destination for your Eurail trip. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey through Portugal, where every stop promises a new adventure and lasting memories. Traveling around Europe has never been this delightful. Don’t wait; hop on that train and experience the magic of Portugal!

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• Portugal by Train...

Portugal by Train or Car?

We plan to travel in Spain and Portugal in late May-early June and want to know the benefits of driving vs travel by train. We’ve read about crazy drivers and thefts from parked cars. But we wonder what we will miss if we don’t drive. Could we see places like the Arrábida Nature Park the Algarve beaches without a car? Outside of big cities, do hotels offer parking? We appreciate any advice!

I can't imagine a trip to Portugal without renting a car. Efficiency and ease of driving there is similar to here in the US. Lisbon driving is terrible, but something I generally have to deal with when I visit, and not unlike any other big city. The rest of the country is a breeze. There are some long distances between towns and sites, and without a car you are wasting precious time. Just take normal precautions as you would anywhere renting a car, as described in all of Rick's books. And search this forum for advice and recommendations that many travelers have already offered.

I totally agree with Carl. Having a car will allow you the freedom to visit where and when you want. Usually hotels do offer parking. I found outside the large cities it was free or fairly inexpensive. Just check your proposed hotel's website and it should tell you about availability and fees. I found driving in Portugal to be easy and safe and insane only in Lisbon and Porto.

Where in Spain and Portugal are you planning to go? Between the big cities, transit (both trains and buses) is very good and a car is a hassle. For smaller towns and rural areas, a car is very handy.

Also, be aware that connecting Spain and Portugal on one trip is much harder than you would think. There are very few trains, and there are some buses (often at very inconvenient hours). There are flights, which often work out best. If you rent a car in one country and drop it in the other, you can have a surprisingly high drop charge. But, there's usually no extra charge for returning a car in the country you rented it, even if it's a different city. So, if you're driving and planning to see both countries, figure out a route that has you ending in the country you started from - or carefully investigate the drop fees. If you're not driving, look at the flight, bus and train options, and be prepared for them not to exist or to be more complicated than you expected.

Thanks, everyone for your advice. Harold, I appreciate the heads-up on the difficulties traveling from western Spain into Portugal. I knew about the drop-off fee for rental cars, but I didn't know how limited the train service was. Our plan is to fly into Madrid in late May and do some day trips in the area before heading over to Portugal. We had originally planned to take a train to Merida, Spain before crossing over into Portugal by bus, where we thought we might rent a car in Evora. Now we're thinking about flying from Madrid into Lisbon and possibly renting a car there, once we're ready to leave the city. We're interested in Lisbon, Sintra, Serra de Arrabida Nature Park, Coimbra, Conimbriga, Aveiro, Porto, and maybe Obidos. We're also considering driving south to see some of the more picturesque beaches in the Algarve. (We enjoy nature photography, and the landscapes look wonderful.) We'll probably fly back out of Lisbon, so we're trying to figure out how to do a tour without too much backtracking. We'd like to travel for 2 or 2.5 weeks. Any thoughts on the itinerary?

We drove from northern Spain to Portugal last fall and it was amazing. We did have the drop off fee and also most of the major roads are toll roads but they're well maintained and the traffic was very light. Other than Porto where the traffic was crazy and parking expensive, we had no problems and we returned the car as soon as we reached Lisbon. Our itinerary included the Douro Valley, Porto, Coimbra and Lisbon in about a week. We definitely managed much more than if we would have done it by train.

My wife and I just returned from Portugal in February, 2017 after spending 2 weeks there. We flew to Lisbon from Barcelona (very reasonable flight) and having decided to NOT have a car, we traveled by bus and train from the Algarve to Lisbon, Coimbra and onto Porto with a return to Lisbon for our departure. We started in the south and moved across the Algarve and then headed north. We planned the entire trip without a car from our home in Arkansas on the internet with bus passes (very comfortable and efficient), train tickets (again, easy to do on the internet with timetables you can depend on) and left the driving to others. We were so glad to NOT have a car in Lisbon and in Porto as the traffic there was very busy and not pleasant. Having lived and driven in the Boston area for many years, we were familiar with “ heavy traffic” and the issue of parking in the intercity. Very similar. The convenience of going where you want on your schedule was not as important to us as intermingling with the local people on the various means of public conveyance. We got to meet people and experience things that we would not have experienced in our own little world of 4-wheels. Obviously, we didn’t have the control our own time but we were able to schedule drivers and tour guides in certain areas that gave us a much more in depth knowledge of the area, both from a historical point of view as well as the local sights and tips point of view. Using Rick’s suggestions throughout Portugal, we found interesting places and people that helped make our journey memorable. Thank you Rick.

My wife and I did a similar trip to the above post. Just "homemade" Rick Steves style of which we've done many and all very enjoyable, trouble free successes. We decided to avoid the car issues this time - and have rented cars in Europe on other trips. We found the bus service between Lisbon and Lagos was the best option and an absolutely gorgeous drive (but why not let the driver do the driving?). Our Algavre destination was actually Salema, an original Rick Steves "Backdoor" Town. We arrived in Lagos, had a great lunch at a no-doubt Rick Steves recommended seafood restaurant, cooled off with some vinho verde and then easily got a cheap cab to take us down the coast to Salema. We did not like our B+B type accommodations (Rick's recommendations won't always be perfect) and ended up staying in the modern low-rise hotel. We LOVED Salema, a tiny little village clinging to the rocky cliffs with a great quiet beach w/ good services and plenty of amazing little restaurants. While there we had no problem getting local cabs/drivers (I think one Rick mentioned in the guidebook) to take us around the area including all the way down to the "End of the World" at Sagres, the "Navigator School" (not much to write home about there...), back to Lagos, etc. We eventually cabbed back to get our Lagos to Lisbon bus. Worked like a charm and no car/parking hassles. Do NOT miss the Gulbenkian museum and Sintra is definitely a Lisbon area must-see and was a highlight of the whole trip. We actually felt in the end that it might have been better to stay in Sintra as a home base; a cooler, calmer, delightful flower-decked town full of great restaurants and its own amazing sites, and then take the short train back/forth to Lisbon a few days to tour there. We found Lisbon to be one of the "roughest" European capitals (this was about 5 years ago) and really had the most hassles we've encountered (very bad/cheating cabbies, restaurant issues, etc) in decades of European travel. Still nothing that bad and a fascinating, beautiful city with a lot going for it and mostly great people. ENJOY!

Portugal trip 04/23 through 5/10 with side to Seville. 1. Arrive in Lisbon before 1200 with connection in CDG. Metro to hotel near Gloria funicular. 3 nights. 2. 45-50 minute train to Sintra for two nights. 3. Return to Lisbon by train and metro to pick-up rental car at airport. Easy out of airport for north direction to Torres Novas for two nights. 4. Over 3 days we drive east to Castelo de Videl, Tomar and Evora. Could have stayed and would recommend others stay two nights in the Castelo de Videl or Marvao area for hikes. Transponder highway is faster for the east direction. Castello do Almoural 10-20 K from Torres Novas. 5. 3 nights in outside Evora. Drove to Elvas, through marble country Borba and SouthEast to Seville. Wish I had several days to stay in Parque de la Sierra for forts, castles and hikes. 2 nights Seville. 6. Scenic drive southwest to Burgau with short stop near La Antilla (could be the next Selema) on the Spain coast. Crossing the RioGuadiana is lovely. 7. Do not tell RS readers about Burgau. 3 miles by foot is Luz, a bit more upscale. 8. Loop drives Monchique, Aljezur, Sagres and Silves. 9. Burgau to Faro. Faro drives x2. Here is the drum roll or toll. Over 3000 km and 500 Euro for car and petrol. Short distances seemed to blossom into longer distances. I would recommend a car outside the large cities in Portugal and narrow down your selection of sites with longer stays. The Toll road in Algarve is fast, costs euros and at times is a distance from the beach. Beach road is under construction and slow. We had a rental car due to planning frustrations with Portugal's public transportation whether it was information, routes, costs, and times. To get to Seville from the west of Portugal I believe it is a night train to Madrid and then on to Seville or from Faro by bus.

Would love a critique on our planned fall trip. We're 2-75+- year old couples with lots of RS type travel experience. Lisbon 7 days with side trips to Sinatra, cascais, Queluz, etc. Train to Evora 2 nites Rent car drive to Estremoz, 1 nite, then Marvao-1 nite Tomas on route to Obidos (3 nites) Nazare (2 nites) Coimbra3 nites w day trip to Mater do Bucaco Driving over 3 days Torre-Belmont-Castillo Mendo-Melbourne-Castelo (Suggestions where to stay welcome) Pinhao, Sabrosa or Villa Real-1 nite Another Douro valley stop then d/o car in Porto Porto 3 nites

Lisbon to Evora is a bus trip.

It's best to rent a car. You won't need one in Lisbon. I suggest spending time in Lisbon and picking up the car at the train station on your way out. Porto is challenging to drive in. Coihmbra was fairly easy. Countryside is very easy. Your itinerary sounds fine. I'm an avid travel photographer too. I do suggest Fatima and Bathalia as well as Obidoos.

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COMPLETE PORTUGAL BY TRAIN

From porto to lisbon, via the douro river and some of portugal’s prettiest towns, this is the ultimate portuguese getaway., about your trip.

Mainland Europe’s westernmost nation is a joyful place to experience, with vibrant cities, luscious countryside and splendid beaches, not to mention an incredible food scene and an endearingly laid-back approach to life. This eight-day itinerary connects the country’s two major cities, as well as its most famous wine region and charming towns, via an assortment of scenic train journeys. After living the good life in Porto and the Douro Valley, we’ll hit the tracks south to Aveiro – the Portuguese Venice – and later the capital, Lisbon, as well as the gorgeous hilltop town of Sintra.

Trip Highlights

• Sip on sweet Port wine in the old cellars of Porto
• Marvel at the majesty of the Douro Valley on a picturesque boat ride
• Fall in love with the Art Nouveau houses and canal boats of Aveiro
• Embark on some of the most scenic train rides in all of Europe
• Gorge on pastel de nata and experience live music in Lisbon
• Explore the Unesco-listed fairytale town of Sintra

Your Itinerary

Olá portugal.

Upon arrival at Porto Airport (OPO) you’ll make your way into the city – this should take around 40 minutes by metro, or 20 minutes by taxi, depending on traffic. Our hotel will be nice and central, with beautiful views over the Douro River. Check-in, relax and get your bearings before the whole group gathers together for a welcome meeting, followed by dinner at a local restaurant.

Accommodation

Vila gale' porto ribeira, activities included.

• Welcome dinner

Marvel at the picture-perfect streets of Porto and sample sweet Port wine

Our first full day is all about exploring Porto. Portugal’s second city is easy on the eye, particularly from the banks of the River Douro, which separates the medieval Ribeira district from Vila Nova de Gaia, connected by the awe-inspiring Luís I Bridge. You’ll spend most of the day touring the city on foot – with a bit of public transport to help get us up the city’s hills – meandering down beautiful cobbled alleys, discovering artisan shops and old churches. You’ll have the chance to visit the Palácio da Bolsa and Church of São Francisco, but the highlight of any visit to this city can only be one thing – a Port tasting. Porto was practically built on the back of this sweet fortified wine, so sampling some of the city’s finest in one of the old riverfront cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia is an absolute must.

• Full day Porto tour with guide
• Port tasting

A scenic day trip to the Douro Valley

You can’t visit Porto without making a trip out to the wine-producing region that is intrinsically linked to it. Barrels have been transported on traditional Rabelo boats from the Douro Valley to Porto for centuries, and today you’ll get to follow in the wine’s footsteps. First up is a bus transfer to Regua. The route we’ll take through the Douro Valley is spellbindingly beautiful, as countless vineyards wrap their way around the riverbank hills. In Regua we’ll check out the train station, which is home to gorgeous tile work that depicts the region’s wine culture. We’ll head for a customary lunch at a local winery – washed down with some fine local produce – before embarking on a boat ride down the Douro. Having enjoyed all of the beauty this region has to offer, you’ll return to Porto by train in the evening, dozing off on one of the most beautiful rail routes in all of Europe.

• Lunch at a local winery
• Douro boat ride

Discover the charming streets and sweet treats of Portugal’s Venice

Our journey south begins today as we leave Porto behind, hopping on a train to Aveiro. This lagoon city is a sight for sore eyes, with colourfully-painted Moliceiro boats gently floating by gorgeous Art Nouveau buildings on the canalfront – there’s no wonder this place is described as the Portuguese Venice. You’ll get a full walking tour of the city with our Local Insider, which includes a short cruise on a Moliceiro boat, plus a chance to taste this city’s most famous delicacy – ovos moles. This sweet treat is made with sugar and eggs, wrapped in a light crusty wafer and sold in wooden barrels all over the city. You’ll have some free time later in the afternoon, so we recommend a visit to one of the expansive Silver Coast beaches nearby, followed by an evening indulging in delicious seafood delights.

As Americas

• Walking tour of Aveiro
• Cruise on Moliceiro boat
• Ovos moles tasting

Bask in the beauty of rural Portugal on the train to Lisbon

This morning we embark on the longest train ride of this trip, which is also your most expansive visual insight into the splendid, ever-changing countrysides of Portugal. We’ll pass through the old capital, Coimbra, and by the epic Ponte Vasco da Gama – Europe’s largest bridge – en route to the modern capital, Lisbon! After check-in at the hotel you’ll have the rest of the day at your leisure, before reconvening for an evening Fado show. This soulful form of folk song is sung all over Portugal, but originated in Lisbon, and is a beautiful music specific to Portuguese culture. There’s no better introduction to the capital than experiencing a live Fado show in an authentic establishment.

Heritage Lisboa Plaza

Famous sights and local delicacies in lisbon.

Today is dedicated entirely to exploring the many delights of Lisbon. You’ll embark on a full guided walking tour of the city centre with our Local Insider. Along the way you’ll also get a tasting experience of the city’s most iconic delicacies, from cod fritters and Ginjinha berry liqueur to the most famous of them all, the pastel de nata – there’s no better place on Earth to gorge on these sweet treats. We’ll then hop on the tram to Belem to visit two of the city’s most beloved sights, Saint Jeronimo Monastery and Belem Tower. The rest of your evening can be spent at your pace. Top tip – the nightlife here is out-of-this-world.

• Full day tour of Lisbon
• Delicacies tasting (inc. Ginjinha tasting)
• Visit of Belem Tower
• Visit of Saint Jeronimo Monastery

Fall in love with the fairytale town of Sintra

Our last day trip is focused on the magical hilltop town of Sintra, just an hour's train ride from Lisbon. Surrounded by luscious pine forest and centred around the striking yellow structure of Pena Palace, this Unesco-listed town really is like something out of a fairytale. You’ll get a tour of Sintra, as well as a visit to the striking gothic palace of Quinta da Regaleira, before hopping on a bus to Azenhas do Mar. This nearby seaside town is a charming spot for us to have an authentic Portuguese lunch before returning to Sintra. Spend the next few hours wandering around Sintra, imagining yourself at the heart of a romantic fairytale. In the evening we’ll hop on the train back to Lisbon for our farewell dinner back in the capital.

• Visit to Sintra and Quinta da Regaleira
• Lunch in Azenhas do Mar
• Farewell dinner

Tchau for now!

After your final breakfast in Lisbon – last chance to cram in as many de natas as you can! – it’s time to say goodbye and part ways. You’ll need to check-out of the hotel by late morning but whether you head to the airport or not is up to you. Is this really the end, or just the beginning of your Portuguese adventure?

What's Included

• 7 nights accommodation
• Train tickets
• 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners
• Local Insider
• Welcome meeting
• Lisbon delicacies tasting (inc. Ginjinha tasting)
• Visit to Belem Tower
• Visit to Saint Jeronimo Monastery

What's Not Included

• Travel insurance
• Hotel transfers (unless otherwise stated in the Included Activities section above)

Customer Reviews

Stay right in the heart of Porto’s most picturesque neighbourhood, Ribeira, with this hotel on the banks of the Douro. Not only are you perfectly placed to explore the city, but you’ll also be able to relax in the artfully designed rooms, some of which have views of the Douro. The outdoor terrace of Bar Fidélio is perfect for al fresco dining, or a glass of wine as the sun goes down over Porto.

You have to keep it Art Nouveau if you’re staying in Aveiro, which is exactly what this stylish four-star hotel does. Rooms are cosy and modern, the onsite pub is ideal for a nightcap and the breakfast spread is to die for – choose your pastry wisely!

This city centre haven has been a family-run hotel since 1954, found near Avenida da Liberdade, one of Lisbon’s main boulevards. The hotel has maintained a lovely sense of traditionalism despite simultaneously feeling fresh and newly renovated. Our favourite spot is the rooftop terrace, the perfect place to enjoy a bit of sunshine and views of the city, within a serene hideaway spot. 

COVID Safety

Your safety and wellbeing are our top priority, so we’ve put the following measures in place on all our TRIPS:

• Please check the entry requirements for the destination you are travelling to. Our travel experts can assist you in finding this information.
• We recommend you confirm all guidance on official government sites and check that you are able to travel with your travel insurance issuer. Your travel insurance may be invalidated if you travel against government advice. Our travel experts can assist you in finding this information.

Important Info

• You must be aged 25 years or over to join this trip.
• Please be sure to check whether or not you need a visa to enter the country you're travelling to. Please refer to our Booking Terms & Conditions for further information.
• If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or accessibility requirements, please notify our Customer Support team as soon as possible.
• We won't charge you extra if you travel alone – you'll be allocated a twin room with another traveller of the same gender.
• To upgrade to a private room, share a room with a friend, or book pre- and post-trip accommodation and/or airport transfers, please contact our Customer Support team.
• Please be aware that travel insurance is compulsory for all travellers.
• Please be aware that the itinerary, activities and hotels are subject to change. While unlikely, these changes can happen due to circumstances beyond our control. We will always do our best to ensure minimal impact on your experience.
• Please be aware images on this page are for illustrative purposes and may not reflect your itinerary exactly.

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The Best 10 Day Portugal Itinerary By Train

Last Updated on January 23, 2024 by Soumya

Are you looking for an easy-to-do 10 day itinerary for Portugal ? Then I have just the thing for you.

Portugal is a beautiful country blessed with years of history, an interesting culture, and gorgeous golden sand beaches. If you are worried about how much you can see with 10 days in Portugal , then this itinerary is for you.

You will learn

• Top places to visit in Portugal and how many days to spend at each location.
• How to use public transport to see the best of Portugal in 10 days.
• Practical information to plan your Portugal trip

This 10-day travel itinerary for Portugal is extremely flexible . Even though we went from north to south, you can easily turn it the other way round depending on where you arrive.

If you ever feel a little too overwhelmed with all the planning, feel free to check out some amazing guided tours that allow you to see the best of Portugal. Else, keep reading to plan your own, memorable 10 day Portugal itinerary by train and bus.

Table of Contents

What trains and buses to use for 10 days in Portugal?

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Since we don’t drive, our 10 day Portugal itinerary was completely done on trains and buses . And we found public transport in Portugal to be quite easy to use though a tad bit late sometimes. Within cities, we always used buses, metros, and trams. And they were super convenient.

For intercity travel in Portugal, we used the following.

• Passenger trains in Portugal – It is easy to find out train timetables, ticket prices, and optimal routes on the Comboios de Portugal website .
• Intercity buses – We also used Rede Expressos , a very reliable and convenient bus service.

The best 10 Day Portugal itinerary

We started our 10 days in Portugal in the north at Porto and finished in Lisbon . In between, we stopped in many different cities in Central Portugal.

I dreamed a lot about egg tarts (vegan versions also available), Azulejos, and picturesque Portuguese landscapes long before embarking on our trip. Needless to say, you will find tons about them in my 10 day itinerary for Portugal .

Plus, we have a lot of day trip options, heritage hotspots , and practical tips to help you plan your Portugal travel itinerary.

Many travelers combine Spain and Portugal together when they visit. If you wish to do that, you can evaluate Spain vs Portugal first and plan your trip accordingly. Our 10-day itinerary for Portugal will still help you sort your days in Portugal.

Read next: Curated List of the Top 17 Places to visit in Portugal

Day 1: Porto – The beginning of our Portugal 10 day itinerary [Reversible]

Porto is the second-largest city in Portugal after Lisbon. And to say the truth, it is as pretty as a picture.

Apart from being home to the world-famous Port wine, Porto is one of the best places to spot azulejos (blue and white ceramic tiles that depict life and culture).

We flew into Porto Airport on a Ryan Air flight from Brussels and spent two days sightseeing Porto.

On Day 1, we ticked off many highlights on our Porto bucket list such as climbing the Clerigos Tower, being stumped by the beauty of Palácio da Bolsa, walking the Porto Ribeira and strolling the Dom Luis I bridge.

Tips for visiting Porto

• Stay in the historic city center if you wish to explore on foot.
• If you are on a budget like we were, you can stay in the much cheaper area of Vila Nova de Gaia. We stayed at the Hotel Ibis and I would highly recommend it. The rooms are neat and comfortable. Their egg tarts are delicious. Click here to book your stay at Hotel Ibis Porto Gaia .
• Get a Porto Card if you wish to save some money on entrance fees. A Porto Card makes a lot of sense for adults though not as much for kids under 12. Buy your Porto Card here.

Read our detailed review of the Porto Card with numbers.

Day 2: Day Trip to Douro Valley from Porto by train

On our second day in Porto, we took a much-awaited day trip to Pinhão and Pocinho from Porto.

The train ride through the majestic Douro Valley , a UNESCO Heritage Site, is extremely picturesque and well worth your time.

Douro Valley is one of the oldest wine-growing regions in the world and outright beautiful. Sprawling vineyards, fragrant orange groves, and sleepy villages dot both sides of the valley as Rio Douro snakes through in between.

A traditional Douro valley tour is highly recommended if you are looking forward to some great wine-tasting.

Tips for visiting the Douro Valley by train

• Start early so that you can spend a good amount of time in Regua and Pinhão.
• We would highly recommend you to go up to Pocinho and not just end your train ride at Pinhão. The scenery becomes more rugged and natural after Pinhão.
• Refer to our complete Porto to Douro Valley train guide to plan your day.

Day 3: Porto

This was our second day in Porto. We spent a good amount of time Azulejo-spotting , tasting the best of Pastel de Nata, visiting the offbeat Tram museum, and taking a 6-Bridges Cruise down the Douro River.

Plus, we checked out some of the stunning churches such as Igreja de Carmo, Igreja de Santo Ildefonso, and Capela das Almas.

Read next: 17 Best Things to do in Porto .

Leaving for Coimbra by train

We left for Coimbra the same day. We took a late evening train to Coimbra from the Sao Bento Station in Porto. The train journey was a little more than an hour and included two easy changes.

Click here to check for trains from Porto to Coimbra.

Day 4: Coimbra and Conímbriga 

Coimbra is the often-ignored, culturally-rich cousin of Lisbon and Porto. It hardly figures on tourist itineraries. But once you get here, you will realize there are so many things to do in Coimbra .

Visiting one of the world’s oldest universities, having great family time at the miniature wonderland, and strolling through medieval streets resonating with Fado music are only a few of them.

You can also take a half-day trip to the Roman ruins of Conímbriga where you can see some wonderful floor mosaics from the Roman era. Use Transdev buses for the purpose. Refer to our guide on Conimbriga Roman Ruins for bus details.

Or do a full-day tour of Coimbra and Aveiro to get a flavor of Portugal’s canal town.

Where to stay in Coimbra?

In Coimbra, we stayed at Pensão Flôr de Coimbra, an extremely cozy place with a very friendly owner. The rooms are spotlessly clean and extremely comfortable.

Close proximity to the bus stop and the train station is an added advantage. They do not serve breakfast but we still recommend it wholeheartedly sans the breakfast. Break into a chat with the owner and he will be happy to indulge you. Book your stay at Pensão Flôr de Coimbra here.

Tips for visiting Coimbra & Conímbriga 

• Take a morning trip to the Conímbriga ruins because it can get extremely hot in the afternoon and most of the ruins are out in the open.
• Try the delicious Pastel de Tentugal at Coimbra.
• Carry water and hat if you are hiking up to the university. It was really hot even in September.

Day 5: Leiria, Batalha, and Alcobaça

Our next stop on our Portugal 10 day itinerary was Leiria, another city in Central Portugal that does not see too many tourists.

Yet, it has some really interesting historic treasures such as the Leiria Castle, a 12th-century church, and the famous Rodrigues Lobo square – all doable in half a day.

When in Leiria, you can choose to stay at the impeccable, spacious, yet inexpensive Hotel D.Dinis that we really loved. Their breakfast cakes are drool-worthy. Book your stay at Hotel D.Dinis in Leiria here.

Leiria is also an easy gateway to the monastery towns of Batalha and Alcobaça which is another reason why we chose to stay here.

We got to Leiria from Coimbra on a Rede Expressos bus. The journey took an hour.

Batalha from Leiria – 15 minutes

The Monastery of Batalha, a UNESCO Heritage Site, is a Gothic building with beautiful Manueline expressions. It is an absolute must-see heritage site when you are in Portugal.

While the main church is free to enter, you need to pay a small fee to see the beautifully-crafted cloisters and the melancholy but stunning Unfinished Chapel.

Alcobaça from Batalha – 30 minutes

After Batalha, we visited the Alcobaça Monastery yet another UNESCO Heritage Site in Portugal’s historic Estremadura Province.

The monastery houses the tombs of King Pedro I and his lover Inês de Castro. Theirs was one of the most tragic love stories in the history of Portugal, proof of which you can see on their tombs today.

Tips for Visiting Leiria, Batalha, & Alcobaça

• Rede Expressos runs fast buses in the region. The local operator Rodotejo has more frequent buses. So, check them out too.
• Try the delicious grilled seafood of Leiria and take time to appreciate the huge Portuguese pavements in the city.
• Reserve at least 2 hours to see each of the monasteries.

Day 6: Day trip to Obidos

Many people prefer to do a full-day tour of Obidos, Batalha, and Alcobaça but we chose to reserve Day 6 for a trip to Obidos. This was because we were traveling with our 6-year-old and we wanted him to spend quality time climbing the city walls, enjoy looking at the flowers and colored houses and stroll the narrow, cobblestoned streets of Obidos.

Obidos is a charming village in Central Portugal that looks like it has jumped out of a postcard. It retains its medieval flavor with a number of old churches and bookshops peppered all over.

Obidos is also a great place to shop for colorful Portuguese souvenirs or take some really cool Insta-worthy pictures . When we were planning our itinerary for 10 days in Portugal, we were pretty sure we wanted to visit Obidos. And so we did!

Tips for Visiting Obidos

• Getting to Obidos from Leiria can be a little tricky. You first need to take a Rede Expressos or a Rodoviaria do Lis bus from Leiria to Caldas Rainha (50 minutes). Then take a Rodoviaria do Oeste or Rodotejo bus from Caldas Rainha to Obidos.
• Obidos gets pretty crowded during the day. If you are planning for a day trip, make sure you come really early. For those gorgeous Obidos photographs too.
• If you are planning to stay in Obidos and are on a budget, stay outside the city walls.
• There are a number of events and festivals going on in Obidos throughout the year. Check them out on Obidos’ Official Website to plan your trip better.

Check out 24 stunning pictures from Obidos to further inspire your wanderlust!

Day 7 & 8: Lisbon – The last stop on our 10 day Portugal itinerary

Out of our 10 days in Portugal, we spend the maximum time in Lisbon and for good reason. We were here for 4 days. Though we thought 7 would have been better since there is so much to see in this city.

Recommended: If you are here for a shorter time, have a look at our 2 days in Lisbon itinerary .

Since we were on a budget, we stayed a little further away from the city center at Hotel Ibis Lisboa Alfragide. There is a bus stop right next door and you can easily get to the city center from here in less than 15 minutes. Book your stay at Hotel Ibis Lisboa Alfragide here.

We spent the first two days exploring Lisbon’s best attractions , Portugal’s Azulejo history, riding an antique tram, hopping onto a funicular, and strolling through the Alfama district and unearthing its multiple treasures. Also took a short trip to the beach of Carcavelos and my little one really enjoyed it.

Southern Portugal has many natural landmarks including the beaches of Algarve, the islands of Madeira and Tenerife, and the Rota Vicentina and Fishermen’s Trail . Unfortunately, we did not have time for them this time. On my list for my next 10 days in Portugal.

Tips for Visiting Lisbon

• Again take a Rede Expressos bus to get to Lisbon from Leiria. They have buses every hour. The journey takes 2 hours.
• Get a Lisboa Card for sightseeing in Lisbon and Belem. It helps you save a good amount of money on entrance tickets. Plus, public transport is free. Buy your Lisboa Card here.
• Tram #28 that runs between Martim Moniz and Campo Ourique and through the picturesque Alfama district is often a must-do item on everyone’s Lisbon bucket list . That is why it is extremely crowded during peak hours. My suggestion is to go really early or board from Campo Ourique to encounter fewer tourists.
• Read up our guide on Lisbon off the beaten path and visit the less-crowded, beautiful places in Lisbon.

Day 9: Day trip to Sintra & Cabo da Roca

On our third day in Lisbon, we decided to take a day trip to Sintra . We just took the train from Lisbon to Sintra .

Pena Palace and Quinta de Regaleira were the highlights of our Sintra day trip itinerary. And then, there were the famed travesseiros of Casa Pirquita. Delightful flaky, pillow-shaped pastries that you must absolutely try when in Sintra.

We then took a bus to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe. After this, we rode to the beach town of Cascais and enjoyed a hearty dinner there.

Tips for Visiting Sintra and Cabo da Roca

• If you are taking the bus from Sintra station, I suggest you get off at Pena Palace (this is the last and highest stop) first and then walk your way down to other sights. It saves you a lot of energy.
• When we visited in early September, the parks of Pena Palace were closed due to fear of forest fires! This is something you might have to consider when planning your trip to Sintra.
• Carry a light jacket with you if you are planning to go to Cabo da Roca. It can get really cold and windy here even if the rest of Portugal is boiling.

Read next: Perfect 1-day itinerary for Sintra Portugal

Day 10: Day trip to Belem

On the last of our 10 days in Portugal, we chose to visit Belem. Belem is home to some of the most iconic tourist attractions in Lisbon such as the Belem Tower , the Jeronimos Monastery, and the Discovery Monument.

You can also try the famous Portuguese dessert , Pastel de Nata, at Fábrica Pastéis de Belém right here.

Tips for Visiting Belem

• Crowds at the Jeronimos Monastery start to thin after 1 pm. So, the afternoon is a great time to visit and save yourself from the scorching heat at the same time.
• Lisboa Cardholders can skip the line to enter the cloisters at Jeronimos.
• Refer to our Belem Tower guide to plan your trip here.
• Visit Fábrica Pastéis de Belém really late in the evening to avoid the crowds. They are open from 8 am – 11 pm every day and there is no queue after 9 pm.

Check out more amazing day trips from Lisbon.

This was how our 10 day Portugal itinerary by train looked like.

If we had some more time, we would have loved to visit the beaches of Algarve, the medieval city of Evora, and the heritage town of Braga . For the next time, then.

Are you planning to visit Portugal for 10 days or more? Need help with something? Drop us a comment below and we will get back to you.

More than 10 days in Portugal?

If you plan to spend more than 10 days in Portugal, refer to our amazing list of Portugal posts for more ideas and itineraries.

• Top 17 Heritage places to visit in Portugal
• What to do in Lisbon – Top 15 Lisbon attractions that you cannot miss!
• 6 Amazing day trips from Lisbon
• Best Lisbon itinerary for 2 days
• Best Things to do in Porto
• 8 Amazing day trips from Porto
• Where to spot the best azulejos in Porto
• How to spend a day in Coimbra?

Loved our 10 day Portugal itinerary? Pin it for later!

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37 thoughts on “ The Best 10 Day Portugal Itinerary By Train ”

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I haven’t been to Portugal but it looks like a small country for you to be able to navigate in 10 days! How are the public transport these days? This year, I always opt to rent a car and I feel like Portugal is a perfect start for a European roadtrip. Do you have any information on car rental or maybe buying an RV (and selling it after the Eu trip)? Thanks for the tips – will definitely follow this road!

Hi Cristina,

Portugal is definitely smaller than most other countries in Europe. However, even though, we were able to move from north to south of Portugal in 10 days, we would have loved to see more of the country along its breadth. If you look at my related post on the best places to visit in Portugal , you will notice that there’s so much one can do. Enough to spend a couple of days. Public transport is pretty good in Portugal. May not be on time always but neat, convenient, and cheap. We used public transport for our entire journey of 10 days. Many travelers do roadtrip through Portugal and prefer doing so. You will find various rental options on the official website of Visit Portugal.

I was planning for Portugal before Covid but have to postpone it and I am sure, I will be referring to your itinerary for planning my trip. You have good mixture of historical things to do and cultural things to do here. I am impressed by the architecture of Belem in Portugal.

Belem is definitely one of the highlights of Portugal. Speaks of so many years of Portuguese maritime history and that’s amply reflected in the Manueline architecture here.

Had I seen this plan two years back I would have probably traveled exactly the way you have. Ours was only a 5 day trip and could only experience Lisbon, Sintra & Olhao. Porto looks beautiful for sure. But next time I would love to visit Leiria, Batalha, Alcobaça & Belem to experience the real Portugal. Thanks for wonderful guide.

You are welcome, Subhashish. I am glad you found this useful.

It sounds a great idea to travel around Portugal. I’ve visited Lisbon twice but only for a day on a cruise. I agree that it’s a must to try the Pastel de Nata! Funnily enough, I visited the palace at Sintra when I was six, hopefully your child enjoyed it, I think I was quite bored at that age and didn’t appreciate it. So many great places for people planning a trip around Portugal.

My son loved the Pena Palace for its colors, thankfully. Otherwise I would have been one tortured mom. 🙂

Ah!!! This makes me want to go back to Portugal SO MUCH! I loved Sintra, Porto, Lisbon, and the Douro Valley wineries. I need to head to some of these other places, though. I was supposed to go this month, but the trip got pushed to April. I really hope it happens. I really want to get back!!

I hope the same too. Good luck for your next trip to Portugal.

This is a great, very detailed itinerary to Portugal. You have provided so many valuable tips which help planning a trip. I have only been to Lisbon, so I would like to use your recommendations for other places worth seeing in Portugal. On my list is the Monastery of Batalha, a UNESCO Heritage Site, Porto and Coimbra. Obidos seems worth visiting too. Thank you for sharing such a perfect itinerary!

You are welcome, Agnes. I am glad this was helpful.

Your 10 day itinerary for Portugal is spectacular! You really did not miss a single detail and make it extremely helpful for one to navigate Portugal in 10 days. Some of the spots you mentioned I had never heard of previously and extend thanks to you for showing me them. Coimbra in particular looks gorgeous and gives me serious wanderlust. The sights you highlighted look like an amazing adventure. Thanks for sharing!

Glad you liked it, Rina. Coimbra is a beautiful UNESCO world heritage site but much lesser known than Lisbon and Porto. It’s a great place to add to your Portugal itinerary .

Ah, Portugal – what a fabulous country! I love this itinerary Soumya, as it covers many of the country’s most interesting spots. Porto is my favorite city and Jeronimos Monastery is definitely a must. I’ve never been to Obidos, but I’m taking note for my next trip, as it looks just adorable!

Obidos is so quaint and colorful, you will love it. And yeah, Porto is simply wonderful. I fell in love with the city.

Portugal is one of my favorite countries in Europe, the people there are really nice and the food is fantastic. Your iItinerary is very similar to the one I would have uploaded if I had made one. I am glad that you have Jeronimo’s Monastery as, in my opinion, it is one of the nicer places to visit in Lisbon.

That’s true, Ann. Jeronimos is definitely one of the prettiest places to visit in Lisbon as well as in Portugal.

Portugal is definitely one of the top countries in Europe that I want to visit. I have seen so many beautiful photos of Portugal online especially Porto and Lisbon. The only time I have tried and egg tart was in Macau and I’m sure the egg tarts in Portugal will be 5x better. I am currently planning a trip to Europe and this detailed itinerary and guide is really helpful for me.

Portugal is indeed a beautiful country. And those tarts are delicious. Even I tried my first egg tart in Macau and have been hooked ever since. Hope you have a great trip to Europe and get to see the beauty of Portugal as well.

I like that your itinerary is done by public transport. I typically travel using only public transport too so it is helpful getting tips on how to get from one place to another in Portugal. Looks like you were still able to get to a lot of different places in the country. Good to know that Leiria isn’t too touristy. I always like to include at least one place on every travel itinerary that is lesser-known and visited.

Agree. The real treasure lies in the lesser known places.

Portugal is definitely high on my list but I have not yet made it there. My favorite thing would probably be spotting the azulejus and riding the tram. Porto are is interesting too and looks beautiful. I would like to try some excellent porto wines.

Spotting azulejos is so much fun and riding the tram too. I hope you have a great trip when you get to Portugal

I have been to Portugal once but it was a really short span of time and I couldn’t see or do much of the things you’ve mentioned. I would like to go again soon someday and visit Douro Valley the view shot was awesome! The best fact for me in Portugal was that the houses were so bright and colorful.

Douro Valley is really pretty. And yes, those houses are so photogenic. Hope you have a great second trip to Portugal.

I always thought Portugal has Lisbon, Porto and Algrave as worth visiting places but reading your post now made me interested to other quirky places too. You have done lot of town or places in 10 days which is really appreciating. I am saving this detailed itinerary for my future visit to Portugal. Coimbra and Conimbriga though ignored by tourists looks my kind of place and I would surely go for it. The views of colorful houses here are stunning. Also it is great that you have listed all hotel stays in all these cities which makes me easier to plan my Portugal holiday.

Thanks for the kind words Yukti. I am sure you will love Coimbra and Conímbriga. And it easy to get to places within Portugal since it is not very big. Therefore, we could do so many interesting places. I would love to go back and experience them again.

I love Portugal but there’s so much more to see that I haven’t done yet. I’m getting some great idea here, Porto looks amazing so I’d definitely add that to the list. I absolutely loved the architecture of the monastery at Belem, such an evocative building with an interesting history.

Absolutely, Paul. Those monasteries are so unique and intriguing. I would highly recommend doing at least one apart from Jeronimos in Lisbon.

That’s on a perfect timing. I’m heading to Portugal soon, but only for 3 days, in and around Lisbon. Douro Valley looks gorgeous. Good to know that there are tours that include wine tasting as well. That gives a good reason to plan another trip to Portugal haha. Monasteries of Batalha and Alcobaça are important places that I’m missing in this trip as well. More reason to do another trip! Thanks for the tip about the best time to visit Jeronimos Monastery. Will keep that in mind. How much time did it take by bus from Sintra centre to Cabo de Roca?

Hey Bhushavali. Good to hear about your travel plans to Portugal. Lisbon is beautiful and there’s so much to do there. I am sure you will love it. The Sintra bus trip to Cabo da Roca took us 40 minutes. And you can board one right at the city centre.

I’ve been to Portugal 3 times and clearly really enjoy it! Reading your post brings back so many great memories that I think a fourth visit is in order 🙂 I much prefer the north, so Porto wins over Lisbon for me. I’ve not explore much of central Portugal or Leiria and Batalha so I’d love to explore these places the next time I return.

That’s lovely. Portugal 3 times. I would love that. And yeah, central Portugal is beautiful and less touristy. So the monasteries make for great additions to your 4th time Portugal itinerary.

10 days in Portugal sounds lovely! Porto and Lisbon are high on my bucket list, but there’s so much to see beyond those cities too. The monastery in Belem looks fascinating. I bet there’s so much history there!

There’s lots of history in Portugal. And I would encourage you to visit these smaller places as well for the real feel of Portugal.

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Taking the train in Ireland – what you need to know

Apr 19, 2024 • 11 min read

A train travels along the Rosslare, Wexford to Dublin line in Ireland © Irish Rail

Traveling by train is one of Ireland ’s great, if under-appreciated, pleasures.

It’s a small island and the rail network is limited, so no journey is especially long – but riding the rails across the country is one of the loveliest ways to enjoy the rolling countryside.

Compared to its European counterparts, Irish trains aren’t especially spectacular, but this is a country that doesn’t need high-speed or sleeper trains: you roll along at a maximum of 160km/h (99mph) and before you know it you’re on the other side of the island.

The particular nature of Irish demographics has shaped train travel in Ireland: with around a quarter of the population clustered in the greater Dublin region, it makes sense that most train journeys begin or end in the capital. In Northern Ireland the same is true of Belfast .

Irish trains might not be especially quick or super luxurious, but they’re an efficient and eco-friendly way of exploring the island – so long as your explorations are focused on the major cities and towns. Here is our essential guide to train travel in Ireland.

The lowdown on rail travel in Ireland

Irish trains are efficient, relatively frequent and usually on time.  Irish Rail/Iarnród Éireann operates the entire network of trains in the Republic, from intercity trains linking the major urban centers to the busy commuter network that services the greater Dublin region.

There are two main lines into the west and three into the south and southwest; spurs off the main lines connect to a host of smaller towns throughout the country. There’s also a line to Belfast, from where  Translink services connect the city with the Antrim Coast and Derry (Londonderry) .

Within the greater Dublin region, a network of commuter services connects the capital with a host of suburbs and dormitory towns in the surrounding counties. Dublin’s coastline between the northside suburbs of Howth and Malahide, and Greystones in County Wicklow is served by DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transport) trains.

There are some notable gaps in the country’s rail network, with no services in counties Donegal , Monaghan and Cavan , and no trains into West Cork . Some towns – like Buttevant in Cork or Annacotty in Limerick – are on the rail line but they’re bypassed as they have no functioning station.

Ireland’s bigger train stations – including Cork , Limerick , Galway , Sligo, Belfast and the two in Dublin – are all pretty well stocked when it comes to picking up supplies and other assorted sundries for your journey. Most other stations will have a small shop.

Train tickets are relatively good value

The good news about traveling by train in Ireland is that it is relatively inexpensive compared to train travel in some places, such as the UK, for example. If you buy it online, a standard one-way fare between Dublin Heuston and Kent Station in Cork costs €30–35, and around €55 in first class.

Online is the best place to buy your tickets for train travel in the Irish Republic. Not only do you get the best fares (with savings of up to 50% compared to buying the ticket at the station), but you can purchase your ticket up to 90 days in advance and reserve a seat when you do.

You have the option of collecting your bought ticket from a machine at the station as you’re boarding, or downloading a QR code at the point of purchase. If you wait to buy your ticket at the station, you’ll pay significantly more and have to get there early to queue up at the ticket kiosk.

For travel in Northern Ireland, you’re better off buying the ticket at the station as only a limited number of tickets are available online. Show up a short time before your intended departure time and just buy your ticket there.

Only a handful of services offer first class, but upgrading is relatively inexpensive. On average, expect to pay around €20–25 more to sit in first. There are three kinds of first class service on Irish trains. CityGold is on direct Dublin to Cork services, and includes an onboard host and a complimentary newspaper on selected early morning services. The Enterprise service between Dublin and Belfast offers the same, plus a fine breakfast. Premier Class is similar, but is only available on direct services between Dublin and Tralee and some Dublin to Cork trains.

Some discounts and offers apply

There are discounted fares for children and young adults aged between 19 and 25, as long as they have a valid discount card. Under fives and those aged 66 and over travel for free.

The commuter network in the Greater Dublin area has a fare cap of €6 for travel between the capital and a host of towns in the surrounding counties.

There are two rail passes aimed at visitors. The Trekker Four Day (€88) offers unlimited travel for adults on all Irish Rail services on four consecutive days from the date of issue. The Explorer (adult/child €128/64) provides five days of travel on all services in a 15-day window.

However, before investing in either, be sure that you plan on making the most out of it. The limited rail network means that connections are limited and traveling between some destinations involves backtracking: Cork and Waterford are both on the south coast, but to get from one to the other means travelling to Limerick, while Sligo and Westport are only 140km (87 miles) apart along the west coast, but to go between them by train you’ll have to travel through Dublin – which is on the other side of the country.

In Northern Ireland, the Sunday Fun Day Tracker ticket gives passengers unlimited train travel on a Sunday for £9 (£4.50 for children). Tickets are available from all ticket offices, the mLink ticketing app and from the conductor on the train.

These are the busiest times to travel by train

Unsurprisingly, peak times for train travel coincide with busy rush hour periods. Early morning services to Dublin from cities including Cork, Galway and Limerick can be busy, especially if the train is due to arrive in Dublin around the start of the working day. Friday evening trains departing Dublin can also be quite busy. However, as online bookings also include the option of booking a seat, you’ll never have to stand.

The commuter network is busiest on weekdays from 7am to 9am and from 4:30pm to 6:30pm as thousands of people travel in and out of work. You can’t prebook seats on these services, so plenty of people do end up standing. Keep an eye out on changing schedules, especially for weekend and holiday travel, as frequencies diminish.

The train network is limited, but it has some benefits over road travel

There are no rail links to any Irish airport, which means you’re relying on taxis, private cars or buses once you arrive in the country. Irish ferry ports are better connected to rail lines, however, and you can catch trains in Rosslare, Dublin and Larne; there is no rail link to Belfast Port.

If you want to reach the more remote corners of the island, then the Irish rail network is quite limited, and a car will give you the flexibility you need. However, rental fees can be very expensive and fuel is another considerable cost, with the price of unleaded and diesel hovering between €1.75 and €2 a liter. Parking is also pricey in all urban centers, especially Dublin.

Traveling by bus is the cheapest way to get around, but it can be a slow business, as most make lots of stops along the way. There are some direct express services, but they are at the mercy of traffic, which can also add considerable time to a journey compared to traveling by train. Plus, buses don’t have bathrooms, with those traveling longer distances relying entirely on rest stops.

On board facilities vary depending on the type of train

There are two kinds of Irish trains: InterCity and commuter. InterCity trains are all the same – relatively modern with comfortable seats in standard class and fancier recliners in first – and they travel at speeds of up to 160km/h (99mph). There’s no journey in Ireland that is longer than 2½ to 3 hours. Commuter trains are slightly older, with less comfortable seats; older trains are used on some small-distance spur lines in rural areas and are very basic (facilities include seats and a toilet).

While Ireland’s flagship service is the one between Dublin and Cork, the fanciest train is the Enterprise service between Dublin Connolly and Belfast Lanyon Place, which is a joint venture between Irish Rail and Translink. This train is on a par with most services you’ll find in mainland Europe and first class is the most luxurious of any in the country.

All InterCity trains have three-pin sockets at every row where you can plug in a charger or a laptop. Most commuter trains in the greater Dublin area also have sockets. All trains have toilets and there is a cross-network wi-fi service operated by Irish Rail, but it is patchy and inconsistent. Translink has its own wi-fi network, which is accessible on all bus and rail services in the north, but, like in the Republic, you’re at the mercy of signal strength and contention levels.

Food options are pretty limited. There is a trolley service on the Dublin to Cork service, while the Enterprise between Dublin and Belfast operates a full service menu in a dedicated dining car; first class passengers also get a pretty good breakfast as part of their ticket.

Some trains on the Dublin to Cork route have a “quiet carriage” (usually Carriage G, marked in purple when booking) where the use of phones is prohibited and passengers are encouraged to keep noise levels down.

You can bring a bike on any Irish Rail train for free, although there are some restrictions during busy periods (such as sporting fixtures and concerts). The Dublin to Cork line is the only one to have a dedicated bike storage area; all other InterCity trains have (very) limited bicycle spaces within the passenger compartment – it’s not unusual for only two bikes to be allowed into the compartment, so be sure to book in advance. Bikes are not allowed on commuter and DART services during peak hours – before 10am and from 3:30pm to 7pm Monday to Friday.

There are many scenic train routes: here are the best

No matter where you are in Ireland you’re going to find a beautiful landscape or two, but some journeys are worth keeping your eyes wide open for.

Dublin to Sligo

Once you’ve gone past the huge suburban sprawl of the greater Dublin area, the landscapes get quite gentle; beyond Mullingar the train skirts alongside the edge of beautiful Lough Owel. For the best views, sit on the left-hand side of the train.

Dublin to Belfast

The Enterprise service is the best in the country, with the most comfortable seats and the best food options – especially in first class. The train skirts alongside the Irish Sea between Malahide and Balbriggan, so be sure to sit on that side as you travel (on the right-hand side if you’re traveling to Belfast).

Derry (Londonderry) to Coleraine

The Translink service between Northern Ireland’s second city and Coleraine is a stunner, a 40-minute journey along the Causeway Coast that comes with beautiful beaches, huge cliffs and unimpeded views out over the North Sea.

Downpatrick to Inch Abbey

It’s only a 10-minute journey, but the trip from Downpatrick in County Down to the monastic ruins of Inch Abbey takes place in a vintage steam train (or a 1960s diesel train) that chugs its way along the line, over the River Quoile and past the drumlin-specked landscape.

Cork to Cobh

One of Ireland’s most scenic trips is the 25-minute trip from Cork City to the seaside town of Cobh , which takes you along the river (sit on the right for the best views), past marshy Harper’s Island and over the bridges on Lough Mahon and the Slatty Water. You can always stop off at Fota and visit the  wildlife park  there.

Book in advance for wheelchair access to trains

All InterCity services are nominally accessible, but if you do need assistance you will need to book it in advance so that suitable arrangements can be made. This usually means that a conductor will have a ramp ready for wheelchair access, but we have also heard plenty of anecdotal evidence of staff simply lifting a wheelchair onto a train, which depending on the individual can either be a help or an annoying hindrance. Whatever you do, make sure to communicate your requirements before you travel as assistance is not guaranteed otherwise.

For passengers with learning difficulties or any issue where there may be a challenge with communication (such as autism) Irish Rail staff are trained to recognize visual cue cards such as the  JAM card , which inform the interlocutor of the holder’s condition. JAM cards are available online or at mainline train stations in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Waterford and Sligo.

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