Portugal is a stunningly beautiful country, with its rolling hills and winding roads, and a rich history and culture. Travelers often explore Portugal by taking the train from Lisbon to Porto. The journey is an unforgettable experience, as you travel through the stunning landscapes of the country, passing through vibrant cities and quaint villages. With its comfortable carriages and modern amenities, a train ride from Lisbon to Porto is an exciting way to explore Portugal. Not only is the train ride an enjoyable experience, but it is also an affordable and efficient way to get around the country. This guide will provide all the information you need to have an enjoyable and stress-free journey from Lisbon to Porto. So, pack your bags, hop on the train, and get ready to explore Portugal’s breathtaking scenery and vibrant cities.
Overview of the Train Journey from Lisbon to Porto
The journey from Lisbon to Porto takes about 6 hours. The train usually departs from Lisbon’s Oriente Station. The train passes through the cities of Coimbra, Aveiro, and Vila Nova de Gaia along the way. Vila Nova de Gaia is Porto’s neighboring city. The Oriente Station is central and easily accessible. The best way to get there is by using public transportation, as parking at the station can be difficult, especially during high season. Trains depart from Oriente Station every hour between 4 am and 10 pm. Trains depart from Porto to Lisbon at regular intervals throughout the day. The journey takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes, and the trains depart every hour between 5 am and 11 pm.
1. The Cost of the Train Journey
The cost of the train journey from Lisbon to Porto depends on the type of ticket you book and the class of travel. First-class tickets are the most expensive, followed by the standard class, and then the discounted class. The price of the first-class ticket is approximately 45 EUR, while a discounted-class ticket costs around 20 EUR. Standard-class tickets cost around 25 EUR. Discounted-class tickets are available to senior citizens and children under the age of 12. If you’re planning to travel during the low season, you can also get a reduced fare. If you plan to travel with a large group, you can get a discounted rate for groups of 9 or more. You can find the latest pricing information on the website of the Portuguese Railway Company, CP.
2. What to Expect on the Train
Unlike most other country trains, the Portuguese trains are very modern and comfortable. The seats are spacious and recline, and each compartment has its own reading light. The carriages are air-conditioned, and you can enjoy free Wi-Fi as well as free water, coffee, and tea. Each carriage has a washroom with a toilet, sink, and a shower. You can also make use of the overhead storage space to store your luggage. If you are traveling in a group, you can book a compartment where you can sit together and enjoy privacy. If you are traveling with a child, you can make use of the Child Ticket. This ticket allows children between the ages of 4 and 12 to travel for free when accompanied by an adult. If you are a senior citizen, you can get a Senior Ticket and travel for a reduced fare. You can also get a Senior Discount if you travel in a group.
3. Tips for Making the Most of the Journey
There are a few things you can do to make the most of your journey. First, make sure you book your tickets well in advance. This will ensure that you get the class of ticket you want, and it will also help to avoid any last-minute booking fees. Make sure you pack light, especially if you are traveling in the discounted or standard class. You don’t want your bags to be too heavy and cost you money. In addition to this, you also want to make sure your bags are small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. Before you board the train, make sure you buy water, tea, coffee, or any other beverage you would like to drink on the journey. This will help you save money, and you won’t have to go to the dining car every time you want something to drink.
4. Where to Stay in Lisbon & Porto
There are plenty of hotels in Lisbon and Porto that are near the train station. If you are traveling during high season, you will have to make your booking well in advance to get a room at a reasonable price. If you are traveling during low season, you will likely have more options available, and the booking will be less competitive. There are many high-end hotels in Lisbon that are near the train station, including the Holiday Inn Lisbon Airport, InterContinental Lisbon, Hotel Mundial, and The Ritz Lisbon. Alternatively, you can opt for a moderately priced hostel or guesthouse like the Hostel 99 or the Lisbon House Hostel. In Porto, you can choose from many mid-range hotels, including the Hotel do Norte, The Damaso, and Hotel Sacor. Alternatively, you can stay at a charming guesthouse like the Casa do Rio.
5. What to See & Do in Lisbon & Porto
Lisbon – Explore the stunning views from the Torre de Belém, the Monument to the Discoveries, and the Torre de Gonçalo Cabral. You can also take a cruise along the River Tagus to admire the city from the water. Porto – Admire the beautiful architecture from the São Francisco Church, the Torre dos Clérigos, and the Torre da Relógio. You can also take a stroll along the Vasa Aquarium. For a day trip, you can travel to Sintra, a charming town with spectacular views. You can also travel to the vibrant city of Coimbra. You can also go to the city of Aveiro and visit the Aquarium or the Sea Aquarium. Alternatively, you can also visit the city of Évora and the Roman Temple of Évora.
6. Recommended Day Trips from Lisbon & Porto
– Lisbon – Sintra and Coimbra Day Trip – Sintra is a charming town just 30 minutes away from Lisbon. You can visit the Pena Palace and the fantasy-like Palacio da Quinta da Regaleira, which are two popular tourist attractions in Sintra. You can also visit the charming town of Coimbra, which is famous for its University and is just 1 hour and 20 minutes away from Lisbon. – Lisbon – Porto Day Trip – You can visit the stunning city of Porto and admire the stunning views from the Torre dos Clérigos, the Serralves Museum, and the São Francisco Church. If you want to explore the nearby towns, you can visit the city of Vila Nova de Gaia and admire the stunning views from the river. – Porto – Aveiro Day Trip – You can travel to the charming town of Aveiro, which is just 35 minutes away from Porto. In Aveiro, you can visit the Aquarium or the Sea Aquarium. Alternatively, you can also visit the town of Pinhal de Leiria, which is just 40 minutes away from Porto. In Pinhal de Leiria, you can visit the Ecomuseum.
7. Other Transportation Options
Bus – The bus is another affordable and convenient way to get around the country. You can travel between Lisbon and Porto on a bus, which takes about 6 hours. There are several bus companies operating buses between the two cities, and the ticket prices are quite affordable. Car & Taxi – If you are traveling with a large group, renting a car can be an economical option. If you are traveling as a couple or with a small group, you can opt for a taxi. Taxis are available at all times, and you can either hail them on the street or make a booking.
8. Essential Tips for Exploring Portugal
– Pack light – You don’t want to carry too much luggage with you, especially if you are traveling in the discounted or standard class. Make sure you pack light so that your bags are lightweight and easy to carry. – Get a pass – If you are traveling with a group, you can get a pass that allows you to travel as many times as you want within a specific time period. This will help you save a lot of money, especially if you are traveling with a large group. – Use