How to get to Porto Rei Portugal by train
Northern Portugal’s biggest city is a fun and earth-friendly destination with great city walking, a cool arts district, inexpensive port wine tastings, and views of the Douro River. You can also get your literary on at Livraria Lello, dubbed the world’s most beautiful bookshop.
The locals here are known for their friendliness and hospitality. And since Portuguese is a Western language, it’s easy for international travelers to navigate. Plus, the country is relatively affordable for a European destination.
Traveling to and from Porto by train is convenient and fast. You can buy tickets to travel on CP, the national railway company, online, via their app, or at local ticket machines. And there’s even a fast high-speed option called the Alfa Pendular train.
It’s best to purchase tickets ahead of time, especially during peak season. And be sure to validate your ticket with the machine upon boarding to avoid fines.
To travel from Lisbon to Porto by train, you can follow these steps:
- Start by going to the nearest train station in Lisbon. The main train station in Lisbon is called “Lisboa Santa Apolónia,” located near the city center and the Tagus River.
- Check the train schedules and purchase your ticket. You can either buy your ticket in advance online through the official Portuguese railway company’s website (Comboios de Portugal – CP) or at the ticket office in the train station. It’s recommended to book your ticket in advance, especially during peak travel times or holidays.
- There are different types of trains that operate on the Lisbon-Porto route, including Alfa Pendular (AP) and Intercidades (IC) trains. The Alfa Pendular is faster and more expensive, while Intercidades trains are slightly slower but more affordable. Choose the one that suits your preferences and budget.
- Once you have your ticket, check the departure platform displayed on the departure boards or ask the station staff for assistance if needed. Trains to Porto usually depart from platforms 2 to 5 in Lisbon Santa Apolónia station.
- Board the train, ensuring that you are in the correct carriage and seat as indicated on your ticket. There are usually designated storage areas for luggage onboard the trains.
- Sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey. The train ride from Lisbon to Porto takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes on the fastest Alfa Pendular trains, while Intercidades trains may take around 3 hours and 30 minutes.
- Once you arrive at Porto’s main train station, “Porto-Campanhã,” you can either take a taxi, a local bus, or a metro to reach your final destination in Porto. Porto-Campanhã is well-connected to the city’s transportation network, so you should have no trouble finding a convenient way to continue your journey.
Remember to check the train schedules in advance, arrive at the station a little earlier to ensure a smooth boarding process, and consider booking your tickets early to secure your preferred train and seat.
