Experience the timeless charm of lively Lisbon, revel in the good vibes of bohemian Porto, or stroll through history in Coimbra on our crafted tours of Portugal by rail. Whether you dream of sipping Vinho Verde on the terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley, diving into Portugal’s sizzling gastronomy, or losing yourself in Fado music, our rail vacations are made just for you.
Our European rail specialists plan tailor-made itineraries with seamless connections and comfortable stays that let you relax and discover the best of Portugal at your own pace.
Discover the Highlights of Portugal on our 8-day rail tour from Lisbon to Porto. Enjoy seamless travel and authentic cultural experiences. Book your journey today!
From the verdant terraces of the Douro Valley, along a rugged Atlantic coastline, through mountainous national parks, to the sparkling Mediterranean shoreline of the Algarve and offshore to the volcanic landscapes of the Azores and Madeira, Portugal boasts diverse and endlessly picturesque landscapes. When you explore Portugal by train, you see more and have more time to appreciate this diverse and endlessly picturesque slice of the Iberian Peninsula.
Portugal’s cities effortlessly merge the old and the contemporary, preserving traditions with a verve that reveals itself in animated neighborhoods connected by timeworn trams in Lisbon, in riverside bars and port houses beneath the bridges of Porto, in the medieval architecture of Évora and Coimbra, or the spirited beach towns dotted along the Mediterranean coastline. A developed rail network makes it easy to hop between bustling urban centers and laidback towns, seeing different sides of Portugal in an unhurried vacation.
High-speed trains link Portugal’s major cities with an extensive regional network that reaches destinations on and off the tourist trail. Traveling Portugal by rail is a leisurely and hassle-free way to see more destinations in one rousing vacation. Kick back on and take in the views on rides through the Douro Valley or zip along the Atlantic Coast on high-speed Alfa Pendular trains from Lisbon to Porto, whichever route you take, rail travel delivers adventure and relaxation.
Draped over seven hills, Portugal’s effervescent capital packs a lot into its winding cobbled streets. Emblematic yellow trams trundle between characterful neighborhoods filled with fado bars and aromatic pastelarias to historic sites like Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery. Drink in citywide views from the Castelo de São Jorge that lights up the skyline, hang out in upbeat spots like the LX Factory, or take the family to the world-class Oceanário de Lisboa aquarium. With so much to see and do, Lisbon is the most compelling starting point for a tour of Portugal by train.
While in Lisbon, our travel team can arrange a day trip to the romantic royal palaces in Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, only an hour from Lisbon by train.
A splash of cosmopolitan energy on the River Douro, Porto bottles the essence of Portugal in one charismatic city. Visitors are drawn to the bubbling street life in Ribeira underneath the dramatic Dom Luís I bridge and the famous port houses looking across the Douro River from neighboring Vila Nova de Gaia Cross. Porto is somewhere you can simply wander around and never get bored. While foodies will relish sampling Portuguese delights like the indulgent francesinha or taking winery tours in the nearby Douro Valley. As part of your Portugal by trail itinerary, our specialists can arrange a trip on the Linha do Douro train that follows a wonderfully scenic route through the terraced vineyards of the valley.
Coimbra is a slow-travel pearl that mixes medieval charm with a vital intellectual legacy. Once the nation’s capital, it is home to one of Europe’s oldest universities, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its Baroque Joanina Library and lively academic traditions.
Roam around the atmospheric alleys of the Old Town, admire Roman ruins at Conímbriga, and savor peaceful moments along the Mondego River. Sitting between Lisbon and Porto.
The Linha do Algarve snakes along Portugal’s sunny Mediterranean coastline, calling in at Faro and easygoing beach towns like Lagos and Tavira. For some, the Algarve is a place to forget your worries on a restful vacation amid the tranquil coves, golden cliffs, and whitewashed villages that put Portugal’s southernmost region on the tourist map. For others, it’s all about the nightlife, golfing, and other outdoor activities that make the resort towns swing in summer.
Tucked away in the fertile Alentejo region, Évora is a time capsule of relics and ruins that reveal layers of Portuguese history. Founded by Celtic tribes and conquered by ancient Rome and Moorish kingdoms, Évora became a seat of learning during the Middle Ages. Today, Évora is a jumble of whitewashed houses and museums, with vestiges of a long and tumultuous past found across the preserved walled city, from the Roman Temple of Diana to Portugal’s biggest medieval cathedral. Accessible via the Linha do Alentejo, this charming town offers a taste of authentic provincial life overlaid with lashings of history.
The spectacularly scenic Linha do Douro train meanders along the Douro River, through the vineyard-clad hills of the valley and quaint villages between Porto and tiny Pocinho near the border with Spain. The 3 ½ hour journey is an unhurried day trip from Porto and an intoxicating journey for wine enthusiasts who stop in Pinhão for winery tours. If wine is not your thing, kick back and drink the views on a captivating ride through Portugal’s most picturesque region.
Portugal’s primary rail artery whisks travelers on high-speed Alfa Pendular trains between Lisbon and Porto, bringing together Portugal’s most exciting cities in under three hours. Travelers can zip along in first-class comfort, glimpsing coastal landscapes and hopping off in Aveiro, Portugal’s Venice, and Coimbra, where history is baked into the atmospheric cityscape. Fast and often scenic, this vital route reveals the best of Portugal by train, as showcased in our Highlights of Portugal package.
If a spellbinding train ride through the Douro Valley caught your attention, consider dialing up the comfort on the prestigious Presidential Train. Built in 1890, the train has served monarchs, popes, and dignitaries from around the globe. Preserved by the National Railway Museum, this throwback to a golden era of rail travel lavishes old-world charm on its pampered passengers, with upscale dining and a port tasting in a renowned Quinta before rolling back to Porto the same day.
Operated by the private rail service, Fertagus, this one-hour journey rolls from Lisbon and across the Ponte 25 de Abril (25th April Bridge) on a view-filled journey to the Setúbal Peninsula. Primarily a commuter train between the capital and the suburbs, rail explorers will relish the seven-minute journey across the River Tagus that offers stunning views of the immense Cristo Rei statue and passes beneath the baroque Águas Livres Aqueduct, a marvel of 18th-century engineering and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
CP (Comboios de Portugal) operates nearly all rail services, including regional, intercity, and high-speed routes. The notable exception is Fertagus, a private company operating the scenic line between Lisbon and suburban stations on the Setúbal Peninsula.
High-speed tilting Pendolino trains (Alfa Pendular) reach 136 mph (220 kph) and connect the biggest cities: Guimarães, Braga, Porto, Coimbra, Lisbon, and Faro.
Slower intercity (IC) trains make more stops between cities and link towns outside the high-speed network.
Regional (R) and inter-regional (IR) trains in Portugal tend to be more functional and commuter-friendly, connecting smaller stations and giving you more freedom to roam around regions like the Algarve and Douro Valley. Cities are also served by urban commuter trains. And, of course, iconic trams.
Download the CP app for even up-to-day info as you travel.
Direct services between Portugal and neighboring Spain are limited to services between Vigo (Spain) and Porto and a night train service between Madrid and Lisbon. Additionally, there are numerous indirect routes between Spain and Portugal by rail. If you’re thinking of an Iberian rail odyssey for your next vacation, speak with our rail travel specialists to arrange a seamless cross-border journey.
High-speed and most intercity Portuguese trains offer free Wi-Fi, charging points, air conditioning, luggage space, and snack services, with first-class seats providing additional comfort.
Regional trains in Portugal are more basic, with no first-class carriages or catering (a moreish box pastel de nata travels well!).
Discover the best of Portugal by train with exclusive travel packages that feature handpicked destinations, imaginative rail routes, and superior accommodations. Airport transfers and personalized connections ensure a hassle-free experience as you visit the destinations that matter to you.
We prioritize charming boutique hotels and premium stays near major train stations to balance convenience and comfort. Whether a waterfront retreat in Porto or a historical pousada in Évora, our handpicked accommodations include breakfast, leaving you refreshed and refueled for more rail adventures.
We book first-class seats whenever available, allowing you to travel around Portugal by train in style and comfort. We also pick out the best connections to maximize your time and minimize the hassle, ensuring you enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
From train schedules and hotel reservations to electronic tickets, we handle every detail of your trip. Need assistance? Our travel specialists are available anytime to ensure your rail vacation in Portugal is smooth and uncomplicated.
Our well-traveled team of European rail experts offers insight and expertise when planning a vacation in Portugal by train. Whether you want to explore the Douro Valley or unwind on the beaches of the Algarve, we're passionate about creating immersive itineraries that showcase the best of Portugal.
We will design a rail and hotel package tailored to your passions and dreams. Let us know what you want to do and we'll find the connections and accommodation you need; wine tastings in the Quintas of Alentejo or the Douro Valley, swimming with dolphins in the Mediterranean, hiking along the Atlantic coastline, or heritage adventures in historic cities, our Portuguese rail vacations are tailor-made for you.
Transform your rail journey into a multi-country adventure, seamlessly connecting Portugal with neighboring Spain. Explore destinations like Seville, Madrid, or Barcelona by train, creating a rich Iberian experience in one unforgettable trip.
Whether you’re traveling as a family, a couple, or solo, our rail vacation packages suit all ages and interests. With Portugal’s accessible and efficient rail system, creating memories together is easy and enjoyable.
Immerse yourself in Portuguese culture as you travel Portugal by rail. Glide between picturesque coastal towns and dynamic cities, unhurriedly delving deeper into Portugal’s colorful heritage with time to connect more with the people and the culture.
Portugal's rail network is one of the most sustainable ways to explore the country. By choosing train travel, you'll reduce your carbon footprint while appreciating the stunning landscapes that make Portugal such a coveted destination.
With modern trains connecting landmark destinations and frequent regional trains effortlessly transporting explorers to parts less visited, Portugal’s rail system is user-friendly and a supremely efficient and comfortable way to see more. With first-class seats reserved on key journeys and itineraries customized to match your needs and desires, seeing Portugal by train is the ultimate peel back the layers of the country’s fascinating heritage.
Ranging over Portugal by train gives you the freedom to call into major cities and hidden gems, made possible by an itinerary that seamlessly transports you to the destinations you’ve always wanted to visit at a speed that works for you. No need to choose between sipping port in Porto or watching the sunset over the Algarve’s cliffs; you can do it all in one layered vacation tailored just for you.
Because you can explore further, traveling around Portugal by rail delivers a rounded and immersive experience. Soak up Portuguese vibes as you cruise between cities of contrasts, seeing more of the country from the comfort of your seat and making every mile of your journey part of the memories.
Portugal is home to some of Europe’s leading vacation spots and city break destinations. We recommend booking early, particularly for peak travel seasons like summer (June-August) and major holidays. This lets us reserve the best seats when they become available (typically 60 days before travel) and superior accommodations, tailoring a Portuguese rail vacation without compromises.
Absolutely! Many trains feature spacious seating and family-friendly compartments. From beach days to family-friendly tourist attractions like Lisbon’s world-class aquarium, there are plenty of ways to excite younger travelers. Talk with our travel team experts to arrange a smooth and pleasurable journey through Portugal by train for the whole family.
Long-distance and high-speed Portuguese trains typically offer free Wi-Fi, power outlets, air conditioning, and dining services. First-class seating provides extra comfort, and luggage storage and restrooms are standard on all trains.
Regional trains may have fewer amenities but are equally convenient for shorter journeys.
Yes, many trains and most major stations in Portugal are accessible, featuring step-free boarding, wheelchair spaces, and assistance when arranged in advance. Our team can help tailor a comfortable and inclusive rail vacation in Portugal to meet your needs.
As part of the Schengen Area, passport checks are rare when traveling between other Schengen countries and Portugal. However, you should carry your passport or ID, as spot checks are an infrequent possibility.
Seat reservations are required for high-speed trains like the Alfa Pendular and are recommended for other intercity journeys. Regional and suburban trains operate with open seating. We ensure all necessary reservations for a hassle-free experience of Portugal by rail.
Yes, most long-distance and high-speed trains have a catering car serving Portuguese delights like pastel de nata and light meals. You’re also welcome to bring your own food onboard when you travel in Portugal by rail.
Yes, Alfa Pendular high-speed trains connect Portugal’s major cities – Lisbon, Porto, Faro, Braga, and the tourist gem, Coimbra. These modern trains provide efficient and comfortable travel, reducing journey times significantly. Slower intercity trains also link these cities and stop at towns between cities.
Yes, most high-speed and long-distance trains offer free Wi-Fi and power outlets. While regional trains may not have Wi-Fi, they make up for it with scenic views of Portugal’s countryside.
Yes, the Douro Line is one of Portugal’s most scenic rail journeys, winding along the river through terraced vineyards and picturesque villages. Pair this train ride with a river cruise or wine tour for an unforgettable experience.
The Algarve is well-connected by regional trains running along the coastline, from Lagos to Faro and beyond. Combine train travel with local buses or car rentals for inland destinations or secluded beaches.
Travel Portugal by train any time of the year! Here’s a snapshot of what makes each season unique.
With around 300 days of annual sunshine, winter temperatures in Portugal are mild, making it one of the more satisfying European countries to explore in the off-season. The Algarve enjoys pleasant sunshine, while cities like Lisbon and Porto offer festive markets and cozy cafés. It can be a golden time to rove around tourist magnets like Coimbra and Sintra, even if you may need an umbrella to fend off the rain from time to time.
Spring brings warmer weather and plenty of reasons to explore Portugal by train. Beaches along the Algarve are warming up yet remain calm before the busy tourist season. Meanwhile, the terraced vineyards in the Douro Valley burst with color and renewed vigor. Hilly cities like Lisbon and Porto are easier to navigate without the peak temperatures and peak crowds, while cultural festivals like Holy Week in Braga add a splash of color and incentive to roam beyond Portugal’s leading destinations.
The days are long, and the sun is powerful during summer, filling cafe terraces and bringing visitors to Portugal’s seductive beaches. Happily, Portugal knows how to make the most of summer. Sip port along the riverfront in Porto or Coimbra, escape the heat amid the palaces of romantic Sintra in the mountains, or embrace the sunshine and dive into the Algarve’s warm waters. Travel in air-conditioned comfort while traversing a country that positively shines in summer.
As the summer heat softens, fall offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. It’s harvest time in Portugal’s wine regions, the ideal time to pair scenic train rides with vineyard tours. The cultural wonders of cities like Coimbra and Évora can be appreciated with fewer crowds, hiking trails around the vineyards of the Minho are relaxed, and pretty hilltop villages like Óbidos feel more local and authentic without the crowds.
From the Fado bars and vibrant neighborhoods of Lisbon to Porto’s bohemian riverside charm and the golden coves of the Algarve, Portugal is an intoxicating destination for travelers who like to explore. Our curated itineraries secure premium accommodations and seamless connections, allowing you to relax as you unravel Portugal’s absorbing culture and heritage in one memorable vacation. Talk with our travel experts to craft your perfect journey around Portugal by train and make your next vacation a rail journey of a lifetime.
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With over 100.000 kilometers traveled distance in trains by ourselfs around the world, our packages take travelers on a journey through some of the most breathtaking and iconic destinations in the Europe.
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