How To Get From Lisbon To Porto 2025 (Everything To Know)
Are you planning a journey from Lisbon to Porto? If so, you’ve come to the right article.
Lisbon and Porto are Portugal’s two most popular cities, and they’re both worth visiting, whether you’re a foodie or into sightseeing. I spent a week in Portugal, and got between cities by taking the cheapest train possible.
This article will cover exactly how to get from Lisbon to Porto, including transportation options, where to buy train tickets, cost, and more.
Here is everything you need to know to plan a journey from Lisbon to Porto.
How To Get From Lisbon To Porto
Porto is a 3 hour drive from Lisbon, or a 2.5-3.5 hour train ride, depending on the train you take. The best way to get between cities without a doubt is by train.
Comboios de Portugal is the train operator that runs the trains between cities, and they offer a high-speed train (Alfa Pendular), as well as a standard train (Intercidades).
The Alfa Pendular train tickets are more expensive, but they take less than 3 hours, whereas the Intercidades train can take between 3-4 hours.
Both of these trains have comfortable seats, free Wifi, and allow you to choose between 1st class and 2nd class seats. I took the Intercidades train, and it took around 3.5 hours, with a few stops on the way to Porto.
How To Purchase Train Tickets
The best way to purchase train tickets is online at cp.pt, which is Comboios de Portugal’s official website. To find train tickets, enter the Lisbon and Porto train stations, and you’ll see a list of options.
The “AP” refers to the more expensive Alfa Pendular trains, and the “IC” is for the standard Intercidades trains. Lisbon has four train stations (Santa Apolonia, Oriente, Entrecampos, Sete Rios), with Santa Apolonia being closest to the city center.
Porto has three train stations (Sao Bento, Campanha, Vila Nova de Gaia), with Sao Bento being right in the city center. Prices for the AP trains range from around €34-50, while the standard IC trains range from €27-40 for a one way ticket.
They offer discounted tickets if you purchase days in advance. I bought a 2nd class seat on the Intercidades train for €44 round trip ($50 USD) when I visited Portugal in Spring.
Before booking, check to see which train station is closest to your hotel. I made the mistake of arriving at the Porto Campanha station, which was around 30 minutes from my hotel.
For most people, it’s best to arrive at Porto’s Sao Bento station, which is in the heart of downtown. That being said, all of the train stations are easily accessible to the city center by bus and metro.
Other Modes Of Transportation
Beyond trains, you can get between cities via bus, private transportation, or by renting a car. Here’s details on each.
Bus
The cheapest way to get to Porto is by bus (3-4 hours). Flixbus and Rede Expressos offer several options throughout the day, and the prices range from around €5-20 for a one-way ride.
However they’re typically less comfortable than the train, and they have very low ratings. Other travelers have complained about the lack of air conditioning, late buses, and limited space.
Additionally, there’s no direct bus to Porto’s Sao Bento Station, so you’ll need to hop on the metro to get from the Campanha train station to downtown. If you’re traveling on a budget, however, this can still be a great option.
Renting A Car
Renting a car is one of the most expensive options, and it’s a 3 hour drive through the scenic countryside.
With public transportation being so great, I wouldn’t recommend renting a car, unless you plan on exploring more cities. If you plan on renting a car, make sure to book a hotel with free parking, as street parking can be very limited in Lisbon and Porto.
Private Transportation/Tour
Private transportation is the most convenient, but expensive way to get between cities. There are a variety of tour options that cover one-way transportation from Lisbon to Porto, with stops in cities like Obidos and Fatima.
Alternatively, you can hire a private shuttle to get you between cities within 3 hours.
My Experience Taking The CP Train To Porto
I rode an Intercidades train in 2nd class seats from Lisbon to Porto, which cost €44/round trip (~$50 USD). It was a comfortable ride in a clean train with free Wifi, and it took around 3.5 hours.
The train had restrooms in every carriage, and crew members on board that will check your ticket.
I made the mistake of sitting in a random seat, and didn’t realize until a crew member pointed out that there were assigned seats. Make sure to check your ticket for your seat number to avoid this same mistake!
Once I arrived in Porto Campanha, I walked to the closest metro station, and took it to get to my hotel. I took the same train to get back to Lisbon a few days later, and it was an easy and great experience.
Lisbon to Porto Train Stations Map
Lisbon to Porto FAQs
How far is Lisbon from Porto?
Lisbon is 195 miles (314 km) from Porto, and a 3 hour drive, or 3-4 hour train/bus ride.
What’s the cheapest way to get between cities?
Buses are the cheapest way to get from Lisbon to Porto, and they range from €5-20 for a one-way ride. Just keep in mind that they’re not as comfortable as riding the train, and there’s no direct bus to Porto’s Sao Bento Station.
What’s the difference between Alfa Pendular and IC trains?
Alfa Pendular are the more expensive, high-speed trains, whereas Intercidades are the cheaper, standard trains. Both trains are operated by Comboios de Portugal, and the train tickets are bookable through cp.pt.
Where do you buy your train tickets?
You can buy your train tickets online at cp.pt up to 60 days in advance, or at the train stations ticketing offices when you arrive. It’s best to buy your tickets online in advance for the most flexibility, and to receive potential discounts.
Should you rent a car in Portugal?
If you plan on exploring Lisbon and Porto primarily, I don’t recommend renting a car. Not only is renting a car the most expensive option, but it can be difficult to drive, and find parking in the cities.
I relied on the trains and public transportation to get everywhere, and it was extremely easy to navigate.
Is it better to fly into Lisbon or Porto?
With the cities being connected by train, the airport you fly into won’t make or break your trip. I flew into Lisbon, and took the train to and from Porto, and flew out of Lisbon. This was the cheapest way to see both cities, and both train rides took less than 3.5 hours.
Is Porto worth visiting?
Yes, Porto was the highlight of my Portugal trip. It has a slightly more relaxed atmosphere than Lisbon, unique historic architecture, and beautiful river scenery that looks straight out of a postcard. For more details on what it has to offer, check out our 2 day Porto itinerary.
Related articles you may be interested in: