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In a nutshell: The Alfa Pendular high-speed train runs directly from Lisbon to Porto in around 3 hours – no transfers, fares from approximately €15, and some of Portugal’s most beautiful scenery rolling past the window.
Travelling from Lisbon to Porto by train is one of the great Iberian rail journeys. Portugal’s two main cities are well connected by the Alfa Pendular, the flagship fast train of CP (Comboios de Portugal). The route threads through the Estremadura, past the university city of Coimbra, and approaches Porto through the Douro wine country. Scenic, affordable and stress-free.
Route Overview
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Route | Lisboa Oriente / Santa Apolónia → Porto Campanhã / São Bento |
| Distance | approx. 335 km |
| Journey time (Alfa Pendular) | approx. 2h 45min – 3h 15min |
| Train type | Alfa Pendular (AP) / Intercidades (IC) |
| Cheapest fare | from ~€15 (2nd class, early booking) |
| Direct connection | Yes – no transfer required |
| Booking | cp.pt (CP Portugal) |
How to Get from Lisbon to Porto by Train
The service is operated by CP Comboios de Portugal. Note: DB tickets and German rail cards do not apply – book directly at cp.pt, at station ticket machines, or through Trainline.
The Alfa Pendular (AP) is the fastest service – modern, air-conditioned trains with a snack bar, power sockets and reserved seating included. Trains depart from Lisboa Oriente (near the airport) and some also stop at Lisboa Santa Apolónia in the historic centre. In Porto, trains arrive at Porto Campanhã (main station with metro connections) or continue to the beautiful historic Porto São Bento station in the city centre, famous for its stunning azulejo tile murals.
Journey Times and Connections
The Alfa Pendular takes 2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours 15 minutes direct. Around 15–20 trains daily in each direction. Useful intermediate stop: Coimbra (~1h 30min from Lisbon) – Portugal’s famous university city with a stunning old town and its own Fado tradition.
Getting the Best Price
Alfa Pendular tickets start at approximately €15 for 2nd class with early booking. First class is around €25–35 with more space and a quieter carriage.
- Book online at cp.pt: Available in English, tickets sold up to 60 days in advance.
- Intercidades as alternative: Sometimes cheaper, slightly slower – good if budget is the priority.
- Avoid Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons: Busiest times; book early for these slots.
- Interrail: CP is an Interrail partner. A seat reservation (small fee) is recommended.
- No DB booking: The Lisbon–Porto route cannot be booked through Deutsche Bahn. Use cp.pt or Trainline.
Book tickets at: www.cp.pt (CP Portugal, available in English)
Highlights in Porto
Porto is one of Europe’s most beloved cities. The Ribeira waterfront district along the Douro is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The station São Bento is famous for its breathtaking azulejo tile panels depicting Portuguese history. Cross the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia – the port wine quarter where all the great lodges (Taylor’s, Graham’s, Sandeman) offer tastings and cellar tours. For food, try the Francesinha – Porto’s iconic meaty sandwich in a spiced beer sauce.
FAQ – Lisbon to Porto by Train
How long does the train from Lisbon to Porto take?
The Alfa Pendular takes approximately 2h 45min to 3h 15min. The Intercidades takes around 3h 15min–3h 45min.
How much does a Lisbon to Porto train ticket cost?
Alfa Pendular 2nd class fares start around €15 with early booking. First class is approximately €25–35.
Where do I buy tickets for the Lisbon to Porto train?
Book at cp.pt (available in English) or through Trainline. Deutsche Bahn tickets do not cover this route.
Which Lisbon station do trains depart from?
Most Alfa Pendular services depart from Lisboa Oriente (metro line Red/Blue). Some also stop at Lisboa Santa Apolónia.
Which Porto station does the train arrive at?
Most services arrive at Porto Campanhã (with metro connection). Some continue to Porto São Bento in the city centre.
Does Interrail work on the Alfa Pendular?
Yes – CP Portugal is an Interrail member railway. A seat reservation is recommended and can be booked on cp.pt for a small fee.
Conclusion
The train from Lisbon to Porto is one of the best value rail journeys in Southern Europe. Three hours, direct, beautiful scenery, from €15 – a perfect addition to any Portugal trip. Book early on cp.pt and enjoy the ride through some of the peninsula’s most charming countryside.
Book at: www.cp.pt