Catch the Eurail express to adventureland: Portugal edition!
From Lisbon’s lively lanes to Porto’s cozy corners, and Algarve’s stunning beaches, get ready to dive deep into Portugal’s best bits, all by train. It’s scenic, it’s chill, and it’s packed with stories and flavors you won’t find anywhere else.
So, what are we waiting for? Let’s hit the tracks and see what Portugal’s got to show you!
Image Credit: Getty Images, © Marco Bottigelli. Image Location: Sintra, Portugal
What’s a Eurail Pass and why should I get one?
Picture a magic key that unlocks all of Portugal, from the vibrant streets of Lisbon to the golden beaches of the Algarve. That’s the Eurail Pass for you—a single ticket that lets you jump on and off Portugal’s trains as you please.
Craft your own adventure: zip through the country from one amazing spot to the next or take your sweet time soaking up the vibes of each city or village. Just remember to book your seat on those popular routes and overnight trains. Also, keep track of your travels with Eurail’s Travel Diary to make ticket inspections a breeze.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Alexander Spatari. Image Location: Lisbon, Portugal
Portugal by train: your Eurail itinerary
Lisbon: the vibrant start
Lisbon’s a real treat, mixing stunning architecture, trendy vibes, and killer views. Hop on the famous tram 28, a time machine on rails, taking you through decades of history in one go, and treat yourself to those legendary custard tarts, pasteis de nata. While you’re wandering through Alfama’s narrow lanes, drop into a tavern to get hit right in the feels with some fado music. It’s like the city’s singing directly to you.
Travel tip: Lisbon’s Santa Apolónia and Oriente train stations connect you to the rest of the country with ease.
Sintra: a fairytale detour
A short hop from Lisbon, Sintra offers a mystical escape with its lush forests, rippling mountains, and dreamy palaces. Pena Palace is the crown jewel—all bright colors and views that’ll make your jaw drop. You can’t miss it!
Travel tip: Sintra is perfect for a day trip, with trains leaving regularly from Rossio station in Lisbon.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Antonio Duarte. Image Location: Coimbra, Portugal
Coimbra: the historic heart
Travel north to Coimbra, home to one of the world’s oldest universities. Its rich academic heritage is palpable in the grand library and through the city’s youthful vibe. Stroll along the Mondego River and dive into the history that shapes this charismatic city.
Travel tip: Coimbra’s train station is your gateway to exploring this ancient academic haven. It’s well-connected, making it easy to include Coimbra in your Portuguese adventure.
Porto: Northern charm
Porto’s the spot if you’re into sweet port wine and epic river views. Dive into the Ribeira district’s lively streets, sneak a peek inside the magical Livraria Lello bookstore (seriously, it’s like stepping into a fantasy novel), and hop on a boat to cruise the Douro River. Oh, and don’t just breeze through São Bento train station—this place is a masterpiece, decked out in those eye-popping azulejos tiles.
Travel tip: Getting to Porto from Coimbra or Lisbon is a breeze with trains rolling through regularly. Plus, you get to eyeball some pretty sweet countryside and Douro Valley scenes on the way. It’s like a scenic appetizer before you hit Porto’s main dish.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Jarana Creatives. Image Location: Aveiro, Portugal
Aveiro: the Portuguese Venice
Hop over to Aveiro and get ready for canals galore, boats that’ll remind you of gondolas (minus the Italian serenade), and buildings that look like they’re straight out of a fancy cake shop. This place is all about charm by the bucketload, not to mention it’s the birthplace of ovos moles, a sweet so good it’ll make you rethink your diet.
Travel tip: Zipping from Porto to Aveiro is super easy and takes just over a half-hour by train. Perfect for adding another layer of awesome to your Portuguese adventure without eating up too much time.
Faro: a gateway to the Algarve
Wrap up your train trek in Faro, the laid-back capital of the Algarve. Dive into its enchanting Old Town, check out the kinda-creepy-but-cool Chapel of Bones of Faro, and don’t miss the chance to hit up some of Portugal’s top-notch beaches nearby. Faro is the chill-out zone you didn’t know you needed.
Travel tip: Faro’s got your back with solid train connections, whether you’re heading back to Lisbon or venturing further into the Algarve’s sunny vibes.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Matteo Colombo. Image Location: Faro, Portugal
FAQs: Navigating Portugal’s cities by train
How do I start my train journey in Portugal?
Begin in Lisbon, where international flights are frequent, and the city’s train stations offer connections across the country.
Is there a Eurail Pass option for just Portugal?
Yes, the Eurail Portugal Pass is perfect for extensive train travel within Portugal, offering flexible travel days and a range of benefits.
Can I explore Portugal by train in 10 days?
Absolutely! In just 10 days, you can dive deep into Portugal’s heart by train, covering major cities and stumbling upon hidden treasures along the way. Start in Lisbon, soaking up its vibrant life before heading to Porto for some of the world’s best wine. Next, swing by Coimbra to wander through one of the oldest universities, then catch the coastal vibes in Aveiro. And don’t miss out on exploring the historic charm of Faro in the Algarve. This 10-day Portugal itinerary by train blends iconic sights with off-the-beaten-path wonders, all while enjoying the scenic transitions from cityscapes to breathtaking landscapes.
Image Credit: Getty Images, AnaMOMarques. Image Location: Porto, Portugal
What’s the best way to travel from Lisbon to Porto by train?
Opt for the Alfa Pendular, Portugal’s fastest train, connecting Lisbon to Porto by train in 3h 15m with comfort and scenic views.
Is it easy to travel by train in Portugal? Are Portuguese trains comfortable for long journeys?
Totally! Trains like the Alfa Pendular and Intercidades are made for kicking back and enjoying the ride. They’re comfy, they’ve got all the essentials, and they offer front-row seats to some gorgeous scenery.
Hopping on a train to explore Portugal’s cities is the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and jaw-dropping sights. With a Eurail One Country Pass for Portugal in hand, you’re all set for a memorable trek through this stunning corner of the world. So, download the Trainline app for train schedules and live updates and hit the rails!
Need more Eurail info? Check out our comprehensive guide to all things Eurail.
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, Alberto Manuel Urosa Toledano. Image Location: Porto, Portugal