How to Travel from Lisbon to Porto

By Train:

Alfa Pendular: This is the fastest and most expensive train option. Prices range from around €30 to €50 for a one-way ticket, depending on the class and time of travel. Discounts may be available for advance bookings or through special promotions.
Intercidades: This option is slightly slower but more affordable than the Alfa Pendular. Prices typically range from €20 to €30 for a one-way ticket. Discounts may be available for youth, seniors, or advance bookings.
Regional Trains: These are the slowest but cheapest trains. Prices are generally around €15 to €20 for a one-way ticket. Discounts may be available for certain age groups or with the purchase of a round-trip ticket.

The train is a popular and comfortable mode of transportation between Lisbon and Porto. The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the type of train. The main train operator is Comboios de Portugal (CP). They offer different types of trains, including Alfa Pendular (the fastest and most expensive), Intercidades (slightly slower but more affordable), and Regional trains (the slowest but the cheapest option). Trains depart regularly from Lisbon’s main train station, Santa Apolonia or Lisbon Oriente, and arrive at Porto’s main train station, São Bento or Campanhã.

By Bus:

Rede Expressos: Bus fares range from approximately €15 to €25 for a one-way ticket, depending on the departure time and type of bus. Discounts may be available for advance bookings, students, seniors, or through special promotions.
FlixBus: Prices for FlixBus vary depending on the date and time of travel. They generally range from around €10 to €25 for a one-way ticket. Discounts may be available for advance bookings or through promotional offers.

By Plane:

Flight prices between Lisbon and Porto can vary greatly depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and travel dates. As a rough estimate, prices for one-way flights can range from approximately €30 to €100 or more. Discounts and promotions may be available for specific travel periods, early bookings, or through airline loyalty programs.

If you prefer a quicker option, you can fly from Lisbon to Porto. Several airlines, including TAP Air Portugal and Ryanair, operate regular flights between the two cities. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour. Flights depart from Lisbon Portela Airport and arrive at Porto Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport. It’s important to note that the total travel time may be longer when factoring in airport procedures and transportation to and from the airports.

By Car:

Renting a car for the journey offers flexibility but also includes additional costs such as fuel and tolls. Rental prices vary depending on the car type, rental duration, and the rental company. It’s advisable to compare prices from different rental providers and consider any discounts or promotional offers available at the time of booking.
To get the best prices and potential discounts, it’s recommended to book tickets or rental cars in advance. Check the websites of train operators, bus companies, airlines, and car rental agencies for any ongoing promotions or special fares. Additionally, consider signing up for their newsletters or following their social media accounts to stay updated on any exclusive deals or discounts they may offer.

The train provides a convenient and comfortable journey, with faster options like Alfa Pendular and more affordable choices like Intercidades and regional trains. Buses, such as Rede Expressos and FlixBus, offer an economical alternative with flexible schedules. Flying is the quickest option, although prices can vary significantly depending on various factors. Renting a car provides flexibility and allows for scenic stops along the way, but it entails additional costs such as fuel and tolls.

To ensure the best prices and potential discounts, it’s advisable to book tickets or rental cars in advance. Keep an eye out for promotions, special fares, and discounts offered by train operators, bus companies, airlines, and car rental agencies. Comparing prices and checking for exclusive deals through their websites, newsletters, or social media platforms can help secure the most cost-effective options.