Navigating Portugal (without appearing like a lost tourist)

Situated in the southwest corner of Europe, Portugal is a fairly straightforward country to explore. You’ll find a reliable train system and buses that can take you to areas beyond the rail network. Fast toll roads allow for quick travel between major cities, but you can also opt for the slower, picturesque (and free) back roads for a more scenic journey from point A to point B.

What’s the optimal way to explore Portugal? It largely depends on your travel itinerary. Staying within the main cities? The train is your best bet. Heading to the beach? The Vamus Algarve bus network has you covered. Venturing into remote parks and nature reserves? A car will be necessary. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive overview of the best transport options in Portugal, along with some (albeit subjective) recommendations for transport experiences not to be missed.

Savor the picturesque ride on the train

Portugal boasts a solid railway network linking major cities and towns throughout the country. While trains don't reach every destination, traveling by train is often affordable, comfortable, convenient, and provides some of the most beautiful views. Key tourist destinations connected by train include Lisbon, Faro, Lagos, Porto, and Coimbra.

The country's rail system is managed by CP (Comboios de Portugal), which offers useful rail network maps online. They operate four primary types of long-distance services:

• Regional (R): slower trains that stop at nearly every station;

• Interregional (IR): quicker services that bypass the smallest stops;

• Intercidade (IC): express trains that primarily stop in larger cities;

• Alfa Pendular Deluxe: slightly faster than express trains but significantly more expensive.

Only two lines operate to Spain: the Celta, which runs daily between Porto and Vigo, and a route from Lisbon to Badajoz, where you can transfer to services heading to Madrid. There are no international trains in the southern region.

Lisbon and Porto each feature their own urbano (suburban) train systems. Lisbon’s network reaches Sintra, Cascais, Setúbal, and travels up the lower Tejo valley.

Porto’s suburban network stretches the definition of 'suburban' even further, extending to Braga, Guimarães, and Aveiro. Urbano services also connect Coimbra with Figueira da Foz.

You can book trains online through the official CP website, the CP Portugal app, or at various stations across the country. Reservations for Intercidade and Alfa Pendular tickets can be made up to 30 days in advance, though you typically won’t face issues securing a seat for the next day or even the same day. Other services allow bookings only 24 hours ahead.

Note that children under four can travel for free, while those aged four to twelve receive a 50% discount. Additionally, travelers aged 65 and older can enjoy a 50% discount with valid ID, and those aged 25 and under are eligible for a 25% discount.

Use the bus to discover more towns and navigate the Algarve

Buses are typically slower and often more affordable than trains, making them ideal for visiting smaller towns and villages (especially those not located along the coast) that are not accessible by the rail network.

A variety of small private bus operators, most consolidated into regional companies, operate a comprehensive network of services throughout the country. Among the largest are Rede Expressos and Rodonorte. Southern Portugal features a new bus system called Vamus Algarve, which serves nearly every area of the Algarve.

Bus services are categorized into three main types:

• Carreiras: designated as “CR,” these are slower services that stop at every intersection.

• Expressos and Rápidas: These are comfortable, speedy buses. Expressos generally connect major cities, while Rápidas focus on specific regions. They are often favored by tourists.

• Alta Qualidade: A fast, premium category provided by certain companies.

Even during the summer, securing an expresso ticket for the next or same day is usually not an issue. However, local services can dwindle to almost nothing on weekends, particularly in the summer when schools are out. For precise schedule and fare details, visit the ticket counter at the bus station, typically found in larger towns.

Discover the hidden paths of Portugal by car or motorbike

Driving in Portugal gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, without relying on public transport schedules. The country’s network of estradas (highways) is constantly being improved, with well-paved main roads in good condition. However, navigating Portugal’s small, historic towns can be challenging, as roads may narrow unexpectedly and tricky one-way systems can lead you off course.

Renting a car in Portugal is quite easy, with rental agencies available in major towns, cities, and larger airports like Lisbon, Porto, and Faro.

Scooters are available for rent in larger cities and throughout the coastal Algarve, with prices around €40 per day. Discounts are often available for multi-day rentals. There are also a few motorcycle rental companies, with prices starting at €70 per day.

Skip the flights

Air travel within mainland Portugal tends to be costly and isn’t worth it for short distances. Nonetheless, TAP offers multiple daily flights from Lisbon to Porto and Lisbon to Faro year-round, all under an hour. For a trip from Porto to Faro, you’ll need to change in Lisbon.

Experience the breathtaking Portuguese landscapes on two wheels

While dedicated cycling paths are limited, biking is quite popular in Portugal. Numerous routes are available in the northern mountainous national and natural parks (notably Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês), along the coastline, or through the expansive Alentejo plains. Coastal routes are easiest when starting in the north and heading south, taking advantage of the prevailing winds. For a greater challenge, consider the Serra da Estrela, which hosts the mountain stages of the Volta a Portugal road race, or the Serra do Marão between Amarante and Vila Real.

Keep in mind that cycling conditions can vary, as cobbled streets in some historic centers can be jarring; city cyclists should opt for tires that are at least 38mm in diameter to ensure a smoother ride.

Ride the trams of Lisbon and Porto

Taking a trip on one of Portugal’s historic trams is an essential experience. These classic vehicles clatter through the narrow streets of Lisbon and Porto, providing a delightful and affordable sightseeing adventure. Trams can become crowded by midday, so it's best to ride in the early morning to ensure a seat.

Transportation options for accessibility in Portugal

Regrettably, Portugal is not the most accommodating country for travelers with disabilities. Some train stations are equipped with ramps, while others lack them. Additionally, some trains feature interior steps that can complicate access. Generally, Porto offers the best mobility options for wheelchair users, with nearly all metro stations providing ramps, elevators, and designated spaces on board. In contrast, Lisbon has fewer elevators, and many are frequently out of service.

Remember to request the MyWay service through your airline at least 48 hours before your flight to Portugal. MyWay offers assistance navigating the airport and sometimes helps with disembarking, as not all planes in Portugal are connected to the jetway, requiring access via stairs.

For additional details, grab Dinogo Planet’s complimentary Accessible Travel guide.