Planning a holiday in Portugal and wondering how to get from one place to another efficiently? Whether you’re a lover of picturesque beaches, historic cities or charming villages, it’s important to know how to get around this beautiful country. In this article, we bring you a complete guide to help you plan your trip and make sure you get the most out of Portugal. Read our tips and advice on getting around Portugal and enjoy a stress-free holiday.

1. Travelling around Portugal by train

Portugal’s rail network is very well developed, making train travel one of the most convenient ways to get around the country. Train services between major cities such as Lisbon, Oporto and Faro are fast and reliable. If you are planning to visit different parts of Portugal, the train is the ideal way to get from one city to another quickly.

Train routes and prices

The main train lines in Portugal are the Alfa Pendular and the Intercidades. The Alfa Pendular is a high speed train that connects Lisbon with Porto and Faro and takes a minimum amount of time. Prices can vary depending on how far in advance you buy your tickets and what class you want to travel in. Intercidades is a slightly slower but still very convenient way to get to the more remote parts of the country.

Booking tickets

Booking train tickets is easy and can be done online through the Portuguese Railways website or directly at the station. We recommend booking your tickets well in advance, especially during the high season, to make sure you get on your train.

 

2. Travelling by bus: a cheap and scenic alternative

Buses are widely used in Portugal and are a great option if you’re on a budget or want to see more of the Portuguese countryside. Buses can also take you to smaller towns and villages that aren’t served by train.

The main bus companies

The main bus companies in Portugal are Rede Expressos and FlixBus. Rede Expressos offers a wide network of routes throughout the country and is known for its reliability and comfort. FlixBus offers a cheaper alternative with wide coverage and modern buses.

Pros and cons of travelling by bus

Travelling by bus is usually cheaper than by train, but it can also be slower, especially if you’re travelling to more remote areas. On the other hand, you can see more of the Portuguese countryside and visit lesser-known places.

 

3. Car rental: flexibility at your fingertips

If you’re looking for maximum flexibility and want to explore Portugal at your own pace, hiring a car may be the best option. Car hire companies are available in all major cities and airports, making it easy to rent a car on arrival.

What you should know before hiring a car

Before renting a car, make sure you have a valid driving licence and that you meet the requirements of the rental company. Most car hire companies require you to be at least 21 years old and have a valid driving licence for at least one year. It is also advisable to check if your insurance covers car hire abroad or to arrange insurance directly with the rental company.

Pros and cons of renting a car

Hiring a car gives you unlimited freedom of movement and allows you to visit places you can’t get to by public transport. On the other hand, you have to take into account the cost of fuel, tolls and parking, which can add up quickly.

4. Other forms of transport: ferries and planes

If you are planning to visit Portuguese islands such as Madeira or the Azores, you will need to take a ferry or a plane.

Ferries

Ferries are a great way to get to smaller islands or for short trips between the mainland and nearby islands. Ferry services are convenient and affordable, but we recommend buying tickets in advance, especially during the summer months.

By Plane

For longer distances, such as between Lisbon and Madeira, flying is the quickest option. TAP Portugal offers regular flights between the mainland and the islands, as well as international flights.

Final summary

Portugal offers visitors a wide range of options for getting around the country. Whether you choose to travel by train, bus, car or ferry, each mode of transport has its advantages and disadvantages. The key to a successful trip is careful planning and consideration of your needs and budget. However you choose to travel, Portugal will provide you with unforgettable experiences that will stay with you long after you return home.