Travelling from Lisbon to Porto is easy, with multiple transport options to suit different budgets and schedules.
Whether you prefer a scenic train journey, a quick flight, a budget-friendly bus, or the flexibility of a car, there are plenty of ways to reach Portugal’s second city. Here’s a guide to the best ways to travel between Lisbon and Porto.
Table of Contents
1. By Train – Comfortable and Scenic
Taking the train is one of the most popular and stress-free ways to travel from Lisbon to Porto. The Portuguese rail system (CP – Comboios de Portugal) operates frequent services between the two cities.
Fastest option: The Alfa Pendular (AP) high-speed train takes just 2 hours 50 minutes, offering a smooth and comfortable ride. These trains come with free WiFi, air conditioning, and reclining seats.
Cheaper option: The Intercidades (IC) trains take around 3 hours 20 minutes and are slightly cheaper, though still comfortable.
Departure and arrival stations: Trains leave from Lisbon’s Santa Apolónia or Oriente stations and arrive at Porto’s Campanhã station, from where you can hop on a local train to São Bento station in the city centre.
Cost: Prices start from €25 for a one-way ticket if booked in advance. Discounts are available for seniors, youth travellers, and advance bookings.
Best for: Comfort, speed, and a hassle-free journey.
2. By Bus – The Budget-Friendly Choice
For those looking for a cheaper alternative, buses are a great option. Several companies operate routes between Lisbon and Porto, including FlixBus, Rede Expressos, and ALSA.
Travel time: Buses take between 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours, depending on the route and stops.
Departure and arrival points: Buses depart from Lisbon’s Sete Rios or Oriente bus stations and arrive at Porto’s Campo 24 de Agosto terminal, which is close to the city centre.
Cost: Tickets start from €5-€10 one way if booked in advance, making it the cheapest way to travel between the two cities.
Best for: Budget travellers who don’t mind a slightly longer journey.
3. By Plane – The Fastest Way (But Not Always the Most Convenient)
Flying from Lisbon to Porto might seem like the quickest option, but when you factor in airport transfers, security, and waiting times, it’s not always the fastest door-to-door.
Flight time: Only 1 hour, but you need to arrive at the airport at least an hour before departure.
Airlines: TAP Air Portugal and Ryanair offer multiple daily flights from Lisbon Airport (LIS) to Porto Airport (OPO).
Cost: Prices vary, but flights can be found for €30-€70 one way, especially if booked early.
Transfers: Porto Airport is 11 km from the city centre and is well connected by Metro Line E (Purple Line), buses, and taxis.
Best for: Travellers on a tight schedule who don’t mind airport procedures.
4. By Car – Flexible and Great for Exploring
Driving from Lisbon to Porto gives you the flexibility to stop along the way and explore some incredible sights, such as Óbidos, Coimbra, and Aveiro.
Distance: 313 km (195 miles) via the A1 motorway.
Travel time: Around 3 hours, depending on traffic.
Tolls: The A1 motorway is a toll road, and toll costs are around €22-€25 one way.
Car rental: Rentals are available from Lisbon Airport or city centres, with prices starting at €25-€40 per day, depending on the type of car and rental duration.
Best for: Travellers who want to explore Portugal beyond the cities.
Which Option Should You Choose?
- Best overall: Train – fast, comfortable, and stress-free.
- Best for budget travellers: Bus – the cheapest way to travel between Lisbon and Porto.
- Fastest option: Flying – but only worth it if you’re connecting from an international flight.
- Most flexible: Driving – great for stopping at historic towns along the way.
No matter which option you choose, Lisbon and Porto are well-connected, making it easy to experience both of Portugal’s most vibrant cities. Safe travels!
