The distance from Lisbon to Porto is 313 km. The Alfa Pendular train from Lisbon Santa Apolónia to Porto Campanhã is the best option. It takes under 3 hours, runs multiple times daily, and costs €20–€30 when booked on the CP (Comboios de Portugal) website. For a slightly cheaper but slower option, the Intercidades train takes about 3.5 hours. The bus is only marginally cheaper and takes longer.
| Mode | Duration | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🚆 Train | 2h 45m–3h 15m | €20–€45 | Most travelers — the standard and best way to make the trip |
| 🚌 Bus | 3h 30m–4h | €12–€22 | Budget travelers who don't mind the extra time |
| 🚗 Drive | 3h–3h 30m | €35–€50 (fuel + tolls) | Those planning to explore Portugal's coast and inland towns |
The best option depends on your priorities — read the detailed breakdown below.
Duration: 2h 45m–3h 15m | Cost: €20–€45
Duration: 3h 30m–4h | Cost: €12–€22
Duration: 3h–3h 30m | Cost: €35–€50 (fuel + tolls)
The Alfa Pendular train from Lisbon Santa Apolónia to Porto Campanhã is the best option. It takes under 3 hours, runs multiple times daily, and costs €20–€30 when booked on the CP (Comboios de Portugal) website. For a slightly cheaper but slower option, the Intercidades train takes about 3.5 hours. The bus is only marginally cheaper and takes longer.
Portugal's two great cities are separated by just 313 km of Atlantic coastline, rolling vineyards, and university towns. The journey from Lisbon to Porto is one of the most popular in Iberia, and Portugal's rail service handles it well with its flagship Alfa Pendular tilting trains.
The train route hugs the coast for portions of the journey, offering glimpses of the Atlantic before heading inland through the Ribatejo and Beira Litoral regions. If you have time, breaking the journey at Coimbra — home to one of Europe's oldest universities and a stunning hilltop old town — is highly recommended. The stop adds only a few hours to your trip.
If driving, be aware of Portugal's electronic toll system. Many motorways use 'Via Verde' electronic tolling with no physical toll booths. Rental cars often come with a Via Verde device, but confirm with your rental company. Without one, you'll need to register your license plate online or face fines.
Alfa Pendular is faster (2h 45m vs 3h 30m) and more expensive. Intercidades is cheaper and makes more stops. Both are comfortable. Alfa Pendular has first and second class; Intercidades has second class and 'comfort' class.
Most trains depart from Lisboa Santa Apolónia or Lisboa Oriente. Oriente is connected to the metro; Santa Apolónia is in Alfama. Check your ticket for the exact station.
Many Portuguese motorways have no toll booths — they use cameras to read license plates or Via Verde transponders. If renting a car, ask for a Via Verde device or register your plate at portotolls.com within 48 hours of first use.
Absolutely. Coimbra has a UNESCO World Heritage university, beautiful old town, and is the birthplace of Fado de Coimbra (a different style from Lisbon Fado). Even 3–4 hours is enough to see the highlights.
Country-by-country driving requirements, packing list, and emergency contacts — all in one PDF.
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