Updated: January 22, 2025
Portugal is quite a small country – around five times smaller than Spain – which makes it pretty easy to explore the entire country from top to bottom.
You’ll be able to get from Sagres in the southwestern Algarve to Bragança in the north in just over seven hours.
And, along the way, you’ll be swept away by the stunning landscapes you’ll come across, peppered with quaint villages, green rolling hills, olive groves galore, and bustling cities.
In this article, we’ll arm you with everything you’ll need to know about transportation in Portugal, from getting around by train to taking road trips in the country. We have you covered.
Travel Ideas for Portugal
If you’re planning on visiting Portugal, or are looking to relocate permanently, you’ll want to have some fun trips up your sleeve. The first thing you’ll want to do is pinpoint which part of the country you want to visit.
From north to south, you’ll find sensational landscapes entwined with local towns that each have their own authentic cultures and traditions. Whether you’re looking for a city break in Lisbon or Porto, interested in a once-in-a-lifetime road trip across the north of Portugal, or are looking to explore the Algarve one beach at a time, you’re in for a treat.
By Train
Getting around Portugal is quite straightforward by train. Portugal’s train network is very reliable and affordable, with it possible to get around the country easily. Whether you are planning a day trip from Lisbon to Sintra or a longer journey, the train is arguably the best way to get from A to B.
A trip from Lisbon to Porto takes around 3 hours and 45 minutes while getting to Faro, the capital of the Algarve region, from Lisbon, will take you as little as 3 hours. It’s worth bearing in mind that the train network does not cover the entire country, but major cities are covered. You will also find international trains running from major railway stations, with many taking you to major cities in Spain.
Prices are reasonable to begin with, but there are also discounts for booking in advance and discounts for families and older people. You can find out more on the official website for CP – Comboios de Portugal (the website is also in English).
A ticket for Lisbon to Porto bought on the same day will cost you around €30 but, as we mentioned, will be much cheaper if you purchase in advance. If you are traveling around Portugal by train with family or as a group, you’ll be able to tap into great discounts, with it is possible to travel at half price in some situations. You can find out more here. If you’re asking yourself “how to get around Portugal” trains are your best bet – and trains are generally much more affordable than in other Western European countries.
Tips for taking the train
- Always make sure you identify where the train station is in relation to the town to avoid last-minute rushing, as some stations can lie outside the town itself.
- Compare both trains and buses (including FlixBus, which has extensive coverage across the country and is sometimes incredibly cheap) to find the best deals or for a shorter journey.
- The best way to travel in Portugal is to be prepared. Arrive early to make sure that you have time to buy a ticket and find the right platform. To save money, you can also easily buy a ticket online.
By Bus
Portugal transportation is well serviced by its massive bus arsenal. You can get almost anywhere in Portugal by bus or by coach, with long-distance buses also being comfortable and modern and many having air-conditioning and Wi-Fi. Bus services tend to be more extensive than trains.
When it comes to local buses, they tend to be older, and each region of the country will have its very own bus network. While some have websites, others don’t, and you probably will only be able to buy your ticket in person from the driver.
Metro Network and Taking the Tram
Lisbon and Porto have excellent metro systems in place and are the quickest way to get around Portugal’s two largest cities. Almost all of the key neighborhoods have good connections to metro stations, and if not, there is usually a tram that will make up the rest of the journey.
Not only are trams beautiful and paint a glorious picture of the past, but they remain one of the most popular ways to get around the city. Lisbon during rush hour by car is not for the faint-hearted so taking the metro or tram makes things much easier. You will also find trams in many other major cities in Portugal, and they are a solid option to get around easily.
If you are based in a major city, such as Lisbon or Porto, you can get a monthly card that lets you get around the city for around €40 per month, while a one-trip pass will cost you €1.95. You also have the option of “zapping” whereby you have your own travel card and can top it up regularly at any of the ticket machines in the metro station.
By Car
Driving in Portugal is largely pretty straightforward, and should you choose to rent a car, you’ll find it to be pretty affordable, particularly if you rent one outside the peak Portugal tourism season. A major EU-funded construction program improved roads across Portugal, particularly in previously remote areas such as Central Portugal. As such, looking at a map, a minor route can turn out to be an easy-to-drive highway.
However, you’ll still find plenty of winding roads in the lesser known areas. On the autonomous islands of the Azores, don’t be surprised to find cattle blocking the roads or locals laden with produce in the more rural parts of mainland Portugal.
In the major cities during rush hour, traffic can be a nightmare but, in general, traffic is generally light. Car ownership has been increasing in recent years, and you can expect it to get busy –at certain times for example, heading back to Lisbon on a Sunday evening.
Motorways and tolls
The motorway in Portugal comprises four or six-lane toll roads that link the Algarve, Lisbon, and Porto, alongside other major cities, inland towns, and the north. Most have toll gates, so you’ll need to take a ticket when you join the motorway and then hand it in at the next toll gate, where you will be asked to pay a small fee. When approaching the toll gates, don’t go down the “Via Verde” route, unless you subscribe to this, as it is an automatic debit payment lane. You can use any of the other lanes that have a green light above them, and you’ll be able to make the payment with cash or card.
Rules of the road
The rules of the road are largely the same as other EU countries, such as:
- Traffic drives on the right
- Speed limits are 50kph in towns and villages, 90kph on normal roads, and 120kph on motorways and interregional highways
- Vehicles coming from the right have right of way (unless there is signage to the contrary)
- You must give way to traffic already on a roundabout
- Ensure you stop at stop signs
Parking
Many larger cities and major towns, plus the popular beach resorts in the summer months, can become flooded with traffic, and it can be tricky to park. Garage parking is available and is the most secure option to park, but it is more expensive than parking on the street and can set you back around €10 a day. On the street, parking is usually metered during the day at around €0.80, depending on the town, but is generally free from 8 pm until 8 am the next morning on weekdays, on Saturday afternoons, and all-day Sunday.
Car rental
Car rentals are pretty affordable compared with other European countries, particularly if you book in advance and if you plan your trip for the off-season, where you may be surprised by the good deals on offer.
While the public transport system in Portugal is very good, getting to more out-the-way spots, hidden gems, and remote beaches, is much easier if you have a car.
Tips for renting a car
- You can rent a car for just a day or two, but if you rent for longer, you’ll find the price drops.
- Check out comparison sites such as rentalcars.com or skyscanner.net to unlock the best deals.
- Be wary of car rental deals that seem surprisingly cheap, as these companies often make up the difference by having pricey insurance.
Taxis, Uber and Bolt
Portugal taxis are pretty affordable compared with taxi fares in other Western European countries. You will find taxi ranks outside the airports, major train stations, and in designated taxi ranks which you’ll find in the city center of larger cities. Taxis in Portugal need to be registered.
For a cheaper option, Uber and Bolt are excellent and can be found in all the larger cities, with drivers often being a fountain of knowledge on top spots to visit, restaurants that you can’t miss, and other local insights.
By Bike
Cycling is becoming increasingly popular in Lisbon, both as a means to get around the city and as a sport. The only problem is that cities such as Lisbon and Porto are incredibly hilly, making it very tricky to get around if you need to navigate one of the many hills on your way to work.
With this said, municipalities are working on making cities and towns more bike-friendly, with new bicycle lanes cropping up in many places. The charming city of Guimarães in Northern Portugal, for example, has been busy creating a network of dedicated bicycle lanes to ease congestion and boost quality of life.
Bike rentals
In the major cities, you’ll find many bike rental shops, but it is also very popular to use Gira, a bike-sharing app that is incredibly popular in Lisbon and which now has a hoard of electric bikes that makes navigating the city – and the city’s hills – pretty easy. There are also many different electric scooters that you can use to get around easily, just be careful of the traffic.
Biking has also become a popular hobby, with many heading to the natural park of Monsanto, on the outskirts of Lisbon, to enjoy a weekend ride, or else cycling along the Portuguese Riveira where you’ll be able to enjoy splendid views of the Tagus River and the impressive Ponte 25 de Abril bridge.
Airports in Portugal
Mainland Portugal has three international airports:
- Lisbon Airport (Aeroporto Internacional de Lisboa Humberto Delgado)
- Porto Airport (Aeroporto Francisco Sá Carneiro)
- Faro Airport
Plus, you’ll find airports on the autonomous islands of Madeira and the Azores:
- Madeira Airport
- Ponta Delgada–João Paulo II Airport, São Miguel, Azores
- Santa Maria International Airport, Azores
- The Lajes air field, Terceira island, Azores
Tap Air Portugal is the major national airline of Portugal and is part of the Star Alliance, the first and largest air alliance in the world, formed in 2005.
How We Can Help
Goldcrest is the first property buyer’s agent in Portugal based in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. Should you be on the hunt for that dream property of yours or want to discuss which part of the country could be the right location for you, we’re here to help. Living in Portugal is a dream for many – with more expats heading to this Southern European jewel than ever before. We won’t rest until we have uncovered your ultimate property.
Frequently Asked Questions about Transportation in Portugal
What are the main modes of transportation in Portugal?
Portugal offers a variety of transportation options, including trains, buses, trams, and taxis. In urban areas, buses and trams are common, while trains and buses connect cities and regions. The Lisbon metro and the Porto metro are very efficient and the easiest way to get around in Portugal’s largest two cities. If you are looking to get around the country using only public transit, it is certainly possible.
However, for flexibility, car rentals are also a popular choice, and you’ll be able to get to hidden gems you wouldn’t be able to get to using regular public transport.
How reliable is public transportation in Portugal?
Public transit and transportation in Portugal are generally reliable, with frequent and punctual services, especially in cities like Lisbon and Porto. Rural areas may have fewer connections, but overall, the system is well-maintained and affordable for both residents and tourists. Rail infrastructure is generally very good and is one of the most popular ways for locals and tourists to get around the country.
Can I use trains to travel between cities in Portugal?
Yes, trains are an excellent way to travel between cities in Portugal. The national railway system, Comboios de Portugal (CP), connects all the major cities like Lisbon, Porto, Coimbra, and Faro with regular and comfortable services
How do I purchase train tickets in Portugal?
Train tickets in Portugal can be purchased online through the Comboios de Portugal website or app, at ticket counters in train stations, or through automated machines. Buying online often provides discounts for advance bookings on longer routes.
What are the main train companies in Portugal?
The primary train operator in Portugal is Comboios de Portugal (CP). They offer a range of services, from regional and intercity trains to high-speed Alfa Pendular services, ensuring comprehensive coverage across the country. Regional trains tend to be slower than the intercity trains.
Is there a high-speed train in Portugal?
Yes, Portugal has a high-speed train service called Alfa Pendular. These express trains connect major cities like Lisbon, Porto, and Faro, offering faster travel times, modern amenities, and a comfortable experience for long-distance journeys.
Are buses a good option for getting around Portugal?
Buses are a convenient and cost-effective option for traveling around Portugal, especially to regions not served by trains. They offer extensive coverage for both intercity and rural travel. For more remote areas and in small towns, bear in mind that buses may be less frequent.
How do I find and book bus tickets in Portugal?
Bus tickets in Portugal for longer trips can be booked online through company websites like Rede Expressos or at bus stations and terminals. For local buses, it is more common to buy your ticket from the driver.