Routes and stations
The main line runs along the coast from Braga and Porto to Coimbra and Lisbon. Alfa Pendular trains also continue south to Faro in the Algarve. Intercidades trains run the same corridor with more stops.
In Lisbon, use Santa Apolónia near the old town or Oriente, which is closer to the airport. In Porto, long-distance trains stop at Campanhã. A suburban train takes you to São Bento in the centre in about 4 to 5 minutes, free with your long-distance ticket.
Lisbon to Porto takes about 2 hours 40 minutes to 3 hours 15 minutes, depending on train and station.
Tickets and fares
Alfa Pendular has two classes: Conforto (comfort, 1st) and Turística (tourist, 2nd). Intercidades is usually cheaper and a little slower.
In a June 2026 check, a standard 2nd-class Lisbon–Porto fare was €35.70 on Alfa Pendular and €28.05 on Intercidades. Promo fares started from about €21.50 and €17.00, but are limited and less flexible.
CP often runs Promo discounts, from up to 25% to bigger seasonal offers on Alfa Pendular. Prices change, so check cp.pt.
How to book
Book on cp.pt in English or in the CP app. Seats are reserved on Alfa Pendular and Intercidades, so you get a seat number.
You can also buy at station ticket offices and machines. Book early for weekends and holidays, when trains fill up.
Interrail and Eurail passes are valid, but you need a separate seat reservation on Alfa Pendular and Intercidades.
Tips for travellers
Alfa Pendular has free Wi-Fi, a power socket at every seat and a bar car (carriage 3). Luggage goes on overhead racks.
Each carriage has a toilet, and wheelchair spaces and lifts are available. Bicycles are only allowed if packed as luggage.
Coimbra is a good stop on the way between Lisbon and Porto. From the airport side of Lisbon, Oriente is usually easier.
Last checked: October 2026. Fares and timetables change, so confirm on the official website before you travel.
