Traveling by bus, train or plane in Portugal: everything in a row
If you go to Portugal, you want to see and experience as much of this beautiful country as possible. But what is the best way to explore Portugal? There are different options, such as bus, train and plane, but which one suits your needs, budget and time best? In this article we will help you make the best decision. We list the advantages and disadvantages of each mode of transport, so that you can travel optimally in Portugal.
Traveling by bus Portugal
The bus is a common way to travel around Portugal. It is usually the best option and has connections between many cities and towns in the country. The buses are comfortable, clean and reliable. They often have air conditioning, WiFi and sockets to charge your devices. The best part is that you can enjoy the view during the bus ride or just take a nap.
You can easily buy bus tickets online via Busbud. Enter your start and final destination and you will get a nice overview of the available routes and bus companies. Choose the ride that best suits your schedule, buy and save the ticket on your phone and go to the boarding point as indicated. The prices of a ride depend on the distance, bus company and time of departure. Another option is of course to buy your ticket on site at the bus station or from the driver.
Bus travel in Portugal also has some disadvantages. This makes you dependent on the timetable, which can sometimes be irregular or limited. This can be especially be the case in the low season or if you want to go less known destinations. The bus can also be very busy during rush hour or on public holidays. Additionally, a bus ride can take longer to travel from one place to another than a car ride or train ride.
Traveling by train in Portugal
Another pleasant way to travel around Portugal is by train. This way of traveling is usually faster and more comfortable than the bus. What both travel methods have in common is that you are presented with beautiful views of the landscape during the journey. The trains themselves are modern and the timetable is very punctual. The wagons often have air conditioning, WiFi and sometimes have catering on board. What is also very nice about traveling by train is that you can easily take your luggage or a bicycle with you.
Traveling by train in Portugal is easy. You can buy your tickets online via the official website of Comboios de Portugal (CP) or at the train station from the ticket machine. You can choose from different types of trains, such as Alfa Pendular, Intercidades, Regional or Urbanos. Prices for the train also vary depending on the distance, type of train and time of departure.
Traveling by train in Portugal also has some disadvantages. For example, the train is usually more expensive than the bus, especially if you book at the last minute or take a fast train. The train network is also not as extensive as the bus network and some destinations are difficult or impossible to reach by train. It can be very busy during peak hours or on public holidays.
Traveling by plane in Portugal
Another option to travel around Portugal is by plane. By air is often the fastest way to cover long distances, especially if you want to travel to the islands of Madeira or the Azores. But it can also be a convenient choice between the cities of Lisbon, Porto or Faro if you want to combine different regions in one trip in a short time. Traveling by plane in Portugal is also easy. We recommend buying your tickets online via a comparison website such as WayAway so that you immediately get an overview of the available flights and the best price. Prices vary depending on the destination, the company, the time of day and especially the day chosen.
Traveling by plane in Portugal also has some disadvantages. For example, you have to take into account the additional expenses such as baggage fees and airport taxes. Traveling by plane also has a higher environmental impact than other means of transport. Plus, you’ll miss out on the views of Portugal’s beautiful landscape that are better experienced if you travel by bus, train or car.
Tip: Do you choose to fly and would you like to limit the environmental impact? Select the option to compensate your CO2 emissions when booking your flight.
Traveling by taxi in Portugal
Traveling by taxi in Portugal is an easy way to get around, especially in the big cities. Taxis are relatively cheap compared to other European countries and still have a meter in the car. A ride in the city center of Lisbon or Porto costs between 10 and 13 euros. However, there are often extra costs for taking luggage with you, traveling on weekends or at night between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM. Taxis are available everywhere in Portuguese cities, you can stop one on the street, find them at a taxi stand or order them via an app such as MyTaxi, Bolt or Free Now. You can also use Uber, which is often cheaper and more convenient than regular taxis.
Tip: If you plan to take a taxi to a location outside the city, agree on a price first. Otherwise it is possible that the taxi driver simply makes you pay double the rate.
As you can see, there are many well-organized transport options in Portugal, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The best choice depends on your personal preference, budget, travel duration and destination. Whatever you choose, you are sure to enjoy your trip in this beautiful country. Be sure to check out this 21-day itinerary through Portugal.
Would you like to travel through Portugal by car? We have listed all the tips for renting a car for you.
