PerkJolt
How do I get from Lisbon to Porto by train or bus?
Short answer: The train is the best default. CP's Alfa Pendular is the fastest option, and Intercidades trains are slower and usually cheaper. Buses from Rede Expressos and FlixBus take a bit longer, but they're often the lowest-priced choice and can leave from several Lisbon stops.
The details
1. Fast train: Alfa Pendular (AP). This is CP's flagship tilting train between Lisbon and Porto. One example is AP 123, which leaves Lisboa-Santa Apolónia at 9:00 a.m. and arrives at Porto-Campanhã at 11:48 a.m. (checked Oct 12, 2026). That works out to about 2 hours 48 minutes. CP added Saturday and public-holiday runs of that train from 5 July 2025 (checked Oct 12, 2026). Timetables are revised, so check cp.pt for your date.
2. Slower train: Intercidades (IC). IC trains run the same Santa Apolónia–Campanhã route and are typically a bit over three hours. They usually cost less than the Alfa Pendular. Some are direct and some need a change, so read the itinerary before you pay.
3. Bus: Rede Expressos and FlixBus. Both run Lisbon–Porto, and the trip typically takes roughly 3¼ to 3½ hours. Fares are usually lower than the train, and cheap advance fares exist. Some Rede Expressos services leave from Sete Rios and some from Oriente, and a few go to Porto airport. Check the departure stop on your ticket. Book at rede-expressos.pt or on FlixBus's official site.
4. Pick your Lisbon station. Santa Apolónia is the main terminus for the Porto trains. Many long-distance trains also stop at Oriente, which is handy if you're coming from the airport or the Parque das Nações area. Confirm which station your train uses when you book.
5. Arriving in Porto. Trains and most buses arrive at Campanhã, which is east of the historic center. Plan a short metro or local train hop into the center. Check the Porto metro and CP pages for the connection.
Tips
- Book Alfa Pendular seats early for Friday afternoons, Sundays and holidays. Those are the busiest times.
- Buy train tickets on cp.pt or the CP app rather than from a third party, so you see the real timetable.
- Compare the Intercidades with the Alfa Pendular. If the time gap is small, the cheaper ticket may win.
- For buses, check the pickup stop (Sete Rios, Oriente or airport) before you commit.
- Have a flexible plan if you're traveling in bad weather. Rail and road disruptions happen, so check CP and your bus company the day before.
FAQ
Is the train or the bus better from Lisbon to Porto?
For most travelers, the train. It's faster, central station to central station, and more comfortable for working or sightseeing. Choose the bus if you find a much lower fare or if the departure time suits you better. The price gap changes by date, so compare both on the day you travel.
How long does the Lisbon to Porto train take?
The Alfa Pendular example above takes 2 hours 48 minutes (9:00 to 11:48) (checked Oct 12, 2026). Intercidades trains typically take a bit over three hours. Check cp.pt for exact times on your date.
Which Lisbon station do I leave from?
Santa Apolónia is the main terminus for Porto trains, and many long-distance trains also call at Oriente. Buses use Sete Rios, Oriente and sometimes the airport. Your ticket shows the exact stop, so confirm it before you leave.
Do I need to book in advance?
It's not mandatory for most departures, but it's wise. Fares usually rise as trains and buses fill, and busy days can sell out. Booking ahead is the safest way to get the time you want and often a better price.
Where does the train arrive in Porto?
Porto-Campanhã, according to the CP schedule (checked Oct 12, 2026). It's the city's main intercity station. Local trains and the metro connect it with the center, so you can reach most hotels without a taxi.
Want the whole trip planned? The PerkJolt Lisbon guide puts the routes, timing and points strategy in one place. Get the Lisbon guide
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See every question about Lisbon → /answers/lisbon/
Last verified: 2026-10-12. Train times and fares change most often, so check cp.pt for Alfa Pendular and Intercidades schedules and rede-expressos.pt for bus times.
Good to know before you go
. Confirm hours, fees, schedules and road or trail status on the official page before you book or go.
Sources
- https://www.cp.pt/info/en/w/institucional/more-alfa-pendular-services