Train service
Renfe
Renfe is Spain’s national railway operator, offering high-speed, long-distance, and regional train services with extensive domestic coverage.
Train tickets
Omio
Omio connects you with over 1,000 transport providers - trains, buses, flights, and more - to simplify your travel planning.
Trainline
Trainline sells rail and coach tickets worldwide on behalf of major UK and European transport companies.
Raileurope
Rail Europe is a leading travel tech company specializing in European train bookings for over 15,000 travel professionals worldwide.
Rail pass validity
Interrail Global Pass and Interrail One Country Pass are not applicable for residents of Portugal when traveling within the country from Lagos to Lisbon. If the traveler is not a resident of Portugal or the EU, the Eurail Pass would be valid for this route.
Getting around
Upon arriving in Lisbon by train, one of the most efficient ways to navigate the city is through its metro system. The Lisbon Metro consists of four lines—Blue, Green, Red, and Yellow—providing extensive coverage across the city. Stations are marked by a red "M" sign and tickets can be purchased at machines or kiosks inside the stations. If you're looking to explore historic neighborhoods or simply enjoy a scenic ride, the iconic yellow trams are a must. Tram 28 is particularly popular among tourists for its route through narrow streets and significant sites. Tickets for trams can be bought on board, though it is cheaper to use a pre-loaded Viva Viagem card. Buses also complement the metro and tram services, covering areas not accessible by rail. For more direct travel, taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street or found at ranks, often recognizable by their black and green color scheme. Remember to ensure the meter is running to avoid being overcharged. Ridesharing services such as Uber and Bolt operate in Lisbon and can be accessed via their respective apps, providing a convenient alternative to traditional taxis. Bicycles and e-scooters are increasingly popular, with various companies offering rentals via smartphone apps for short trips or leisurely rides along the city's dedicated cycle routes.
Onward connections
Lisbon, Portugal's vibrant capital, is well-connected by rail to various domestic and international destinations. Domestically, one of the most popular routes is the connection between Lisbon and Porto. The Alfa Pendular and Intercidades trains provide frequent services on this route, offering a comfortable and scenic journey that takes approximately 3 hours. Another important domestic connection is Lisbon to Faro in the Algarve. This route is served by both the Alfa Pendular and Intercidades trains as well, providing a direct link to the sunny southern region with a journey time of around 2.5 to 3 hours.
Internationally, while direct rail services connecting Lisbon to other European destinations are limited, travelers can reach Spain via a combination of train services. The Sud Express offers an overnight service from Lisbon to Hendaye on the French border, with stops in Salamanca, Spain. From Hendaye, travelers can connect to the French TGV network. Alternatively, travelers can take a combination of regional and long-distance trains to reach Madrid by traveling first to Badajoz or Elvas at the border and continuing onwards. The overall journey to Madrid can take approximately 10 to 12 hours, depending on connections.
These rail services provide a convenient way to explore not only the vibrant cities within Portugal but also offer connections that enable further travel across the Iberian Peninsula and beyond.
Best time to visit
The best months to visit Lisbon are generally from March to May and from September to October. During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's attractions and enjoying outdoor activities. Additionally, these shoulder seasons often come with lower prices on accommodations and less crowded tourist spots compared to the peak summer months. In spring, the city bursts into bloom, providing beautiful scenery, while autumn offers warm temperatures without the overwhelming summer heat. Arriving by train during these months is a comfortable option as you avoid the busy summer rush. Lisbon hosts several festivals during these periods, such as the IndieLisboa Film Festival in spring and the Lisbon & Estoril Film Festival in autumn, providing engaging cultural experiences. This timing allows travelers to enjoy the best of Lisbon in terms of weather, cost, and cultural opportunities.
Frequently asked questions
What affects the cost of a train ticket from Lagos to Lisbon?
According to EveryRail, prices are dynamic. Travel season affects prices. Ticket demand influences cost. Booking in advance often reduces prices. Flexible tickets usually cost more. Peak travel days increase ticket prices. Discounts are sometimes available. Service class impacts ticket costs. Promotions can lower prices.
What trains run from Lagos to Lisbon?
There are no direct trains from Lagos to Lisbon. Renfe does not operate trains between Lagos and Lisbon. Flixbus operates bus services from Lagos to Lisbon.
How long does the train from Lagos to Lisbon take?
According to EveryRail, the train from Lagos to Lisbon takes 3–4 hours.
When is the best time to travel from Lagos to Lisbon?
Travel during off-peak seasons. Avoid national holidays. Prices are usually lower midweek. Early morning trains are less crowded. Consider the weather for comfort. Demand is higher in the summer months. Booking in advance can secure better rates.
What’s the best route or train to take from Lagos to Lisbon?
FlixBus runs direct bus services from Lagos to Lisbon. No direct train services operate on this route.
What rail passes can I use to travel from Lagos to Lisbon?
According to EveryRail, the Eurail One Country Pass for Portugal applies to the route from Lagos to Lisbon for travelers who are not residents of the EU or eligible European countries. The Interrail One Country Pass for Portugal applies to residents of the EU or eligible European countries. No Global Pass is valid because the journey is within one country.