Porto to Lisbon by train

Fastest direct examples from Porto Campanhã reach Lisbon in about 2 hours 43 minutes on CP Alfa Pendular, while Intercidades also runs directly.

Porto to Lisbon train at a glance

The timetable in force from 14 December 2025 includes direct Alfa Pendular examples leaving Porto Campanhã at 05:40 and 14:40, both reaching Lisboa Oriente after 2 hours 43 minutes. An Intercidades example leaves at 12:45 and reaches Lisboa Santa Apolónia at 16:00. Other departures can take longer, and the pattern changes with the date.

Choosing between Alfa Pendular and Intercidades

Alfa Pendular is the faster, more comfortable choice when its departure fits your plans. It has reclining seats, a power socket at every seat, free Wi-Fi, toilets in every carriage, wheelchair spaces, and a café-bar in carriage 3. The direct service calls at Vila Nova de Gaia-Devesas, Aveiro, and Coimbra-B between Porto Campanhã and Lisbon.

Intercidades also runs directly between Porto and Lisbon. It can be the better option when its departure or arrival time suits you, although it is generally slower than Alfa Pendular. Some Intercidades trains arrive at Lisboa Santa Apolónia instead of Lisboa Oriente, so the arrival station matters when you arrange your onward journey.

Stations and boarding

Long-distance trains leave from Porto Campanhã. If you are staying near Porto São Bento or in the historic centre, allow time to reach Campanhã. The platform is a live station detail, so use the departure board when you arrive.

Lisboa Oriente is the usual arrival for the direct Alfa Pendular examples above. Lisboa Santa Apolónia is also used by some Intercidades services. The two stations are in different parts of Lisbon, so allow for the correct onward metro, taxi, bus, or walking connection.

Tickets, fares, and reservations

Use CP's timetable and ticket search for your date and departure. Alfa Pendular and Intercidades are reserved long-distance services, so your booking includes a specific train and seat. Keep the ticket available for inspection and read the change and cancellation conditions attached to the fare before paying.

CP advertises advance Promo fares with discounts of up to 65% on Alfa Pendular and Intercidades. Availability depends on the service, date, and remaining seats, so treat the discount as a possible saving rather than a guaranteed fare. CP also advertises a return-ticket discount under its terms; compare it with two single tickets when you are planning a return.

Luggage, bikes, and onboard comfort

CP allows one item of hand luggage free of charge on Alfa Pendular and Intercidades when it fits in the luggage racks or under the seat without inconveniencing other passengers. Handbags and laptops do not count towards this limit. Several large cases may be treated as excess luggage and attract an onboard charge.

One bicycle can travel free of charge. On Alfa Pendular, it must be dismantled and packed as hand luggage, fit in the space for your seat, and stay clear of doors and passageways. CP can refuse bicycle transport when capacity makes it unsafe, so arrange your bike within the current conditions before travelling.

Alfa Pendular has Tourist and Comfort classes, free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a café-bar. CP also provides wheelchair lifts, adapted toilets, and two reserved wheelchair spaces. If you need assistance, arrange it with CP before travel and allow extra time at both stations.

Porto to Lisbon as a day trip

Yes, but a return journey takes roughly five and a half hours on the train. A day trip works best when you choose both trains in advance and allow time to travel from Lisboa Oriente or Santa Apolónia to the places you want to visit. Staying overnight is more relaxed if you want flexibility beyond the last return service.

Before you travel

Use CP's date-specific journey planner for the exact train, fare, seat, and arrival station. On the day, follow the departure board at Porto Campanhã and keep your ticket and any bicycle or assistance arrangements ready for inspection.