Transport in Portugal

Portugal is a relatively small country, but offers a diverse and efficient transportation system that is suitable for all types of travelers. From high-speed trains connecting the main cities, through buses traveling all over the country, to metro systems and a developed road infrastructure. Convenient public transportation and car rental options make getting around the tourist sites accessible and simple. This guide will help you choose the option that best suits your needs and will help you make the most of your time during your visit to Portugal.

When you arrive in Portugal, especially if it’s your first visit, one of the important decisions is how to get from the airport.
Here are a few options depending on your family size and personal preferences:

Private transfer with a driver:
For families or first-time travelers, this is the safest and most convenient option. The driver will wait for you at the airport, take you directly to your destination, and you won’t have to worry about waiting at stations or negotiating with local drivers. To book, click here.

Taxis:
It’s important to only take licensed taxis and make sure the meter is running. When ordering a taxi, make sure to choose a vehicle that fits the number of passengers and your luggage. Here are two recommended options:

Bolt:
Bolt drivers (most of them) are known for their courtesy, and the vehicles are usually clean. However, note that they don’t always have child boosters, so it’s a good idea to check this in advance. The pickup point can vary, so it’s recommended to check an updated map.

Uber:
The Uber app is very popular in Lisbon, and the service is generally reliable and clean. The only downside is finding the pickup point at the airport – it is located on the departures level, and the area can be a bit crowded and confusing.

AeroBus:
This service is currently not operating.

Metro:
The metro station at the airport is called "Aeroporto." Most hotels in the Baixa area (Lisbon’s downtown) require a transfer at Alameda station to the green line, making the metro less recommended, especially with luggage or children

Order a transfer from Faro Airport

Order a transfer from Lisbon airport

Order a transfer from the airport in Porto

Rail transport in Portugal

CP - Comboios de Portugal (Portuguese Railway Company) operates an extensive railway network covering all of mainland Portugal, and also offers international train services to destinations such as Vigo, Madrid and Paris.
https://www.cp.pt/passageiros/en

"Alfa Pendular" trains: these are the fastest trains in Portugal, and offer a convenient connection between Lisbon and the Algarve in the south, and between Lisbon and the north of Portugal - Porto or Braga, with intermediate stops in Coimbra.

The intercity service (Intercidades): covers the lines Lisbon-Porto-Guimairae, Lisbon-Guarda, Lisbon-Covilha, Lisbon-Ebora-Beja and Lisbon-Faro.

International trains: "Sud-Express" trains and the "Lusitânia" hotel train depart from Lisbon and provide an international connection to Madrid and other cities.
https://www.cp.pt/passageiros/en/how-to-travel/international

Regional and suburban trains: The network of regional and suburban trains covers all of Portugal, including lines from suburbs to central cities such as Lisbon and Porto.

Discounts and tourist tickets: CP offers discounts to tourists on day and leisure trips with special travel tickets:
https://www.cp.pt/passageiros/en/buy-tickets/best-offers/tourist-travel-pass

Portugal offers diverse and convenient train solutions that allow travelers to reach every corner of the country, and also enjoy train lines that offer unique and comfortable views between central cities and tourist sites.

Bus Transportation in Portugal: Urban and Intercity
Portugal offers an extensive public transportation system, and buses play an important role in it. They provide a convenient and affordable way to travel both in major cities like Lisbon and Porto and for intercity journeys, especially to smaller towns that are not connected to the train network.

Urban Buses
In Portugal's main cities, such as Lisbon and Porto, urban bus networks are operated by local transportation companies:

Lisbon:
The main urban bus company is Carris, which operates an extensive bus network in Lisbon and its surrounding areas. In addition to buses, Carris also operates the city's famous trams.
Carris website: https://www.carris.pt

Porto:
In Porto, the STCP (Sociedade de Transportes Colectivos do Porto) is responsible for bus transportation within the city and nearby areas.
STCP website: https://www.stcp.pt

Intercity Buses
For intercity travel, several bus companies offer routes that connect cities and towns across Portugal:

Rede Expressos:
This is the largest intercity bus company in Portugal, operating routes that connect most major and mid-sized cities in the country. The buses are comfortable for long journeys and offer services like Wi-Fi and charging outlets.
Rede Expressos website: https://www.rede-expressos.pt

FlixBus:
The international bus company FlixBus offers routes in Portugal as well, primarily for intercity travel and connections to major European cities. FlixBus is known for being an affordable service with wide availability and a large network of routes.
FlixBus website: https://www.flixbus.com

Eva Transportes:
Eva specializes in intercity travel in southern Portugal, particularly in the Algarve region. It connects major cities like Faro, Lagos, and Albufeira.
Eva Transportes website: https://eva-bus.com

Tickets and Discounts
Bus companies offer single-ride tickets or monthly passes for regular commuters. In cities like Lisbon and Porto, there are integrated transport cards that allow for the use of buses, light rail, metro, and trams.

Special discounts are offered for students, seniors, and tourists, and you can also purchase tickets online on the companies' websites.

Conclusion
Traveling by bus in Portugal, both within cities and between cities and towns, is an accessible, affordable, and convenient transportation solution. If you are visiting Portugal for the first time, consider taking the bus as part of your travel plans, especially if you intend to reach areas not served by trains.

Taxis in Portugal: What You Should Know
The most popular apps for ordering taxis in Portugal are Bolt and Uber, and they are considered reliable, affordable, and easy to use. However, it's important to pay attention to the pickup location – sometimes it might not be exact and could be across the street or in a nearby area.

Choosing a suitable vehicle for luggage: If you have a lot of luggage, it’s recommended to select an appropriate vehicle when booking (for example, the XL category).

Taxi colors: Most taxis in Portugal are cream-colored, but you can also find traditional-style taxis that are black with a green roof.

Fare prices: The fare is shown on the meter inside the taxi, and you can ask the driver about it. If you call to book a taxi, there is an additional charge of €0.80. For luggage, there is a charge of €1.60, regardless of the number of items or their weight. Carrycots, strollers, wheelchairs, and walking aids are carried at no extra charge.

Outside the cities: Fares are calculated per kilometer, and toll charges are the passenger’s responsibility. Prices can be agreed upon in advance with the driver.

Tipping: It is customary to leave a tip of 5-10% or round up the fare to the nearest euro.

Metro (Subway) in Lisbon and Porto
In Portugal, the metro systems in Lisbon and Porto are an essential part of public transportation, offering fast and convenient travel.

Lisbon Metro
The Lisbon metro is one of the most convenient ways to get around the city. The trains run from 6:00 AM to 1:00 AM and reach many areas of the city, including some suburbs. The metro stations in Lisbon are adorned with special tile panels, turning the subway into a stunning underground gallery of Portuguese art.
For more information about the Lisbon metro: www.metrolisboa.pt

Porto Metro
The Porto metro is relatively new, with six active lines (blue, red, green, yellow, purple, and orange). While some lines run underground, most of the network is above ground and connects the city with the suburbs.
For more information about the Porto metro: www.metro-porto.pt

Lisbon Card and Porto Card
Lisbon Card: Allows free travel on the Lisbon metro as well as free entry or discounts at various tourist attractions in the city. It’s an excellent card for tourists exploring the city.
For more information about the Lisbon Card: Lisbon Card

Porto Card: Offers free travel on the Porto metro and other public transportation in the city, along with discounts on various tourist attractions.
For more information about the Porto Card: Porto Card

With these cards, you can save time and money during your stay in Portugal while making the most of public transportation and local attractions.

Car Rental in Portugal: Everything You Need to Know
In Portugal, there are many options for car rentals at airports, international train stations, and in major towns and cities.

Booking in advance
Especially during peak season, it’s recommended to book a car well in advance and choose large and reliable rental companies to ensure good service and a well-maintained vehicle.

Special Services
Drivers with mobility issues or anyone who prefers an automatic vehicle can rent cars adapted to special needs.

Car Rental Requirements
Minimum age: Drivers must be 21 or 25 and older, depending on the rental company’s policy.

Driver’s license: A valid ID (passport) and a valid driver’s license for at least one year must be presented.

International driving permit: Israeli tourists are required to obtain an international paper driving permit, as the plastic Israeli driver’s license is not valid as a substitute.

Obtaining an international driving permit
An international driving permit can be issued at an authorized station with a permanent driver’s license.

Service fee: 8 ILS (6 ILS in Eilat, VAT-free).

For more information and to locate stations, visit the following link:

https://www.gov.il/he/service/drivers_license_photo_stations

Recommended Car Rental Companies
Well-known rental companies such as SIXT, AVIS, and Europcar are recognized for their high level of vehicle maintenance and reliability. Booking with these companies ensures professional customer service and cars in excellent condition.

Insurance and Car Rental
I recommend adding full insurance (Zero Risk), which covers all vehicle damage and ensures peace of mind during your trip.

Via Verde
Additionally, it’s recommended to request the Via Verde toll service, which allows for smooth travel on toll roads in Portugal, similar to Highway 6 in Israel. It saves time and toll fees by enabling quick passage on the highways.

Renting a car with all these extras guarantees a smooth and safe driving experience during your trip to Portugal.

Toll roads in Portugal: what is important to know

Portugal offers a network of highways (Autoestradas - AE) and other toll roads. There are two types of toll: a conventional toll with payment booths and an electronic toll only.

Conventional fee: You can pay with coins, credit cards, or the Via Verde service - an electronic payment system that enables automatic billing. It is recommended to ask the car rental company for the Via Verde service, which will charge the credit card directly according to the trips.

Electronic toll: in this system there are no payment booths, but electronic gates that identify the vehicle and charge automatically. Tourists can use services such as EasyToll, TollCard or a 3-day subscription to pay the tolls.

Via Verde Visitors: a system intended for foreign vehicles, which allows the use of the toll system without booths, including the electronic toll lanes and bridges.

More information on paying tolls for vehicles with foreign license plates can be found at:
https://www.portugaltolls.com
And to register for Via Verde Visitors:
https://visitors.viaverde.pt/en/

The use of these systems makes driving on the toll roads in Portugal comfortable and simple, especially for tourists.

Driving in Portugal: Important Rules and Regulations

In Portugal, as in Israel, vehicles drive on the right side of the road. It’s important to be familiar with local rules and regulations to ensure safe and smooth driving:

Right of Way

Roundabouts: Vehicles already on the roundabout have the right of way, unless otherwise indicated.
Intersections: Vehicles approaching from the right have priority.

Speed Limits

In built-up areas: 50 km/h
On regular roads: 90 km/h
On roads restricted to motor vehicles: 100 km/h
On highways (Autostradas): 120 km/h

Safe Driving

Seat belts: All passengers must wear seat belts.
Mobile phone use: It is prohibited to use a mobile phone while driving unless a hands-free system or earphones are used.

Driving for Disabled Persons
Disabled drivers with a valid driving license can drive a vehicle, subject to any restrictions or adaptations specified on their license. Disabled parking permits are recognized in Portugal and allow parking in specially designated areas.

Driving and Alcohol
Portugal strictly enforces drunk driving laws:

0.5-0.8 grams per liter: Considered a serious offense, with fines between 250 and 1,250 euros and suspension of the driving license for one month to one year.
0.8-1.2 grams per liter: A very serious offense, with fines from 1,250 to 2,500 euros and suspension of the license for two months to two years.
Above 1.2 grams per liter: Considered a crime, with prison sentences of up to one year, additional fines, and suspension of the license for three months to three years.

Safe and legal driving in Portugal is especially important to ensure a positive and enjoyable experience during your trip.

Prices of trains, buses, and taxis in Portugal (2024)

trains

Lisbon - Porto:

Alfa Pendular (fast train): prices range from €31.90 to €46.05 (second and first class).

Intercity: Prices range from €25.10 to €37.15.

Lisbon - Faro:

Alfa Pendular: €23.50 - €31.40.

Intercity: €22 - €28.80.

Suburban trains in Lisbon, such as traveling between Cais do Sodré, Belém, or Oriente stations, range from €1.35 to €2.25, depending on the distance and stations.

Intercity buses

Rede Expressos offers bus services between the main cities in Portugal:

Lisbon - Porto: about €19.

Lisbon - Faro: about €20.

Faro - Porto: about €32.

Lisbon - Coimbra: about €15.50.

Taxis

Opening rate during the day: €3.25 and during the night or holidays: €3.90.

Surcharges for ordering a radio taxi: €0.80, and transporting luggage: €1.60.

Outside the cities: the trip is paid per kilometer, including the calculation of the return cost, even if the passenger does not return.

Public transport in Lisbon and Porto

Lisbon Card:

24 hours: €21, 48 hours: €35, 72 hours: €43.

Includes free travel on the metro, buses, and suburban trains, with entry to tourist attractions.

Porto Card:

One-day ticket: €6 (pedestrians only) or €14 (including public transport).

Tickets for three days: €26 (including public transport).

fuel prices

As of 2024: gasoline costs about €1.80 per liter, diesel about €1.60 per liter, and GPL about €0.90 per liter.

In Portugal there is a high awareness of the needs of people with disabilities, and the country provides a variety of public and private means of transportation adapted to passengers with limited mobility:

public transport

Buses: In Lisbon, Carris offers low-floor adapted bus services with wheelchair access ramps. About 50% of the buses are fully accessible. In Porto, STCP operates accessible buses with ramps and places reserved for wheelchairs.

For more information: Carris , STCP .

Metro: In both Lisbon and Porto, many stations are adapted for passengers with special needs, with elevators and wheelchair access. Blind people can travel with guide dogs.

Additional details: Metro Lisboa , Metro Porto .

Airports

All airports in Portugal offer assistance services for people with disabilities, including elevators, escalators and appropriate signage. The MyWay service provides personal assistance to passengers with limited mobility.

For more information: ANA Airports .

Accessible taxis

In cities such as Lisbon, Porto and Faro, adapted taxis operate for passengers with limited mobility. These taxis are equipped with access ramps, adapted seat belts and wheelchairs.

For more information: ANTRAL .

trains

The train service CP - Comboios de Portugal offers an accessibility service called SIM (Serviço Integrado de Mobilidade) that helps passengers with special needs get on the train and during the journey.

For more information: CP .

Driving and parking for the disabled

Drivers with a valid license with appropriate adaptations can drive the vehicle, and disabled parking tickets are recognized throughout Portugal.

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Transport in Portugal

Want to discover all the information you need to perfectly plan your vacation in Portugal? ✨ Discover more in the full digital guide! ✨

Want to discover all the information you need to perfectly plan your vacation in Portugal?
✨ Discover more in the full digital guide! ✨