The four options compared
| Option | Time | Fare seen | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alfa Pendular (CP) | about 2 h 40 | 35.70 EUR 2nd class (CP check of 17 June 2026) | fastest, most comfortable |
| Intercidades (CP) | 3 h 10 to 3 h 30 | 28.05 EUR 2nd class (same check) | a little cheaper, a little slower |
| Bus (FlixBus, Rede Expressos) | 3 h 15 to 4 h | about 5 to 9 EUR (FlixBus, early), 13 to 18 EUR (Rede Expressos) | small budgets |
| Car | about 3 h non-stop | tolls of 22 to 27.50 EUR depending on the route, plus fuel | families, stops on the way |
Guides quote slightly different fares (31.90 EUR for the Alfa Pendular in one, 25.25 EUR for the Intercidades): fares are dynamic and tickets booked early are the cheapest.
The train: stations and tips
In Lisbon the fast trains leave from Santa Apolónia or Oriente: pick the station nearest your hotel. In Porto, long-distance trains arrive at Campanhã, east of the centre; São Bento, the azulejo station, only serves regional trains. From Campanhã, the metro or a short train ride takes you to the centre in minutes: see getting around Porto.
Bus and flight
FlixBus services end at Oriente, while Rede Expressos splits between two bus stations in Lisbon. A flight exists, but with the trips to the airport, check-in and waiting it saves little time over the train and often costs more: we would only use it for a connection. On arrival, read from Porto airport to the centre.
Car and where to sleep on arrival
A rental car makes sense if you stop at Coimbra, Aveiro or Óbidos; count the tolls and the one-way drop-off fee. For your first night, see where to stay in Porto and compare hotels on Booking for your dates. For the other direction read Lisbon from Porto, and to choose between the two cities Porto or Lisbon.
FAQ
What is the fastest way from Lisbon to Porto?
The Alfa Pendular, about 2 h 40 station to station.
How much is the Lisbon to Porto train?
About 28 to 36 EUR in 2nd class depending on the train, with lower promotional fares if you book early (seen in 2026).
Is the bus a good option?
Yes to save money: from about 5 EUR with FlixBus, but allow an hour more than the train.
