Trains


By far, the most popular means of transportation the locals and tourists use in Portugal are trains! Their railway system is exceptionally well-developed, so you can reach small villages outside the cities, but it is also excellent for crossing borders!


Let’s say, for example, that you start your trip in the capital city, as most would. However, your itinerary will most likely carry you further when you spend some time there. Perhaps you want to explore the marvelous Algarve beaches? If so, all you have to do is take the Lisbon to Albufeira train, which in itself can also offer you some great routes. You can even reach the Iberian Peninsula by boarding the train from Albufeira to Porto!




Buses


Buses are probably just as good of a choice as the railway. Almost always, they are very modern, have comfortable seating and air-conditioning, and easily accessible WiFi. In some cases, they can be a bit slower than the trains, yet they cost less.


There are four types of bus lines you can use:

  • Alta Qualidade - high-speed, luxurious buses navigating between the most prominent cities;

  • Expressos - easy, cozy, comfortable, and can also take you between the major cities;

  • Rapidas: quick, comfortable, mostly has regional connections;

  • Carreiras (CR) - a bit slower but stops at most small towns.


So, as you can see, buses are also a great choice! All you have to do is see where your itinerary takes you, and if it works, Portuguese buses will take you where you need rapidly and conveniently.



Metro


Trams are a popular and agreeable way of navigating Portugal; though, unfortunately, the metro systems are only developed in Lisbon and Porto. That being said, you will most likely end up using it anyway, as both cities are major and end up as focal points on every Portuguese trip!


Both networks are clean, safe, and quite methodical, so you should not have many problems maneuvering them. In Lisbon, there are four metro lines with fifty-two stations, guiding you through the most famous districts and tourist-popular locations. Thirty-one of those provide full accessibility with lifts and escalators.

Porto, however, has six lines, and trams here are the most used transportation. They run from 6 AM to 1 AM, and it is the best way to take you to the most famous city destinations, train stations, and the airport.


Besides the trams, both cities have funiculars, a bit more exciting type of traveling. They allow you the most stunning viewpoints and panoramas, and there are even several historical ones that serve as a tourist attractions. Which you can not only observe but use, too!




Taxis and Rentals


If you enjoy more privacy, quicker travels, and are not opposed to spending more on your trip, you can always travel by taxis or rental cars.


Taxi business in Portugal is quite honest and reliable. While it is not a cheap luxury, the drivers are usually candid with the prices. However, it is always a good idea to ask about your final fees straight up or check out the apps that will help you determine how much you will spend. Keep in mind, of course, that taxis are only a good choice if you need to get somewhere within the city walls, and no further. That is what buses and trains are for!


As Portugal is a popular holiday destination, there are obviously many rental car services you can use. Car is a perfect choice for you if you want to be completely free of schedules and timetables or if you wish to travel at your own pace and directions. They are, however, quite pricey. Also, you have to remember that the traffic may differ drastically from what you are used to, so you have to be confident in your driving.



Bicycles


Cycling is also a high-praised practice here. There are many clean cycling trails in the cities, at least the biggest ones. You can rent them at multiple places, especially in the beach towns and resorts, where they encourage the lack of vehicles and push you to enjoy the sights while biking.


There is also a great bike-sharing network in Portugal, which allows you to take and drop off your bike in a convenient place, using only a mobile app. So, if you are into lots of moving and deliciously-sore legs, check that out!



Now that you are more familiar with transport choices in Portugal, it should help you with your itinerary and vice versa. If you need to purchase tickets, do that beforehand to ensure a place, and remember to be careful and attentive if you choose bikes or rental cars. Enjoy!