Train

Portugal's train network, Comboios de Portugal, covers most of the country, though it's thin in the Alentejo region. The cities of Lisbon, Coimbra, Aveiro, Porto, Braga, and Faro are linked by the fast, extremely comfortable Alfa Pendular services.

Most other major towns and cities are connected by Intercidade trains, which are reliable, although a bit slower and less luxurious than the Alfa trains. The regional services that connect smaller towns and villages tend to be infrequent and slow, with stops at every station along the line.

Advance booking is recommended along the main train lines. Reservations are also advisable for other trains if you want to avoid long lines in front of the ticket window on the day the train leaves. You can avoid a trip to the station to make the reservation by booking it online.

Travelers under 25 benefit from a 25% reduction in the price of all train tickets. Those over 65 get 50% off. In both cases, just show official ID with proof of your age, such as a driving license or passport.