Discover Portugal By Train

Spend the day discovering Lisbon’s iconic Belém district. Start with a bus ride to Belém and visit the National Coach Museum, known for its impressive collection of royal coaches and ceremonial carriages. Continue towards the Monument to the Discoveries, a 52-meter-tall landmark commemorating the five hundredth anniversary of Henry the Navigator’s death. Afterwards, enjoy the district’s riverside atmosphere and explore its remarkable monuments at your own pace.

Take the train from Lisbon’s central Rossio Station, a beautifully adorned Neo-Manueline building. The suburban line connecting Lisbon to Sintra, opened in 1887, still runs through the outskirts of the city. Early in the journey, the train passes through a 1.8-mile tunnel, an impressive engineering feat when it first opened in 1890.

Arriving in Sintra, explore this romantic town known for its palaces, lush hills, and historic estates. Continue to the ancient Mouros Castle, which dates back to the early days of the Moorish occupation and offers sweeping views over the region.

Enjoy a relaxed morning at your own pace in Lisbon. Take the opportunity to wander through the charming streets of the historic center before the city wakes up, discover hidden corners, enjoy a café stop, or simply soak in the local atmosphere. This is your time to unwind, explore at leisure, and savor the city before continuing your journey to Faro the next day.

Begin your journey to southern Portugal from Lisbon’s modern Oriente Station, designed by architect Santiago Calatrava for Expo ’98. During the three-hour train ride to Faro, enjoy views of the Alentejo’s green and golden fields as the landscape gradually changes.

Arrive in Faro, the Algarve’s capital, known for its quiet charm and rich Moorish heritage. The station is conveniently located near the scenic Ria Formosa, the old town, and the marina. Take time to explore the historic streets, admire its monuments, and savor the local cuisine.

Visit Vila Real de Santo António in the eastern Algarve, a town historically designed to mirror central Lisbon after the 1755 earthquake. Stroll through the charming city center, explore traditional shops, and enjoy local terraces. The region is famous for its fishing heritage, especially tuna dishes. You can also watch ferries cross the calm Guadiana River to Ayamonte in Spain.

Travel to the western Algarve by train and visit the cosmopolitan city of Lagos, once a key port during the Portuguese Discoveries and a refuge for pirates. From this historic bay, Henry the Navigator planned expeditions to unknown lands. Today, Lagos combines rich history with a relaxed atmosphere. Explore its churches, museums, castle, and city walls, or choose an optional boat trip to the famous grottoes of Lagos.

On your final day, make your way to Faro Airport (FAO) according to your individual flight schedule. Convenient transport options, including bus and taxi, are available, or you can arrange a private transfer upon request. This day allows you to relax and depart at your own pace.