Portugal is a beautiful country with plenty of ways to get around. Whether you’re visiting the big cities, charming small towns, or the stunning coastlines, there are several transportation options to choose from. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best ways to get around Portugal, including public transportation, taxis, rideshares, and renting a car. I’ll also share tips on cost, safety, and how to navigate the country smoothly.
Public Transportation in Portugal
Portugal has a reliable and affordable public transportation system, especially in major cities like Lisbon and Porto. You’ll find buses, trams, metros, and trains that connect different parts of the country.
Buses
Buses are one of the primary modes of public transport in Portugal. Every city has a local bus service, and you can usually get anywhere within the city on a bus. The ticket cost depends on the city, but it’s usually around €1.50-€3.
If you’re traveling between cities, long-distance buses are a great option. Companies like Rede Expressos and FlixBus operate nationwide and offer budget-friendly services. The price starts at about €5, depending on how far you’re going and when you book.
Buses might not always run on time in smaller towns, but in the big cities, they’re pretty reliable.
Trains
Trains run frequently between major cities and regions. The main train company in Portugal is Comboios de Portugal (CP). Trains are faster than buses and fairly affordable. For example, a train from Lisbon to Porto takes around 2.5 hours and costs between €25-€40. If you book early or take a slower train, you can find cheaper options.
Regional trains connect the smaller towns and cities, but they tend to be slower and less frequent. Still, if you’re not in a rush, they’re a good way to see the countryside.
Metro
Lisbon and Porto have metro systems that make it easy to get around their urban areas. In Lisbon, the metro operates from 6:30 AM to 1:00 AM, while Porto’s metro hours are similar. Tickets cost around €1.50 per single trip. If you’ll be using the metro frequently, consider a day pass or a Viva Viagem card, which can save you money.
Trams
Trams are iconic in Lisbon, especially the historic trams. The famous tram 28 passes through Lisbon’s old town and is a popular way to explore the city. Single tram tickets cost around €3, or you can use a Viva Viagem card for more savings. Trams tend to be packed with tourists, so be prepared if you’re traveling during peak hours.
Ferries
If you want to cross the rivers in Lisbon or catch a scenic ride, ferries are available too. They run frequently and are cheap, usually costing around €1-€2 per trip. A ride across the Tagus River from Lisbon to the south bank offers great views of the city.
Taxis in Portugal
Taxis are available in most cities and towns. You can typically find them in busy areas or at taxi stands. In smaller towns, you might need to call ahead to get one.
Taxi fares start at around €3-€4 and then add about €0.60 per kilometer. In Lisbon and Porto, nighttime rates are higher, usually starting at €4 or more. Taxis in Portugal are safe and regulated, but it’s good to make sure the meter is running when the ride starts.
If you’re going a short distance or outside regular public transport hours, taxis can be a convenient option. They’re generally safe, though it’s always smart to confirm the price or meter before the ride begins.
Rideshare Services in Portugal
Uber and Bolt operate in Portugal, offering rideshare services that tend to be cheaper than taxis. Both services are available in major cities like Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve.
Uber and Bolt prices can be up to 20-30% cheaper than regular taxis. For example, a 10-minute ride in Lisbon might cost €4-€6 with Uber, while a taxi would set you back €7-€10.
They’re reliable and easy to use through the apps. You can also track your ride and see the fare estimate beforehand, which adds transparency.
Renting a Car in Portugal
If you’re planning to explore outside the main cities or visit rural areas, renting a car can be a good idea. It’s especially useful if you’re traveling to places without easy public transport connections, like the countryside or specific parts of the Algarve.
How to Rent a Car
Major car rental agencies like Hertz, Sixt, Europcar, and Budget are available in Portugal. You can easily rent a car at airports, train stations, or online. Renting from the airport might cost a bit more, but it’s generally more convenient if you’re flying in.
Prices vary depending on the season, car type, and location. Expect to pay around €20-€35 per day for a standard car. However, prices can go much higher during the summer or in tourist-heavy areas, so booking in advance can help with savings.
Make sure you have a valid driver’s license, passport, and a credit card for the deposit. Drivers from the EU can use their license, while non-EU tourists might need an international driving permit.
Driving Conditions
Portugal’s roads are generally in good condition, especially on major highways and in urban areas. The highways, known as “Autoestradas”, charge tolls, which vary in cost depending on where you’re going. The toll roads are well maintained and not too busy, making long journeys faster.
Many car rentals come with an electronic toll reader to automatically deduct toll fees. If your car doesn’t have one, you’ll need to stop and pay in cash or with a card at toll plazas.
Driving in cities like Lisbon or Porto can be tricky due to narrow streets and heavy traffic. Parking in big cities is also tough, so consider using a parking garage to make things easier. In rural areas, roads can be curvy and wind through hills, so drive carefully, especially in bad weather.
Portugal follows standard European traffic rules. Driving is on the right-hand side, speed limits are clearly marked, and seatbelts are mandatory. Always remember that drinking and driving laws are strict, with a legal limit of 0.05% blood alcohol content.
Gas Prices
Gas (petrol) in Portugal is not cheap. It typically costs around €1.60-€2 per liter, which is higher than in many other European countries. Diesel is slightly cheaper. If you’ll be driving long distances, factor in fuel costs when planning your trip budget.
Other Tips for Getting Around Portugal
If you’re staying in Lisbon or Porto for a few days, buy a transport pass. In Lisbon, a 24-hour pass for metro, bus, and tram costs around €6.40. In Porto, a similar pass costs roughly €7. These passes can save you money if you’ll be using public transportation often.
For intercity travel, book your train or bus tickets online in advance if possible. Not only will this ensure you get a seat, but you can sometimes find discounted prices.
If driving isn’t for you or you’re only visiting cities, you can easily rely on public transport, taxis, or rideshares for short trips. Portugal is a very accessible country, and it’s easy to get from one place to another.
Now that you’re prepared with all the transportation tips you need, get ready to explore everything Portugal has to offer!
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