Can you do a day trip from Lisbon to Porto?

Yes, A day trip to Porto from Lisbon is definitely possible. So how far is Lisbon from Porto? The two cities are less than 200 miles (320 km) apart, and the journey takes a little over 3 hours by car or slightly less by train. You can also take a tour or even book a private transfer.



Yes, a day trip from Lisbon to Porto is entirely doable in 2026, primarily thanks to the high-speed Alfa Pendular and Intercidades trains operated by CP (Comboios de Portugal). The journey from Lisboa Oriente to Porto Campanhã takes approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes each way. By taking an early 7:00 AM train, you can arrive in Porto before 10:00 AM, leaving you with about 8 to 10 hours to explore the Ribeira district, visit a Port wine cellar, and walk across the Dom Luís I Bridge before catching a 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM return train. While a car drive takes about 3 hours and buses take roughly 3 hours and 15 minutes, the train is the "best" option to maximize your time in the city without the stress of traffic. It is a long day with about 5-6 hours of total travel time, but for those with limited time in Portugal, it provides a perfect "highlight reel" of the country's second-largest city and its stunning Douro River views.

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The average journey time by train between Lisbon and Porto is 4 hours and 8 minutes, with around 17 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.

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The Lisbon to Porto train is extremely scenic. The ride offers beautiful views of the Portuguese countryside and picturesque cities like Coimbra, and runs along the Atlantic coast for a little time before entering Porto.

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With 24 hours in Porto or less, you certainly won't be able to see it all–but with careful planning, you'll leave with an excellent taste of the beauty, history, food, and wine that the second-largest city in Portugal has to offer.

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From Braga to Faro, Lisbon to Oporto, morning, afternoon or evening, the Alfa Pendular helps you manage your time. You can enjoy free Wi-Fi, nappy changing facilities, toilets and seats reserved and adapted for people with reduced mobility.

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Comfortable walking shoes:Porto is a very walkable city, with many cobblestone streets and steep hills. Comfortable shoes will be essential for exploring the city on foot. Light layers: The weather in Porto can be unpredictable, and it's always a good idea to bring clothing that can be layered.

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World-famous for its port wine, Porto is Portugal's second largest city and is the commercial and industrial centre for the zone north of the Mondego River. The historic centre of Porto was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996. Pop.

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The best time to visit Porto is from mid-spring in April until the end of October, when it is still warm and sunny. Nonetheless, the best months are undoubtedly May and September.

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Most Intercity trains on the Lisbon-Porto route also have a cafe-bar. You can buy beer, wine, tea, coffee, soft drinks, sandwiches and snacks, with the menu displayed in both Portuguese & English.

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So, how many days to explore Lisbon? We always recommend that it takes three days to fully explore Lisbon. This is sufficient to visit all of the characterful districts, experience the nightlife and join a couple of unique activities.

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11 Most Beautiful Places in Portugal
  • Belém Tower, Lisbon.
  • Sete Cidades, Azores.
  • Jerónimos Monastery, Lisbon.
  • Madeira Botanical Gardens, Funchal.
  • Peneda-Gerês National Park, Porto.
  • Monserrate Palace, near Sintra.
  • 25th April Bridge, Lisbon.
  • The Douro Valley, Porto.


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