Lisbon

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Trains

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Train Services in Lisbon, Portugal

Types of Train Services

  1. Urban Trains (Comboios Urbanos): Operated by Comboios de Portugal (CP), these trains connect Lisbon with surrounding suburbs and towns. Key lines include:

    • Cascais Line: Connects Lisbon to Cascais, passing through Estoril.
    • Sintra Line: Connects Lisbon to Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
    • Sado Line: Connects Lisbon to Setúbal.

  2. Intercity Trains: These trains connect Lisbon with other major cities in Portugal, such as Porto, Faro, and Évora.

  3. Regional Trains: Serve smaller towns and regions around Lisbon.

Ticketing Options

  • Single Tickets: Valid for one journey. Prices vary based on distance:
    • Lisbon to Cascais: Approximately €2.50
    • Lisbon to Sintra: Approximately €2.25
  • Return Tickets: Generally double the single fare.
  • Viva Viagem Card: A rechargeable card that can be used for multiple journeys on trains, trams, and buses. Initial cost is €0.50, and you can load it with various ticket types.
  • Day Passes: Unlimited travel on urban trains, trams, and buses within the Lisbon area. Prices start around €6.40.

Costs

  • Urban Train Fares: Typically range from €2.25 to €5.00 depending on the destination.
  • Intercity Fares: Prices vary significantly based on distance and time of booking. Advance purchase can yield discounts.

Schedules

  • Frequency: Urban trains run frequently, typically every 15-30 minutes during peak hours. Intercity trains have less frequent schedules, often every hour or two.
  • Operating Hours: Most trains operate from around 5:00 AM to midnight. Check the CP website or app for specific schedules.

Navigating the Train System

  1. Stations: Major stations in Lisbon include:

    • Lisboa Santa Apolónia: Main station for intercity and regional trains.
    • Cais do Sodré: Terminal for the Cascais line.
    • Rossio: Terminal for the Sintra line.

  2. Finding Your Train: Check electronic boards for train numbers, destinations, and platform information. Arrive at least 10 minutes early.

  3. Boarding: Validate your ticket at the machines before boarding. Keep your ticket handy for inspections.

Local Tips and Considerations

  • Peak Hours: Trains can be crowded during rush hours (7:30 AM - 9:30 AM and 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM). Travel outside these times for a more comfortable experience.
  • Safety: Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
  • Language: While many staff speak English, learning a few basic Portuguese phrases can enhance your experience.
  • Scenic Routes: The Cascais line offers beautiful views of the coastline, making it a popular choice for tourists.

Useful Resources

  • CP Website: Comboios de Portugal for schedules, ticket purchases, and updates.
  • Mobile App: Download the CP app for real-time information and ticket purchasing.

This guide should help you navigate the train system in Lisbon effectively.