Portugal is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and stunning architecture, and what better way to explore this destination’s wonders than by train? More than a mode of travel, this transport offers you a front-row seat to this country’s magical allure of terraced vineyards, medieval castles and expansive plains. Exploring Portugal by train will show you that each stop is an opportunity to unveil a new chapter of this Southern European gem’s rich history and cultural heritage!
With the rhythm of the rails as your soundtrack, get ready for a 15-day adventure that will allow you to marvel at Coimbra’s ancient university, admire Évora’s ancient Roman architecture and immerse yourself in Douro’s dramatic landscape. Hop on board and use our ultimate Portugal train travel guide as inspiration for a hassle-free trip filled with history and magic!
Days 1 to 3: Arriving in Lisbon & Exploring the City
Your Portugal rail itinerary starts right in the country’s beating heart, Lisbon! As you arrive in this city, you will be immediately drawn into its vibrant energy of rattling yellow trams, chatting crowds and historical landmarks like S. Jorge Castle and Jerónimos Monastery graced by the shimmering Tagus River in the background. The first full day will be dedicated to getting to know this destination’s highlights in a guided walking tour. From the city’s oldest neighborhoods, namely Alfama and Chiado, to the grand plazas and modern-day cafés, you will get to tap into Lisbon’s melodic character. The perfect end to this day comes at dinner time, with a delicious traditional meal accompanied by a soul-stirring Fado Performance.
On day three, get ready to bid this city farewell on board a boat! A sunset cruise along the Tagus will reveal Lisbon’s allure from a new perspective, one where a golden hue casts the dreamiest light over the 25 de Abril Bridge and the historic Belém Quarter. Take this moment to soak in this destination’s magical landscape!
Day 4: A Detour to the Fairytale-Like Sintra
Day four arrives with a short, nonetheless whimsical, detour! Trains from Lisbon to Sintra whisk you into a fairytale-like world of lush greenery, misty hills and cobbled lanes. Marked by a defined medieval flair, Sintra enchants with its dreamy palaces, namely the National Palace, and transporting atmosphere. Undoubtedly, this is one of the must-visit stops on Portugal train trips.
On this day, you will get to explore this UNESCO-listed site’s streets dotted by townhouses, quaint cafés and hidden courtyards. After tasting Sintra’s traditional sweets, queijadas and travesseiro de Sintra, it is time to head to an even more charming site, Pena Palace. This masterpiece of romantic architecture, perched atop the hills, shares a glimpse into the Portuguese nobility's opulent way of life. Across lavish rooms and sprawling gardens, you will find a new perspective on Sintra’s allure! As the sun sets, it is time to head back to Lisbon, where you will spend the night before venturing out onto a new Portuguese gem.
Days 5 & 6: Travelling to Évora
Today, you will embark on a scenic ride to Évora! From the private driver transfer from your hotel to the train station, be sure to enjoy this stress-free adventure. All you have to do is settle into your train seat and enjoy the rolling plains and golden fields of the Alentejo for the next two hours or so. Soon enough, your next destination will show up on the horizon – Évora!
This gem, considered one of the best historic stops and scenic routes, introduces you to the region’s timeless charm! A guided walking tour with a local expert will take you along the medieval streets of this UNESCO town. Every cobblestone on the ground and whitewashed alley oozes whispers from bygone eras. Take this opportunity to learn more about the city’s top attractions, which include an ancient Roman Temple and a grand Cathedral. After discovering these sites, why not visit one of Évora’s most intriguing monuments, the Chapel of Bones? Let this city be an introduction to Portugal’s riveting history!
Day 7: Uncovering the Villages of Alentejo
While staying in Évora, why not take the opportunity to visit some of the nearby villages? As you continue to discover Portugal by train, consider unveiling more of Alentejo’s sun-drenched landscapes, rolling vineyards and mouthwatering gastronomy. So, today, it is all about slowing down and enjoying the gems that lie beyond Évora.
Estremoz and Monsaraz are two destinations where history and traditions walk hand in hand. In Estremoz, the marble-clad buildings pay homage to the region’s famed quarries, while the medieval castle reminds one of the Alentejo’s past. In Monsaraz, you will find a walled village perched high above the Guadiana. In either of these villages, you will be able to venture on a winery tour followed by a regional lunch that, ultimately, invites you to taste the region's soul, known for its bold reds, flavor-packed meats and delectable migas, cooked with the region’s cherished bread! With each sip and bite, you’ll find yourself falling deeper into Alentejo’s spellbinding culture!
Days 8 to 10: Journey to Coimbra, Portugal’s Academic Hub
Ready to continue exploring Portugal by train? Your 15-day odyssey will take you to the country’s academic heart in the town of Coimbra. As the train slowly arrives at the destination, you will get to see its unique silhouette defined by the banks of the Mondego River and a touch of romance.
Your first day here will start with a guided walking tour of the town’s historic streets and prestigious university – one of the oldest in Europe! As you listen to the tales that envelop this monument in a distinct mystical allure, you will get to see one of Portugal’s most treasured architectural gems, the Joanine Library. This space of golden Baroque details and centuries-old books shows off the interests of Portugal’s absolutist king, John V. The next day, dive further into Coimbra’s history at the romantic Quinta das Lágrimas, the site of a tragic tale of forbidden love between a king and a fair dame.
Days 11 & 12: Heading North to Porto
Next on your Portugal rail itinerary is Porto! As the train glides north towards this city, prepare yourself for another two days filled with adventure and fascinating attractions. From the terracotta rooftops to the baroque churches and the iconic Dom Luís Bridge, this city surely is packed with charm and beauty. Firstly, in a guided tour, you will be able to stand in awe before landmarks such as the São Bento Train Station and its intricate blue tiles or the Gothic Sé Cathedral, grand and sumptuous in all its religious might. Each step through Porto’s historic centre feels like walking through a real-life museum.
Your visit to Porto will only be complete with a taste of the region’s indulging Port Wine. Venture across the river Douro and take the opportunity to visit one of the city’s renowned wine cellars. Here, you will learn more about the traditions and centuries-old craft behind the production of this famed drink. In the end, raise a glass to Porto and savor its most defining flavor!
Day 13: Exploring the Douro Valley
Looking for the perfect way to end your time in northern Portugal? A Douro Valley train experience is just the way. This journey will take you through one of the most breathtaking wine regions in the world, where rolling vineyards, terraced hills and the meandering river unfold like a painted masterpiece. Due to its beauty, cherished for centuries by the nobility and curious travelers, this has become one of the most historic train journeys in Portugal.
A day in the Douro Valley counts -of course – with a visit to a local wine estate. As you explore these ancient spaces, you are welcome to step into a world of age-old winemaking traditions. Seize this opportunity to learn about the intricate processes that make the region’s wines so unique. Then, it is time to drink and enjoy a tasting session of the Douro’s finest vintages. As you taste the region’s soul, you unveil a tapestry boasting richness, complexity and treasured customs. It is with no surprise that the Douro beckons visitors from around the globe with its dramatic landscapes and delectable flavors!
Days 14 & 15: Time to return to Lisbon
As your 15-day adventure nears its end, the journey from Porto to Lisbon by train presents you with one last chance to soak in the country’s captivating beauty. Past coastal towns and golden plains, you will soon re-encounter Lisbon’s sunlit hills. This final leg of the tour is one of Portugal’s most scenic train rides, fitting for a proper adieu to a country brimming with a rich history, mouthwatering flavors and awe-inspiring landscapes.
With one last evening to enjoy, we recommend you soak in the city's energy one last time in the bustling Chiado district or head over to the riverside and enjoy a stroll along the Tagus with a flaky pastel de nata in hand. With each step, you will find yourself reminiscing on all the places you have visited, all at a tranquil, relaxed pace. From Évora’s UNESCO-listed streets to Porto’s storied landmarks and Sintra’s medieval charm, each stop lets you closer to this Southern European gem’s heart.
Ready for a 15-day adventure through Portugal?
Throughout this journey, we have shown you that traveling through Portugal by train offers you the perfect balance of comfort and scenic sights. As you explored the Douro Valley’s iconic landscapes and immersed yourself in Lisbon’s and Porto’s historic charm, you have learned how to travel to Portugal by rail and make the most of each stop!
Every destination and every moment are an opportunity to feel more connected with the country’s history, culture and gastronomy. Are you seeking an unforgettable trip? Our expert team can show you the ways in which this 15-day journey can be fully customizable to your very own interests while allowing you to uncover Portugal’s wondrous cities.
