Algarve travel by train
Information about train travel in the Algarve
The Algarve line
The Algarve Line is a railway section that connects the stations of Lagos and Vila Real de Santo António (West - East connection)
Lagos - Algarve
Train types in Portugal and the Algarve
There are four different types of trains in Portugal:
---> Alpha-Pendular: These are the fastest trains. These are the most comfortable. This type of train is the most expensive. It mainly connects the north-south axis of the country, in particular the two cities of Porto and Lisbon . A reserved seat will be allocated upon purchase. (Blue line on the map)
---> Intercidades: This train is a little slower because it stops more often than the alpha pendular. The trains are older and they are a little less comfortable. (green line on the map)
---> Regional (R) and Interregional (IR): These simple trains mainly run short distances. Tickets cannot be purchased in advance or online. (Red line on the map)
---> Urban (U) : These trains run in larger cities such as Lisbon and Porto. Tickets are purchased at machines or counters.
Train ticket purchase
The Comboios De Portugal website is in English and relatively easy to use. It is the easiest way to buy a train ticket. There is also an app for iOS and Android to download. You can have the ticket sent to your cell phone via SMS or via the app and do not need to print it.
You can also buy your tickets at the train station counter, but it can sometimes be tight, especially if there is a long queue at the counter or, in the case of the alpha pendular express train (only with fixed seats), it is fully booked.
Here you can inquire about arrival and departure times and buy tickets online (in English ) → → →
The location of the main train stations in the Algarve
Train station Albufeira - Ferreiras
Train station Silves
Train station Portimão
Train station Loule
Train station Tavira
Train station Faro
Please note: the Albufeira train station is about 5 km outside of Albufeira (in Ferreira). Loule train station is also about 5km away.
Alvor - Algarve
From the Algarve to Lisbon by train
The high-speed train from Faro via Albufeira to Lisbon is a good and relatively cheap and quick way to travel to the capital. The Alfa Pendular express train (comparable to the German Intercity) offers comfortable and spacious seats with individual power sockets, bar and toilets. The travel time from Albufeira is approximately 2.5 hours for the 250 km route. Arrival in Lisbon is at Entrecampos, Oriente and Sete Rios train stations. There is also a cheaper and slightly slower option, the Intercidades express train, which has more stops. There are assigned seats in the Alfapendular. It is advisable to buy the ticket in advance.
Train connections from the Algarve to the north
