How Long Is the Train From Madrid to Portugal?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re planning to travel from Madrid to Portugal, you might be wondering how long your train journey will take. The answer to this question depends on a few factors, including your departure point and your final destination in Portugal.

Departure Points in Madrid

There are several train stations in Madrid that offer connections to Portugal. The most popular departure points include:

  • Atocha Station: This is the main railway station in Madrid and offers direct trains to Lisbon, the capital of Portugal.
  • Chamartin Station: This station is located in the northern part of Madrid and offers trains to Porto and other destinations in northern Portugal.

Destinations in Portugal

The duration of your train journey will also depend on where you’re headed in Portugal. Here are some of the most popular destinations and their approximate train travel times:

Lisbon

  • Atocha Station to Lisbon Santa Apolonia Station: The fastest direct trains take around 10 hours.
  • Atocha Station to Lisbon Oriente Station: Direct trains take around 7-8 hours.

Porto

  • Chamartin Station to Porto Campanha Station: Direct trains take around 10 hours.
  • Atocha Station to Porto Campanha Station: Direct trains take around 11-12 hours.

Faro

  • Atocha Station to Faro Station: There are no direct trains between Madrid and Faro. The fastest option is to take a train from Atocha Station to Seville, then transfer to a bus to Faro. This journey takes around 7-8 hours in total.

Other Destinations

If you’re traveling to a destination that’s not listed here, you may need to transfer trains or take a combination of trains and buses. The duration of your journey will depend on the specifics of your itinerary.

Tips for Booking Your Train Journey

When booking your train journey from Madrid to Portugal, keep the following tips in mind:

  • Book in advance: Train tickets are usually cheaper when booked in advance, so try to plan your trip as early as possible.
  • Check for discounts: Some train companies offer discounts for students, seniors, and other groups.
  • Consider your baggage: Make sure to check the baggage restrictions for your chosen train company. Some companies have limits on the number and size of bags you can bring on board.
  • Bring snacks and entertainment: Depending on the length of your journey, you may want to bring some snacks and entertainment options like books or movies to keep yourself occupied.

In conclusion, the duration of your train journey from Madrid to Portugal will depend on several factors including your departure point and final destination. However, with some careful planning and preparation, you can enjoy a comfortable and enjoyable journey through some stunning European scenery.