Lisbon To Porto Distance: Different Ways To Travel, Accommodation Options, And More 

May 26, 2025

Last Updated on: Feb 13, 2026

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Welcome to Lisbon, where Fado music fills the air, and places such as Jerónimos Monastery, São Jorge Castle, and the Belém Tower tell stories from the past. 

Further, at the recently held ExpoVacaciones 2025, Lisbon stood tall with this tourism message. The focus was on the city’s rich culture, heritage, sustainability, and gastronomy. 

Also, with a handsome tourist inflow from various European countries, Lisbon is now ready to explore Asian and other international markets. 

Vera da Cunha Serrão, the representative of the Touristic Promotion of Lisbon at ExpoVacaciones, said, 

We’re proud to show what others saw in us. This is vital in understanding the global Portugal story.”

However, around 314 km from Lisbon, Porto is another important location in the tourism landscape of Portugal. 

The historic center of Porto, along with the Monastery of Serra do Pilar and the Dom Luís I Bridge, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Moreover, the Lisbon to Porto journey, especially by train, is the most beautiful experience you can have. However, you can also enjoy a bus or car ride and take a flight to travel the distance. 

In this Tour and Travel Guide, we will discuss the various modes of transportation from Lisbon to Porto, the journey, food, accommodation, and more! 

What Is Porto Famous For? The “Rival” Of Lisbon

What Is Porto Famous For_ The “Rival” Of Lisbon

Porto, with a touch of humor, is often called the “Rival of Lisbon.” And this comparison is beyond the origin of “Murder in Porto,” a craft beer that can blow your mind.

If you still have doubts about “Is Porto Portugal worth seeing?” here are the reasons why it’s a must-visit destination in Portugal. 

1. Port Wine

Isn’t Porto famous for its port wine? Oh, Yes! The porthouses by the River Douro sell the best wine, and they also tell tales that go back to the 1200s.  

Local traders built these port houses or impressive buildings in the 1200s when the bishop of Porto introduced unfair taxes.  

2. Historical Attractions

Furthermore, if you are a history buff, you will get lost in the historic center of Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Palácio da Bolsa, or the Stock Exchange Palace, is a prominent landmark in the historical center. 

3. The Most Beautiful Book Store In The World

Porto also has Livraria Lello, which was built in 1906. Housed in a neo-Gothic architecture building, the bookstore has wooden staircases and red velvet carpets spread on the floor. 

Once you reach here, you will know why it introduces itself as “The Most Beautiful Bookstore in the World.” 

And the “Little Birdie” here says that J.K.Rowling took inspiration from the interior of the bookstore. 

4. Cruising Along The River Douro

You can enjoy a cruise ride in Rabelo or the traditional boats in Porto to enjoy a different perspective of the city. 

These traditional vessels were earlier used to transport port wines from the Douro Valley to Porto.

5. A Trip To The Douro Valley

The Douro Valley is home to historical Fonseca and Crofts vineyards. You can have there the most amazing white port wine. 

For a  more serene experience, you can visit the small town of Pinhao and enjoy a ride in the Rabelo boat for two hours. 

What Is Lisbon Famous For? What Are The Best Attractions In Lisbon?

What Is Lisbon Famous For_ What Are The Best Attractions In Lisbon_

Food, history, cultural heritage, and the love for Fado music come together in Lisbon. The Portuguese capital is now looking to achieve the perfect blend of heritage charm with modern amenities. 

Furthermore, the city is now aiming to grow as a people-focused destination with a dynamic ambiance for local travelers. 

Nevertheless, these are the top tourist attractions in the city.

The Best Attractions in LisbonDetails
Belém TowerIt is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and this medieval fortress overlooks the Tagus River. 
Jerónimos MonasteryJerónimos Monastery is another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Lisbon. 
It stands out with its rich history and grand architecture. 
Alfama DistrictDo you want to listen to Fado Music and take a leisurely stroll along narrow alleys?
The Alfama District, the oldest in Lisbon, will offer you all these opportunities. 
Oceanário de LisboaVisit Oceanário de Lisboa, an aquarium with diverse marine animals. 

Furthermore, when you are in Lisbon, you must not miss a ride on Tram 28 from Martim Moniz to Campo de Ourique.

Tram services are available from 6 AM to 10:30 PM, and the ticket charge is 3.10 euros.

What Is The Lisbon To Porto Distance?

What Is The Lisbon To Porto Distance_

The distance from Lisbon to Porto by road is 314 km. The journey by bus or train takes less than 3 hours. 

What Is The Best Way To Go From Lisbon To Porto? Know The Modes Of Transportation

You can take a train ride from Lisbon to Porto for the most beautiful journey. However, you can also take a bus ride or a flight to travel the distance. 

Travel By Train From Lisbon To Porto 

Travel By Train From Lisbon To Porto

Twenty eight trains run between Lisbon to Porto on a daily basis. The train departs from the Gare do Oriente station in Lisbon and arrives at the Campanha Station in Porto. 

The distance between these two places by train is 274 km and the journey takes between 2 hours 49 minutes and 3 hours 14 minutes based on the type of train you have boarded. 

The Alfa Pendular trains are the fastest, and the regular intercity trains take a little longer to cover the distance. 

You can book the train tickets online or by visiting the railway station. The ticket prices start from $30. 

Also, the earliest train departs from Lisbon at 6:39 AM, and the last train departs at 10:09 PM. 

Is It Worth Taking The Train From Lisbon To Porto?

Yes, it is absolutely worth taking the train from Lisbon to Porto. The journey gives you the opportunity to explore the beauty of the Atlantic Coast to the fullest. 

Further, trains are frequently available between these two cities, and they are more reliable and comfortable as a mode of transportation. 

Moreover, they consume less time than the buses, and the railway stations in Lisbon and Porto offer easy access to city centers and all important locations. 

Can You Go To Porto For The Day From Lisbon By Bus?

Yes, you can travel from Lisbon to Porto by bus. The journey takes around 4-5 hours, and you can book the bus tickets online on platforms such as redBus. 

RedBus daily runs 112 buses from Lisbon to Porto, and the buses take 3 hours and 36 minutes to cover the journey. 

Traveling from Lisbon to Porto is a budget-friendly option as the ticket price on redBus starts from only EUR 4.99.

Buses depart from the Lisboa Oriente Terminal in Lisbon and reach Porto Garagem Atlantico in Porto. 

Moreover, the earliest departure time of the bus is 12:15 AM and the last bus from Lisbon departs at 11 PM. 

Traveling From Lisbon To Porto By Car

If you are traveling from Lisbon to Porto by car, the journey of 314 km will take around 3 hours. 

You can take the main motorway A1 for the journey. However, if you want a more scenic road trip experience, you can choose routes such as A29, A17, or A8. 

All the roads have tolls, and they offer excellent driving conditions. 

Furthermore, during the road trip, you can stop by beautiful towns such as Figueira da Foz, Coimbra, Alcobaça, Pombal, and Nazaré. 

Travel From Lisbon To Porto By Plane

If you want to save more time and you are willing to spend some extra Euros during your travel, you can take a flight from Lisbon to Porto. 

The journey takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes and the ticket prices range from €30 – €120. 

Flights depart from the Humberto Delgado Airport in Lisbon and reach the Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto. 

What Is The Best Time To Visit Lisbon And Porto?

What Is The Best Time To Visit Lisbon And Porto_

April to May or the spring season and September to October or the fall season are the best times to visit Lisbon and Porto.

Spring is the season of flowers. Further, the average temperature of 60-70 degree F make it ideal for exploring the outdoors. 

Moreover, the Liberation Day Celebration on 25th April is one of the major reasons to visit Lisbon and Porto during the spring season. 

On the other hand, the fall season, especially October, is the time of grape harvesting near the Douro Valley. You will also love birdwatching in October. 

What Are The Accommodation Options In Porto And Lisbon?

The accommodations, especially the boutique hotels in Lisbon, match the quintessential European vibe of the city. You will also get Airbnbs in Lisbon. While these Airbnbs are great for budget travelers and larger groups, they fail to replicate the charm of boutique hotels. 

Nevertheless, these are some well-known boutique hotels in Lisbon. 

  • The Vintage Lisbon
  • Lisbon Wine Hotel
  • Memmo Alfama — Design Hotels

On the other hand, the accommodations in Porto offer a cozier vibe, and there is something very quaint about the hotels and townhouses in this port city. 

However, if you want to stay in a boutique hotel in Porto, you must explore options such as Wine & Books Porto Hotel, Bloom House By Sweet Porto, and PortoBay Teatro.

What Is Porto Famous Food?

What Is Porto Famous Food_

If you love seafood and stew, Porto is the best location in Portugal for the ultimate gastronomic delight. 

Tripas à Moda do Porto, or the triple stew, is hearty here, while the fresh seafood, especially cod, will allow you to indulge in coastal delight. 

You can even try Francesinha or the sandwich here with melted cheese and layers of meat. However, the kick of this sandwich is the spicy beer-based sauce. 

Moreover, if you have a sweet tooth, don’t forget to try Tarte de Amendoa or almond tart in Porto. 

Also, don’t forget to try Cachorrinhos, Porto’s answer to an American hot dog, Bifana sandwich, Alheira sausage, and pastéis de bacalhau, a type of croquette. 

Why Do People Like Porto More Than Lisbon? Which Is Prettier, Porto Or Lisbon?

Lisbon is the most popular city in Portugal, and it should be the national capital. Also, the city’s sunny vibe and quintessential European charm make it stand out. 

However, if you want a cozier experience and you want to experience the old Portuguese vibe, Porto will be the go-to place. 

Also, the port wine, wineries, and port houses around the Douro River have built a way of life that is unmatched, and the only reference here can be the history books or the stories you have heard. 

Moreover, Porto has a unique visual appeal with well-preserved historic buildings and buildings adorned with azulejo or tile work. So, I find Porto prettier than Lisbon, and Porto would be my silent favorite if I had to choose between these two cities. 

However, the choice will depend on your sense of aesthetics and the kind of experience you want to have in Portugal.

Lisbon To Porto Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about the Lisbon to Porto distance and journey.

1. What is the distance between Lisbon and Porto? 

Lisbon to Porto distance is about 313 kilometers (195 miles) by car. Both cities are quite connected, making transportation between them easy by train, plane, bus, or rental car. 

2. How To Get From Lisbon To Porto? 

There is no definitive way that is widely recognized, but the following 
The commonly used means to travel from Lisbon to Porto are trains, planes, buses, and self-driving cars. Trains provide easy access to destinations, while buses provide cost-effective means to travel. 

3. How long does it take to get from Lisbon to Porto by train? 

The time taken by a high-speed train is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours depending on the train service. Trains operate frequently, arriving directly in central Porto, making them a great option for their convenience as well as for their efficiency. 

4. Is flying from Lisbon to Porto worthwhile? 

The time it takes to reach destinations by air is approximately 1 hour in the air, but when airport transfer and security clearance are considered, it may take more time than traveling by train.  
Air travel is most favorable for those traveling to/from international flights or collecting miles for air travel rewards. 

5. What is the driving time from Lisbon to Porto? 

The drive between Lisbon and Porto can range from 3 to 3.5 hours when using the A1 motorway. This route works well for a visitor who wishes to have flexibility, as they can choose to stop at any intermediate towns, including Coimbra or even Aveiro, if they wish. 

6. Are there decent bus services available for travel from Lisbon to Porto? 

Yes, buses provide a popular budget travel choice that takes anything from 3.5 to 4.5 hours. They offer frequent leaving times from the main stations in both cities. They are comfortable and very affordable. 

7. What are the types of accommodation offered in Porto? 

Porto has various accommodation options, including budget hostels, designer hotels, mid-scale accommodation, luxury hotels facing the river, and temporary apartment rentals. Most tourists like staying around the Ribeira, Baixa, and Cedofeita neighborhoods of Porto. 

8. Should I stay overnight in Porto after traveling from Lisbon? 

An overnight stay in Porto is highly recommended. Porto has its own character, history, wine caves, and river views that should not be missed in 2-3 days

9. Are there sightseeing stops from Lisbon to Porto? 

Well, for those travelling from Lisbon to Porto, it is also possible to make stops at other tourist destinations like Coimbra, Fátima, Aveiro, and Nazaré

10. What is the preferred mode of transportation for first-time tourists?  

For someone visiting a country for the first time, the train is definitely the most preferable option considering its speed, comfort level, accessibility to central stations, and availability. It is a hassle-free mode of transport to travel from Lisbon to Porto. 

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Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

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Visit the stores, indulge in delicious dim sum or authentic congee, enjoy boba, or pick up a fortune cookie flavored with green tea from the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory. Lovers’ Lane Enjoy a peaceful stroll along Lovers' Lane, the Presidio's oldest footpath, for a treat outside. When on vacation in San Francisco, the roughly half-mile trail is the ideal location. Stroll hand in hand with your significant other or find a moment of solitude amidst the trees. The trail is rated easy to moderate and has pavement. The walk takes about half an hour. Palace of Fine Arts Architect Bernard Maybeck created the Neoclassical Palace of Fine Arts for the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exhibition. He imagined it to be a Roman ruin that would be demolished once the fair was over. Rather, a committed group of locals preserved the cherished building, which by the late 1950s had truly become a ruin. It was more permanently rebuilt in the ensuing ten years and is still a breathtaking landmark. Situated in a park at the edge of the Presidio, the free attraction boasts a stunning 162-foot-tall open-air rotunda. It overlooks a serene lagoon and is flanked by two Corinthian colonnades. It's a fantastic location for your next Instagram photoshoot, meeting spot, or stroll. Oracle Park Cheering on the Giants at Oracle Park is a sign of support for the San Francisco natives. While baseball enthusiasts will want to sit in the 100s near the field, this waterfront stadium's upper deck offers breathtaking views of the bay. This is seriously one of those times when it pays off to sit in the nosebleeds. Just remember to pack a glove and be prepared to catch a home run or foul ball if necessary. Alamo Square Park One of the most photographed locations in San Francisco is Alamo Square Park, primarily because it provides the ideal angle for photographing the pastel-colored Painted Ladies. They are also known as the Victorian-style homes made famous by the television series Full House. However, it also provides an amazing 360-degree view of the city. Bring a blanket and a snack so you can enjoy people-watching for as long as you want. TreasureFest Although there is some excellent vintage shopping in San Francisco, Treasure Fest may be the best place to locate a few unusual pieces. The outdoor market, formerly called Treasure Island Flea, features apparel, antiques, handcrafted goods, and more. In addition, there are lots of food trucks available to feed the famished masses. This flea is open only a few weekends a year; check the website for schedules and locations. Bay Cruise Take a bay cruise to experience the city from a different angle. This will let you get up close to some of the attractions, such as Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge. While out on the water, keep a watch out for seals and other marine life. You can reserve a thrilling 90-minute inflatable raft excursion with Bay Voyager or an hour-long tour with Blue and Gold Fleet. There are numerous options for boat tours. Exploratorium A "public learning laboratory" and museum, The Exploratorium lets anyone become a crazy scientist. With the resources at their disposal, visitors can unleash their creativity. They become active explorers, creating anything they can dream up. It's no surprise that kids love this place, but Thursday nights are adult-only at the museum, so you can go without kids. If not, visit at any time to engage with the exhibits and listen to regular speakers. SFMOMA Art It would be an understatement to say that the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is enormous. Moreover, the museum is over 45,000 square feet, spread across seven gallery floors. It is crammed full of contemporary artwork, pictures, sculptures, and much more. You could certainly explore SFMOMA and take in everything it has to offer for a full day, if not longer. Snack at the Ferry Building Searching for a delicious treat? Visit the historic Ferry Building, a marketplace with a variety of locally sourced treats. They offer sweet treats from the Donut Farm and foamy beers from Fort Point Beer Co.  Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays are market days when local purveyors come in to sell their products directly from the farms (or straight from the studio). If you're lucky, you might even visit on one of these days. San Francisco Botanical Garden The most amazing flora in the city can be found at the 55-acre San Francisco Botanical Garden. Strolling through the various gardens will make you feel as though you're in the Andes one minute and the Mediterranean the next. If you're visiting during the blooming season, make sure to stop by and take a whiff of the magnolia collection. This location is especially well-known for the flowers from December through March. Tiki Drink in the Tonga Room There are plenty of great restaurants and bars in the city that will gladly bring you a drink. However, only a few are perhaps as famous as the Tonga Room. Travelers have always loved the Fairmont San Francisco's tiki-style bar. This is despite its oddball setting in the Bay Area. Transport yourself to the tropics with a fruity cocktail as well as some bite-sized treats inspired by islands. Outdoor Music Festival Those who attend festivals frequently are probably familiar with Outside Lands, which is one of the world's highest-grossing music festivals. Every August, Golden Gate Park hosts a three-day festival. It draws hundreds of thousands of attendees and dozens of top-notch bands. The Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival, which ends the season with lovely folk music, and the Stern Grove Festival, which offers free outdoor concerts all summer long, are less well-known but still worthwhile visits. Walt Disney Family Museum Any Disney enthusiast visiting San Francisco should not miss the Walt Disney Family Museum. The museum provides plenty of insider knowledge along with interactive exhibits that highlight the personal side of the man behind the brand. Original storyboards, vintage movie posters, Disney memorabilia, and some of Walt Walton's personal belongings are among the items on exhibit. You will undoubtedly come away inspired. It will make you want to watch your beloved animated classic again. Lombard Street The location that most embodies the distinctively hilly and winding terrain of San Francisco is Lombard Street. It is also referred to as the "crookedest street in the world." It zigzags through eight steep turns on the hill between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets. Although you can walk the street and see the houses along the way if you're prone to motion sickness, it's a fun little stretch for a leisurely drive. Davies Symphony Hall A performance at the Civic Center neighborhood's Davies Symphony Hall is a visual as well as auditory feast. Attend a traditional concert or the San Francisco Symphony's special screenings. Here, a big-screen blockbuster film is shown with a live soundtrack provided by the orchestra. Visit the symphony's website to view the schedule.   The Weed Dispensary Are you eager to experience something that is distinctly San Francisco? Visit one of the many dispensaries in the city. Despite your stance against marijuana use, it can still be interesting to observe this booming industry up close. Since the state legalized cannabis for adult use in 2016, the practice has developed into a full-service way of life. Consider it like visiting a winery. To get assistance, simply ask a helpful "budtender." Use Weedmaps to locate a place. Ghirardelli Square You probably have a sweet tooth if the name Ghirardelli Square sounds familiar to you. The renowned chocolate company of the same name once called the entertainment and retail complex between Fort Mason and Fisherman's Wharf home. Ghirardelli relocated its headquarters to the neighboring city of San Leandro in 1966. However, the Chocolate Experience, which includes a sundae station and a pick-and-mix bar, faithfully honors the site's past. Visit its nearby eateries as well as bars for a larger bite or stop in for a taste. Mission Murals Take a self-guided tour of the Mission Murals to see some amazing street art for nothing. Even though there are over a thousand murals lining the streets, the best way to see them is to stroll down Caledonia, Clarion, Balmy, and Horace Alleys. Alternatively, you can just explore the neighborhood and pick your own favorite mural. Palace Hotel Do you wish you were a little more regal? For afternoon tea, proceed to the Palace Hotel. The hotel's Garden Court dining room hosts a traditional ceremony every Saturday. There, stands of traditional English bites, such as finger sandwiches and scones, adorn the tables and provide a perfect pick-me-up for both locals and hungry tourists. Wrapping Up So, this was a list of enjoyable things to do in San Francisco over the weekend. We could probably make this guide ten times longer with all the things we could do in SF for weekend adventures. The options are as varied as the city itself. However, it is best to take things a little at a time. We hope this guide will help you choose a few things to do during your next trip to San Francisco. For every weekend visitor, the City by the Bay guarantees an amazing experience, ranging from culinary delights and historical excursions to outdoor adventures and cultural explorations. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Art, Architecture, And Azaleas: 24 Things To Do In Savannah The Best Things To Do In Moab Utah For Outdoor Enthusiasts From Festivals To Spas: The Top Things To Do In Park City Utah