PORTUGAL TRAIN TOUR

Explore Portugal by Train

Portugal is one of the most popular holiday destinations. It’s great mix of cultural highlights, mouth watering food and sun soaked retreats attract visitors from all over the world. And one of the best ways to experience this gorgeous country is by rail on this 7 day Portugal Train Tour.

Exploring Portugal by train with us offers you the chance to relax by the beach in Cascais and visit the cities of Porto and Lisbon.

The Alfa Pendular fast trains take you around in no time, are very comfortable and reliable. So, let’s go!

Itinerary: 7 days

Porto – Lisbon – Cascais

Porto

Arrive in Porto, Portugal’s second city which flies unjustly under the radar when it comes to city breaks. However, Porto is well worth a visit with its traditional architecture and amazing food scene.

Set on the banks of the river Douro and close to the Atlantic Porto has a lot more to offer than just Port wine. Porto is a culture rich, fascinating, and vibrant city. It is also very walkable and best explored on foot.

Large villas walled with the typical blue tiles (Azulejos) on quaint cobbled streets dominate the city centre. Some of these could do with a lick of paint but that is exactly what creates the charming atmosphere of the baroque city centre. Admire the facades on a relaxing walk through the old town which is a World Heritage Site since 1996.

Sao Bento and Porto Cathedral

Sao Bento station where you take the fast train to Lisbon is a site itself. It’s probably the only monastery turned train station and a great place to start your Portugal Train Tour.

Admire the fine craftmanship of the tile painters who also lined this amazing building with their work. Wow factor guaranteed! Right next door is another must see. The Porto Cathedral is every baroque lover’s dream.

Ponte Luis and Port Wine

Cross the Douro river on the famous Ponte Luis I bridge which design reminds a bit of the Eiffel Tower. Again, walk it and catch some amazing views from this two-storey architectural masterpiece.

On the other side it is now time for some Port! Many port wine cellars line the riverbank and the hillside. We can arrange a tasting session for you, or you can just stop and shop for the best ports in the many cellars and bars. Try a refreshing Port & Tonic and don’t forget the food!

Food Heaven

Porto is every food lover’s heaven. Try the gut busting delicious Francesinhas, meat sandwiches swimming in beer and tomato sauce topped with cheese! Hearty and delicious.

But Porto is also famous for its octopus and seafood dishes in general. Porto’s food scene is indulgent, inexpensive, and delicious. Find the hidden restaurant gems of which there are many, book a food tour or ask for advice on where to eat. Either way you won’t go hungry.

2-night stay in a centrally located 4-star hotel

Then it’s time to say goodbye to Porto, a city you will have fallen in love with for sure. Take the fast train to Lisbon on this Portugal Train Tour. With a journey time less than 3hours you arrive in Portugal’s capital relaxed and ready to take on one of the world’s most fascinating cities.

Lisbon

There isn’t much more to say about Lisbon other than it is fantastic. Lisbon stands for a relaxed atmosphere, neoclassical architecture, iconic yellow trams, a gorgeous old town, and a buzzing nightlife. We recommend exploring the city with by trams because they are convenient, reliable, and great fun. It also saves you energy for walking the hilly old town. A ride on the 28 is a must for every first-time visitor.

Old Town Alfama

A visit to Alfama is a must. Crisscross the narrow streets and admire the eclectic architecture mix. Wander up and down, it is very hilly, the alleys and discover its charm. Full of little shops, bars and restaurants, this area is the beating heart of Lisbon. Walk up to the well-preserved Castelo de Sao Jorge and catch some wonderful views over Lisbon.

Portugal Train Tour

Baixa + Prace do Comercion

Baixa is basically the city centre of Lisbon and great for shopping. It is the most touristy part of the city yet absolutely worth a visit. The steel elevator Elevador de Santa Justa, another one of Lisbon’s landmarks is eye-catching. It connects Baixa with the Chiado, another lovely quarter of the city. Baixo also showcases amazing squares. Most notable the Praça da Figueira, the Praca de Rossio and the huge Praca do Comercion. An imposing square which leads to the riverbanks of the Tejo.

Belém

Belem is one of Lisbon’s most amazing quarters. Just west of the old town it is home of the gigantic Mosteiro dos Jeronimos. An amazing monastery and an architectural masterpiece. And Belem has another highlight, the Tower of Belem which is one of the landmarks of Lisbon.

Bairro Alto

Bairro Alta is a trendy area of Lisbon. It feels almost deserted during the day but comes to life at night. It’s full of cool bars, clubs, and great food outlets. Locals and tourists alike pack the small alleys and squares.

Glorious Food

The sweet Pastel de Nata is an absolute delicacy and a must try. But also try Portugal’s national dish, the Bacalao, a dried, salted codfish which is prepared in countless of different variations.

And as you know ATO loves surprise holidays and we have recently sent someone to Lisbon! Read all about her experience here.

3 overnight stays in a centrally located 4-star hotel

Tired and full of impressions from two wonderful cities? No worries, relaxation is in sight! Take the short train journey to the beautiful beach resort of Cascais.

Cascais

Cascais is a traditional seaside resort and oozes of class. Favourite retreat of the Portuguese nobility it has kept its charm. The historic centre is full of lavish villas, an imposing fort, fascinating museums, along with a buzzing holiday atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to relax after some exhausting days. And if you want to discover even more, magical Sintra is only a short train ride away too. Its exotic gardens and the 19th century, colourful Pena Palace all add to Sintra’s fairy-tale atmosphere. Otherwise relax on one of the many glorious Cascais beaches.

2 overnight stays in a 4-star hotel

Then it’s time to say goodbye to Portugal. But you have surely fallen in love with this fantastic country making you to come back again and again.

For more information and how to book your Portugal Train Tour contact us here.

See you in Portugal!

Portugal Train Tour

Brief Itinerary and Tour Highlights

Lisbon – Porto – Cascais

  • Centrally located 4 star-hotels
  • 2 nights in Porto
  • 3 nights in Lisbon
  • 2 nights in Cascais
  • Fast train tickets incl. seat reservation
  • Insider Tips & Tricks
  • Guided tours optional

From £699

FALL IN LOVE WITH PORTUGAL

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