Planning Your First Trip to Portugal

Focus your first trip on the Lisbon-Porto corridor, using the CP train network to travel between the two. Allocate at least 10 days to balance city exploration with a coastal or valley detour without rushing.

1. Choose your primary hub. Land in Lisbon and depart from Porto (or vice versa) to save time. This 'open-jaw' flight avoids wasting a day backtracking to your starting city.
2. Book the Alfa Pendular train. Use the Comboios de Portugal (CP) website to book your train tickets between Lisbon and Porto at least 2 weeks in advance. Opt for 'Conforto' class if the price difference is under $10; it offers more legroom and power outlets.
3. Limit your scope. For a 10-day trip, stick to Lisbon (4 days), Porto (3 days), and one region like the Douro Valley or Sintra (3 days). Trying to add the Algarve or the Azores to a first trip results in spending more time on transport than seeing the country.
4. Verify your accommodation zones. In Lisbon, stay near Baixa or Chiado for walkability, but be prepared for steep hills. In Porto, stay in the Ribeira district or near Aliados to minimize uphill walks with luggage.

Do I need a rental car?

No. Trains between major cities are excellent, and parking in historical centers like Lisbon and Porto is expensive and difficult to navigate.

Is English widely spoken?

Yes, in cities and tourist areas, English is widely spoken. However, learning 'Olá' (Hello) and 'Obrigado/a' (Thank you) is appreciated by locals.