Cheap Ways to Get Around Portugal: Trains, Buses, Rideshares and More!

Portugal offers a surprising number of travel options for budget-conscious travelers. Whether you’re exploring medieval towns, sunny coasts, or bustling cities, the country’s transport system is well-developed and surprisingly affordable. With a little planning and the right tools, getting around Portugal on a budget is not only doable—it’s often a rewarding part of the experience.

If you’re looking for affordable travel options within Portugal, you’ll find this guide covers the essentials: trains, buses, rideshares, metros, and even bicycles. Here’s everything you need to navigate Portugal without overspending.

Trains: Fast, Scenic, and Affordable

Portugal’s national rail system, Comboios de Portugal (CP), connects major cities and towns with various service tiers:

• Alfa Pendular – Fast, comfortable, and modern. Slightly more expensive but worth it for long-distance travel.
• Intercidades (IC) – A solid alternative to Alfa Pendular with wide coverage.
• Regionais and Interregionais – The cheapest option for short distances and rural destinations.
• Urbanos – Commuter trains in Lisbon, Porto, and Coimbra.

Typical prices:
Lisbon to Porto on Intercidades: €25–€30 (cheaper if booked early)
Local train fares: €2–€10 depending on distance

Apps/Websites:

• cp.pt – Official site for schedules and tickets
• CP mobile app – Buy tickets, view routes, and access discounts
• Omio – Compare train, bus, and carpool options

Budget tip: Look for the Passe Ferroviário Nacional (Green Rail Pass) — €49/month for unlimited travel on most routes.

Buses: Comprehensive and Cost-Efficient

When trains don’t reach your destination, long-distance buses are the next best thing. Portugal’s bus network reaches more towns and rural areas than rail.

Main Operators:

• Rede Expressos – Largest network; affordable and comfortable
• FlixBus – International and intercity; book early for cheap tickets
• Eva Transportes / Renex – Best for Algarve routes

Typical prices:
Lisbon to Faro: €8–€15
Lisbon to Évora: €6–€10

Apps/Websites:

• rede-expressos.pt
• flixbus.pt
• Omio

Budget tip: Book at least 2–3 days ahead to get the lowest fares, especially on FlixBus.

Rideshares and Carpooling: Flexible and Sociable

If you’re looking for more flexible or social affordable travel options within Portugal, rideshares and carpooling work well.

Options to explore:

• Uber and Bolt – Available in cities and towns, cheaper than taxis
• BlaBlaCar – Long-distance ridesharing with locals

Typical prices:
Porto to Lisbon (BlaBlaCar): €12–€18
Short Uber within cities: €4–€8

Apps/Websites:

• BlaBlaCar.com
• Uber and Bolt apps (Android/iOS)

Budget tip: Check BlaBlaCar for last-minute rides—cheap and reliable.

City Transit: Trams, Metros, and Buses

Portugal’s cities offer excellent and affordable public transport options.

Lisbon: Metro, trams, buses, funiculars. Viva Viagem card: €1.50 (reusable) + €6.60/day for unlimited travel.

Porto: Metro and bus networks are clean and efficient. Use the Andante card for day or multi-ride savings.

Faro & Coimbra: Local bus networks available at ~€1.50–€2.50 per trip.

Apps/Websites:

• Carris.pt (Lisbon)
• Metrodoporto.pt (Porto)
• Moovit and Google Maps for live schedules

Bicycles and Electric Scooters: Eco-Friendly and Cheap

For short distances, electric scooters and bikes are a fun, eco-conscious, and cheap way to explore cities.

Popular services:

• Gira Bikes (Lisbon)
• Bird, Bolt, Lime scooters in Lisbon and Porto

Typical costs:
€1 to unlock + ~€0.15/minute

Budget tip: Some hostels offer free or discounted bike rentals.

Ferries and Boats

Portugal’s ferry systems offer both practicality and beautiful views.

Lisbon: Cacilhas ferry from Cais do Sodré to Almada – just €1.50

Islands: Ferries connect Madeira and Azorean islands efficiently and affordably

Websites:

• Transtejo.pt (Lisbon ferries)

Tips for Affordable Travel in Portugal

• Book Early – Better prices for trains, buses, and rideshares
• Travel Off-Peak – Avoid holidays and rush hours
• Use Apps – CP, Omio, BlaBlaCar, Moovit help save time and money
• Walk or Rent a Bike – Especially in compact historic towns

Conclusion

Portugal makes budget travel easy. With so many affordable travel options within Portugal—from scenic train rides and national bus lines to Ubers and local ferries—you can explore every corner of the country without spending a fortune. Mix and match your transport modes, stay flexible, and let the journey become part of the adventure.