Currently on a bus to Evora (change in Lisbon) from Porto. We had had 1st class train tickets but our route was cancelled. We’ve known about the cancellation for about a month. The Flix bus seats are really nice. I’d call the leg room poor, though there are footrests. The biggest thing I’m missing is the ability to get up and move around especially since it is a longer ride.
I went to Sao Bento in Porto and the friendly CP employee processed my train refund request.
I am hearing people are booking buses as back ups. We didn’t, I just booked a few days in advance. Buses are quite full so don’t wait until day off. One thing I didn’t realize is you can cancel Flix tickets and receive credit. I booked tickets to Porto airport instead of Porto Campanha and I was easily able to cancel and rebook. If you find that you will be using the train and not a booked bus ride, I would cancel the bus for the credit and so others can book the seat.
So far, the trains and buses have been easy to book and use.
Happy Travels