Can someone double check my findings here? I'm considering flying into Lisbon (flights are shorter) as opposed to Porto and if I do that I'm thinking of taking a train from Lisbon to Porto.
Looking at https://www.cp.pt there are several options out of Lisbon but I'm thinking that the best option is use the station "Lisboa - Oriente" to "Porto - Campanha". Does that look like the correct trains?
Edit: I see that Chani mentioned "Take the train to Porto-Companha" here: https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/portugal/2-nights-between-lisbon-and-porto-traveling-by-train so I think I have my stations correct above.
Next, besides the speed and travel time does anyone know if there's a marked difference in comfort between the Alfa Pendular and Intercidades trains? The IC train is slower and stops more that the AP but the IC only about 30 mins longer than the AP betwen Lisbon and Porto. The IC train 5 Euros cheaper. Wondering if it would be a mistake to take the IC, as it may more crowded and an older less comfy train. Any thoughts appreciated here.
Edit: I see that Chani mentioned "The AP trains are more comfortable than the IC trains." here: https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/portugal/2-nights-between-lisbon-and-porto-traveling-by-train so I think I will pay more and take the AP!
And finally, does anyone know if the trains are requiring proof of vaccination and/or negative covid test. I didn't see either being required on CP.PT site but I'd be shocked if I didn't need one or the other to ride the train. Obviously, this is subject to change next year depending on what happens with Delta vs. Omicron.
Thank you,
Jeff