Spending two days in Lisbon and then heading down to the Algarve by train initially to Faro. Interested in hearing from those who have taken the the train: is there a preferred time to take this route ? (less crowded) Is it worth upgrading seats/cars? When/where/and how is the best way to secure round trip tickets? Any tips on either of the train stations in Lisbon or Faro?
As always thanks in advance for all replies AND sorry for being so needy!!!
I did the trip this past March so crowds were not an issue. It was fine, just like any other European train trip. Did not upgrade seats. Bought the tickets at the train station as we were doing the trip immediately after arriving from the US and didn't want to risk missing the train if the flight was late. But for the return trip I bought the tickets on line (cp.pt) which was very easy to do. There are several train stations in Lisbon (we went from Oriente - medium size and modern). The station in Faro is tiny - but not as tiny as the other train stations in the Algarve.
Taking the train from Lisbon to Faro is very easy, comfortable and inexpensive. If you purchase tickets online around 25-30 days out you get 40% off. I did this twice in the last three years to Lagos for 24€ return.
It really depends on the time of the year for crowding. In the summer months, and on weekends it is likely to be more crowded. Outside of the tourist season - not so much. With reserved seats - which you must have - it can only be so crowded.
I’ve gone both first and second class and likely won’t pay for first class in the future - even though it’s not that much more.
how long is the train ride from Lisbon to Faro? And how to get from Faro to Sevilla? obrigado!
Check "trainline.eu" to get info on options for departure and arrival times. Buying in advance gives nice discount. Hope this gives info you need. Have fun on your trip.
Faro is a working city and not the best base for an Algarve stay. There are numerous buses that head from the Algarve to Seville, but there is no train service.
