We've travelled a lot in Western Europe by train, and bus when we have to, but this one has me stumped. I can't even get a timetable now for this short run. Previously I could see the timetable but not be able to buy online. I keep checking to see if it becomes possible...but now NOTHING. Does anyone have the solution. We will be trying to get there on March 21, so we need some quick answers please. We will check in Tomar when we arrive for a 2 night stay to see if we can get them at the station also. Any help is appreciated. Thanks.
Posted by
Ontario, Canada
362 posts
www.cp.pt says
Momentary system error. Please try again or call 707 210 220 (costs shown on cp.pt).
Posted by
Calgary, AB, Canada
480 posts
Last April we booked once we were in Tomar. We had a bit of trouble figuring it out ourselves, and in the end someone at our bed and breakfast helped us. They were helpful at the train station, but my recollection is he only spoke portuguese. There is also a bus that runs to Coimbra, and the bus station is right by the train station.
It was not a direct train, you had to take it back towards Lisbon quite a few stops, then get off and change. I apologize but I have forgotten the name of the stop. I think there were 2 different options.
If you are in Lisbon right now, you might try the TI, , again in Tomar they only spoke Portuguese at the TI.
Posted by
Cascais, Portugal
1669 posts
I was able to pull up the schedule, including the many stops! From the multitude of stops, this looks like a train for which there is really no need to book ahead - even if the system will allow it. And, from what I’ve seen in central Portugal, this train may be pretty small and less than plush.
If I were doing the same trip, I would at least check into the bus to see if it is more direct.
I agree with the suggestion to talk to someone at a bigger train station or TI. But, I’m thinking you can likely buy on the day of your trip. Even if the staff at the train station only speaks Portuguese, you can just say Coimbra and hold up two fingers and point to the two of you (assuming it’s just two). Or use google translate to write a note asking for two tickets to Coimbra no return. Most Portuguese people are kind in dealing with English speakers. I’ve used the note trick many times and always had good success.
Posted by
OP
12 posts
Thanks very much for all the help. We finally did get back to the online schedule, and I took a screenshot of the train we wanted to take so I could show it to the ticket seller, if necessary. We considered the bus, but much prefer the train. We find it more relaxing somehow. Anyway, all went well. The ticket seller was there. I wished him a Bom Dia, held up 2 fingers, and said to Coimbra por favor. He smiled and took my passports for the half price fare. He told us we needed to change trains at Lamarosa, and we were done. Very easy. Thanks again for your help.