BY TRAIN

Taking the train to the Algarve Circuit is not only scenic but also a relaxing way to travel, especially if you’re coming from within Portugal or nearby regions. Here’s a guide to help you plan your train journey:

CP Trains (Comboios de Portugal)

Service Overview: CP, the national train operator, provides regular and reliable train services connecting major cities in Portugal. The key services to consider are the Alfa Pendular and Intercidades trains.

Local Tips

• Scenic Views: The train journey through the Algarve region offers beautiful scenic views of the coastline and countryside, making the trip enjoyable.
• Comfort and Convenience: Both Alfa Pendular and Intercidades trains are equipped with comfortable seating, air conditioning, and luggage storage, ensuring a pleasant travel experience.

Booking and Timetables

• CP Website: Visit the CP website (www.cp.pt) for detailed timetables, ticket prices, and booking options. The website is available in multiple languages.
• Mobile App: The CP mobile app provides convenient access to schedules, real-time updates, and ticket purchases.

From Lisbon

Departure Stations: Trains to the Algarve depart from two main stations in Lisbon: Oriente and Entrecampos. Both stations are well-connected to Lisbon Airport and other parts of the city via metro and taxis.

Train Options:

• Alfa Pendular: This is the fastest and most comfortable option, offering modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard catering. The journey from Lisbon to Portimão takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.
• Intercidades: Slightly slower than the Alfa Pendular but still comfortable and reliable, the Intercidades trains also provide a pleasant journey, taking about 3 to 3.5 hours to reach Portimão.
• Tickets: It’s recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during the F1 event. You can purchase tickets online through the CP website, at train stations, or via authorised travel agents.

From Porto

Route: Travelling from Porto to Portimão involves a transfer to Lisbon. First, take the Alfa Pendular or Intercidades train from Porto Campanhã station to Lisbon (approximately 2.5 to 3 hours), then transfer to a southbound train to Portimão.
Total Travel Time: The entire journey from Porto to Portimão takes around 6 to 7 hours, including transfer time in Lisbon.

From Faro

Direct Train: If you’re already in the Algarve region, taking a train from Faro to Portimão is straightforward. Regional trains operate frequently between Faro and Portimão, with a travel time of about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Tickets: Tickets for regional trains can be purchased at the station on the day of travel or online in advance.

From Other European Cities

International Connections: If you are travelling from Spain or other nearby European countries, consider the following:

• From Seville, Spain: Travel by train from Seville to Faro via a combination of Renfe (Spanish railway) and CP services. From Faro, take a regional train to Portimão.
• From Madrid, Spain: Take a Renfe train from Madrid to Lisbon, then transfer to a CP train from Lisbon to Portimão.

Arrival in Portimão

Portimão Station: The train station in Portimão is centrally located, making it convenient to reach local hotels and other amenities.
Transportation to the Circuit: From Portimão station, you can take a taxi or a local bus to the Algarve Circuit. Taxis are readily available at the station, and the journey to the circuit takes about 15 to 20 minutes.