Portugal is a popular destination for all kinds of travellers, from resorts in the Algarve to Lisbon hotels. However, many who want to really see the country may be concerned about how to get around without a car. So, this article will explore how easy or difficult it is to get around on trains, buses, and even on foot.

Travelling by Train 

One of the best ways to get around Portugal is by train. The national rail system (Comboios de Portugal) is fantastic and connects major cities to many smaller towns. It’s an affordable option that runs all along the coast, and there’s even a high-speed Alfa Pendular train that goes up to 220 km/h. The trains in Portugal make the country feel small.

For a more scenic trip, you can opt for the InterRegional or Regional trains that go a little slower. These routes are almost always passing thorough stunning countryside, and tickets can be easily purchased online.

Biking and Walking

For those looking for an active and more immersive way to explore Portugal, biking or walking is doable. In fact, it’s a really safe and accessible way to see both the nature and small villages alike. There are bike-sharing programs like GIRA, but you may want to rent a bike for longer periods of time to go between towns, which is also possible.

The Portuguese Camino Coastal Route is the go-to trail which can be covered in well under 2 weeks, and there are a few options. You can head along the coast and then inland towards the famous Santiago de Compostela in Spain, a deeply historic pilgrimage. You can head off from eitherPorto or Baiona. To make life easier, Santiago Ways can provide the route and book your accommodation for you along the way. It’s a company with strong reviews and customer support, meaning your walk across Portugal just got a lot easier.

Bus Travel in Portugal

Beyond trains and hiking, Portugal has an established bus network that makes it possible to reach almost any part of the country. Quite literally, with a bus, you can go anywhere. Timetables and tickets may be trickier in rural areas, but for common routes, Rede Expressos and FlixBus makes things easy with AC, WiFi, and comfortable seating. In the cities, buses are easy (and trams are an option, too), but just be sure to really understand the timetables in rural areas as they will go less frequently.

Can You Hitchhike in Portugal?

Hitchhiking in Portugal is indeed legal, and it is one option to go with, particularly as a Plan B or last resort. It’s not as common as in some other parts of Europe, but the Portuguese are known for being friendly and may offer a ride. 

It’s generally considered safe, even in rural areas, but of course the usual precautions should be taken. A good spot will be outside gas stations or on the outskirts of towns (people leaving towards the next town or city). Having a sign with your destination may help, and English is relatively well spoken though learning a few phrases goes a long way.

Final Word

While it has a vast amount of landscapes and coastal beauty, Portugal can feel relatively small once you realise how accessible it is to get around. Driving is absolutely not a necessity unlike the US, and you often are left with a number of options to get around.