BY TRAIN

Travelling by train to the Algarve Circuit is a scenic and comfortable option, especially if you are coming from Portugal or nearby regions. Here’s how you can 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 in 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. You can also take a shuttle from Portimão Praia da Rocha: GPS location