Travelling Portugal by Bus

Buses are often the cheapest way to travel between Portuguese cities, and they reach many towns the trains don’t. Here’s a guide to long-distance buses in Portugal: the main companies, stations and when the bus beats the train.

Quick answer: the main long-distance companies are Rede Expressos and FlixBus. In Lisbon, most buses leave from Sete Rios or Oriente. Buses are usually cheaper than the train and go direct to places like Fátima, Nazaré, Óbidos and many Algarve resorts. Book online for the best fares.

When to take the bus

• Towns without good train links: Fátima, Nazaré, Óbidos, Peniche and many villages.
• The Algarve: direct buses to resorts like Albufeira and Lagos. See Lisbon to the Algarve.
• Budget travel: often cheaper than the train.

When the train is better

• Lisbon to Porto: the Alfa Pendular is faster and more comfortable. See Lisbon to Porto by train.
• Short city hops: Sintra, Cascais and Braga are easiest by train. See the train guide.

Practical tips

• Stations: check which station your bus leaves from, as cities can have several.
• Tickets: book online or at the station. Seats are often assigned.
• Luggage: large bags go in the hold.
• Comfort: coaches have air conditioning and often Wi-Fi.
• Regional buses serve villages, but services are less frequent on weekends.

More: Portugal without a car, day trips from Lisbon by train and Portugal on a budget.

Prices and details change, so please double-check before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us in the groups.