If you’re fantasizing about a European adventure that encompasses picturesque landscapes, lively cities, and the excitement of border crossing by train, then a ride on the train from Barcelona to Lisbon is a must-have on your travel list. This is not a journey that provides merely transportation but an experience, combining the cultural splendor of Spain with Portugal’s soulful charm.
Let’s take a look at how to travel from Barcelona to Lisbon by train, what to expect along the way, and how to make the most of this epic Iberian adventure.
Is There a Direct Train from Barcelona to Lisbon?
So far, there is no direct high-speed train from Barcelona to Lisbon. But that doesn’t mean it’s not worth the trip—it means you’ll have to make one or two strategic changes of trains or take an overnight trip. There are two primary methods to take this route by train:
-
Daytime Journey with Transfers
-
Overnight Train Options (Mixed Train-Bus)
Let’s examine them.
Option 1: Daytime Journey with Transfers
If you like to travel during the day and view the countryside, you can make the journey from Barcelona to Lisbon with a stop in Madrid, and then from Madrid into Portugal.
Route Breakdown:
Barcelona to Madrid
-
Train: AVE High-Speed Train
-
Duration: ~2.5 to 3 hours
-
Departure Station: Barcelona Sants
-
Arrival Station: Madrid Atocha
Madrid to Lisbon
-
There was once a direct evening train (Lusitania Express), but this has been suspended since 2020. Instead, you can:
-
Travel by train to Badajoz (Spanish-Portuguese border) and then switch to a Portuguese train or bus to Lisbon.
-
Or travel by Renfe train from Madrid to Vigo or Salamanca, then switch to a CP (Comboios de Portugal) train to Lisbon.
-
Some routes have a bus leg because train facilities are restricted over the border.
Travel Time Estimate:
Plan for the entire trip to take 10 to 12 hours, depending on the connections.
Recommended Booking Websites:
-
Renfe (Spain’s National Rail)
-
CP – Comboios de Portugal
-
Omio or Trainline for joint tickets
Option 2: Travel at Night (Train + Bus)
Traveling at night is a convenient option if you would like to save on hotel fees and make the most out of your daytime sightseeing.
Popular Choice:
-
Train from Barcelona to Madrid (night departure)
-
Brief transfer or overnight in Madrid
-
Night bus from Madrid to Lisbon
Some companies operate night buses:
-
FlixBus
-
Alsa
-
Eurolines
These buses are surprisingly cozy with reclining seats, Wi-Fi, and charging stations.
-
Duration: 12–14 hours overall
-
Bonus: You wake up in Lisbon ready to explore!
What You’ll See on the Journey
Though Spain and Portugal’s rail networks are not as linked as the rest of Europe, the scenery still makes it worth the trouble.
Expect:
-
Rolling hills and olive groves in Castilla-La Mancha
-
Charming old towns such as Mérida or Salamanca (if you go via them)
-
Open fields and vineyards in Portugal’s Alentejo region
-
A last, unforgettable arrival in Lisbon, set atop its seven hills over the Atlantic
Arrival in Lisbon: What’s Next?
You will probably arrive at Lisbon Oriente Station or Santa Apolónia, which are both well linked to the city’s metro and bus network.
Once in Lisbon, you can dive into:
-
Alfama’s narrow cobbled streets and Fado music
-
Belém’s pastries and famous tower
-
Rides on Tram 28 through historic neighborhoods
-
Day trips to Sintra or Cascais
Tips for a Smooth Journey
-
Book in advance: Especially for high-speed trains and overnight buses
-
Check luggage allowances for bus travel (more restrictive than trains)
-
Bring snacks and water, especially on long stretches without food service
-
Use rail passes like the Eurail Spain–Portugal pass if you’re doing more train travel in Iberia
Final Thoughts
Traveling from Lisbon to Barcelona by train is not about transporting yourself as rapidly as possible from A to B—it’s about soaking in the journey. From Spain’s vibrant cities to Portugal’s relaxed coastal atmosphere, the journey is a slow-travel experience that gets to the heart of Iberia.
So, if you’re a rail romantic, a culture sleuth, or just someone who relishes an off-the-beaten-path travel agenda, Lisbon-bound journeys by train will provide you with tales, views, and soul.
Book your Taxi through Taxxilo.com to go any where in Barcelona or to go BCN Train Station.
Leave a Comment