If you have a bit of the Grinch in you, one of the funniest films (to watch on Netflix), or Bruno Aleixo (the mythical Portuguese comedy character), then you’re probably sick of hearing about the festive season. However, if you love elves and the white-bearded old man, it’s time to celebrate Christmas on rails.
From trips aboard a traditional streetcar to historic trains, get ready to parade through the streets of Porto and beyond. After all, you’ll also be transported to other landscapes, whether it’s to see the “biggest Christmas tree in the country” or to explore the Aveiro district. An article for those who like Christmas walks.
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Christmas streetcar on the streets of Porto
Until January 6, 2025, you’ll be able to travel in a historic and special vehicle: the traditional Christmas Tram.
This year, the vehicle has been decorated to perfection thanks to the help of users of the Albergues do Porto, as well as Heitor Correâ and Oaktree (urban artists).
If you want to go on this ride, then these are the two lines that make the magical journey:
- Line 1 (Infante – Passeio Alegre)
- Line 18 (Carmo – Passeio Alegre)
Tickets cost €3.5 for children and €6 for adults, and can be bought from the driver. It should also be noted that the Andante Pass is valid for journeys on board the Christmas Tram.
Christmas Steam Train
Departing from the emblematic São Bento Station, the Historic Train takes passengers to the “biggest Christmas Tree in Portugal”, in Ermesinde, in the municipality of Valongo.
According to the official CP – Comboios de Portugalwebsite, the journeys take place on December 14 and 15, 21 and 22, 28 and 29, and January 4 and 5. Tickets cost €11 for adults and €5.50 for children aged between 4 and 12.
Vouga Historic Train
Now it’s time to leave Greater Porto and take a hop over to Aveiro. Located less than an hour’s drive from Invicta, the “Portuguese Venice” is the starting point for an unforgettable journey on the only narrow-gauge line in operation in Portugal.
There, Christmas on rails continues aboard the Vouga Historic Train, which stops in Macinhata do Vouga, not forgetting a visit to the “biggest and smallest Santa Claus in the world”, in Águeda. The trips run until January 4, 2025, with adults paying €39 and children aged 4 to 12 paying €24.