Train journeys are a different plan for enjoying the summer. Leaving the hustle and bustle of traffic behind, you can contemplate the landscape in a different way.
Through the window, and on board some historic trains, you can enjoy breathtaking scenery, or explore the remote corners of the interior. An excellent activity to do alone, with friends or as a family.
And these are some of our four favorite train journeys. Pay attention, though, as some are seasonal. So always check!
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Historic Douro Train
Traveling on the Douro Historic Train is one of the most beautiful trips you can take in Portugal. Stepping aboard the steam locomotive, built in 1925, is like taking a trip back in time. From Régua to Tua, this route embraces the Douro River as its protagonist.
This trip offers the chance to get up close and personal with the beautiful landscape of the Douro Wine Region, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. What’s more, you’ll find plenty of entertainment on board , with traditional music and singing groups from the region, not forgetting a typical glass of Port wine.
The journey on the Douro Historical Train also includes an interesting stop in Pinhão, where you can admire its famous tile panels. If you want to take this trip back in time, you can do so until October 27.
More information: CP’s officialwebsite
Miradouro Train
The Douro Historic Train usually only runs between June and October, making it a summer trip. Therefore, an alternative for any time of year could be the Miradouro Train, which runs between São Bento Station, Régua and Pocinho.
It is also one of the most beautiful train journeys Portugal has to offer. On board the Miradouro, you can take advantage of the panoramic windows of the vintage carriages and enjoy the poetic beauty of the Douro River and its terraces, with a breathtaking view.
More information: CP’s officialwebsite
Vouga Historic Train
The Vouga Historic Train, or Vouguinha as it is affectionately known, is another trip to consider for lovers of rail tourism. Like the Douro Historic Train, this is also a summer trip.
Getting on board the Vouguinha is synonymous with discovering the Vouga line, from Aveiro to Macinhata, in a century-old steam locomotive. It’s an incredible journey back in time, which lasts around two hours and includes a stop at one of the most Instagrammable destinations in the country – Águeda.
More information: CP’s officialwebsite
Bairrada Route
CP – Comboios de Portugal presents another program that’s worth visiting – the Bairrada Route. This route combines the tradition of suckling pig and the wines of this central region with the tranquil air of Curia. This tourist route costs €64.50 for those departing from Porto – Campanhã.
It should be noted that the Bairrada Route includes two options: a half-day program (Monday to Saturday), or a one-day program, which only takes place on Saturdays.
In the first case, in addition to the journey on the regional train, the route includes a visit to the Rota da Bairrada Association, with a commented tasting of regional wines and products, such as cheeses and sausages. In the second option, the route includes the same activities, plus a visit to the Bairrada Wine Museum and another to the Aliança Underground Museum.
More information: CP’s officialwebsite