How do I get from Santiago de Compostela to Portugal?
You can travel from Santiago de Compostela to Portugal by bus, train, or car. Santiago de Compostela is in the northwest of the Iberian peninsula, about 55 miles (90 km) from the Portuguese border. There are train and bus services traveling south to cities like Porto and Lisbon, however, they are not direct and will require transfers. For the highest degree of freedom and flexibility, hire a private driver through Daytrip.
How do I get from Lisbon to Santiago?
To travel from Lisbon to Santiago de Compostela, you have several options. You can take a train or bus, however these options take between 6 and 10 hours and require transfers. Another option is to rent a car and drive north on the a1 for about 6 hours. There are no direct commercial flights between these locations.
How long is a train ride from Porto to Santiago de Compostela?
There are no direct trains between Porto and Santiago de Compostela, and the train ride takes between 4 and 10 hours depending on your layover options. If you would like to take mass transit, you will be better off taking a bus, which can do the journey in about 4 hours nonstop, or 6 hours with a transfer. Definitely book your ride ahead of time to avoid any hiccups to your travel plans.
How long should you spend in Santiago de Compostela?
Santiago de Compostela is quite a small city. Many people spend 1-2 days exploring the city's historic center, visiting the cathedral, attending the Pilgrim's Mass, and exploring nearby attractions like Monte do Gozo and Finisterre. If you’ve been hiking the Camino de Santiago before you arrive at Santiago de Compostela, consider a rest day before you get to Lisbon, as it is a very hilly city.
Overview: Car trip from Santiago de Compostela to Lisbon
You may have walked or cycled to Santiago de Compostela on the Camino de Santiago, but you are probably hoping to get to Lisbon a bit faster. The bus, train, and flight connections between these cities are not direct and require transfers of several hours, so we recommend hiring a private driver for a car trip to make the best use of your time abroad.
There are so many neat stops to make that this transfer will be the highlight of your vacation. As you travel down the western coast of the Iberian peninsula, you will see rugged cliffs and limestone shores carved out by the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Take your time to stop by seaside towns like Pontevedra for lunch and shopping, or take a boat along the canals of Aveiro.
A private driver from Daytrip will help you go off of the beaten path to admire Portugal’s religious history at Braga, which is home to 30 churches and is the religious capital of Portugal - a Vatican city of sorts. The Monastery of Batalha is another stop to make on your trip. This UNESCO World Heritage Site took 200 years to complete and is a cornerstone of Portuguese architectural and religious culture.
A customized road trip is the perfect way to see the best parts of Spain and Portugal you might otherwise miss!
About Lisbon
The name "Lisbon," or Lisboa in Portuguese, finds its roots in ancient times, believed to have been derived from the Phoenician words "Allis Ubbo," meaning "safe harbor." When you look at a map, you’ll see it is a fitting name.
Lisbon is nestled along the delta of the Tagus River as it meets the Atlantic Ocean on the Iberian peninsula. Lisbon has indeed served as a safe haven and target of conquest for various civilizations, from the Phoenicians and Romans to the Moors and Christians. Each one has left a mark on the city's landscape and identity. Who knows- maybe some ancient pilgrims also made the journey from Santiago de Compostela to Lisbon just like you?
### 3,000 Years of Lisbon
Lisbon’s legacy is a series of conquests of major European forces and religions. Founded by the Phoenicians around 1200 BC, it later became a prosperous Roman outpost known as Olissipo. Following centuries of Moorish rule, Lisbon was reconquered by Christian forces in the 12th century, ushering in a period of maritime exploration and global influence during the Age of Discovery.
The golden era of exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries brought untold riches to Lisbon, making it a hub of trade. In order to build their wealth, the Portuguese colonized resource-rich lands in India and portions of the African coast, including modern-day Angola, Mozambique, and Cape Verde. Brazil was Portugal’s biggest colony. Today, Brazil has 210 million Portuguese speakers, compared to Portugal’s 10 million population.
### Lisbon Today
Today, Lisbon stands as a vibrant metropolis. The city's historic neighborhoods, such as Alfama and Bairro Alto, are a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets, adorned with colorful tiles and full of little cafes and shops. Amidst this backdrop from a bygone era, you can visit architectural religious marvels like the Jerónimos Monastery and the Cathedral of Saint Mary Major. Or visit the iconic Belém Tower, which pays homage to Lisbon's past as an empire and maritime power.
But at the same time, Lisbon is full of contemporary culture and innovation. The city's dynamic arts scene is evident in its numerous galleries, street art displays, and avant-garde theaters. Modern architectural masterpieces, like the MAAT museum and the Vasco da Gama Bridge, stand as symbols of Lisbon's forward-thinking mindset.
From Santiago de Compostela to Lisbon: Travel tips
You are most certainly going to want to stop and take a break to stretch your legs during the six-hour drive from Santiago de Compostela to Lisbon. The distance is about 335 miles (540 km) and with so much to stop and see, it is worth the planning ahead. Here are our tips for getting the most out of the stops in your journey.
### Plan around siesta
In Spain, most businesses, including shops and restaurants, take a siesta and close for a few hours from after lunch until about 4:00 PM. Of the restaurants that stay open, many only serve drinks between meals.
Have snacks and water for the road trip, and plan your stops with the siesta in mind. Portugal doesn't take a siesta, so try to cross the border before lunch. Your Daytrip driver is a local and will be able to advise you as well.
The days in Spain and Portugal are longer and warmer than you may be used to. Due to the intense heat, these countries have a culture of doing more activities in the evening and nighttime. Dinner is around 9-11 PM, and you can expect restaurants to open later and serve meals later.
### Cool off at the Mira de Aire Caves
Speaking of the heat, if you are visiting in the warmer months, you can cool down in a cave. The Mira de Aire Caves were discovered in 1947 and are part of a 7-mile (11 km) cave system. Step into cathedral-like chambers full of stunning natural features and enjoy the constant 65 F (18 C) temperature. You can only visit with a guided tour, so make sure to book ahead and bring sturdy shoes for the slippery floors!
How to get from Santiago de Compostela to Lisbon
You have several options when choosing how to get from Santiago de Compostela to Lisbon, but the best combination of cultural experience, price, convenience, and speed is going to be with a private driver. Buses and trains all require transfers and take up to 10 hours, but a car ride will give you the flexibility you need to explore the countryside.
### Santiago de Compostela to Lisbon by Private Car with Daytrip
Traveling from Santiago de Compostela to Lisbon via a private driver offers the flexibility and convenience of door-to-door transportation, allowing you to tailor the journey according to your preferences and schedule. Customize your itinerary with Daytrip to get the most out of your transfer. Add sightseeings stops at destinations like Braga and Coimbra that you wouldn’t be able to visit if you take public transportation.
The best part, though? Your private driver will take you directly to your accommodation within Lisbon, and help with your luggage. No need to return a rental car or worry about parking on Lisbon’s hilly streets. Let Daytrip provide a seamless and comfortable travel experience from start to finish.
### Santiago de Compostela to Lisbon by Bus
While it's slower than other modes of transportation, the bus is a cost-effective option for budget-conscious travelers. Begin your journey by taking a bus from Santiago de Compostela to Porto, Portugal. The part of the journey typically takes around 3 to 4 hours. Upon reaching Porto, you'll need to transfer to another bus that travels from Porto to Lisbon. This leg of the journey takes approximately 3 to 4 hours. You'll then just need to get from the bus station to your accommodation.
### Santiago de Compostela to Lisbon by Train
Similar to the bus routes, the train also requires a transfer to Porto. Renfe, the Spanish national railway company, operates high-speed and regional trains on this route. This half of the journey takes approximately 2 to 3 hours. Once in Porto, you'll need to transfer to another train that travels from Porto to Lisbon. Portugal's national railway company, CP - Comboios de Portugal, operates regular train services between Porto and Lisbon. This half of the journey typically takes around 2.5 to 3.5 hours. Your train will arrive at one of Lisbon's main railway stations, such as Santa Apolónia or Oriente.
### Flights from Santiago de Compostela to Lisbon
There are no direct flights between these cities. Any flight would require a transfer to a major Spanish city, so skip looking for flights for this trip!
Things to do when you get to Lisbon
Believe it or not, Lisbon is 400 years older than Rome! With that much history and time to develop a vibrant culture, it is no wonder there are endless things to do when you get to Lisbon. Come see all the history that shaped the map of the Iberian peninsula. You’ve finished your camino to Santiago de Compostela, and now it is time to enjoy the city! Make sure these locales make it onto your itinerary:
### Lisbon’s Historic Alfama District
Welcome to Lisbon's Alfama District! Once you've unpacked and settled in, it's time to start the adventure aboard Tram 28, an absolute must-do for any visitor to the city. This charming tram ride promises a thrilling glimpse into Lisbon's soul. This iconic tram winds its way through the narrow streets and colorful neighborhoods, eventually leading you to the heart of Alfama.
Picture-perfect views await as you're dropped off right at the doorsteps of crown jewels of Lisbon’s architectural heritage, like the Estrela Basilica, St. George's Castle, and the Lisbon Cathedral. Visit the remnants of the city's ancient walls to see just how old Lisbon really is.
### Lisbon’s Coastal Belem District
Once you’ve seen all of Alfama, follow the shore of the Tagus River west to the Belem District. It is the perfect place to rest from all that walking on Lisbon’s hilly, cobblestone streets. Admire the iconic Torre de Belem, a monumental fortress that has stood sentinel at the mouth of the Tagus River since the 16th century. Then head to the beach to relax and catch some sun.
### The Lisbon Oceanarium
If you still can’t get enough of the ocean, make sure to stop by the Lisbon Oceanarium. As one of Europe's largest indoor aquariums, the Lisbon Oceanarium is a must-visit destination for any marine enthusiast. Prepare to be amazed as you encounter a mesmerizing array of sea creatures and the cycling of short-term exhibitions from all over the world.
### Portugal's National Tile Museum
You probably noticed an artistic theme of stunning hand-painted tiles as you walked around Lisbon. Portugal has a rich heritage in tile-making, and the National Tile Museum offers a captivating journey through centuries of craftsmanship and creativity. Don't miss the chance to take a piece of Portugal home with you! Explore the museum's collection and discover the perfect souvenir to commemorate your time in this enchanting country.
When is the best time to visit Lisbon
Lisbon has a Mediterranean climate characterized by gentle winters and hot summers. It is a popular destination year-round, but the best time to visit are the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn. Lisbon is also very hilly, so if you are heat-sensitive, avoid visiting in the summer. You may also have reduced accommodation rates and smaller crowds compared to the bustling summer peak if you visit during March-May or September-October.
Temperatures during spring and autumn hover comfortably between the mid-60s and low 70s Fahrenheit (approximately 18-24°C). During spring, you can enjoy the blossoming flowers and festivals. In autumn, the tree-lined streets become vibrant shades of red and yellow.
沿途参观这些景点
Pontevedra
Shaped by a rich maritime history, this seaside city has one of the largest historic quarters in the region. The Wright Side of History
Braga
Portugal’s ancient religious capital is chock full of churches, baroque architecture, and scenic side streets. Churches, Churches, Everywhere
Aveiro
Dubbed “the Venice of Portugal” because of its canals and gondola-like boats, visitors will find Aveiro has its own unique identity. The “Venice” of Portugal
Coimbra
Halfway between Lisbon and Porto, this varied and captivating city has a long history and vibrant atmosphere built around the country's oldest university. The Medieval Capital of Portugal
Batalha
Dominated by the great Dominican monastery of Santa Maria da Vitória, Batalha was developed alongside the Monastery after securing Portugal's independence. A City Built on Victory
Mira de Aire Caves
Elected as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal, the Mira de Aire Caves are the largest in Portugal at an astonishing 11 kilometres in length. An Underground Marvel
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