How to Book Train Travel From Portugal to France

If your travels take you from Portugal to France, riding by rail is a wise transportation method. You have several options for this trip, from multicountry passes to sleeping quarters. Expect tickets to be moderately priced. Here's how to book your ticket.

Things You'll Need

• Passport

Instructions

Book Your Train Travel From Portugal to France

1. Call Rail Europe at (888) 382-RAIL (382-7245) to book your ticket, or visit the Rail Europe Web site (see the Resources section below).

2. Decide on a class of service and time of arrival at your destination. Portugal gives you first- or second-class options. First class includes meals, drinks, assigned seats and other amenities.

3. Book your tickets through a travel agent if you prefer some help. You can book a Portugal train up to 60 days in advance, and passes are valid for specified periods, described at the point of purchase.

4. Consider purchasing a multicountry railpass if this is just one leg of your trip. You'll enjoy unlimited train travel throughout designated European countries.

Travel From Portugal to France

1. To get from Portugal to France, you can either select the Lisbon-to-Paris direct route or travel from Lisbon to Madrid and then to Paris.

2. Arrive at the station and check signs to locate your departure platform. If you're traveling from Lisbon's Rossio Station, look for the Madrid- or Paris-bound train up to 30 minutes before departure.

3. Pack plenty of reading material or music. The journey from Lisbon to Paris takes over 24 hours, so plan accordingly.

4. Present your ticket to the conductor when requested. In Portugal, you'll incur steep fees if you misplace your ticket.

5. Opt for the slower, less-expensive SNCF routes or take a TGV express train for continued travel within France.

Tips & Warnings

• Book tickets online to avoid language barriers and take advantage of Web-only discounts. Saver passes and youth discounts are also available.

• In Portugal, "Rapidos" trains are the fastest, most expensive trains. Regional trains are far less costly but have multiple stops.

• Be aware of rush-hour delays and peak times. Weekdays are busiest in the early morning and evenings, so give yourself more time during these hours.

• Strikes are fairly common among train employees, especially in France. Check schedules before departing for confirmation.

• Train travel from Portugal to France is generally very safe, but always keep an eye on belongings and valuables.