Hello,
I am soon travelling to Portugal, and plan to avail of the interesting looking railway system there.
Doing some research, me and my friend have discovered the Portugal Rail Pass, offered by the main national passenger operator CP (Comboios de Portugal). This seems to offer great value, at just €129 for a week's unlimited travel in Second Class, however I am confused as to how this ticket is used.
Here is a link to the page for the ticket:
I note that it states:
I don't fully understand what this means. Does this refer to the use of Alfa Pendular and Intercidades trains, where presumably one must acquire a reservation prior to travel, or does this also include the Regional and Urban trains? If so, can this be done online? If not, are queues at ticket offices a problem, and can you make all of your bookings at once?
All assistance is much appreciated.
I am also interested in recommendations for traction and routes that I should take a look at. I know the Douro Valley line with the EE 1400s is an absolute must, but other than that I am a bit in the dark. Whilst I've always been passively interested in Portugal, I have never really paid much attention to the scene there, so any suggestions will be taken on-board. Thanks!
I am soon travelling to Portugal, and plan to avail of the interesting looking railway system there.
Doing some research, me and my friend have discovered the Portugal Rail Pass, offered by the main national passenger operator CP (Comboios de Portugal). This seems to offer great value, at just €129 for a week's unlimited travel in Second Class, however I am confused as to how this ticket is used.
Here is a link to the page for the ticket:
Portugal Rail Pass - for who do not live in Portugal | CP
Buy your Portugal Rail Pass now and travel round Portugal as often as you want for 3 to 7 days. Further details.
www.cp.pt
I note that it states:
Before each journey, you have to ask get your ticket from a ticket office or, exceptionally, from the ticket inspector on the train by presenting your card.
I don't fully understand what this means. Does this refer to the use of Alfa Pendular and Intercidades trains, where presumably one must acquire a reservation prior to travel, or does this also include the Regional and Urban trains? If so, can this be done online? If not, are queues at ticket offices a problem, and can you make all of your bookings at once?
All assistance is much appreciated.
I am also interested in recommendations for traction and routes that I should take a look at. I know the Douro Valley line with the EE 1400s is an absolute must, but other than that I am a bit in the dark. Whilst I've always been passively interested in Portugal, I have never really paid much attention to the scene there, so any suggestions will be taken on-board. Thanks!