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Traveling between Madrid and Lisbon has always been a journey worth taking, whether for business, leisure, or exploring the cultural gems of both cities. Starting in 2025, travelers can once again enjoy a seamless and efficient travel experience with the return of the night train service between Madrid and Lisbon. After a hiatus, the famed Lusitânia and Sud-Expresso night trains are set to be reinstated, providing a unique and comfortable alternative to flying or taking a long bus ride.
The night train service between Spain and Portugal has been a beloved mode of transportation for decades, offering travelers the luxury of saving a night’s accommodation while traveling overnight to their destination. However, after some years of suspension due to operational changes and evolving transportation preferences, the service is now making a comeback.
This revival comes as part of an initiative by the Spanish and Portuguese governments, aiming to boost sustainable travel and improve connectivity between the two Iberian capitals. With more people seeking eco-friendly alternatives to flying and opting for slower, more scenic routes, the night train offers an ideal solution for both tourists and locals.
For many, the attraction of the Madrid-Lisbon night train lies not only in its convenience but also in the comfort it offers. Passengers can board the train in Madrid’s Chamartín Station, where they will find a range of sleeping options designed to suit different budgets and preferences. The Lusitânia and Sud-Expresso trains will feature compartments with both standard and more luxurious options, including private sleepers for those who prefer more privacy during their overnight journey.
The trains are equipped with essential amenities, such as comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, electricity outlets, and onboard dining services, so passengers can unwind as they make their way toward Portugal’s capital. The return of these night trains presents a valuable way to travel long distances in comfort, avoiding the hassle of airports and allowing travelers to rest throughout the journey.
One of the most significant advantages of the Madrid-Lisbon night train service is the ability to travel overnight and wake up in the heart of a new city. This not only saves time but also avoids the need for an overnight hotel stay. As many travelers know, hotel prices can skyrocket in popular cities like Madrid and Lisbon, particularly in the summer months. With the night train, you can essentially have a night’s rest and wake up at your destination, ready to explore or begin your workday.
Moreover, the environmental impact of train travel is significantly lower than air travel. The European Union is placing more emphasis on reducing carbon emissions, and with climate-conscious travelers in mind, the return of the night train is a step forward in reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation.
The revived night train service between Madrid and Lisbon will operate on select nights, with departures from Madrid’s Chamartín Station in the evening, allowing passengers to relax and sleep through the journey. The train will take about 10 hours to reach Lisbon, meaning that travelers can expect to arrive at the Lisbon Oriente Station by morning. The Sud-Expresso, in particular, will run its familiar route, continuing to offer a direct and efficient service.
The Spanish and Portuguese rail companies have made a commitment to ensure that the journey is both fast and comfortable. This is especially beneficial for travelers who want to minimize their travel time while enjoying a unique experience that is more about the journey than the destination.
Ticket prices for the revived night train will vary depending on the level of comfort selected. Budget options will include standard seating or shared compartments, while travelers seeking more privacy and luxury can book private sleeping compartments. Prices will be competitive compared to both airfares and bus tickets, and the flexibility in ticket classes will make it an affordable option for various types of travelers.
Booking tickets will be available through the official rail service websites of Renfe (Spain) and Comboios de Portugal (Portugal), and train services will be integrated into popular travel booking platforms as well. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure the best prices and preferred sleeping arrangements.
While the return of the night train is a significant improvement for cross-border travel between Spain and Portugal, future developments are set to make the journey even faster. In addition to the Lusitânia and Sud-Expresso, both countries are planning a high-speed rail connection, the AVE, which will reduce travel time between Madrid and Lisbon to just around three hours, a major reduction from the current journey time of about 10 hours.
This high-speed train is expected to revolutionize travel between the two cities, making it easier for both tourists and business travelers to move between them without the need for long flights. The project is still in its early stages but promises a bright future for rail travel across the Iberian Peninsula.
The return of the night train between Madrid and Lisbon marks a nostalgic return to an efficient and comfortable way of traveling. For those seeking an eco-friendly, time-saving, and relaxed method of travel, the revived Lusitânia and Sud-Expresso trains will offer an unforgettable experience. With additional future improvements like the high-speed AVE train, the connection between Madrid and Lisbon will only continue to grow stronger, making it easier than ever to explore two of Europe’s most vibrant cities.
So, whether you’re traveling for business, leisure, or simply to experience the charm of overnight train travel, the Madrid-Lisbon night train is back, making it the perfect choice for those looking to travel in style and comfort.
