Best Ways to Travel From Paris to Lisbon


 

They may feel like to vastly different worlds, but Paris and Lisbon share a continental quarter, and though many miles lay between them, they are still fairly convenient to combine together as one trip. 

There are numerous ways to cover the distance, and they are all pretty flexible when it comes to budget. Here is everyone you need to know to take your Parisian dream into Portuguese territory. 

About Lisbon

Lisbon is the Portuguese capital, and it’s fair to say that there is nothing quite like it elsewhere in Europe. The culture, the food, the flair — Lisbon is the heart of Portugal’s eclectic nature, and the port of entry for most who venture to this land from international territory. 

Lisbon – by Ввласенко – Wikimedia Commons

It’s best to picture Lisbon as a melting pot of fantastic entertainment, wonderful hotels, a great nightlife scene, mind-blowing gastronomy, sterling architecture and a general good vibe throughout. 

A city that has survived earthquakes that would have taken down Buckingham Palace, only the sturdiest and most impressive structures remain. On ground level, there is much to love about Lisbon, especially if you are into music, good fun, and great memories. 

10 Things to Know Before Moving to Lisbon

Getting There

Getting from Paris to Lisbon isn’t the easiest journey. 1738km lies between them, as well as the entire country of Spain. That said, if you have the time and the patience, this can be one of the most memorable and enjoyable journeys to embark on. 

An array of different terrain and countryside lies between the two cities. If you opt to travel by land, then you’ll get the opportunity to bask in all of it. But let’s dive into your exact transport options before you commit to anything…

Transport in Lisbon: What You Need to Know

Transport Options

There are 4 ways to travel between Paris and Lisbon. They are plane, train, car or bus. Your choice of transportation will depend largely on your budget, and on the time of year during which you intend to visit. Remember, a budget can be big during off season, and during peak season the same budget is worth a lot less. 

Plane

To fly from Paris to Lisbon takes 2 hours and 25 minutes. Add an hour one each end for transport, as well as an additional hour for check in, and you’re looking at a journey of 5 and a half hours total. 

Lisbon – by Holger Uwe Schmitt – Wikimedia Commons

Generally speaking, this is actually a largely inexpensive way to get from Paris to Lisbon, as tickets can go for as little as twenty euros (if you book well, well in advance). That said, during peak season, the very same tickets can sell for hundreds of euros, so it really all depends on timing with this one. 

Train

At this time, there is actually no such thing as a direct train journey between Paris and Lisbon. The two countries have yet to intersect in this way, but one can still make the most of a some ground travel by taking the train from Paris to Bordeaux, and then flying to Lisbon from there. 

This gives you more of an adventure en route to Lisbon. It divides the journey in half and offers you a chance to see the best of the French countryside, before hopping on a plane to bypass the Spanish territory altogether and land in Lisbon in just two hours. 

Lisbon – by Holger Uwe Schmitt – Wikimedia Commons

Alternatively, look into taking the train between Paris and Hendaye. From there, there is another train that runs through the night into Lisbon. 

Car

Naturally, there is no better way to see all that Europe has to offer than by traveling by car at your own time and pace. Renting a car in France is simple enough, and with the right clauses you’ll be able to take your car through international territories. 

Driving from Paris to Lisbon takes a total of 16 hours, provided one does not stop. Realistically, most people need to divide this journey in half and tend to stop over in Bilbao, Spain for an overnight stay. 8 hours of driving a day is much more manageable than 16! 

Lisbon – by Holger Uwe Schmitt – Wikimedia Commons

Alternatively, one could divide this joinery into three parts and stop once in the South of France, once in the center of Spain, and then finally in Lisbon. Ideal stopping points would be Toulouse, Madrid and, of course, Lisbon. 

Bus

Yes, one can take a bus between Paris and Lisbon! It’s a lengthy journey, totaling a bit over 26 hours, with one change in between. If you’re adamant to see the land, this is a great way to do it, but rest assured the journey is tedious and tiring, no matter how optimistic the traveler.

At most times during the year, it is actually cheaper to fly than to submit to the bus route. Keep and eye on your options and consider this a last resort!