The Algarve train line (Linha do Algarve) is undergoing significant improvements, including electrification and station renovations.
For many years, the 140km railway has provided an affordable and practical option for traversing the Algarve region via public transportation. It stretches from Lagos in the west to Vila Real de Santo António on the eastern border. However, the line has faced challenges.
The aging trains are powered by diesel and can become uncomfortably hot during the summer, with open windows offering little relief. Travel times can be lengthy, requiring a change in Faro for journeys across the entire line.
While generally dependable, the absence of information displays and announcements at smaller stations can leave passengers unaware of delays until their train fails to arrive.
Fortunately, the planned upgrades promise to resolve these issues.
The key improvement is the complete electrification of the Algarve train line. Currently, only the Faro-Tunes section is electrified, also used by Inter-City and Alfa Pendular services to Lisbon. Full electrification is scheduled for completion by the end of 2024. This is expected to shorten east-west Algarve travel times by about 25 minutes, according to a report in The Portugal News.
Big Boost for East Algarve Travel
Infraestruturas de Portugal (IP) also plans a new timetable, including long-distance trains to and from Vila Real de Santo António.
This is great news for eastern Algarve residents who may soon travel to Lisbon and beyond from their local station. (The fast Alfa Pendular train to Lisbon continues to Porto).
Improved passenger information is also included in the upgrade plans, such as new public address systems and CCTV. This will be a significant improvement for users of unstaffed stations, replacing the existing paper timetables!
Getting Around in the Algarve
The Algarve train line is one part of an extensive transportation network across the region. Travel to and from the Algarve is also easy, with a growing number of direct routes in and out of Faro’s convenient airport.
Approximately 800 flights pass through Faro Airport weekly, with more in the summer. Multiple daily flights operate to and from London and various UK regional airports. The rest of Europe is well-connected. Destinations with direct flights to Faro include Helsinki, Vienna, Berlin, and Milan. Not only do these routes bring in tourists, but they also provide residents with convenient holiday and city break opportunities.
Flights to destinations further away are also increasing, with direct flights to New York recently added to those to Toronto.
After landing in Faro, the A22 toll road puts most of the Algarve within an hour’s drive, a significant improvement from the slower N125.
The Algarve train line is a short bus or taxi journey from Faro airport, connecting to most of the Algarve, Lisbon, and beyond. Faro is also a central hub for bus and coach routes, with the main station a short walk form the train station.
These improvements to the Algarve’s train services have been long-awaited. Reduced journey times, cooler trains, and a more eco-friendly experience will be appreciated by residents and visitors.
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