
Santa Apolónia Lisbon
Lisbon's historic Santa Apolónia Station, a beautiful riverside terminus connecting you to Porto and beyond.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier ticketing

Santa Apolónia Lisbon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier ticketing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Lisbon's historic Santa Apolónia Station, a beautiful riverside terminus connecting you to Porto and beyond.
"A historic Lisbon neighborhood with all one wants to for a day trip."

🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Save time by purchasing train tickets online via CP Comboios Portugal's website.
🗺️ Ask for Directions
If unsure about platform locations, ask station staff to avoid missing your train.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Train Station Architecture
Santa Apolónia Station
Admire the beautiful, historic architecture of Lisbon's oldest railway terminus, a stunning building by the Tagus River.

Gateway to Porto
Santa Apolónia Station
This is the primary departure point for trains heading north to Porto, offering a scenic journey.

Proximity to Attractions
Near Santa Apolónia Station
Explore nearby attractions like the Fado Museum and the National Pantheon, or enjoy local cafes and restaurants.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Santa Apolónia Station
Ticketing and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Save time by purchasing train tickets online via CP Comboios Portugal's website.
🗺️ Ask for Directions
If unsure about platform locations, ask station staff to avoid missing your train.
💰 Toilet Payment
Carry cash for public toilet facilities, as card payment options may be unavailable or blocked.
🚶 Explore Nearby
Discover the Fado Museum and National Pantheon, or enjoy local eateries close to the station.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Save time by purchasing train tickets online via CP Comboios Portugal's website.
🗺️ Ask for Directions
If unsure about platform locations, ask station staff to avoid missing your train.
💰 Toilet Payment
Carry cash for public toilet facilities, as card payment options may be unavailable or blocked.
🚶 Explore Nearby
Discover the Fado Museum and National Pantheon, or enjoy local eateries close to the station.
📍 Convenient Hub
Santa Apolónia connects trains, buses, and the metro, making it a versatile transport point.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Santa Apolónia Station is recognized as Lisbon's oldest and a vital transport hub, praised for its historic architecture and convenient connections to trains, metro, and buses. While generally clean and easy to navigate, some visitors report long queues at ticket counters and issues with paid restroom facilities.
"This is where one takes the train to Porto from Lisbon. Station is easily accessible by the Blue Line in city. Once you exit, turn left for direct access to this station.
Generally clean and there are a few commerical areas to grab a snack from on the side. Overall a small station that is easy to navigate. You won't get lost."
Nabil R
"It’s a good station but the only problem is that some stations tracks are not on the same level so u have to walk on the otherside, I request that if u get confused ask someone. I can understand that is challenging for introvert people but it’s better to lose the train and regret after"
Gaurav Rozatkar
"We waited over half an hour at the ticket counter until it was our turn. I don't understand why only two counters are open at the same time at such a busy station. In general, though, the station is large, bright, and clean, and has a direct connection to the subway."
K Bie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Santa Apolónia Station from Lisbon Airport (LIS), you can take the Metro. Board the Red Line from the airport and change at Saldanha to the Blue Line, which will take you directly to Santa Apolónia. The journey typically takes around 30-40 minutes.
Yes, Santa Apolónia Station is a major metro station in Lisbon and is served by the Blue Line. This makes it easily accessible from various parts of the city.
The most common and recommended way to travel from Lisbon Santa Apolónia to Porto is by train. High-speed Alfa Pendular or Intercidades trains depart regularly from Santa Apolónia Station. The journey takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours.
Yes, you can take a train from Porto (Campanhã station) directly to Lisbon Santa Apolónia. This is a popular route for travelers.
While the metro is the most direct public transport option, you can also take an airport bus (Aerobus) to the city center and then transfer to the metro or a taxi to reach Santa Apolónia Station.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase train tickets at the ticket counters located within Santa Apolónia Station. However, these counters can experience long queues, so buying tickets online through the CP Comboios Portugal website is highly recommended to save time.
First-class tickets from Santa Apolónia to Porto can vary in price depending on the train type and booking time. It's advisable to check the CP Comboios Portugal website for current fares and availability.
Generally, booking train tickets online through the official CP Comboios Portugal website does not incur significant booking fees, making it a cost-effective option.
Ticket counters at Santa Apolónia Station typically operate during standard daytime hours, but it's best to check the official CP Comboios Portugal website for the most up-to-date operating hours, as they can vary.
While credit card payment options are usually available at ticket counters, it's wise to have some cash on hand as a backup, especially if certain machines are out of order or if you encounter issues.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Santa Apolónia Station offers basic amenities including commercial areas for snacks and drinks, restrooms, and waiting areas. It's a hub for trains, metro, and buses.
No, the toilets at Santa Apolónia Station typically require a fee for use, often payable in cash. Be prepared with coins, as card payment options may not always be functional.
For the most part, Santa Apolónia Station is considered easy to navigate due to its clear signage and central location. However, some travelers note that certain track levels might require extra walking.
You can visit the Fado Museum, the National Pantheon, or explore the historic Alfama district nearby. There are also many cafes and restaurants in the vicinity.
Information regarding luggage storage facilities at Santa Apolónia Station is not widely available. It's advisable to check with station staff directly or consider nearby luggage storage services if needed.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several cafes and restaurants located near Santa Apolónia Station, offering a variety of dining options. Magokoro Ramen is a popular choice right next to the station.
You can find a range of food options, from quick snacks and coffee at station kiosks to authentic Portuguese cuisine and international dishes at nearby restaurants. Ramen is also available nearby.
While some restaurants can be pricier, you can find more affordable options by exploring the smaller cafes and tascas in the surrounding streets away from the immediate station entrance.
Yes, there are commercial areas within the station where you can grab a quick snack or a beverage before your journey.
Several local cafes near Santa Apolónia Station offer traditional Portuguese breakfast items like pastries and coffee, providing a pleasant start to your day.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of Santa Apolónia Station, with its historic architecture and riverside location, offers excellent photographic opportunities. Drone footage highlights its beauty.
Yes, you can generally take photos inside Santa Apolónia Station. However, it's always good practice to be mindful of other travelers and avoid obstructing any operational areas.
The proximity to the Tagus River and the historic Alfama district provides unique photographic subjects, including river views and charming streetscapes.
Drone photography regulations can be strict in urban areas. While some aerial shots exist, it's best to check local regulations before flying a drone near Santa Apolónia Station.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset often provide the most beautiful light for photography, highlighting the station's architecture and riverside setting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Nearby, the Fado Museum might be less engaging for younger children, but the National Pantheon offers impressive architecture. Exploring the winding streets of Alfama can be a fun discovery for families, though be mindful of uneven surfaces.
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilize the metro for transport to and from the airport, as it's the most economical option. Be aware of the fee for using station restrooms, and carry small change to avoid issues.
🚶 Solo Travelers
Don't hesitate to ask station staff for directions if you feel lost, as they are accustomed to assisting travelers. Exploring the nearby Fado Museum or the Alfama district offers opportunities for cultural immersion and people-watching.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Santa Apolónia Station
The station has witnessed significant historical events and the evolution of transportation in Portugal. It was a crucial point for connecting Lisbon with the rest of the country and beyond. Today, it continues to serve as a major hub, integrating train, metro, and bus services, making it a cornerstone of Lisbon's public transportation network.
Beyond its functional role, Santa Apolónia is also a landmark. Its riverside location offers picturesque views, and the station itself is an architectural point of interest, often featured in travel content showcasing Lisbon's charm.
Traveling Between Lisbon and Porto
Booking your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, is highly recommended. You can purchase tickets online through the CP Comboios Portugal website, which often offers better prices and guarantees your seat. Travelers heading from Porto back to Lisbon will also find Santa Apolónia a convenient arrival station.
When planning your trip, consider the different classes of service available. First-class travel offers more spacious seating and amenities, while standard class provides a comfortable and more economical option.
Exploring the Neighborhood Around Santa Apolónia
The station is also a stone's throw from the historic Alfama district, Lisbon's oldest neighborhood, known for its narrow, winding streets, charming houses, and Fado houses. Exploring Alfama allows you to experience the authentic atmosphere of the city.
For dining, the vicinity offers a variety of options, from traditional Portuguese tascas to more contemporary eateries. Magokoro Ramen, located conveniently next to the station, is a popular choice for those craving authentic Japanese noodles.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit