Madrid-Lisbon High-Speed Train to Slash Travel Time from 10 Hours to 3

Portugal Plans New Airport Near Lisbon to Enhance City Connectivity

A forthcoming high-speed rail connecting Madrid and Lisbon is slated to commence operations by 2030, coinciding with the joint hosting of the FIFA World Cup by Spain and Portugal.

Since 2020, the two capitals have lacked a direct rail link after Spain’s national railway operator, Renfe, terminated its overnight Trenhotel service.

This new rail line, which will reduce travel time from over 10 hours to a mere three, has secured formal approval from the European Commission.

“We are committed to enhancing high-speed rail networks between Europe’s major capitals, with the Madrid-Lisbon route being a key focus,” stated Apostolos Tzitzikostas, EU Commissioner for Transport.

Portugal’s authorities emphasize that these rail connections are vital for reducing carbon emissions in transportation, anticipating a decline in flights between the two cities.

Concurrently, plans are underway to construct a new airport in the Lisbon area to bolster access to the region.

Here’s a comprehensive overview of the developments.

Spanish Trains to Utilize Portugal’s New High-Speed Infrastructure

Portugal is advancing its high-speed rail network, with the initial 100km segment from Elvas to Evora expected to be operational this year.

This stretch will shorten the journey between Lisbon in western Portugal and Badajoz in western Spain from three-and-a-half hours to under two.

It forms part of an expansive Iberian high-speed rail system, which will also link Lisbon to Porto in approximately 1 hour 15 minutes—less than half the current duration.

According to Spanish outlet El Español, the line is projected to connect Madrid and Lisbon via Badajoz in six hours by 2027, and in three hours by 2030 upon full completion.

Why Is There No Rail Connection Between Spain and Portugal?

Renfe requires a €15 million investment to adapt its rolling stock to Portugal’s rail infrastructure, as reported by La Información.

Several technical challenges must be resolved for cross-border rail operations, including differences in electrical systems and signaling protocols, which are unlikely to be addressed before 2025.

In 2023, however, the prime ministers of Spain and Portugal endorsed initiatives to enhance rail connectivity, aligning with the EU’s strategy to liberalize Europe’s rail networks.

MPs from the Sumar party have advocated for this rail link to promote sustainable travel and strengthen economic ties between the two nations.

Renfe discontinued the Madrid-Lisbon Trenhotel Lusitania in May 2020 due to the pandemic, and the service has not been reinstated.

Portugal to Build New Airport Near Lisbon

Portugal is also developing a new international airport in Alcochete, approximately 40 kilometers from Lisbon, following years of deliberation.

Set to be operational by 2034, this transport hub will replace Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado airport, which will undergo expansion during the construction period.

The tourism sector in Portugal deems this project essential, as Humberto Delgado is currently at maximum capacity.

To enhance connectivity between Lisbon’s city center and the new airport, the government plans to construct a third bridge over the Tagus River.