Which Train Station to Get Off in Porto: São Bento or Campanhã?

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When visiting Porto, choosing the right train station to disembark can significantly impact your travel experience. Porto has two main train stations: São Bento and Campanhã. São Bento is centrally located and ideal for tourists, while Campanhã offers better connectivity for longer journeys. This guide will help you decide which train station to get off in Porto based on your travel needs and destination within the city.

What Are the Key Differences Between São Bento and Campanhã Stations?

Location and Accessibility

  • São Bento Station
  • Located in the heart of Porto’s historic center
  • Walking distance to major attractions

  • Connected to Metro Line D

  • Campanhã Station

  • Situated 2.5 km east of the city center
  • Requires additional transport to reach main tourist areas
  • Connected to Metro Lines A, B, C, and E

Train Services

Service Type São Bento Campanhã
Regional Yes Yes
InterRegional Yes Yes
Urban Yes Yes
Alfa Pendular No Yes
InterCidades No Yes
International No Yes

Which Station Is Best for Tourists?

which train station to get off in porto

For most tourists, São Bento station is the ideal choice due to its central location and proximity to major attractions. Here’s why:

  1. Convenient Location: Steps away from Porto’s UNESCO World Heritage sites
  2. Easy Access: Short walk to hotels, restaurants, and popular tourist spots
  3. Historical Significance: The station itself is a tourist attraction with beautiful azulejo tiles
  4. Metro Connection: Direct access to Metro Line D for further city exploration

However, if you’re arriving on a long-distance train from Lisbon or an international train from Spain, you’ll likely arrive at Campanhã station.

How to Choose Between São Bento and Campanhã?

Consider the following factors when deciding which train station to get off in Porto:

  1. Final Destination: If your hotel is in the historic center, São Bento is preferable
  2. Train Route: Long-distance and international trains only serve Campanhã
  3. Time of Arrival: Late-night arrivals might find more transport options from Campanhã
  4. Luggage: If you have heavy luggage, Campanhã might offer easier access to taxis

What Are the Transfer Options Between Stations?

If you arrive at Campanhã but want to reach the city center:

  1. Metro: Take Lines A, B, C, or E to connect to other parts of the city
  2. Suburban Train: Frequent service to São Bento (4-minute journey)
  3. Bus: Several bus lines connect Campanhã to the city center
  4. Taxi or Ride-sharing: Available outside the station for direct transfers

Are There Parking Facilities at Porto’s Train Stations?

  • São Bento Station: Limited parking due to central location
  • Nearby public parking garages available

  • Not recommended for long-term parking

  • Campanhã Station: More parking options

  • Larger parking areas available
  • Better choice for park-and-ride options

What Are the Key Attractions Near Each Station?

São Bento Station

  • Clérigos Tower (10-minute walk)
  • Porto Cathedral (5-minute walk)
  • Ribeira District (15-minute walk)

Campanhã Station

  • Dragão Stadium (20-minute walk)
  • Campanhã Market (5-minute walk)
  • Parque Oriental da Cidade (30-minute walk)

How to Buy Train Tickets in Porto?

  1. At the Station: Ticket offices and vending machines available
  2. Online: Book through the official CP (Comboios de Portugal) website
  3. Mobility Center: Located in São Bento for comprehensive ticket services
  4. Andante Card: For urban routes, available at both stations

What Are the Operating Hours for Porto’s Train Stations?

  • São Bento Station:
  • Ticket Office: 6:00 AM – 10:30 PM
  • First Train: Around 5:30 AM

  • Last Train: Around 1:00 AM

  • Campanhã Station:

  • Ticket Office: 5:45 AM – 10:45 PM
  • 24-hour operation for long-distance trains

Remember, when deciding which train station to get off in Porto, consider your final destination, train route, and travel preferences. São Bento offers convenience for city center exploration, while Campanhã provides better connections for longer journeys.

References:
1. https://portoalities.com/en/train-stations-in-porto-guide/
2. https://www.portugaltrain.com/porto-train-stations
3. https://www.seat61.com/stations/porto.htm
4. https://www.madaboutporto.com/sao_bento_train_station.html
5. https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/portugal/porto-train-station

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