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Train Stations of Lisbon: Portals to the City’s Wonders

By Gonzalo

Posted on October 14, 2023

Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is a charming and vibrant destination that attracts millions of tourists every year. While most visitors are drawn to the city’s stunning architecture, delicious food, and rich history, there is another aspect of Lisbon that often goes unnoticed – its train stations.

Lisbon’s train stations are not just functional transportation hubs, but also architectural gems that showcase the city’s unique blend of traditional and modern influences. From grandiose buildings to hidden gems, each station has its own story to tell. In this article, we will take you on a journey through some of the most beautiful and interesting train stations in Lisbon.

1. Santa Apolónia Station

Located in the Alfama district, Santa Apolónia Station is the oldest and largest train station in Lisbon. Built in 1865, it was originally designed as a terminus for the Lisbon-Porto railway line. The station’s façade is a stunning example of Portuguese Neo-Manueline architecture, with intricate details and colorful tiles that depict scenes from Portugal’s history.

Inside, the station is equally impressive, with a grand hall adorned with high ceilings, chandeliers, and marble columns. The station also houses a small museum that showcases the history of the Portuguese railway system. Santa Apolónia Station is not only a transportation hub but also a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.

2. Rossio Station

Located in the heart of Lisbon, Rossio Station is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Built in 1887, it is a prime example of Romanticist architecture, with its grand façade adorned with horseshoe arches, intricate details, and two clock towers. The station’s interior is equally impressive, with a large central hall covered in beautiful azulejo tiles.

Rossio Station is not only a train station but also a cultural hub. It houses a theater and a café, making it a popular meeting spot for locals and tourists alike. The station is also a great starting point for exploring the city, as it is within walking distance of many of Lisbon’s top attractions.

3. Oriente Station

Designed by renowned architect Santiago Calatrava, Oriente Station is a modern masterpiece that stands out among Lisbon’s more traditional train stations. Built in 1998 for the Expo ’98 World Fair, the station’s futuristic design is inspired by the theme of “the oceans.” Its roof resembles a giant wave, and the interior is filled with natural light, creating a sense of openness and tranquility.

Aside from being a train station, Oriente also serves as a shopping center and a concert venue. It is also a major transportation hub, connecting Lisbon to other cities in Portugal and Europe. The station’s location, next to the Tagus River, offers stunning views of the Vasco da Gama Bridge and the surrounding area.

4. Cais do Sodré Station

Cais do Sodré Station may not be as grand as some of the other train stations on this list, but it has a unique charm that makes it worth a visit. Built in 1928, the station’s façade is a mix of Art Deco and Neo-Manueline styles, with colorful tiles and intricate details. The interior is more modest, but it still retains some of its original features, such as the ticket office and the wooden benches.

Cais do Sodré Station is not only a train station but also a transportation hub for buses, trams, and ferries. It is also located in one of Lisbon’s trendiest neighborhoods, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and street art to explore.

5. Entrecampos Station

Entrecampos Station may not be on most tourists’ radar, but it is worth a visit for its unique architecture and historical significance. Built in 1957, the station’s design is a mix of Art Deco and Modernist styles, with a curved façade and a clock tower that resembles a lighthouse. The interior is equally impressive, with a large central hall covered in colorful tiles and a beautiful stained glass window.

Entrecampos Station is not only a train station but also a cultural center. It houses a library, a theater, and an art gallery, making it a popular spot for locals to gather and socialize. The station is also conveniently located near the University of Lisbon, making it a hub for students.

In conclusion, Lisbon’s train stations are not just places to catch a train, but also destinations in their own right. Each station has its own unique charm and history, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s past and present. So next time you visit Lisbon, make sure to take some time to explore these beautiful and interesting train stations.

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Gonzalo

Founder & Owner at The Lisbon Guide

20 Years Experience
Travel Advisor & Passionate for Portugal

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Passionate traveler, travel planner, private tour guide, and travel article writer in Portugal.
Owner of The Lisbon Guide with more than 250.000 pages visited every year (5 million views in 12 years)

I'm based in Lisbon/Portugal and experienced in travel planning, tour guiding, and entrepreneurship since 1996, and guiding customers for over 20 years across Portugal. Helping customers from all over the world, planning their stay in Portugal. I'm also an avid TripAdvisor user level 6 with more than 300.000 readers worldwide, assisting thousands of travelers yearly to plan their perfect trip.

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