Air Travel
- Companies: TAP Air Portugal, Ryanair
- Duration: Approximately 3 hours (direct flight)
- Distance: 1,032 miles (1,660 km)
- Costs: $150-$300 (varies by booking time and season)
- Roads/Routes: Not applicable for air travel
Pro Tip: Book your flights at least 2-3 months in advance for the best prices and consider flying early in the morning or late at night to avoid peak travel periods.
Train and Bus Combination
- Companies: Comboios de Portugal (CP), FlixBus
- Duration: Approximately 12-14 hours (including layovers)
- Distance: 830 miles (1,336 km)
- Costs: $100-$200
- Roads/Routes: A1 (Lisbon to Porto) followed by A28 to the French border
Pro Tip: Purchase a rail pass for flexibility and savings if you plan to explore more of Portugal or France by train on this journey.
Car Rental
- Companies: Hertz, Europcar, Avis
- Duration: Approximately 11 hours of driving time
- Distance: 900 miles (approximately 1,450 km)
- Costs: $250-$400 (including rental fees and fuel)
- Roads/Routes: A1 (Lisbon to Porto) then A28 and D768 into France
Pro Tip: Make sure to download offline maps to navigate easily, especially in rural areas. Take breaks to enjoy scenic views while driving through the northern coast of Portugal and western France.
Comprehensive Recommendation
If you prefer a balance between cost and time, I recommend flying with TAP Air Portugal for a direct flight option that takes about 3 hours and allows you to bypass the longer travel times inherent in land transport. Ensure to check for flight deals in advance to save on costs. However, if you want to experience the scenic beauty of both countries, consider the train and bus combination for a more immersive journey.