Air
- Companies: Iberia, TAP Air Portugal, Vueling
- Duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes (flight time)
- Distance: 960 kilometers (600 miles)
- Costs: Approximately €90 - €180 (one-way, depending on the booking time and season)
- Roads/Routes: Not applicable
Pro Tip: Book your flight well in advance and consider flying mid-week to secure lower fares and less crowded flights.
Recommendation: Given the distance and duration, flying is the most efficient mode of transport for this route. Check the airlines' websites for promotional deals and consider specific luggage allowances when booking.
Train
- Companies: Renfe (for Spanish train service) and Comboios de Portugal (for Portuguese trains)
- Duration: Approximately 11 hours (including transfers)
- Distance: 1,071 kilometers (666 miles)
- Costs: Approximately €70 - €120 (one-way, depending on class and time of booking)
- Roads/Routes: AVE high-speed train from Murcia to Madrid, then transfer to a high-speed train to Lisbon
Pro Tip: Book first-class tickets on the AVE for more comfort and access to exclusive lounges at Madrid station.
Recommendation: While taking the train is significantly longer, it offers scenic views and the chance to relax. Ideal for travelers who enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
Bus
- Companies: ALSA, FlixBus
- Duration: Approximately 16 hours
- Distance: 1,171 kilometers (728 miles)
- Costs: Approximately €50 - €80 (one-way, depending on the time of booking)
- Roads/Routes: A-30 to Albacete, then A-31 towards Lisbon
Pro Tip: Opt for overnight buses to save on accommodation costs and arrive in Lisbon early in the morning.
Recommendation: Buses are the most economical option but the longest in terms of travel time. Suitable for budget travelers with flexible schedules.
Conclusion
For a balance of speed and convenience, taking a flight is the best recommendation for traveling from Murcia to Lisbon. Should you prefer scenery and leisure, the train is an attractive option despite the duration. Buses are ideal for cost-conscious travelers, especially those not pressed for time.