Public Transportation in Portugal varies a lot from region to region. But it is specially developed in the big cities, like Lisboa and Porto. Car is also a good and cheap alternative. Furthermore, trains generally run on time.
Railways
Most of the rail infrastructure is maintained and operated by the state-owned REFER. CP is the company that runs all regional and inter city trains. Rail infrastructure shows higher developments in the centre and northern cost line.
Buses / Tramways
Most cities offer bus routes inside the city managed by a state/ municipally/ private company. At the district level, each district has its own company. At the national level you can find Rede Expressos or Renex. Buses are usually cheaper and with more routes to every city, however, to popular destinations, trains can offer be a good price/comfort option. Discounts are available for students.
Tickets / Passes
Each city has its ticket system. If you use the metro/bus daily a monthly pass it is recommended. Daily/weekly and single trip tickets are also available.
With this card you can have 50% discount on monthly tickets for public transportation. To have this card you need a declaration from your university, only with this declaration will the transportation company will give you access to the 50%discount option.
Renting a Car
Renting a car in Portugal follows the same rules as everywhere else in the world, so you shouldn‘t have any problem in renting a car. Always pay attention to insurance coverage when you are renting the car.
Hitchhiking
Hitchhiking can be quite hard in Portugal since it is not a common thing. Is not illegal but common drivers are just not used to give you a ride. People are afraid of everything that is unusual, like a hitch-hiker (especially a foreigner). In addition, during the last few years many people have been buying cars with just 2 seats As a rule, no woman stops for a male hitch-hiker, so going in couples might increase your chances. On the other hand, it is quite easy to get a lift with males driving alone. Many people work in a city and live in a town nearby.
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