Lisbon and Madrid have gotta be two of Europe’s most vibrant, exciting capitals, but getting between them isn’t the easiest as they’re not directly connected by train.
That could all be about to change though – by the end of the decade, at least. A while ago we reported that Portuguese authorities have announced that they’re aiming to launch a direct service between Lisbon and Madrid, and now the EU is backing plans to have it all completed in five years’ time.
The European Commission says it is planning to sign off an official implementation decision later this year, and the goal is to have it completed by 2030, in time for when the two countries are co-hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
At the moment, the journey can take over nine hours, longer than catching the bus (seven hours) and driving (six), and often involves up to four changes.
But travellers can rejoice, as a direct service is now looking possible thanks to the construction of a third bridge over the Tagus River, and both Spain’s and Portugal’s governments are working to build their share of the line.
