Linha do Algarve is known for the blue trains that still run on diesel, emitting toxic gases to the environment, something that the authorities are trying to change, aiming to electrify the whole Linha do Algarve.

Currently, only the trail between Faro and Tunes is electrified, making it possible for long distance trains to cross the railway, such as Alfa Pendular and Intercidades. With the new works, which are already being carried out, all Algarve lines will enjoy eco-friendly and faster services.

Works on course

While travelling by train, on the Linha do Algarve, passengers may already notice some of the work being done on the railway. In some cases, new platforms are being constructed, such as in Estômbar-Lagoa station.

Infraestruturas de Portugal (IP) is also doing some road works, namely constructing viaducts, where railroad crossings are placed, to relieve the car traffic and provide a safer alternative for both passengers and drivers.


To enhance both the comfort and security of the passengers, IP aims to put in every train station a set of video surveillance cameras and speakers for passengers to be informed about train times and platform information. This will make it easier for passengers who do not live in the region, as all most stations have currently is a paper that is changed every day on some billboards placed on the stations.

The main focus of the works is the full electrification of the 140 kilometres of railway in the Algarve, which will bring benefits for both tourists and residents.

Travel time

IP told The Portugal News, that “the electrification of Linha do Algarve in its entirety will allow the use of more modern and environmentally sustainable electric traction trains, enabling a reduction in the travel time of regional services estimated at 25 minutes, on the connection between Lagos and Vila Real de Santo António.”

Currently, the trip between Lagos and Vila Real de Santo António takes more than three hours, with it necessary to switch trains in Faro.

When it comes to the long distance trains, inhabitants of Vila Real de Santo António and surrounding areas will benefit from the electrification of Linha do Algarve. According to IP the works “will also allow the Algarve populations to have direct access to long-distance services, without the need for transfer, to the main national railway axis that connects the south to the north of the country”, which means that trains from Lisbon and the North of the country may continue their trip to Vila Real de Santo António, avoiding changing trains in Faro.

When it comes to long sitance trains to Lagos there is no information, however, it is expected that the trips will become faster.

The works were supposed to be finished by 2023, however, due to some difficulties they are now predicted to be finished by 2024.

Author

Deeply in love with music and with a guilty pleasure in criminal cases, Bruno G. Santos decided to study Journalism and Communication, hoping to combine both passions into writing. The journalist is also a passionate traveller who likes to write about other cultures and discover the various hidden gems from Portugal and the world. Press card: 8463. 

Bruno G. Santos