Why are there so few trains between Spain and Portugal?

Why the Iberian Rail Network Falls Short: Limited Connections Between Spain and Portugal

Despite sharing a border, the rail connections between Spain and Portugal have remained scarce due to a combination of factors, resulting in limited cross-border services.

Historical Challenges

Historically, the different track gauges used by the two countries posed a significant challenge. Spain adopted the International Standard Gauge (1,435 mm), while Portugal opted for the Iberian Gauge (1,668 mm). This gauge difference necessitated the transfer of trains or the installation of variable-gauge tracks at border crossings, making rail operations inefficient.

Service Cuts

In recent years, the situation worsened with the reduction of services. In 2020, the Spanish rail operator Renfe discontinued its overnight train route between Lisbon and Madrid, citing low demand. This left only a handful of daytime trains operating between the two capitals, with limited frequency and inconvenient schedules.

Portugal’s Efforts

Recognizing the importance of rail connectivity, Portugal has been actively pursuing the reinstatement of the overnight train service to Madrid. In 2021, the Portuguese government allocated funding to subsidize the route. However, the resumption of services has been repeatedly delayed due to technical challenges.

Spanish Night Train Cessation

Another setback in the restoration of rail connections was the cessation of all Spanish night train services in 2020. This decision, made by Renfe, effectively eliminated the possibility of overnight travel between Spain and Portugal, further reducing the already limited options.

Future Prospects

While the current situation remains unsatisfactory, there are some signs of hope. Portugal remains committed to reinstating the overnight train route to Spain, and the Spanish government has expressed support for the project. Ongoing efforts to harmonize the Iberian rail network, including the construction of high-speed lines, have the potential to improve rail connectivity between the two countries.

Conclusion

The limited rail connections between Spain and Portugal are a result of historical challenges, service cuts, and technical issues. While Portugal has been actively seeking to improve the situation, the restoration of a robust rail network has been hampered by various factors. However, with ongoing efforts and a shared commitment to enhanced connectivity, there is hope for a future with expanded and efficient rail services between the two countries.