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IN BRIEF
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Portugal, a country rich in culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes, has just taken a significant step towards ecological transition by launching its new economic rail pass. This transport title, available at an extremely competitive price of €20 per month, allows users to enjoy extensive journeys across the country. It is already showing great success, attracting travelers who wish to explore the joys of the rail while contributing to environmental preservation. Follow the guide to discover all that this new pass has to offer.
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The launch of the green pass #
On October 21, 2024, the Portuguese government launched the long-awaited green pass, an initiative that addresses mobility and sustainability challenges. This measure aims to encourage the use of trains as the preferred means of transport. By offering this ticket at an attractive price, Portugal (the first country in Southern Europe to implement such an offer) hopes to attract as many travelers as possible, both local and international, onto the tracks of its trains.
A stunning success from the start
From its launch, we observed a strong demand, with over 3,000 green passes sold in just three days. Train stations, such as Santa Apolonia in Lisbon, boasted impressive queues, reflecting the genuine enthusiasm of users. The experience of Adriana da Silva, a student who waited to acquire her pass, highlights the simplicity of registration: a form to fill out, an ID to present, and it’s done.
The advantages of the green pass #
The green pass is designed to be advantageous, especially for those who travel regularly. It offers the possibility of traveling up to twice a day over the course of a month, a significant benefit for those making frequent journeys, such as students or professionals. Adriana shares her experience, stating that it costs them less to travel to their grandmother’s house in the north than to buy separate tickets.
Limitations to consider
However, it is essential to note certain restrictions. High-speed trains, such as the alfa pendulares connecting Lisbon to Porto and Lisbon to Faro, are not included in this offer. Additionally, urban trains in Lisbon and Porto, which already benefit from special pricing, are excluded from the green pass. Another important constraint is the necessity to book travel on regional trains at least 24 hours in advance.
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A step forward for green mobility #
This new pass represents a major advancement for the Portuguese rail system, which has long been perceived as unsuitable for large-scale use. Indeed, the Portuguese government plans to allocate significant funding to improve rail infrastructure. The green pass is part of a broader green mobility program, including a budget of €115 million to promote sustainable transport.
A European comparison
It is interesting to note that Portugal is also drawing inspiration from other models in Europe. For example, Germany has introduced the Deutschlandticket, offering unlimited access to public transport for €49 per month. Although this initiative has faced some criticism due to its low cost, the Portuguese model stands out for its targeted approach to the rail network. Other countries, such as Austria and France, have also offered passes, but the competition from the green pass proves advantageous for financial access.
The challenges ahead #
Despite the enthusiasm for this new initiative, uncertainties remain regarding the viability of the Portuguese rail system. Users like Rafael de Jesus, who was waiting at the Santa Apolonia station, highlight the need for a reliable service that can meet the expected influx of travelers. Indeed, the network suffers from previous issues, including a lack of trains, frequent breakdowns, and strikes.
As Portugal moves towards better accessibility of its rail network, the green pass demonstrates a clear willingness to make train travel more appealing while aligning the offering with sustainability expectations and ecological transitions. This offer, while subject to constraints, represents a golden opportunity for adventurers eager to explore the wonders of this beautiful country. With the prospect of future improvements, the Portuguese rail system is set to shine in a promising light.
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