The Spanish government reaffirmed its commitment to accelerate the construction of the high-speed rail line between Lisbon and Madrid. In a press statement at the close of the Iberian summit in Faro, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez confirmed that this is a clear priority for Spain. The original project anticipated completion by 2034, at which point travel time between the capitals would be reduced to just three hours.
As construction progresses, intermediate sections of the rail line will be completed sooner, gradually shortening travel time. The first significant reduction is scheduled for 2027, bringing the journey down from approximately nine hours to six.
Additionally, a second high-speed line connecting Lisbon, Porto, and Vigo is part of the joint plans of Portugal and Spain, with an expected completion date of 2032. This line will further strengthen rail integration between the two countries.
Intermediate Phases and Regional Connections
The first significant milestone is planned for 2025 with the completion of the segment between Évora and Elvas, reducing travel time from Lisbon to Elvas to around two hours. This upgrade modernizes one of Portugal’s most outdated rail sections and enhances a strategic connection linking Lisbon to the country’s interior and the Spanish border. Meanwhile, in Spain, the section between Plasencia and Talayuela is under construction and is also expected to be ready by 2027, further reducing Lisbon-Madrid travel time to six hours.
Third Tagus Crossing and New Airport
Another cornerstone of the project is the Third Tagus Crossing (TTT), which will connect Lisbon to Barreiro, cutting travel time between these areas to about ten minutes. The TTT will be vital for high-speed rail integration and will connect Lisbon to the future Luís de Camões Airport, set to be built in Alcochete. Scheduled to begin operations in 2030, this new airport will feature two runways initially, with expansion potential for up to four, accommodating an estimated 100 million passengers by 2050. Its proximity to the high-speed rail line will facilitate seamless transportation for travelers arriving in Lisbon.
Regional Development Impact
These projects — the high-speed rail line and the new airport — have transformative potential for regional economic development and real estate appreciation. The Lisbon-Cascais line, for instance, will see direct benefits, drawing investor interest and boosting real estate markets in both metropolitan and interior regions. Beyond stimulating tourism and improving mobility, the project opens access to previously underdeveloped areas.
About CAP International
CAP International is a leading real estate agency specializing in luxury properties in Portugal and is well-positioned to guide investors seeking to capitalize on the opportunities brought by these major infrastructure projects. With in-depth knowledge of developing regions and the luxury market, CAP offers comprehensive advisory services to those looking to invest in areas with high potential for appreciation. Contact me now via WhatsApp: +351 91 252 9806 (Bruna Barros) to discuss investment opportunities in these booming regions.