The incredible 'new' 126-mile riverside train ride linking two of Europe's best countries

A scenic 120-mile railway line that has been closed since 2023 for a major refurbishment has reopened, reuniting two of Europe's most popular holiday destinations for British travellers. The scenic Beira Alta line, which runs from Pampilhosa in Portugal all the way to the Spanish border at Vilar Formoso, has officially reopened after major upgrades.

Trains are now back, offering better comfort, safety, accessibility for passengers and a greener connection across Portugal. The final stretch of Portugal's Beira Alta railway line - a key route linking the country to Spain - is physically finished after three years of closures, reports railwaypro.com.

The electrified, mostly single-track line runs parallel to the Mondego River and is the main railway access from Portugal to the rest of Europe. The project involved modernising the entire 190km (120mile) line, from Pampilhosa to the Spanish border at Vilar Formoso, and includes track improvements, new bypasses and the elimination of level crossings.

Passengers can expect enhanced safety, accessibility, and comfort due to the refurbishment of stations and upgrades to infrastructure. The upgrade also includes new electronic signalling and aims to increase freight capacity, connecting it to Spain's and Europe's wider rail networks.

The electrified, mostly single-track line was first opened on August 3, 1882.

This important line now boasts modernised infrastructure, including electrification, advanced signalling, and several track enhancements. The final section of the upgrade, between Pampilhosa and Mangualde, was completed this autumn 2025, with Portuguese Trains (CP) resuming passenger services on this newly improved segment.

The Beira Alta Line is a strategic corridor connecting inland regions to the country's main urban centres. It also plays a vital role in integrating Portugal's rail network with those of Spain and the rest of Europe. Thanks to this modernisation, Portugal now has a more modern, safe, and sustainable railway infrastructure, better equipped to meet the needs of both passengers and exporters.

To travel the length of the line from Portugal to the Spanish border takes just under three hours or 2 hours 47 minutes to be precise. British inter-railers will no doubt be delighted.

A spokesperson for Interail said: "The journey offers beautiful landscapes of the Douro river valley and the central interior of Portugal and onto Spain."