How to Get Around Lisbon by Tram & Transit in 2024

Welcome to Lisbon’s Public Transit System

Lisbon, the charismatic capital of Portugal, has an extensive public transit system that perfectly complements its unique topography and vibrant urban landscape.

As a visitor, you’ll find many options ranging from modern metros and trams to nostalgic funiculars and quick ferries.

This guide aims to familiarize you with these options so that you can navigate Lisbon confidently and enjoyably.

Understanding Public Transport in Lisbon

In Lisbon, public transport is primarily operated by Carris and Metropolitano de Lisboa. Carris (Companhia Carris de Ferro de Lisboa) (Lisbon Tramways Company) is a public transportation company.

Carris manages buses, trams, and funicular services, while Metropolitano de Lisboa operates the Metro system.

Both operators provide comprehensive transportation solutions for experiencing the city’s culture and sights​.

Lisbon Essential Traveler Guides

Lisbon travel guides are invaluable for exploring the city’s rich history, vibrant neighborhoods, and culinary delights.

Rick Steves Portugal (Travel Guide)

Rick Steves’ travel guide offers comprehensive insights for exploring Portugal, including detailed itineraries and budget-friendly tips.

111 Places in Lisbon That You Shouldn’t Miss

Kathleen Becker’s guidebook unveils Lisbon’s hidden gems through 111 must-see places, combining rich historical narrative with vivid photography.

This book is an essential addition to any traveler’s library for those ready to explore beyond the typical tourist spots.

Top 10 Lisbon (Pocket Travel Guide) by DK Eyewitness

This pocket guide from DK Eyewitness distills Lisbon’s attractions into the top 10 lists that are easy to digest, making it perfect for travelers who want to experience the best of Lisbon without feeling overwhelmed.

Types of Transportation in Lisbon

Metro

The Lisbon Metro is a cornerstone of local public transport, featuring four lines that cover significant parts of the city from early morning till around 1:00 AM. The network is known for its cleanliness and efficiency, making it a preferred choice for quick travel across the city​.

Trams

Lisbon’s trams are not just transport; they’re an experience. The most famous of these, Tram 28, offers a scenic route through the city’s historic districts. Other lines like Tram 15 connect to Belém, famous for its monuments and pastries.

Buses

The bus network in Lisbon fills in the gaps left by the metro, providing access to outlying areas and operating extensive night routes, ensuring that the city is accessible at all hours​.

Funiculars and Elevators

Its funiculars and elevators, like the Elevador de Santa Justa and Elevador da Glória, are unique to Lisbon and provide essential connectivity in the hilly city and stunning views​.

Ferries

Ferries operate across the Tagus River, linking Lisbon to municipalities on the other side, like Cacilhas and Seixal. They offer a splendid view of Lisbon’s skyline from the water—a delightful experience for any visitor​.

Cab & Ride Sharing

Lisbon’s taxi service is known for being economical and widely available. Ride-sharing options like Uber and Bolt also offer convenient and often cost-effective travel methods, particularly useful for groups or when traveling to areas less well-served by public transport​.

Navigate Lisbon: Tram, Foot, Bike, or Tuk-Tuk

Explore Lisbon’s charm through various tours tailored to your preference for adventure. Choose from scenic tram tours, immersive walking tours, thrilling bicycle tours, or fun tuk-tuk tours.

Authentic 4Hour/Half Day TukTuk Tour of Lisbon – Local Overview!

Discover Lisbon’s vibrant culture and picturesque landscapes on a half-day tuk-tuk tour. Experience the city’s highlights and hidden gems with an expert local guide.

Plan Your Journey

Get to Know Lisbon’s Transit Map

Acquaint yourself with the Lisbon transit map and metro map to plan your travels efficiently. These maps are available online on the Metropolitano de Lisboa and Carris websites, where they can be downloaded or viewed interactively​.

Rideability & Walkability

Lisbon is moderately walkable, though its famous hills can be a challenge. The public transit system excellently compensates for this, with various transport options designed to navigate steep inclines and long distances easily.

Language and Communication

While Portuguese is the primary language, English is widely used in public transport, especially on signboards and announcements in and around tourist areas. This makes navigating the city more accessible for non-Portuguese speakers.

Visitor Friendly Routes

Focus on visitor-friendly routes such as the Metro’s Red Line, which connects to the airport, and tram lines that tour the city’s historic areas. These routes are tailored to help tourists efficiently discover Lisbon’s most beloved spots. ​

Navigating Lisbon’s public transit system is your gateway to exploring the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. With this guide, you can explore Lisbon independently and at your own pace.

A more comprehensive list of tourist attractions accessible by public transportation is under the heading – ‘Lisbon Sightseeing Made Easy: Transit-Accessible Attractions’ later in this Public Transportation Guide to Lisbon.

Service Schedule & Frequency

Public transport in Lisbon operates regularly from early morning until late at night, ensuring accessibility and convenience.

Metro services start at 6:30 AM and run until 1:00 AM, while buses and trams have varying schedules, typically from 5:00 AM to midnight. Frequencies may be reduced during weekends and holidays, so checking current schedules is advised​.

Lisbon Visitor Tours

Booking tours only through trusted tour operators is essential to ensure safety and quality experiences when visiting Lisbon.

To help you explore the city’s rich culture and history without worry, consider booking from a selection of reputable tours, including guided walks through Alfama, tram rides up the hills, or culinary tours to taste authentic Portuguese cuisine.

Essential Mobile Apps & Google Maps

Navigating Lisbon is easier with apps like Lisboa Move, which offers real-time transit schedules, route planning, and ticket purchasing.

Google Maps also provides comprehensive public transit directions in Lisbon, making it a valuable tool for planning and on-the-go navigation. It ensures you can always find your way around the city.

​Both transit websites provide all route maps, schedules, and ticket purchasing options or locations.

Accessibility Information

Lisbon’s public transport system strives to be accessible to all users. Most metro stations and newer trams are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility. However, some older tram routes may not be fully accessible, so checking specific services in advance is recommended​.

Safety on Public Transport

Public transport in Lisbon is generally safe, even at night. However, like any major city, staying alert and safeguarding personal belongings is wise. Night buses and trains are monitored, and security personnel are more present after hours to ensure passenger safety​.

Luggage & Bicycles

Bringing luggage and bicycles on Lisbon’s public transport is permissible with the following conditions:

• Luggage is allowed but should not obstruct aisles or seats.
• Bicycles are permitted on metro and ferries at designated times, mainly outside peak hours, to facilitate commuters and tourists alike​.

Heating & Cooling

Most of Lisbon’s modern public transport vehicles, including metro cars and newer buses, are equipped with heating and air conditioning. This ensures comfort for all passengers throughout the year, regardless of the weather​.

Most of the old trams rely on open windows for cooling.

Local Transit Culture

When using public transport in Lisbon, it’s essential to adhere to local etiquette:

• Give up seats to elderly, pregnant, or disabled passengers.
• Avoid loud conversations and keep personal space in mind.
• Visiting buses at the front and exiting from the middle or back doors​is customary.

Great Reading on Portugal

Explore Portugal through these essential reads. From detailed travel guides offering practical itineraries to comprehensive books on relocating, each provides valuable insights into the country’s rich cultural tapestry and scenic landscapes.

Lisbon in 3 Days by Guidora Team

This comprehensive travel guide will help you discover Lisbon in just three days. Filled with detailed itineraries, it covers everything from historical sites to modern attractions, ensuring you don’t miss any of the city’s highlights.

Starting a New Life in Portugal: by Alphonsine Pelletier

Are you thinking of making Portugal your new home? This extensive guide offers everything you need to know about relocating to one of Europe’s most beloved countries. From understanding local customs to navigating legal paperwork, this book is invaluable for anyone considering a move.

My Lisbon: A Cookbook from Portugal’s City of Light by Nuno Mendes

Explore the vibrant flavors of Lisbon through the eyes of Nuno Mendes, a native chef who brings the city’s culinary delights to your kitchen. This cookbook shares recipes and the culture and history of Lisbon’s food scene.

Traveling Into Lisbon from the Airport or Train Terminal

Navigating your way into Lisbon from Lisbon Airport (Aeroporto Humberto Delgado) or the city’s primary train terminals, such as Santa Apolónia and Oriente, is straightforward due to the city’s well-connected public transportation system. Here’s a detailed look at each mode of transport available:

Metro

The Red Line of Lisbon’s Metro efficiently connects Lisbon Airport to the city center. Trains run approximately every 6-9 minutes, and the journey to the central station, São Sebastião, takes about 20 minutes.

A single ticket costs €1.50, but visitors can opt for the Viva Viagem card, which offers multiple journey options​.

Aerobus

The Aerobus service directly connects Lisbon Airport to key areas in the city, including train stations and hotels. The buses operate from 7:30 AM to 11 PM, departing every 20 minutes. Tickets can be purchased on board or online, costing around €4 for a single journey​.

Taxi

Taxis are available at the airport and train stations 24/7. The fare to the city center usually ranges between €10 and €15, depending on traffic and the exact destination. It’s advisable to use registered taxis with meters for the fairest rates​.

Ridesharing Services

Popular ridesharing services like Uber and Bolt make Lisbon easy to navigate. Both offer convenient, on-demand rides throughout the city, providing an alternative to traditional taxis and public transport.

Uber is widely used in Lisbon and offers a straightforward way to get around. The app lets users handle all payments digitally, which is incredibly convenient for travelers. Uber operates 24/7, covering all major city areas, including the airport, making it suitable for day-to-day travel and airport transfers.

Bolt also operates extensively in Lisbon, offering a similar range of services. It is praised for its reliability and the convenience of quickly booking rides through its mobile app. Bolt provides rides and scooter rentals and food delivery services, adding to its versatility as a travel option in the city.

Bus

Regular buses run by Carris serve various parts of the city, from the airport and major train stations. The bus routes are extensive, and tickets are available for around €2 or less if using the Viva Viagem card​​.

Train

For those arriving at Oriente or Santa Apolónia train stations, the city center is accessible via various urban train lines or the metro. The stations serve as hubs connecting regional and suburban trains with Lisbon’s metro system​​.

Car Rentals

Car rental services are available at the airport and major train stations, allowing you to explore Lisbon and its surroundings at your own pace. Prices and terms vary by company, so booking in advance is recommended​.

However, due to the design of the city and its streets, I would not recommend renting a car to get around Lisbon.

Where & How to Buy Tickets

Navegante Card

In Lisbon, tickets for public transportation can be purchased at various locations, including metro stations and kiosks, and even on buses and trams.

For convenient travel in Lisbon, consider purchasing the Navegante Card (formerly Viva Viagem card) for just 50 cents and loading it with zapping credit—anywhere from €5 to €40.

This rechargeable card can be used for metro, tram, bus, and train rides (including to popular destinations like Sintra and Cascais). It automatically deducts €1.61 for local trips and slightly higher for train journeys.

Using the card on Tram 28 and other public transport can significantly save compared to single tickets—nearly half on trams, 20 cents on metro, and 50 cents per bus ride. Remember, only one ticket type can be on the card at any given time, and it’s important not to load too much money as unused credits are not refundable.

If you plan extensive travel within a day, a 24-hour ticket costing €6.80 might be more economical.

Where You Can Use a Navegante Card

The Navegante Card is a versatile tool for navigating Lisbon’s public transport. It’s valid on Carris-operated buses, trams, and funiculars—including the iconic Tram 15 to Belém, Tram 28, and the three funiculars (Ascensor da Bica, Ascensor da Glória, and Ascensor do Lavra).

It can also be used on the Elevador de Santa Justa street lift. However, it’s important to note that the card cannot be used on Aerobus or tourist-specific routes like the hop-on and hop-off buses.

Save on Tickets with a Lisboa Card

The Lisboa Card offers a cost-effective solution for tourists. It provides unlimited access to public transport and free entry or discounts at many museums and attractions. The card is valid for 24, 48, or 72 hours and can be purchased online or at tourist information centers across the city.

Families and groups might find the 24-hour unlimited group tickets exceptionally economical. These passes significantly reduce the cost per individual journey and offer flexibility to explore Lisbon extensively at a reduced rate​.

Tips to Using Lisbon Public Transit Like a Pro

Navigating Lisbon’s public transit system can be a delightful part of your travel experience in Portugal if you know a few insider tips. Here’s how to get around Lisbon by bus, metro, tram, and more.

Plan Ahead

Before stepping foot in Lisbon, download essential apps like ‘Lisboa Move‘ for real-time transit schedules and routes.

Familiarize yourself with the major transit lines, especially those leading from tourist hubs such as Baixa, Chiado, and Belém. Maps can often be downloaded offline, which is a huge help when cellular data is unavailable.

Buy Smart

Invest in a Viva Viagem card as soon as you arrive. This reusable card is inexpensive and can be topped up to cover all your metro, bus, and tram journeys. For more extended stays, consider the Lisboa Card, which includes free or discounted entry to many attractions and unlimited public transport.

Timing is Everything

Avoid rush hours (typically 7:00-9:00 AM and 4:00-7:00 PM on weekdays) when locals commute to and from work.

Not only will you enjoy less crowded conditions, but you’ll also travel more comfortably. If you’re visiting during the summer, remember that midday heat can make traveling uncomfortable, so plan activities during the cooler parts of the day or use air-conditioned metro lines where possible.

Seasonal Considerations

Lisbon’s weather can impact your transit choices. Opt for the metro over trams in rainy winters, which can get slippery and crowded. During hot summer, avoid buses and trams without air conditioning and instead choose cooler options like modern trams or the metro.

Embrace Local Customs

On Lisbon’s public transport, always enter at the front and exit through the middle or back doors. It’s polite to offer your seat to the elderly, pregnant women, or those with disabilities. Also, keep your voice down — locals appreciate a quiet commute.

Stay Secure

While Lisbon is generally safe, it’s wise to watch your belongings, especially on trams and buses where tourists are common targets for pickpockets. Keep bags closed and in front of you, and be especially vigilant when the vehicles are crowded.

By following these tips, you’ll navigate Lisbon’s public transit like a seasoned traveler, making your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

Lisbon Sightseeing Made Easy: Attractions You Can Visit by Transit

Exploring Lisbon via its public transit system is an efficient and enjoyable way to see the city’s most famous sights. Here’s a guide to what attractions you can access through various modes of public transportation:

Metro

Blue Line (Linha Azul)

• Start: Santa Apolónia
• End: Reboleira
• Attractions:
  • Santa Apolónia: Near Lisbon’s oldest district, Alfama, and the Fado Museum.
  • Baixa-Chiado: Access Lisbon’s downtown shopping districts, Chiado, and the historic Elevador de Santa Justa.
  • Jardim Zoológico Station: Near Lisbon Zoo, set in Sete Rios, perfect for families.

Green Line (Linha Verde)

• Start: Cais do Sodré
• End: Telheiras
• Attractions:
  • Cais do Sodré: Connection to the ferry terminals and the Time Out Market, a food haven.
  • Rossio: It is close to the National Theatre D. Maria II and Rossio Square, a bustling area with many shops and cafes.
  • Alvalade: Near the José Alvalade Stadium, home to Sporting Clube de Portugal.

Trams

Tram 28

• Route: Martim Moniz to Campo Ourique
• Attractions:
  • Alfama: St. George’s Castle, Se Cathedral, and panoramic views of the Tagus River.
  • Graça: Miradouro da Senhora do Monte and several historic churches.
  • Estrela: Basilica da Estrela and Jardim da Estrela.

Tram 15

• Route: Praça da Figueira to Algés
• Attractions:
  • Belém: Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, Monument to the Discoveries, and the MAAT Museum.

Buses

Bus 714

• Route: Praça da Figueira to Outurela
• Attractions:
  • Belém: Like Tram 15, it serves the historic district of Belém, allowing access to the same major attractions.

Bus 728

• Route: Restauradores to Portela
• Attractions:
  • Parque das Nações: Explore the Oceanário de Lisboa, one of the largest indoor aquariums in Europe, and the interactive science museum, Pavilhão do Conhecimento.

Funiculars and Lifts

Elevador de Santa Justa

• Location: Runs from the lower streets of Baixa to Largo do Carmo.
• Attractions:
  • Lisbon’s historic center: Offers a stunning view of the city from the viewing platform at the top.

Funicular da Glória

• Route: Restauradores to Bairro Alto
• Attractions:
  • Bairro Alto: Known for its vibrant nightlife and the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara.

Each of these routes offers a unique perspective of Lisbon, making public transport not just a way to get around but a part of the sightseeing experience itself.

Lisbon’s public transport is a convenient and economical way to explore historic sites, enjoy local culture, or take in the beautiful vistas.

Lisbon Hop-on Hop-off Bus Services

Hop-on hop-off bus services in Lisbon offer a flexible and convenient way for tourists to explore the city’s major attractions.

These double-decker buses provide panoramic views of the cityscape, making them a popular choice for sightseeing.

Features of Hop-on Hop-off Bus Services:

• Panoramic Views: The open-top double-decker buses allow you to enjoy unobstructed views of Lisbon’s historic sites and vibrant streetscapes.
• Frequent Departures: Buses run regularly throughout the day, typically every 20 to 30 minutes, which minimizes waiting times and maximizes sightseeing opportunities.
• Multi-language Audio Guides: Through headphones, passengers can learn about Lisbon’s history and culture in several languages, providing insights as they pass each landmark.
• Multi-day Tickets: Tickets are often valid for 24, 48, or 72 hours, allowing you to explore the city simultaneously across multiple days.

Routes Covered: The hop-on hop-off buses typically cover major routes that include Lisbon’s iconic landmarks such as:

• Belém Tower
• Jerónimos Monastery
• Alfama district
• Praça do Comércio
• Marquês de Pombal Square
• And many more cultural and historic sites

Popular Intercity or Interstate Transit Services from & to Lisbon

Lisbon serves as a central hub for various intercity and interstate transit services, connecting it to major cities in Portugal and beyond. Whether exploring the Algarve’s picturesque regions, Porto’s historic sites or crossing into neighboring Spain.

Trains

CP – Comboios de Portugal operates the majority of train services from Lisbon, with stations like Santa Apolónia and Oriente acting as primary departure points.

The Alfa Pendular and Intercidades services connect Lisbon to major cities such as Porto, Faro, and Coimbra, with travel times ranging from 1.5 to 3 hours to Porto and about 2.5 to 3.5 hours to Faro.

• Santa Apolónia Station is in the city center and easily accessible by metro (Blue Line).
• Oriente Station, situated in the Parque das Nações, is well connected by various metro lines (Red Line).

Buses

Rede Expressos is the leading bus company offering routes from Lisbon to various destinations across Portugal. Buses depart from Sete Rios bus station, which you can reach via the Blue Metro Line.

The buses cover cities like Porto, Faro, and even smaller towns across the country, providing an affordable alternative to trains.

Car Rentals and Rideshares

For flexibility, car rental services are available at major transport hubs like Lisbon Airport and Oriente Station.

Companies such as Europcar, Avis, and local providers offer various options. Additionally, ridesharing services like BlaBlaCar are frequently used for travel to cities like Porto and Seville in Spain, facilitating cost-effective and social traveling experiences.

International Connections

For international travel, especially to Spain, buses like those from FlixBus and Alsa provide regular services to cities such as Madrid and Seville. The journey to Madrid takes approximately 8 hours and provides a scenic route through the Iberian countryside.

Air Travel

Lisbon Airport LIS (Humberto Delgado Airport) is a gateway for flights across Europe and beyond, with frequent connections to major cities worldwide. It is conveniently close to the city center and accessible by the Red Metro Line, Aerobus, and taxis.

These transit services connect Lisbon with the rest of Portugal and extend its reach across the Iberian Peninsula and into Europe, making it a pivotal point for tourists and locals traveling domestically or internationally.

The History of Public Transportation in Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon’s public transportation network is a complex system that has evolved significantly over the centuries. Its history reflects technological advancements and urban development, creating a fascinating narrative of progress and adaptation.

Let’s explore the key milestones in the history of Lisbon’s transit system under different modal headings.

Trams

Lisbon’s first tramway operation started in 1873 with horse-drawn trams, and by 1901, these were electrified, marking a significant leap in public transport technology.

The introduction of electric trams facilitated the expansion of the network, making it one of the most important modes of transport in the early 20th century.

Today, vintage trams like the famous Tram 28 remain a nostalgic reminder of the city’s rich history while continuing to be a functional part of the daily commute and a significant tourist attraction.

Buses

The bus network in Lisbon began to develop significantly in the 1940s as motor vehicles became more prevalent. The expansion of bus services helped to cover areas beyond the reach of the existing tram lines, especially in newly developing urban areas.

Carris, the city’s primary public transport operator, played a pivotal role in this expansion, continuously updating its fleet and routes to adapt to the growing city.

Metro

The Lisbon Metro, inaugurated in 1959, marked a new era of modern public transport in the city. The initial network consisted of a few stations connecting key areas but has grown into a comprehensive system with four lines covering significant parts of the city.

The metro eased daily commutes and became a cultural icon with stations decorated by contemporary Portuguese artists.

Ferries

Given Lisbon’s location on the Tagus River, ferries have been an essential part of the city’s transport system, connecting the city to the southern bank of the river.

The first steamboat services began in the 18th century, and today, modern ferry services like Transtejo connect various points across the river, providing both regular commuter services and scenic views of Lisbon’s waterfront.

Funiculars and Elevators

Funiculars and public elevators were introduced in the late 19th and early 20th centuries to navigate the city’s steep hills, unique to Lisbon’s geographical character.

The Elevador de Santa Justa, an architectural marvel, and other funiculars like Elevador da Bica are now important historical assets and tourist attractions for practical commuting.

Additional Reading

For those interested in delving deeper into the history of Lisbon’s transportation or exploring historical photos and documents, visiting the Carris Museum provides a comprehensive insight into the evolution of Lisbon’s trams and buses.

This rich history of Lisbon’s public transportation is a tale of technological evolution and reflects the city’s broader cultural and social developments.

Heritage Transit Adventures in Lisbon

Its architecture, culture, and heritage transit systems reflect Lisbon’s rich history. The city offers several transit-related museums and historic transport modes that glimpse the past while offering unique experiences. Here are some notable venues:

Carris Museum

About: The Carris Museum celebrates the history of public transportation in Lisbon. It features a collection of trams, buses, and other transport memorabilia, highlighting the evolution of urban mobility in Lisbon from the 19th century to the present.

Location: Rua 1º de Maio, 101-103, Lisbon

Website: Carris Museum

Tram 28

About: No visit to Lisbon is complete without a ride on the historic Tram 28. It winds through the city’s most picturesque streets, from Martim Moniz to Campo Ourique. It’s a living museum piece, operational since the 1930s, and provides a scenic route through Lisbon’s most iconic neighborhoods.

Route: Martim Moniz to Campo Ourique

Website: More information can be found through the Carris main site or Lisbon tourism portals. Booking may be made at Tram 28 Bookings.

Santa Justa Lift

About: The Santa Justa Lift, also known as Elevador de Santa Justa, is another heritage piece of Lisbon’s transit system. Designed by Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard, it has been operational since 1902 and offers a unique view of the city from its viewing platform.

Location: Rua do Ouro, Lisbon

Website: For tickets and operational hours, visit Santa Justa Lift

These heritage transit options offer more than just transportation; they provide a journey through time and are essential experiences for understanding Lisbon’s historical and cultural evolution.

Visiting Lisbon, Portugal, from Overseas?

Traveling to Portugal from overseas? Remember that your home country’s health insurance will not cover you while on vacation.

Hospital stays or emergency airlifts abroad can quickly run up costs exceeding 100,000 dollars or euros, potentially turning a dream vacation into a financial nightmare.

Ensure your travels are worry-free with the right travel insurance. Since 2003, Squaremouth has been a go-to resource, helping travelers easily compare and choose the best insurance options through its user-friendly platform.

Whether planning a single trip or needing annual coverage for frequent journeys, Squaremouth offers a range of policies to suit every traveler’s needs.