Navigating a new city can be daunting, but Lisbon’s transportation system is both efficient and tourist-friendly. This guide will help you understand the best ways to get around the city, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.
🚇 Metro (Subway)
Overview: Lisbon’s Metro is the fastest way to traverse the city, connecting key areas including the airport, downtown, and suburban neighborhoods.
- Lines: Four color-coded lines—Blue, Yellow, Green, and Red—covering 56 stations.
- Operating Hours: 6:30 AM to 1:00 AM daily.
- Frequency: Every 3–8 minutes during peak hours.
- Fares:
- Single Journey: €1.85
- 24-Hour Pass (Metro & Carris): €7.00
- Zapping (Pay-as-you-go): €1.66 per ride
Pros:
- Fast and reliable.
- Extensive coverage of the city.
- Air-conditioned trains.
Cons:
- Limited coverage in hilly or historic areas like Alfama.
- Some stations lack elevators, posing challenges for those with mobility issues.
🚌 Buses
Overview: Operated by Carris, buses complement the Metro by reaching areas not served by the subway.
- Operating Hours: Generally from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM; some night buses available.
- Fares:
- Onboard Ticket: €2.20
- With Viva Viagem Card: €1.85
- Zapping: €1.66 per ride
Pros:
- Extensive network covering the entire city.
- Useful for reaching destinations not accessible by Metro.
Cons:
- Subject to traffic delays.
- Less intuitive for tourists unfamiliar with routes.
🚋 Trams
Overview: Lisbon’s iconic yellow trams offer both a mode of transport and a scenic tour of the city’s historic neighborhoods.
- Popular Lines: Tram 28 (Alfama to Campo de Ourique), Tram 15 (Baixa to Belém).
- Fares:
- Onboard Ticket: €3.20
- With Viva Viagem Card: €1.85
- Zapping: €1.47 per ride
Pros:
- Charming and picturesque routes.
- Access to historic districts.
Cons:
- Often crowded, especially Tram 28.
- Limited space for luggage.
🚠 Funiculars and Elevators
Overview: Designed to help navigate Lisbon’s steep hills, these historic lifts are both functional and tourist attractions.
- Notable Elevators:
- Elevador da Glória (Restauradores to Bairro Alto)
- Elevador da Bica (Rua de São Paulo to Calçada do Combro)
- Elevador do Lavra (Largo da Anunciada to Rua Câmara Pestana)
- Santa Justa Lift (Baixa to Carmo Square)
- Fares:
- Funiculars: €4.20 (round trip)
- Santa Justa Lift: €6.10 (round trip)
Pros:
- Unique experience with panoramic views.
- Convenient for accessing hilly areas.
Cons:
- Higher cost compared to other transport modes.
- Often crowded during peak tourist seasons.
🚆 Trains (Comboios de Portugal – CP)
Overview: Trains are ideal for day trips to nearby towns and beaches.
- Key Routes:
- Lisbon to Sintra: €2.30
- Lisbon to Cascais: €2.25
- Lisbon to Setúbal (via Fertagus): €4.85
- Fares: Vary based on distance; tickets can be loaded onto the Viva Viagem card.
Pros:
- Efficient for regional travel.
- Scenic routes along the coast.
Cons:
- Limited frequency during off-peak hours.
- Stations may be outside city center.
⛴️ Ferries
Overview: Ferries cross the Tagus River, connecting Lisbon to suburbs like Cacilhas and Barreiro.
- Main Terminals: Cais do Sodré, Terreiro do Paço.
- Fares: Approximately €1.30–€2.75, depending on the route.
Pros:
- Scenic views of Lisbon’s skyline.
- Alternative route to avoid city traffic.
Cons:
- Limited schedules, especially on weekends.
- Weather-dependent operations.
🚖 Taxis and Ride-Sharing
Overview: Taxis are readily available, and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt operate
📸 Make the Most of Your Trip to Lisbon
Getting around Lisbon is just the beginning — this city is full of unforgettable moments waiting to be captured.
I’m Martim, a local photographer based in Lisbon, and I help travelers like you turn their trip into lasting memories with personalized photo sessions in the city’s most iconic and hidden corners.
Whether you’re visiting solo, as a couple, or with family, I offer:
- Relaxed vacation photoshoots 📷
- Insider tips on the best spots and times for photos
- Real, natural images you’ll actually want to frame
💌 Stay connected:
- 📬 Subscribe to my VIP list for exclusive travel tips and local photo guides: mdfotografia.blog
- 📸 Follow my work on Instagram: @shoots.md
- 📧 Contact me directly: martim.dotti@gmail.com