Just Landed in Lisbon? Here’s Exactly What to Do in Your First Hour
A calm, practical arrival guide so your trip starts smooth, safe and stress-free — even if it’s your first time in Portugal.
You step off the plane at Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado Airport — a little tired, slightly overwhelmed, and carrying that excited tension that comes with arriving somewhere new.
The first hour in any city sets the tone for your entire trip. In Lisbon, where history meets hills and hidden alleys, that arrival can feel magical… or mildly chaotic.
As a local photographer who works with travelers every week, here’s exactly what to do once you land — so your Lisbon experience starts relaxed and confident.
🧳 Step 1: Arrivals, Luggage & Reset
Lisbon Airport is small and easy to navigate. Follow signs for Passport Control and Baggage Claim — most travelers are landside within 20–30 minutes outside peak hours.
While you wait, connect to Wi-Fi and download:
- Uber or Bolt – rideshare (locals use both)
- Google Maps or Citymapper – public transport navigation
- Free Now – official taxi app
🚖 Step 2: Getting Into the City (Local Advice)
You have three solid options — here’s what actually works best:
Option A: Uber / Bolt (Most Popular)
Pick-up is at the Departures level. A ride to Baixa, Alfama or Bairro Alto costs
around 6–10€.
Best for: first-timers, luggage, late arrivals
External links: Uber Lisbon · Bolt Lisbon
Option B: Metro (Red Line)
Buy a Viva Viagem card (0.50€) and load a single ticket (1.80€) or 24h pass (6.80€).
Travel time to downtown: ~30–40 minutes.
Avoid if you have bulky luggage or arrive at rush hour.
Lisbon Metro official site
Option C: Airport Taxi
Use only the official stand. Always ask for the meter.
Expect 15–25€ including luggage.
Best for: families or those avoiding apps
☕ Step 3: Your First Stop in Lisbon
Once you arrive at your neighborhood, don’t rush sightseeing. Take a short pause — it helps your body and brain adjust.
-
Fábrica Coffee Roasters — great coffee, calm vibe, Wi-Fi
Official site -
Manteigaria — legendary pastel de nata
Official site -
Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara — one of the best first views of Lisbon
Google Maps
📷 Bonus: Capture the Beginning of Your Trip
Your first hour in Lisbon is part of your story — the jet-lag smiles, the first views, the feeling of “we’re really here”.
If you’d like to capture your Lisbon experience with natural, relaxed photos — I help travelers turn moments into memories, without pressure or awkward posing.
You can also explore: Booking a Photoshoot in Lisbon & Sintra
Turn Your Arrival Into a Memory
Visiting Lisbon solo, as a couple or with family? A relaxed photo session is a beautiful way to remember your trip — naturally and effortlessly.
FAQ
Is Lisbon Airport easy to navigate?
Yes. It’s compact, well signed and generally efficient compared to other European capitals.
Is Uber cheaper than taxis in Lisbon?
Most of the time, yes — especially from the airport to the city center.
Is Lisbon safe for first-time visitors?
Lisbon is considered very safe. Like any city, stay aware in tourist areas, but violent crime is rare.
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