Just Landed in Lisbon? Here’s Exactly What to Do in Your First Hour (Stress-Free Arrival Guide)

1 Comment / Blog EN / By

You step off the plane at Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado Airport — a bit tired, slightly overwhelmed, and carrying that excited tension that comes with arriving in a brand-new city. You’ve made it to Portugal’s capital, but now what?

The first hour in any city can set the tone for your whole trip. It’s that window where everything feels unfamiliar: the signs, the options, the transport systems. And with Lisbon, where history meets hills and hidden alleys, your arrival can either feel magical… or mildly chaotic.

As a local photographer who often helps travelers make the most of their Lisbon experience, let me walk you through exactly what to do once you land — so your trip starts smooth, safe, and stress-free.

🧳 Step 1: Collect Your Luggage and Breathe

Once you’re off the plane, follow the clear signs to Passport Control and Baggage Claim. The airport is small and easy to navigate. You’ll probably be out in 20–30 minutes, unless you arrive at peak time.

While you wait, connect to the free airport Wi-Fi and download or open:

    • Bolt or Uber (for rideshare)

    • Citymapper or Google Maps (for public transport)

    • MyTaxi / FreeNow (if you prefer regular taxis)

🚖 Step 2: Getting Into the City — What Locals Really Use

You now have 3 good options to get into central Lisbon:

✅ Option A: Bolt / Uber (Easy & Cheap)

    • Head outside to the Departures level (yes, departures, not arrivals!)

    • There’s a specific rideshare pick-up point clearly marked

    • A trip to Baixa, Alfama or Bairro Alto costs 6–10€

    • Usually faster and cheaper than regular taxis

➡️ Best for: First-timers, people with luggage, or arriving late at night

✅ Option B: Metro (Red Line)

    • Follow signs to Metro from inside the arrivals terminal

    • You’ll take the Red Line and possibly transfer to the Green, Blue or Yellow lines depending on your final stop

    • Buy a Viva Viagem card at the machine (0.50€) and load a 1.80€ ticket or a 6.80€ 24-hour pass

➡️ Best for: Budget travelers, solo explorers, or anyone arriving during the day

🕒 Time: About 30–40 minutes to downtown
💡 Tip: Avoid the metro if you’re carrying bulky luggage or if it’s rush hour (7–9am or 6–8pm)

✅ Option C: Airport Taxi

    • Always use the official stand — ignore drivers who approach you inside the terminal

    • Make sure the meter is on, and expect to pay 15–25€ depending on traffic and luggage fees

➡️ Best for: Families or those who don’t want to deal with apps

☕ Step 3: Where to Stop First Once You Arrive

Whether you’re dropped in the cobbled streets of Alfama, the historic charm of Baixa, or the hip cafés of Cais do Sodré, you’ll want one thing after your transfer: a little break.

Here are three perfect first stops to ease into the Lisbon vibe:

    • Fábrica Coffee Roasters (Rua das Portas de Santo Antão)
      Specialty coffee, free Wi-Fi, quiet atmosphere

    • Manteigaria (Time Out Market or Rua do Loreto)
      The best pastel de nata you’ll taste — yes, better than that other one

    • Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara
      Epic view of the city — go up, breathe, and start your Lisbon story from the top

📷 Bonus: Capture the Moment

This may sound biased (ok, it is), but it’s worth saying: your first hour in Lisbon is part of your story. Whether you’re a solo traveler, visiting with your partner, or exploring as a family, these moments are worth keeping.

That’s where I come in.

I’m Martim — a local photographer helping travelers turn their trip into timeless memories. If you’d like to capture your Lisbon experience with natural, relaxed, beautiful photos — I’d love to hear from you.

✉️ Let’s connect:

📚 You might also like:

1 thought on “Just Landed in Lisbon? Here’s Exactly What to Do in Your First Hour (Stress-Free Arrival Guide)”

  1. Pingback: How to Stay Safe in Lisbon: 8 Tips Every Smart Traveler Should Know

Leave a Reply