Exploring Lisbon is made easy by combining the convenience of an efficient public transport system with the delight of walking in the city streets. There are plenty of public transport options available, including vintage trams and modern metro lines to buses and iconic elevators, catering to the needs of every traveler. Public transport runs from 6 am to midnight, while the metro runs until 1 am, making it a reliable option. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available during off-hours.
Ticketing options are simple. You can buy tickets from drivers or machines, or use the Lisboa Card. Taking a scenic tram ride, funicular or ferry will add a unique touch to exploring Lisbon’s historic hills, while efficient trains make day trips seamless.
To ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience, it is advised to respect queues and hold onto your tickets until the end of your journey.
How to Use Public Transport in Lisbon
Metro: Efficient and Reliable
The Lisbon Metro, known locally as “Metropolitano de Lisboa,” stands out as one of Europe’s most beautiful and well-maintained subway systems, providing a convenient way to explore the city and beyond. With four lines covering the city, you can easily reach your desired destination with ease by taking advantage of its efficient and accessible services.
Trams: A Nostalgic Journey
Lisbon’s iconic trams serve not only as a mode of transportation but also as an experience in themselves. You can board Tram 28, also known as the “tourist tram,” to explore the city’s historic districts, including Alfama and Graça. These charming electric streetcars, known locally as “elétricos,” are an essential part of Lisbon’s identity and a delightful way to discover the city’s beauty.
Buses: Extensive City Coverage
The bus network in Lisbon is quite extensive and covers all corners of the city. It’s a convenient alternative for reaching destinations that are not served by the metro or trams. To explore this beautiful city, just look for the iconic yellow buses of Carris. While most tourists usually choose to take the metro, buses offer a more flexible mode of transportation. They allow you to explore the city’s many neighborhoods and discover its hidden gems.
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Ferries: Scenic River Crossings
Lisbon is located along the river, which provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy scenic ferry rides. You can cross the river to visit picturesque spots such as Cacilhas, Trafaria, or Barreiro. Transtejo ferries offer a delightful and affordable means of navigating the picturesque Tejo River, connecting Lisbon to the charming southern bank.
Funiculars and Elevators: Conquering Hills
Lisbon’s hilly landscape is made more accessible with the help of funiculars and elevators. Two of the most popular options for ascending the steep slopes of the city are the Elevador de Santa Justa and the Bica Funicular. These transportation systems together carry around 3.5 million passengers each year, offering an authentic and essential Lisbon experience.
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Commuter Trains: Explore beyond the city
Lisbon’s commuter train system is a great way for both commuters and tourists to explore the city and specially its surroundings. With four major train stations in Lisbon, this is your gateway to uncovering the beauty of Sintra, Cascais, as well as western districts like Alcântara and Belém.
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Tuk Tuks: Lisbon's Unique Exploration
Experience Lisbon like never before with a Tuk Tuk tour, the most exciting and practical way to navigate the city’s historic neighborhoods. While not traditionally used as transportation in Lisbon, these compact vehicles provide an intimate exploration of charming narrow streets that trams and taxis might miss.
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Taxis and Ridesharing: Accessible Navigation
From the classic charm of Lisbon’s taxis to the modern convenience offered by ridesharing services like Uber, navigating this captivating city has never been more accessible. With affordable fares, English-speaking drivers, and the added benefit of cashless transactions, both taxis and ridesharing services provide a stress-free and enjoyable way to explore the streets of Lisbon and beyond.
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Car Rental: Flexible Options
If you prefer the flexibility of having your own vehicle, car rental services are available throughout Lisbon and you can even conveniently reserve a car upon your arrival at the airport. While navigating the charming narrow streets and finding parking in some areas may become a challenge. Despite potential traffic congestion during peak hours, the ability to explore at your own pace and venture beyond city limits makes renting a car an ideal choice for those seeking a more independent and adventurous experience.
Shared Bikes and Scooters: Fun and Eco-Friendly
For a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city, consider using shared bikes or electric scooters, such as Gira and Lime. They’re readily available and offer a flexible mode of transportation, allowing you to explore Lisbon at your own pace while reducing your environmental footprint. Enjoy the freedom of two-wheeled exploration.
SOME TIPS FROM THE LOCALS
1. Purchase a reusable Viva Viagem card. This card allows you to load tickets for multiple modes of transportation, providing convenience and cost savings.
2. Avoid peak hours on public transport: if possible, plan your travels outside of rush hours (8-10 am and 5-7 pm) to enjoy a more comfortable journey.
3. Validate your ticket: make sure to validate your ticket when using public transportation, especially on trams and buses, to avoid fines.
4. Be cautious with pickpockets: as with any major city, be mindful of your belongings while using public transportation, particularly in crowded areas.
