8 Ways To Travel in Lisbon

How To Get Around and Travel In Lisbon? 8 Ways To Travel in Lisbon


Lisbon is a compact city and it is it doesn’t take very long to walk from one side of the city centre to the other BUT it is built on 7 hills, so although it might be quick it can be exhausting.

Save your legs and get around Lisbon with our 8 Ways To Travel In Lisbon.

Lisbon Trams


The tram lines in the city are a favourite transportation for both locals and tourists. There are two types of trams, the modern Siemens “Articulado” trams or the historic “Remodelado” trams. Tram 28 is probably the most famous tour in Lisbon. It is a vintage yellow tram that crosses the city centre, passing by many of Lisbon’s main attractions. Tram 28 has all the benefits of a sightseeing bus tour and it is a lot cheaper to boot. The route from Martim Moniz to Campo de Ourique / Prazeres takes approximately one hour.
travel in lisbon
Single Ticket

Purchased
Onboard:
Price: €3.10 per journey.
Purchase Method: Tickets can be bought directly from the tram driver.
Viva Viagem Card:

Card Cost: €0.50 (non-refundable).
Usage: This reloadable card allows for multiple ticketing options: Single Fare: €1.50 per trip on metro, tram, or bus.
Day Pass: €6.40 for unlimited travel on metro, buses, trams, and funiculars for 24 hours.
Zapping
(Pay-As-You-Go):

Top-Up Amounts: Minimum of €3.00, up to a maximum of €40.00.
Fare Deductions: Tram and Bus: €1.35 per ride.
Metro: €1.33 per journey.
24-Hour Public Transport Ticket:

Price: €6.80.
Benefits: Unlimited travel on all trams, metro, and buses in Lisbon for 24 hours. This ticket also includes access to the Elevador da Glória (€3.80) and Elevador de Santa Justa (€5.30), making it a cost-effective choice for tourists.

Watch Ways To Travel In Lisbon

Buses


There is no denying that buses are the most efficient way of getting around Lisbon. The bus is the only public transport that runs 24 hours a day. The buses here are much faster than the trams, less queue times and several lines run through all parts of the city both central and outskirts, buses also have a lower ticket price than the trams and you will find them less overcrowded. Payment in cash can be made with the driver, they accept coins and low currency notes.
Buying a Ticket Onboard

Cost: €2.00 (cash only, exact change preferred)
Where: Directly from the driver (not available on all routes)
Downside: More expensive than other options
Using a Viva Viagem or Navegante Card (Recommended!)
Cost: €1.50 per journey
How to Pay: Buy a Viva Viagem (€0.50) at metro stations, kiosks, or Carris points
Load it with: Single tickets (€1.50 per ride)
24-hour pass (€6.80, unlimited travel on buses, metro, trams, and funiculars)
Zapping credit (€1.35 per bus ride, also works on metro and trams)
Tap the card on the validator when boarding
Contactless Payment (Not Yet Available for Buses)

Unlike the metro, buses do not accept direct contactless payment via credit/debit card yet.
Where to Buy a Viva Viagem Card?

Metro stations (ticket machines & counters)
Carris ticket offices
Some newspaper kiosks and convenience stores


Best Option for Tourists?
If using public transport often, get a 24-hour pass (€6.80)
If taking occasional rides, use Zapping (€1.35 per ride)

Bikes

lisbon bike tour
Though most people may consider getting around Lisbon on a bike a major challenge with its many hills, cobble roads and traffic. Lisbon definitely has some fantastic areas worth visiting for the cycle enthusiasm and the city has invested in cycle lanes all over the city in the last few years.

One highlight being the 7 km long bike lane along the Tejo with a breath-taking and fast changing landscape. Biking is a great way to travel in Lisbon. Rent a Gira bikes. The GIRA network has more than a thousand bicycles circulating in Lisbon. With the new stations, the city now has 113 stops in operation and 2,200 docks for bicycles. Great choice for travel in Lisbon.
Register and Choose a Subscription:
Day Pass (€2): Ideal for visitors. Unlimited trips up to 45 minutes each; additional charges apply beyond 45 minutes.
Month Pass (€15): Suitable for regular users. Each trip up to 45 minutes costs €0.10 for conventional bikes and €0.20 for electric bikes; additional charges apply beyond 45 minutes.
Annual Pass (€25): Best for residents. Similar pricing structure to the Month Pass.
Locate a Gira Station:
Use the app’s map feature to find nearby docking stations with available bikes.

Unlock a Bike:
At the station, select an available bike through the app and follow on-screen instructions to unlock it.
Ride and Return:
Enjoy your ride!
Return the bike to any Gira docking station. Ensure it’s securely locked to end your trip.

The system operates daily from 6:00 AM to 2:00 AM.

Scooters

travel in lisbon

The newest transport system in Portugal are the electric scooters. There are a number of different companies, Lime being the biggest with give or take 400 scooters spread all around the city. It is a fun way to see Lisbon, even though the steep hills and bumpy cobble streets will make the scooter go considerably slower than its ca 25 km/h speed capacity it is definitely worth a go.

The benefits are the cheap price, the freedom to stop and see the sights whenever you feel like it. They are easy to use, download the app, scan the QR code, enter a card for payment and off you go. When you want to leave your scooter simply get off, stop the ride on the app and take a picture of your scooter to confirm location for the next rider.
Choose a Scooter Service:

Lime: A global leader in micromobility, offering e-scooters in Lisbon.
Lime Micromobility

Electra: Provides e-scooters with a top speed of 25 kph and a range of 70 km.
electra.space

Cooltra: Offers scooter rentals tailored for city exploration
Download the App:
Search for your chosen provider’s app in the App Store or Google Play. For example, Lime’s app is available on both platforms.

Register and Set Up Payment:
Create an account and link a payment method. This typically involves adding a credit or debit card.
Locate and Unlock a Scooter:
Use the app’s map to find nearby scooters.
Once you locate one, scan its QR code via the app to unlock it.

Understand the Costs:
Pricing structures vary:
Lime: Charges may include an unlock fee and a per-minute rate.

Electra: Offers rides from €0.15 per minute.

Cooltra: Provides various rental options; check their website for details.
Safety and Regulations:
Helmet Use: While not always mandatory, wearing a helmet is strongly recommended.
Riding Zones: Stick to bike lanes and avoid pedestrian-only areas.
Parking: Park scooters responsibly, ensuring they don’t obstruct pathways.
7. End Your Ride:
Follow the app’s instructions to properly lock and end your ride, ensuring the scooter is parked in a designated area.

Walking

Walking around Lisbon has the great benefit that you can access all beautiful and scenic side roads and alleys that are not open for traffic. These routes are hard to access with bike or scooter because of the many stairs and narrow roads. It can be a bit of a challenge if you are not that physically fit or active in your everyday life but without any doubt worth it.

When you get too tired Lisbon has many local restaurants and cafes hidden in the city’s smaller streets to stop and grab a drink, try the local food and enjoy a ginja. Lisbon is known to be a very safe area with an overall low crime rate so walking around the city feels secure but obviously take caution when walking at night.
Walking Tour Lisbon with Activities in Portugal

Cars

travel in lisbon
Not our favourite option but driving is still possible and very popular in Lisbon. Parking is a major issue in the city, as spots are limited but parking is not expensive in comparison to other European cities, just make sure you don’t park on the tram tracks as you will be towed and fined! On a regular basis you will see a stationary tram with locals maneuvering the offending car off the track. It is actually a real pain as it holds up all of the trams, its not like they can just serve around the car!

Our advise is to drive to the outskirts and grab the metro into the centre. Its quick, simple and cheap. If you drive into the centre of Lisbon looking for parking expect to be driving in circles and circles trying to find that elusive parking spot.

Metro

The Lisbon metro was built on the 26 January 1948, it currently has 56 stations with 4 lines. The yellow, green, red and blue lines.

The metro is small in comparison to other countries but that makes it very easy to navigate. The metro is very safe, affordable and clean. It operates daily between 06:30h (the first train leaves the terminal stations at 06:30h) and 01:00h (the last train leaves the terminal stations at 01:00h). Grab a VIVA Viagem card (contactless card) from the automated machine. This card costs €0.50 and can be topped up as and when needed. The card can also be used on trams, trains and buses.
travel in lisbon
Viva Viagem Card (Most Common Option)

The Viva Viagem card is a rechargeable travel card used for metro, trams, buses, and some trains.
Where to Buy:
Metro stations (ticket machines & counters)
Carris kiosks
Some newspaper stands and convenience stores
Card Cost: €0.50 (non-refundable)
How to Load It:
Single Ticket: €1.50 per journey
Zapping (Pay-As-You-Go): €1.35 per metro ride
24-Hour Pass: €6.80 (unlimited travel on metro, trams, buses, and funiculars)
How to Use:
Tap the card on the yellow validator before entering the metro gates.
Contactless Payment (Direct Bank Card Payment)

Lisbon metro now allows contactless credit/debit card payments directly at the gate.
Simply tap your Visa/Mastercard to enter (same price as a single Viva Viagem ticket).
Navegante Monthly Pass (For Frequent Travelers)

Cost: Starts at €30 (for Lisbon only) or €40 (for the whole metropolitan area).
Where to Buy: Metro stations or Carris customer service points.
Mobile App (Limited Availability)

Some tourists have reported using apps like MB WAY (Portugal’s mobile payment system) for ticket purchases at machines.
Best Option for Tourists?
24-Hour Pass (€6.80) if you plan multiple trips.
Zapping (€1.35 per ride) for flexibility.
Contactless Card for quick single trips.

Trains

 Travel In Lisbon
Lisbon trains links Lisbon the suburb’s and the rest of country. The three main stations are Cais do Sodré which links Cascais. Santa Apolónia which links the North of Portugal including Porto. Rossio station in the centre of Lisbon which links to Sintra. On the outskirts of Lisbon is Oriente station which links the south. Like the metro trains are clean, affordable and safe. They are even dog friendly! There is no excuse not to take your 4 legged friend to the beach. Just check with the station what precaution you and your best friend need to take.
Types of Trains in Lisbon

🚆 Urban & Suburban Trains (CP – Comboios de Portugal)
Connect Lisbon with Sintra, Cascais, Azambuja, and Setúbal.
🚄 Long-Distance Trains
Alfa Pendular & Intercidades connect Lisbon with Porto, Coimbra, Faro, and beyond.
🚊 Fertagus Trains
Cross the 25 de Abril Bridge, linking Lisbon to Setúbal.
Buying Train Tickets

🎟️ Option 1: Viva Viagem Card (For CP Lisbon Region Trains Only)
Cost: €0.50 (reloadable)
Where to Buy: Metro/train station machines & counters
How to Load: Zapping (Pay-As-You-Go): Works on CP urban trains, metro, trams, and buses.
Single Ticket: Price depends on the destination (e.g., Lisbon to Sintra = €2.40).
24-Hour Pass (€10.70): Unlimited travel on CP trains, metro, trams, and buses.
🎟️ Option 2: CP Online or CP App (For long-distance or suburban tickets)
Buy tickets via the CP website or mobile app.
Best for Alfa Pendular and Intercidades trains.
🎟️ Option 3: Fertagus Tickets (For trains crossing the 25 de Abril Bridge)
Cannot use Viva Viagem. Buy at Fertagus station kiosks or vending machines.
Using the Trains

Validate Your Ticket:
If using Viva Viagem, tap it on the yellow/green validators before boarding.
If using a printed ticket, check if it requires stamping at a validation machine.
Boarding:
Look for your train on electronic screens.
Most suburban trains run every 15-30 minutes (less frequent on weekends).
Getting Off:
Some stations require tapping out if using Viva Viagem.
Popular Train Routes from Lisbon

📍 Lisbon → Sintra (40 minutes, €2.40)
From Rossio Station (historic center).
📍 Lisbon → Cascais (40 minutes, €2.30)
From Cais do Sodré Station (beautiful coastal route).
📍 Lisbon → Setúbal (via Fertagus) (55 minutes, €4.55)
From Roma-Areeiro Station (crosses the 25 de Abril Bridge).
📍 Lisbon → Porto (Alfa Pendular) (2h 50min, from €31)
From Santa Apolónia or Oriente Station.

Thanks for reading 8 Ways To Travel In Lisbon.
Book your Lisbon Activities with Activities in Portugal.

Lisbon Weather

LISBOA WEATHER

How To Get To Lisbon

By Air ✈️
Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) is Lisbon’s main international airport.
Direct flights from major European cities and worldwide destinations.
Take the metro (Red Line), a bus, or an Bolt to the city centre, expect to pay around 10-15 euros.
By Train 🚆
From Porto, Algarve, and other Portuguese cities: Take the Alfa Pendular (AP) or Intercidades (IC) train to Lisbon’s Oriente or Santa Apolónia stations.
From Spain: Night trains and connections via Madrid or Vigo offer routes to Lisbon.
By Bus 🚌
Companies like FlixBus, ALSA, Rede Expressos provide routes from major cities across Portugal and Europe.
Buses from Porto to Lisbon take about 3-4 hours.
By Car 🚗
From Porto, take the A1 motorway (about 3 hours).
From Spain, the A6 and A5 motorways connect Lisbon to Madrid and beyond.
By Boat 🚢
Cruise ships dock at Lisbon’s Port, near the city center.
Tagus River cruises are a great way to arrive in style from nearby coastal towns.

When To Visit Lisbon?

What are the Best Months To Visit Lisbon?

Late April, May, June & July
* The weather is warm but not too hot: May (18-22°C), June (20-25°C), July (25-30°C).

* You will get sunny days with little rain, that are perfect for walking around the city and enjoying the Douro River.

*Santo António Festival (June 12-13): Lisbon’s biggest celebration fills the streets with vibrant parades, lively music, and the delicious aroma of grilled sardines. Join the fun as people dance, sing, and enjoy the city’s most festive night! This is one of the best things to do in Lisbon.

*Summer Sunsets in Lisbon: During these months, the sun sets around 9 PM, giving you extra time to explore the city’s viewpoints, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Tagus River, and discover hidden gems in Lisbon’s charming neighborhoods.

Lisbon Itinerary Ideas 1 Day

1️⃣ Visit Rossio Railway Station – Admire its stunning neo-Manueline architecture.

2️⃣ Discover Sé de Lisboa – Lisbon’s historic cathedral with breathtaking views of the city.

3️⃣ Step Inside São Roque Church – A hidden gem with one of the most extravagant baroque interiors.

4️⃣ Explore Alfama District – Wander through the charming, narrow streets of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood.

5️⃣ Walk Across Ponte 25 de Abril – Lisbon’s iconic suspension bridge, often compared to San Francisco’s Golden Gate.

6️⃣ Try Pastel de Nata – Taste Portugal’s famous custard tarts at the legendary Pastéis de Belém.

7️⃣ Take a Tagus River Cruise – Enjoy Lisbon’s skyline from the water at sunset.

8️⃣ Find One of Lisbon’s Best Hidden Gems – The secret viewpoint at Miradouro de Santa Catarina, perfect for a relaxing drink with a view.


Lisbon Itinerary Ideas 2 Days

Day One – Exploring Lisbon

1️⃣ Discover Belém – Visit the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, two of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks.

2️⃣Explore LX Factory – A trendy creative hub filled with street art, unique shops, and great cafés.

3️⃣ Stroll Along the River to Cais do Sodré – Enjoy a scenic walk along the Tagus River, passing street performers, cafés, and great viewpoints.

4️⃣Walk Along Praça do Comércio – One of the most beautiful squares in Europe, right by the river.

5️⃣ Explore Alfama District – Stroll through the oldest and most charming neighborhood of Lisbon.

6️⃣ Try Pastel de Nata – Indulge in Lisbon’s famous custard tart at Pastéis de Belém.

7️⃣ Take a Tagus River Sunset Cruise – Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the water.

8️⃣ Hidden Gem Alert! – End your day at Miradouro de Santa Catarina, a secret viewpoint with stunning sunset views.
Day Two – Day Trip to Sintra

1️⃣ Visit Palácio da Pena – Sintra’s fairy-tale palace with colorful towers and breathtaking views.

2️⃣ Explore Quinta da Regaleira – A mystical estate with hidden tunnels and the famous Initiation Well.

3️⃣ Check Out Castelo dos Mouros – A medieval hilltop fortress with panoramic views.

4️⃣ Wander Through Sintra’s Historic Center – Discover charming streets and traditional Portuguese pastries.

5️⃣ Visit Palácio de Monserrate – A lesser-known gem with stunning architecture and lush gardens.

6️⃣ Try Travesseiros de Sintra – A delicious local pastry you can’t miss.

7️⃣ Relax at Praia da Adraga – If time allows, head to this breathtaking beach just outside Sintra.

Other Lisbon Travel Guides

Best Hotels in Lisbon


Accommodation
Star Rating
Top Reviewed

EPIC SANA Lisboa Hotel

EPIC SANA Marquês Hotel

Wine & Books Lisboa Hotel

Haws Lisboa

Vincci Alfama

Hotel da Baixa

Blue Liberdade Hotel

Monte Belvedere Hotel by Shiadu

Jardim da Lapa by Shiadu

Moov Hotel Lisboa Oriente

easyHotel Lisbon

Hotel Canada

5 Star

5 Star

5 Star

4 Star

4 Star

4 Star

3 Star

3 Star

3 Star

2 Star

2 Star

2 Star
9.3

9.3

9.3

9.6

9.6

9.5

9.5

9.3

9.3

8.5

8.6

8.3

Things to Know Before You Go

The Weather Can Be Unpredictable During Winter & Spring
Lisbon enjoys a mild climate, but the weather can be unpredictable, especially in the winter and spring months.
It’s always a good idea to carry a light jacket or an umbrella, even if the forecast looks clear, and dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.

Lisbon is Walkable, But Be Ready for Hills, 7 of them Actually
Lisbon is a fantastic city to explore on foot, but be prepared for steep hills and cobblestone streets! Neighborhoods like Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Chiado have plenty of inclines, staircases, and narrow alleys.
Top Lisbon Travel Tip, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and get ready for a bit of a leg workout as you discover the city’s hidden corners and breathtaking viewpoints. 🚶‍♂️

Tipping is Appreciated but Not Obligatory
In Lisbon, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, a tip of around 5-10% is common, especially if the service is good. In cafes and bars, leaving a few coins is also a nice gesture, given the minimu wage in Portugal is still under 900 euros in 2025.

Credit Cards Not Widely Accepted
While Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere, American Express, UnionPay, and Discover may not be accepted at smaller shops or restaurants. It’s a good idea to carry cash or use payment apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay as alternatives.

Safety In Lisbon
Lisbon is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas like trams and markets. Avoid dark, isolated spots at night, and always keep an eye on your belongings.

In case you need them the Tourist Police Station in Lisbon is located near the Cruise Ship Docking, which is a central and busy area for tourists. The specific address is:

Polícia de Turismo
Doca, Terminal de Cruzeiros de Lisboa, Edifício SW, R. do Jardim do Tabaco, 1000-651 Lisboa
Activities in Portugal

Written by Clara R.

“I’ve been lucky enough to call Portugal home since 2011, living in the Algarve, Lisbon, and the Porto area. Every year, I make it a mission to travel around this beautiful country, discovering new places, hidden gems, and the best local spots. Portugal never stops surprising me!.”

 

 

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