Guide to Using Public Transport in Lisbon

Blog's Archive

By LSA Editor | Dec 21, 2024

Portugal’s capital stands out for its vibrant atmosphere and countless must-see attractions. One of the best ways to explore every corner of the city is by using Lisbon’s public transport network. Whether by metro, bus, train, tram, or even ferry, you can get anywhere conveniently and affordably.

What Is the Best Way to Get Around Lisbon During Your Visit?

This is undoubtedly a key concern for any tourist. After all, what is the best way to ensure fast, efficient, and affordable travel between the various spots in the city?

Lisbon’s public transport network is highly diverse, covering different areas of the capital and even its surroundings. This means you can skip the need for a car, which often proves far less convenient, especially in the city center. Therefore, the ideal choice among the various transport options—or a combination of them—depends on your itinerary and preferences.

Lisbon’s Public Transport Diagram

How to Use Lisbon’s Metro?

The metro is undeniably one of the most popular forms of public transport in Lisbon, for both locals and visitors.

It operates daily between 6:30 AM and 1:00 AM.

With four independent lines – blue, yellow, green, and red, and 56 stations, it covers a substantial part of the city.

For those arriving by plane, the red line is an excellent option, offering quick access from Lisbon Airport to the city center.

For updated pricing and ticket options, visit “metrolisboa.pt”.

Lisbon’s Underground Network

What to Know About the Bus in Lisbon?

Buses are a great alternative to the metro.

Operated by Carris, they provide convenient access to less central areas and points of interest, such as museums or viewpoints (often located on hills).

The bus network covers almost the entire metropolitan area and operates extended hours. Several routes run throughout the night.

To plan your journey and check current fares, visit “carris.pt” or download their mobile app.

Can You Leave the Traditional Tram Out?

When it comes to public transport in Lisbon, iconic trams are a must-mention. They are deeply tied to the city’s history and identity. By taking a tram, you combine the practicality of transportation with a unique and memorable experience, passing through the narrow, steep streets of historic neighborhoods.

Tram 28 is world-famous and ideal for exploring iconic places like Alfama or Graça.
Tram 25 passes through must-see spots like Praça do Comércio or the majestic Basílica da Estrela.
Tram 15E, a more spacious and modern option, connects the city center to Belém.

Note: The red trams are tourist-only services, while the yellow ones are part of Lisbon’s public transport network. For more details visit “carris.pt”, filtering the routes by “articulated tram” or “classic tram.”

What’s the Best for Crossing the Tagus River?

In such cases, ferries are undoubtedly the best choice among Lisbon’s public transport options. Combining comfort and functionality with unforgettable views of the Tagus estuary, ferries provide a scenic and practical solution.

These boats offer regular connections between the city center and locations such as Cacilhas, Trafaria, or Seixal, providing access to attractions like the Cristo Rei or the famous beaches of Costa da Caparica. Widely used by both tourists and locals, especially during summer months, ferries are a convenient way to explore Lisbon’s southern shore.

Explore your options on the Transtejo Soflusa website – “ttsl.pt”.

When Is It Useful to Take the Train?

Train lines are essential for exploring areas further from Lisbon’s center.

This includes the beaches along the Cascais Line as well as the towns of Sintra and Cascais, known for their rich cultural, architectural, and natural heritage.

Here are the main train stations in Lisbon for the Sintra and Cascais lines:

If you want to visit Sintra by train, you can use the Rossio train station, among others (Campolide, Entrecampos, etc)
If you want to get to Cascais, you can use the Cais do Sodré train station or Alcântara-Mar, among others.

Practical Tips for Using Public Transport in Lisbon

To make your public transport experience in Lisbon more enjoyable and efficient, keep these tips in mind:

Choose a transport card that suits your needs and the duration of your stay. For example, the Zapping fare can be cost-effective if you need to combine different types of transport, while the Navegante card is ideal for longer stays.
Plan your routes in advance to determine the most suitable public transport options for reaching different areas of the city. This allows you to check schedules and anticipate wait times.
Avoid peak hours if possible: between 7:30 AM and 9:30 AM and between 5:00 PM and 7:30 PM.
If arriving or departing by plane, you can use the red metro line or buses. Alternatively, for added convenience, Lisbon Serviced Apartments offers a transfer service from Humberto Delgado Airport at an additional cost. For more information, contact our team.

Are You Preparing to Visit Europe’s Sunniest Capital?

When planning your city travels, don’t forget the importance of choosing reliable accommodation tailored to your needs and preferences.
At Lisbon Serviced Apartments, we offer a wide selection of elegant, comfortable, and private apartments for short-stays in the city’s most attractive locations.

We can’t wait to welcome you!

To ensure you make the most of Lisbon’s public transport with maximum efficiency and comfort, check out the guide we’ve prepared for you.