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Key takeaways — Lisbon transport
- No car: driving in the city is a nightmare, parking scarce and expensive.
- Metro: 4 lines, €1.80 per ticket, airport in 25 min.
- Tram 28: historic and essential, but crowded — ride it early morning.
- Uber / Bolt: €5-8 across the city, card payment.
- Viva Viagem 24h: €6.80 for unlimited metro + bus + tram + elevadores.
How to get around Lisbon?
Lisbon is a walking city, but its seven hills and slippery cobblestones wear you out quickly. Luckily public transport is efficient, cheap and covers the whole city. Here is our complete guide based on ten years of local experience.
The Lisbon metro
Four lines (blue, yellow, green, red) serve the main districts. The airport is on the red line, reaching the centre in 25 minutes for €1.80. Metro runs 6:30 am to 1 am. Stations are modern, safe and often tiled in azulejos (Oriente, Parque, Olaias).
Tram 28, buses and elevadores
The historic tram 28 crosses the most touristy neighbourhoods. Catch it at Martim Moniz terminus in the early morning (7-8 am) or after 7 pm for a seat. Elevadores (Bica, Glória, Santa Justa) climb the steepest slopes.
Uber, Bolt and taxis
Uber and Bolt are everywhere and often cheaper than classic taxis. Across the centre: €5-8. Airport to centre: €12-18. Official beige taxis are reliable but often cash-only.
FAQ Lisbon transport
Should I rent a car? No, never in the city. Is the Lisboa Card worth it? Only if you hit 4-5 museums. How to get to Sintra? Train from Rossio in 40 min, or our private English-speaking transfer.