The Art of Moving Through Lisbon
Lisbon is a city of seven hills, and navigating its steep streets and charming neighborhoods is part of the adventure. Here's your guide to moving through the city with confidence.
The Metro: Your Underground Ally
Lisbon's metro is clean, efficient, and beautifully decorated with azulejos at many stations. Four lines (Blue, Yellow, Green, Red) connect major points:
- Single ticket: €1.50
- Day pass: €6.45 (includes buses, trams, elevators)
- Zapping card: Rechargeable, pay-as-you-go
Pro tip: Avoid rush hours (8-10am, 5-7pm) when locals commute.
Trams: Rolling Through History
Tram 28: The Tourist Classic
Yes, it's touristy, but for good reason. This vintage wooden tram climbs through Graça, Alfama, Baixa, and up to Estrela. Board early morning or late evening to avoid crowds.
Tram 15: The Modern Alternative
Air-conditioned and less crowded, perfect for reaching Belém's monuments.
Walking: The Best Way to Discover
Lisbon rewards walkers, but preparation is key:
- Footwear: Non-slip soles are essential for polished cobblestones
- Hills: Take your time, use handrails, locals won't judge
- Elevators: Four historic elevators help with steep climbs
- Santa Justa (tourist trap but beautiful)
- Glória, Bica, Lavra (practical and charming)
Alternative Transport
Tuk-Tuks
Fun for tours but negotiate prices beforehand. €45-60 for 1-hour tour is reasonable.
E-Scooters & Bikes
Available via apps (Lime, Bolt, Bird). Great for flat areas like Belém or Parque das Nações. Avoid hills unless you're athletic!
Uber/Bolt
Affordable and reliable. €8-12 from airport to center. Always available, even late night.
Secret Routes & Shortcuts
Baixa to Bairro Alto: Skip the crowds, use Elevador da Glória Alfama to Graça: Take the hidden stairs behind the National Pantheon Príncipe Real to Bairro Alto: Walk through the garden, not around it
Navigation Apps That Work
- Citymapper: Best for public transport
- Google Maps: Reliable but underestimates walking times on hills
- Moovit: Real-time bus and tram arrivals
Money-Saving Transport Tips
- Viva Viagem card: €0.50 initial cost, rechargeable
- After midnight: Night buses (Rede da Madrugada) run hourly
- Free transport: Kids under 6, seniors over 65 with proper ID
- Walking tours: Many free options, just tip your guide
Accessibility Notes
- Metro stations have elevators (not always working)
- Modern trams (15, 18) are wheelchair accessible
- Taxis have wheelchair-accessible vehicles (book ahead)
- Many sidewalks have tactile paving for visually impaired
Remember: Getting lost in Lisbon often leads to the best discoveries. Embrace the journey!