Lisbon is one of the easiest European capitals to explore without renting a car. The city’s public transport network includes the metro, trams, buses, suburban trains and ferries, giving visitors several ways to move between the airport, historic centre, neighbourhoods and destinations outside Lisbon.
For most visitors, the best strategy is simple: walk when the distance is short, use the metro for longer journeys, and choose trains or ferries when travelling beyond the city centre.
Lisbon Public Transport
| Transport | Best for | Main advantage | Things to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro | Longer journeys across Lisbon | Fast and avoids road traffic | Does not reach every neighbourhood |
| Tram | Historic areas and scenic routes | Great for steep streets and sightseeing | Popular routes can be crowded |
| Bus | Areas outside the metro network | Extensive coverage | Traffic can affect journey times |
| Train | Sintra, Cascais and other day trips | Useful for travelling outside Lisbon | Different stations and routes apply |
| Ferry | Crossing the Tagus | Scenic and practical | Useful mainly for specific destinations |
| Walking | Central neighbourhoods | Free and often enjoyable | Lisbon has many steep streets |
Lisbon Metro
The Lisbon Metro is usually the fastest public transport option for travelling longer distances within the city.
It connects important areas such as the airport, Saldanha, Baixa and Parque das Nações. The airport has its own metro station, and the airport-to-Saldanha journey takes around 20 minutes under normal conditions.
The Metro normally operates from 6:30 a.m. until 1:00 a.m., including weekends and public holidays.
How much does the Lisbon Metro cost?
For 2026, a Carris/Metro ticket costs €1.90, while a Metro journey paid directly with a contactless bank card costs €1.92. A 24-hour Carris/Metro ticket costs €7.25.
| Ticket | 2026 price | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Carris/Metro ticket | €1.90 | Occasional journeys |
| Contactless Metro journey | €1.92 | A single Metro journey |
| 24h Carris/Metro | €7.25 | Several journeys in one day |
| 24h Carris/Metro/CP | €11.40 | Lisbon + suburban train travel |
| Zapping | €1.72 per Metro journey | Visitors making several occasional journeys |
Prices and conditions can change, so check the official Metro and Carris websites before travelling.
Lisbon Trams
Lisbon’s yellow trams are among the city’s most recognizable symbols.
They are not simply tourist attractions: they are part of the public transport network. However, some routes are extremely popular with visitors.
Tram 28 is particularly famous because it travels through historic neighbourhoods such as Graça, Alfama and Baixa.
The downside is that popular trams can become crowded, especially during peak tourist periods.
Should you take Tram 28?
Yes, if you want to experience one of Lisbon’s classic tram routes.
However, do not depend on Tram 28 as your only way of getting around the historic centre. Walking can often be more enjoyable, and alternative public transport routes may be less crowded.
If you have luggage, avoid relying on a crowded tram whenever possible.
Lisbon Buses
Buses are useful when the metro does not take you close enough to your destination.
They are particularly helpful for neighbourhoods and streets that are not directly connected to Metro stations.
The disadvantage is that buses operate on the road, so journey times can be affected by traffic.
CARRIS provides route information and real-time information through its digital services, which can help you check vehicle arrivals and routes.
Trains from Lisbon
Suburban trains are especially useful for visitors planning day trips.
Two of the most important destinations are:
- Sintra
- Cascais
The train network also connects Lisbon with other destinations around the region.
If you are planning a day trip, check the correct station and route before leaving because Lisbon has several major railway stations.
Ferries Across the Tagus
Ferries are useful when you need to cross the Tagus River.
One popular connection is between Lisbon and Cacilhas, on the south bank of the river.
For visitors, the ferry can also be part of the experience because it provides views across the Tagus and Lisbon’s waterfront.
A 24-hour Carris/Metro/Transtejo ticket costs €10.35 in 2026.
Walking in Lisbon
Do not underestimate walking.
Central Lisbon is compact enough that many attractions can be reached on foot. Walking is especially useful around Baixa, Chiado, Alfama and other historic areas.
However, Lisbon is famous for its hills, stairs and uneven pavements.
A journey that looks short on a map may take longer than expected.
Best transport for different situations
| Situation | Best option |
|---|---|
| Airport → central Lisbon | Metro |
| Long journey across Lisbon | Metro |
| Exploring historic neighbourhoods | Walking |
| Exploring Lisbon’s famous tram routes | Tram |
| Area without Metro access | Bus |
| Lisbon → Sintra | Train |
| Lisbon → Cascais | Train |
| Lisbon → Cacilhas | Ferry |
| Heavy luggage | Taxi/ride-hailing |
| Several journeys in one day | Compare individual tickets with a 24h ticket |
Tips for Using Public Transport in Lisbon
- Check your route before leaving.
- Use the Metro when traffic is likely to slow buses and taxis.
- Walk short distances instead of changing transport unnecessarily.
- Be careful with bags in crowded tourist areas.
- Keep your ticket or transport card available when required.
- Expect hills and stairs in historic neighbourhoods.
- Check current fares before travelling because prices can change.
Is Public Transport in Lisbon Worth Using?
Absolutely.
For most visitors, there is little reason to rent a car just to explore Lisbon.
Public transport combined with walking is usually a much more practical way to experience the city.
If you are staying in central Lisbon, you may spend much of your day walking and use public transport only for longer journeys.
For a complete comparison of transport options, tickets, taxis and walking, read our main guide: how to get around Lisbon.
