Navigating the charming streets of Lisbon is an experience in itself. The city's labyrinth of cobbled lanes, adorned with stunning tiles and offering breathtaking river views, beckons exploration. Though you can traverse Lisbon by car, we highly recommend public transportation or walking for the most immersive experience.
Whether you're staring out at the river from a tram window or meandering through the streets on foot, you're bound to fall in love with Lisbon's old-world charm and vibrant energy.
Public Transport: How To Get Around Lisbon
To ride public transport in Lisbon, you'll need the Viva Viagem card, available for just €0.50. Avoid confusion with the Lisboa Viva plastic monthly pass used by locals, as the Viva Viagem card is designed for occasional travelers.
You can purchase and load your Viva Viagem card at any metro station using cash (coins and notes) or major debit and credit cards (e.g., Visa, MasterCard, Maestro). These cards are also available at selling points throughout the city and commuter train stations.
Choosing the Right Ticket: The Viva Viagem card can hold only one type of ticket at a time, so select the one that suits your needs:
Single Tickets: Ideal for a one-time metro or bus ride within Lisbon, such as from the airport to your hotel, provided you don't plan to use any other public transport on the same day.
24-Hour Tickets: Available in three options, including travel within the city or with additional access to commuter trains and ferries. These tickets are perfect for extensive travel, allowing you to ride trams, funiculars, and more without worrying about individual tickets or Zapping money.
Zapping: This pay-as-you-go option allows you to load money onto your card and use it for metro, tram, funicular, bus, commuter train, and ferry rides.
Note: Different ticket types cannot be mixed. If you have loaded single tickets on your Viva Viagem card, you must use them before purchasing a 24-hour ticket. Zapping balances always have a few cents left after each ride, making it challenging to switch to another ticket type. In such cases, it's best to obtain a new Viva Viagem card for €0.50 and load it with your desired ticket. Zapping money left on the card is non-refundable but can be transferred to another Viva Viagem card at a ticket office.
Lisbon’s Alternative Transportation Options
Ridesharing Services: Uber and BOLT are popular ridesharing options in Lisbon. Download the smartphone app, book a car, and pay without cash exchange. Look for the TVDE sticker on the driver's side of the vehicle. Enjoy up to 50% off your first BOLT trip with code NATANNKU.
Electric Scooters: Explore Lisbon's streets with ease using dockless electric scooters available throughout the city. They provide a fun and efficient way to discover the best of what Lisbon has to offer.
Bicycles: With an expanding network of bicycle lanes, Lisbon has become more bike-friendly. Rent a traditional or e-bike and embark on a two-wheeled adventure through the city.
Tuk-Tuks: While tuk-tuks are available in Lisbon, it's worth noting that they are often considered touristy and disliked by locals. To experience the city like a true Lisbonite, we recommend exploring alternative transportation options mentioned above.
