Doing some research on the local public transport before a trip is usually a good idea if you want to maximise sightseeing time. Using the metro system is often the cheapest and easiest way to get around in medium and large cities.
That being said, the metro isn’t always a pleasant experience. Big crowds, ‘characters’ on the train, confusing layouts, the undeniable stench of urine, and even witnessing someone vomiting on the platform and walk away (New York, I still love you), it can be intimidating for some.
However, Lisbon’s metro is immaculate, easy-to-use and even quite pretty, with lots of tiled artwork at the stations. Below, I’ll detail how to make the best use of it on your trip to Portugal’s capital city.
Get a Viva Viagem metro card
Firstly, you’ll need to purchase a top-up card at one of the ticket machines and load at least one journey on to it. This is called the Viva Viagem card and costs just 50 cents. You can pay for it in the local currency (Euros) or via debit/credit card at one of the many ticket machines you’ll find at your chosen departure station. The ticket machines are very easy to use with instructions available in English and a number of other languages, as well as Portuguese. Once you’ve done this, you’ll need to validate your Viagem card at the barriers before you can proceed to the platform. One journey will then be deducted from your card and you can also view how many are remaining.
Photo credit: Lisa Travels To
The Lisbon metro system
The Lisbon metro system has just 4 lines in total, all of which are connected, making it very simple to use. You can check out the full lines below (source: https://lisbonlisboaportugal.com/lisbon-transport/Lisbon-metro-guide.html):
Photo credit: LisbonLisboaPortugal.com
Pretty easy, right? I’ve noted some key stations you’ll likely end up using on your trip to Lisbon:
- Aeroporto – you can reach this stop in a 5-10 minute walk from Lisbon Airport. When you reach the arrivals hall, just follow the signs for the metro. I reached the city centre within 20 minutes for less than 5 euros!
- Marquês de Pombal – this is an important square and transport hub in Lisbon. The square is dedicated to the 1st Marquis of Pombal who ruled Portugal from 1750 to 1777 during the deadly 1755 earthquake. It’s also close to the Parque Eduardo VII and is the start and finish stops for the City Sightseeing bus tours. You’ll find it located on the blue and yellow lines.
- Terreiro do Paço – located on the blue line. This is one of the closest stations to the stunning Praça do Comércio square.
- Santa Apolónia – if you’re planning on any onward travel north of Lisbon, for example going to Porto, you’ll likely use this metro station to connect to the train station of the same name. It’s located on the blue line.
You might also enjoy my article on the top 5 things to see and do in Lisbon.
All information correct at time of writing.
