Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is renowned for its historic tram network that winds through the narrow streets and steep hills of the city. These iconic trams have become a symbol of Lisbon’s charm and are a popular way for both locals and tourists to explore the city. In this article, we will uncover the beauty of Lisbon’s top tram routes and provide a guide on how to navigate these must-see lines.
Uncovering the Charm of Lisbon’s Iconic Tram Routes
One of the most famous tram routes in Lisbon is Tram 28, which takes passengers on a scenic journey through the historic neighborhoods of Alfama, Baixa, and Estrela. As the tram rattles along the narrow streets, passengers are treated to stunning views of iconic landmarks such as the Sé Cathedral and São Jorge Castle. Tram 28 is a great way to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Lisbon while enjoying the picturesque sights along the way.
For a more leisurely ride, hop on Tram 15 which takes you from the Baixa district to the historic district of Belém. This route passes by the imposing Jerónimos Monastery, the iconic Belém Tower, and the picturesque riverside area. Tram 15 offers a relaxing way to explore some of Lisbon’s most famous attractions while taking in the beautiful views of the Tagus River. Make sure to alight at Belém to sample the famous Pastéis de Belém custard tarts.
If you’re looking for a unique experience, consider taking Tram 12 which travels through the hilly streets of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhoods, including Graça and Campo de Ourique. This route provides a glimpse into the daily life of Lisbon’s residents and offers a more off-the-beaten-path exploration of the city. Tram 12 is a great way to escape the tourist crowds and discover the authentic charm of Lisbon’s local neighborhoods.
A Guide to Navigating Lisbon’s Must-See Tram Lines
When navigating Lisbon’s must-see tram lines, it’s important to be aware of the different routes and schedules to ensure a smooth journey. Trams in Lisbon run from early morning until late at night, making it convenient to explore the city at any time of the day. Be sure to check the timetable for your chosen tram route to avoid any long waits at the stops.
To ride the trams in Lisbon, you can purchase a reusable Viva Viagem card which can be loaded with credit for multiple journeys. This card can be used on trams, buses, and the metro, making it a convenient and cost-effective way to travel around the city. Alternatively, you can purchase single tickets from the tram driver, but be prepared with exact change as they do not provide change on board.
Another tip for navigating Lisbon’s tram lines is to arrive early at popular tram stops, especially during peak tourist seasons. Trams like Tram 28 tend to get crowded quickly, so arriving early will ensure you have a better chance of securing a seat or a good spot by the window to enjoy the views. Additionally, keep an eye out for pickpockets in crowded areas and be mindful of your belongings while riding the trams.
Exploring Lisbon’s top tram routes is a unique way to discover the city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant neighborhoods. Whether you choose to ride Tram 28 for a classic Lisbon experience, Tram 15 for a leisurely journey to Belém, or Tram 12 for a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, each route offers a different perspective of this beautiful city. So next time you find yourself in Lisbon, make sure to hop on a tram and explore the charm of this historic capital.

Gonzalo
Founder/Owner of The Lisbon Guide, one of the major blog references in Portugal, established in 2014 and receiving every year 250.000 visitors from all over the world, looking to provide the best experiences in Portugal. In partnership with Portugal Magik for all private tours and transfers across Portugal, Gonzalo loves a good seafood meal at Monte Mar Cascais, and all from Michelin Chef Avillez. Favorite Hotel in Lisbon/Portugal, Penha Longa Resort by Ritz Carlton.
For over 15 years, Gonzalo have been helping thousands of travelers yearly to plan a perfect trip to Portugal. Based in Lisbon/Cascais and working in this field for over 20 years, with multiple ongoing projects. Also an avid TripAdvisor user level 6 with more than 300.000 readers worldwide.
Many years working also as a Private Guide of Lisbon, Sintra, Fatima, Porto, Douro Valley, Evora, and other locations in Portugal.
