Overview
Transfer Options
Lisbon’s Metro and Carris bus network have a history of periodic strikes, including multiple disruptions in 2025. Before travel, check Metro line status and Carris service changes. If services are disrupted, Uber and Bolt remain available citywide.
Luggage Storage
Public Transit
Metro & Train
Tickets and Payment
- Contactless: You can tap any contactless Visa, Mastercard, or mobile wallet (Apple/Google Pay) directly at the yellow gate readers. The fare is €1.90.
- Navegante Card: Purchase a reusable card for €0.50 at a machine and load it with credit.
- Validation: You must tap your card/phone at the gates both when entering and exiting the station.
Bus (Carris)
A single ticket purchased onboard is €2.30, while using a pre-loaded Navegante card is €1.90 (or €1.72 with Zapping).
Public Carris buses have a strict luggage size limit of 50x40x20cm. If you are traveling with standard checked suitcases, the driver may legally refuse entry. For those with larger bags, the Metro or a taxi is mandatory.
Rideshare
Bolt often has better availability and slightly lower prices during peak hours.
Official Taxi
Price and Time
Lisbon taxis are traditionally cream-colored or black with green roofs. A metered trip to the center costs roughly €10–€18 (higher at night/weekends).
Locations
Always ensure the meter is started (Tarifa 1 for day, Tarifa 2 for night). Note that drivers legally charge a supplement of approximately €1.60 for luggage larger than 55x35x25cm. This is a flat fee for the trip, not per bag.
ATMs and Currency
Portugal uses the Euro (€). Cash is still widely used in traditional cafés and shops.
Look for “Multibanco” machines (silver/red MB logo) throughout the terminals and stations. These are the official Portuguese banking network ATMs and are safer and cheaper than the standalone “Euronet” kiosks. You can find your nearest machine using the SIBS Multibanco website or the MB WAY app.
When an ATM asks if you want to be “charged in your home currency” (USD/CAD/SGD), always select “No” or “Decline Conversion.” Letting your home bank handle the exchange rate will save you 5–10% in hidden fees.
Accessibility & Safety
Immediately upon exiting any transport hub, you will encounter Calçada Portuguesa (traditional white and black cobblestones). These can be incredibly slippery when wet and are difficult for strollers, walkers, or canes.
Safety
Lisbon is generally safe, but pickpockets are active in crowded transport hubs, near ticket machines, and on the popular Tram 28 and Tram 15 routes.
Beware of individuals wearing high-visibility vests or unofficial badges offering help at ticket machines. They may try to keep your change or charge a fee. Only accept help from uniformed staff behind official glass counters.
Essential Services
Lost & Found
First Aid
Pharmacy
Overview
Transfer Options
Lisbon’s Metro and Carris bus network have a history of periodic strikes, including multiple disruptions in 2025. Before travel, check Metro line status and Carris service changes. If services are disrupted, Uber and Bolt remain available citywide.
Luggage Storage
Public Transit
Metro & Train
Tickets and Payment
- Contactless: You can tap any contactless Visa, Mastercard, or mobile wallet (Apple/Google Pay) directly at the yellow gate readers. The fare is €1.90.
- Navegante Card: Purchase a reusable card for €0.50 at a machine and load it with credit.
- Validation: You must tap your card/phone at the gates both when entering and exiting the station.
Bus (Carris)
A single ticket purchased onboard is €2.30, while using a pre-loaded Navegante card is €1.90 (or €1.72 with Zapping).
Public Carris buses have a strict luggage size limit of 50x40x20cm. If you are traveling with standard checked suitcases, the driver may legally refuse entry. For those with larger bags, the Metro or a taxi is mandatory.
Arrival & Check-In
Security Controls
Security & Screening
VAT Refunds
Accessibility & Safety
Immediately upon exiting any transport hub, you will encounter Calçada Portuguesa (traditional white and black cobblestones). These can be incredibly slippery when wet and are difficult for strollers, walkers, or canes.
Safety
Lisbon is generally safe, but pickpockets are active in crowded transport hubs, near ticket machines, and on the popular Tram 28 and Tram 15 routes.
Beware of individuals wearing high-visibility vests or unofficial badges offering help at ticket machines. They may try to keep your change or charge a fee. Only accept help from uniformed staff behind official glass counters.
Essential Services