Landing at Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) and wondering how to reach the city centre? Luckily, there are plenty of options to suit different budgets and travel styles. Whether you prefer the affordable metro, the convenience of a taxi, or the ease of a bus, here’s everything you need to know about getting to central Lisbon from the airport.
Table of Contents
- 1. Metro – The Cheapest and Easiest Option
- 2. Aerobus – Comfortable and Good for Luggage
- 3. Public Buses – Budget-Friendly but Slower
- 4. Taxi – The Fastest but Most Expensive Option
- 5. Ride-Sharing (Uber, Bolt, and Free Now)
- 6. Private Transfers – Best for Groups and Comfort
- Which Option Should You Choose?
1. Metro – The Cheapest and Easiest Option

The Lisbon Metro is the best value for money and takes you directly from the airport to the city centre in about 20–25 minutes.
- Route: Take the Red Line (Linha Vermelha) from Aeroporto station
- Transfer: If you’re heading to Baixa-Chiado or Rossio, change at Alameda for the Green Line
- Cost: €1.80 for a single ticket or €1.47 with a Zapping card
- Operating Hours: 6:30 AM – 1:00 AM
Best for: Budget travellers, solo travellers, and those staying near a metro station.
Tip: If you plan to use public transport frequently, grab a Navegante card (was Viva Viagem) (€0.50) and top it up with a 24-hour unlimited pass (€6.80) or Zapping credit for discounted fares.
2. Aerobus – Comfortable and Good for Luggage

The Aerobus is a dedicated airport shuttle with more space for luggage and stops at major hotels and transport hubs.
- Route: Two main lines
- Line 1: Airport → City Centre (Marquês de Pombal, Avenida da Liberdade, Rossio, Cais do Sodré)
- Line 2: Airport → Financial District
- Cost: €4 one way or €6 return
- Operating Hours: 7:30 AM – 11:00 PM, every 20 minutes
Best for: Those with heavy luggage or staying near major hotels.
Tip: You can buy tickets online in advance for a small discount.
3. Public Buses – Budget-Friendly but Slower

If you’re looking for an even cheaper way to get into Lisbon, the Carris public buses are an option, though they can be slower and crowded.
- Bus 744: Goes to Marquês de Pombal via Avenida da Liberdade
- Bus 783: Goes to Amoreiras and Praça de Espanha
- Cost: €2 on board or €1.80 with a Viva Viagem card
- Operating Hours: 5:30 AM – 12:30 AM
Best for: Budget travellers who don’t mind a slower journey.
Tip: Large suitcases are not allowed on regular buses. If you have lots of luggage, choose the Aerobus or metro instead.
4. Taxi – The Fastest but Most Expensive Option

If you want a quick and direct route to your accommodation, taxis are available outside the arrivals terminal.
- Journey Time: Around 15–20 minutes, depending on traffic
- Cost: €12–€20, depending on time of day and luggage fees
- Where to Find Them: Taxi rank outside Terminal 1 arrivals
Best for: Travellers in a hurry, late-night arrivals, or those with heavy luggage.
Tip: Always ask for the meter to be used to avoid overpaying. Pre-booking a ride through an app like Bolt or Uber can often be cheaper than a standard taxi.
5. Ride-Sharing (Uber, Bolt, and Free Now)

Lisbon has plenty of ride-sharing options that are often cheaper than regular taxis.
- Journey Time: 15–20 minutes
- Cost: €7–€15, depending on demand and time of day
- Pick-Up Point: Outside Terminal 1 arrivals
Best for: A cheaper alternative to taxis with a fixed price before booking.
Tip: Prices can increase during peak hours, so check the app before deciding.
6. Private Transfers – Best for Groups and Comfort
If you want a hassle-free transfer straight to your hotel, you can pre-book a private airport transfer.
- Journey Time: 15–20 minutes
- Cost: €25–€40 for a private car
- Best for: Families, groups, and travellers who want door-to-door service.
Tip: Private transfers can be cheaper per person if travelling in a group.
Which Option Should You Choose?
- Best for budget travellers: Metro (€1.80) or Public Bus (€2)
- Best for comfort: Aerobus (€4) or Ride-sharing (€7–€15)
- Fastest option: Taxi or Uber (15 minutes)
- Best for groups or lots of luggage: Private Transfer (€25–€40)
No matter which option you choose, getting from Lisbon Airport to the city centre is simple, affordable, and stress-free.
Welcome to Lisbon!






