Lisbon’s metro system is one of the easiest and most efficient ways to get around the city. Whether you’re heading from Lisbon Airport to the city centre, exploring historic neighbourhoods, or catching a train to the beach, the metro makes it simple. With four colour-coded lines, reasonable fares, and useful travel cards, mastering the Lisbon Metro will save you time and money.
Here’s everything you need to know, from ticket options to insider tips and a line-by-line guide to the city’s key stops.
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Getting from Lisbon Airport to the City Centre
The Lisbon Metro is the cheapest and easiest way to get from Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) to the city centre. The airport is conveniently connected to the Red Line (Linha Vermelha), and within 20 minutes, you can be in downtown Lisbon.
Alternative: If you have heavy luggage, taxis and rideshares are available but much pricier.
Route: Take the Red Line from Aeroporto Station and change at Alameda Station for the Green Line to reach central areas like Baixa-Chiado or Rossio.
Time: Around 20–25 minutes to the city centre.
Cost: A single ticket is €1.80, or use a Zapping card for a reduced fare.
Lisbon Metro Ticket Options: Travel Cards & Zapping
Lisbon’s metro tickets are easy to use, but you’ll need a Viva Viagem card (€0.50), which you can top up with different fare options.
Single Tickets & Day Passes
- Single journey: €1.80 (valid for 1 hour, including transfers).
- 24-hour unlimited pass: €6.80 (valid for metro, buses, trams, and funiculars).
Zapping: The Best Value for Visitors
Zapping is a prepaid credit system that offers lower fares and works across the metro, trams, buses, ferries, and even trains.
- Metro fare using Zapping: €1.47 per ride instead of €1.80.
- Also valid on: Trams (€1.47 instead of €3), buses, and ferries.
- Top-up amount: Between €3–€40 at metro stations.
Best option: If you’re in Lisbon for more than a day, Zapping is the most cost-effective choice.
Lisbon Metro Map & Guide
Below is a detailed map of the Lisbon Metro, showing all four lines:
- Red Line (Linha Vermelha) – The best way to get from Lisbon Airport to the city centre.
- Green Line (Linha Verde) – Perfect for reaching the historic heart of Lisbon, including Baixa-Chiado and Rossio.
- Blue Line (Linha Azul) – Connects key transport hubs like Santa Apolónia Train Station and cultural hotspots.
- Yellow Line (Linha Amarela) – Ideal for accessing business districts and train connections.
Lisbon Metro Lines: A Line-By-Line Guide
The Lisbon Metro has four lines, each with key stops worth knowing.
Red Line (Linha Vermelha) – The Airport Line
Best for: Getting to and from Lisbon Airport and connecting to the city’s other metro lines.
- Aeroporto – Lisbon Airport, the starting point for most visitors.
- Oriente – Major transport hub with buses, trains, and shopping at Vasco da Gama Mall.
- Alameda – Change for the Green Line (towards downtown Lisbon).
- São Sebastião – Change for the Blue Line, near the El Corte Inglés shopping centre.
Tip: If you’re heading to Baixa-Chiado or Rossio, change at Alameda for the Green Line.
Green Line (Linha Verde) – The Central Tourist Route
Best for: Getting to Baixa-Chiado, Rossio, and historic Lisbon.
- Alameda – Connects to the Red Line.
- Martim Moniz – Near the famous Tram 28 starting point.
- Rossio – Ideal for exploring Baixa and Rossio Square.
- Baixa-Chiado – The best stop for the city centre, great for exploring Alfama, shopping streets, and nightlife.
Tip: If you’re visiting Lisbon’s main attractions, you’ll probably use the Green Line the most.
Blue Line (Linha Azul) – The Historic Line
Best for: Accessing Lisbon’s historic and cultural attractions.
- Santa Apolónia – Train station for trips to Porto and other Portuguese cities.
- Baixa-Chiado – Connects to Green Line (key tourist area).
- Marquês de Pombal – Iconic square and shopping area.
- Jardim Zoológico – Lisbon Zoo and Sete Rios train station (for day trips to Sintra).
Tip: This line is great for both sightseeing and day trips from Lisbon.
Yellow Line (Linha Amarela) – The Business & Residential Line
Best for: Locals, commuters, and connections to train stations for trips to Cascais or Sintra.
- Rato – Close to the trendy Príncipe Real neighbourhood.
- Marquês de Pombal – Connects to the Blue Line.
- Entrecampos – A key railway station, with trains to Cascais and the Algarve.
Tip: Tourists don’t use the Yellow Line as much, but it’s useful for connections to train stations.
Tips & Tricks for Using the Lisbon Metro
- Avoid peak hours (8:00-9:30 AM & 5:30-7:00 PM) – Trains get crowded with commuters.
- Hold onto your Viva Viagem card – You’ll need it to exit some metro stations.
- Use Zapping – It saves money and works on trams, buses, and ferries.
- Metro closes at 1 AM – If you’re out late, night buses and taxis are your best bet.
- Be mindful of pickpockets – Like any metro system, keep an eye on your belongings.
Alternative Public Transport Options in Lisbon
While the metro is quick and efficient, you might also want to try:
- Trams – Iconic and scenic, but often crowded. Tram 28 is a must for tourists.
- Buses – More extensive than the metro, but slower due to traffic.
- Ferries – A fun way to cross the Tagus River for a day trip to Cacilhas or Almada.
- Trains – Essential for day trips to Sintra, Cascais, and Porto.
Is the Lisbon Metro Worth Using?
Absolutely! It’s cheap, efficient, and easy to use, making it the best way to get around Lisbon without the hassle of traffic or expensive taxis. Whether you’re arriving from the airport, heading to key tourist areas, or connecting to trains for day trips, the metro is your best bet.
If you’re staying for a few days, grab a 24-hour pass or use Zapping for the best value. And if you’re arriving by plane, skip the taxis and hop on the Red Line—you’ll be in the heart of Lisbon in no time!
