Lisbon Airport, also known as Humberto Delgado Airport, is the main international access point for the lively capital of Portugal. Found about 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) to the north of downtown, this facility acts as a critical domestic and international flight hub. Serving numerous cities around the world as one of Europe’s busiest airports, it is an indispensable entryway into the country for many travelers who are bound for Lisbon.
Why It Is Important To Know Your Transfer Options
In order to have a smooth and stress-free beginning of your journey, you need to be aware of different ways to get from Lisbon Airport to the city center. It does not matter whether you have been here before or not; knowing how exactly you are going to reach your destination can save both time and money while avoiding unnecessary troubles.
There are various transfer options available in Lisbon that cater for different budgets and requirements; they range from public transport like buses or trains up to private transfers. Being familiar with these alternatives beforehand allows you select the most convenient means of transport which will bring you directly to your hotel so that you can start exploring the city right away.
Metro
Straight From the Airport
The Lisbon metro offers a convenient way for tourists to reach the city centre from Humberto Delgado Airport. The tube station is within the airport itself and has a direct connection with the city’s extensive underground network.
How to Get There?
Guide from Arrivals to Metro Station
Once you arrive at Lisbon Airport, follow signs leading to the subway. These signs are very clear and can be found all over the arrivals hall area. You will find yourself in Terminal 1 where a metro station is situated – it’s just a short walk away.
Tickets (Viva Viagem Card – Navegante Card)
To travel by underground one needs a ticket. The most convenient solution is getting Viva Viagem card – rechargeable smartcard valid on all forms of public transportation in Lisbon. Here is what you need to do:
- Purchase: In order to buy Viva Viagem card go to any ticket machine located at the tube station; its price is €0.50 each time but don’t throw it away. Next time you come visit again just top up with more money.
- Recharge: Choose whether you want specific type of tickets (e.g., single journey or day pass) or fixed amount of cash for pay-as-you-go travel loaded onto your card.
- Validate: Before getting on a train put your Viva Viagem card against the validation machine at the entrance – this will activate it so that you can use it as a ticket during this particular ride.
Routes (Red Line to City Centre Connections)
The line serving Lisbon Airport is called Red Line (Linha Vermelha). Take a look at our plan below:
Boarding: You start your journey from Aeroporto station, which is also the first one on this line.
Transfers: The Red Line includes few important transfer stations like:
- Alameda: Here you change for Green Line (Linha Verde) towards Rossio or Cais do Sodré;
- Saldanha: Switch to Yellow Line (Linha Amarela) if you want to get to Marquês de Pombal or Rato.
Key Stops: Some crucial points along Red Line are:
- Oriente: A major transport hub and entrance to modern Parque das Nações district;
- São Sebastião: Connection with Blue Line (Linha Azul) leading through Baixa-Chiado up Santa Apolónia. When you take the blue line, you can reach the city center by getting off at one of the “Baixa-Chiado” or “Restauradores” stops.
Public Buses
Public buses give an inexpensive way to get from the airport to different parts of Lisbon. They are a cost-effective alternative as one ticket can be used on any public bus, which is especially helpful for those travelling on a tight budget. However, despite being cheaper than other transport options, the buses are well maintained and comfortable.
Extensive Network Coverage
Lisbon’s network of public buses covers a wide range of destinations within the city and beyond its limits. This means that areas not served directly by metro or Aerobus can still be reached conveniently using this means of transportation. Operated by Carris, the main public transport company in Lisbon; therefore travelers can rely on it being reliable and frequent. This extensive coverage is particularly advantageous for people staying in less touristy neighbourhoods or accommodations off the beaten path.
How to Use Public Buses
Key Routes from the Airport
Several public bus routes connect Lisbon Airport with different parts of the city; here are some key ones:
Bus 705
- Route: Oriente Station – Rome-Areeiro Station
- Explanation: This line begins at the East Station which is found in the eastern part of Lisbon and it goes towards the center of the city where it stops at Rome-Areeiro Station. The various stops provide a wide transportation network for all passengers.
- Frequency: The frequency of this service depends on different factors like time of day or whether it’s a weekday or weekend. Normally, during rush hours there are buses every 10 to 15 minutes.
- Get off at: Roma-Areeiro Station – Located in the city center, this station offers connections to various neighborhoods and is close to the train station of the same name.
Bus 722
- Route: Portela – Restoradores
- Explanation: Bus 722 starts at Portela and heads to the center of Lisboa, ending its journey at Restauradores. This route cuts across many areas within the city thus making it convenient for travelers who want to access central parts.
- Frequency: Generally, buses along this route operate every quarter an hour during peak hours while during off-peak periods they come after every twenty or thirty minutes.
- Get off at: Restauradores – This central stop in Lisbon is located near many tourist attractions and within walking distance of several important areas in downtown Lisbon.
Bus 781
- Route: Prior Velho – Cais do Sodré
- Explanation: Line number 781 originates from Prior Velho terminating its trip in downtown Lisbon at Cais do Sodré station. Along its course through town, several stops are made thereby easing intra-city travels.
- Frequency: Buses plying this particular route usually run between ten and twenty minutes apart during peak hours with a frequency of thirty minutes during off peak periods.
- Get off at: Cais do Sodré – Situated in downtown Lisbon near the riverfront, this stop is within close proximity of Bairro Alto and Chiado among others; it also acts as a significant transport interchange point.
Bus 744
- Route: Restauradores – Moscavide
- Description: The bus starts at Restauradores terminal which is one among many central hubs in Lisbon connecting various districts around through its terminus station Moscavide situated close-by Parque das Nações (Park of Nations). The route passes key areas such as Campo Grande and Saldanha.
- Frequency: Every 10-20 minutes depending upon time making this service very useful if you need frequent connection between two points.
- Get off at: Restauradores – This major transportation hub in Lisbon provides easy access to different parts of the city, including the CBD and popular tourist destinations.
Bus 783
- Route: Amoreiras – Prior Velho
- Description: Another direct connection provided by 783 bus route runs between Amoreiras district area known for shopping centers & business zones nearby international airport along with stops like Campo Pequeno and Entrecampos that may be important for some passengers traveling through there during their journey either towards or from Lisbon Airport Terminal.
- Frequency: Every 15-30 minutes depending upon time of day ensuring regularity in service provision to users who may require such services when accessing different parts of the city at various hours.
- Get off at: Amoreiras or Saldanha – Both stops are centrally situated; Amoreiras is close to Amoreiras Shopping Centre and various business districts while Saldanha serves as a connection point within central commercial areas facilitating other parts’ accessibility across town.
Ticket Purchase and Validation
1)Single Tickets
- Where to Buy: Metro stations ticket machines, bus drivers or some newspaper kiosks sell them.
- Usage: Valid for one journey only.
- Price: Around €1.80 each.
2)Viva Viagem Card – Navegante Card
- Where to Buy: Metro stations ticket machines or counters.
- Price: The card itself costs €0.50; you can load it with money.
- Usage: It can be used on all public transport in Lisbon (metro, buses, trams, trains), just swipe at the beginning & end of each trip taken using this card.
- Loading Options:
- Single Ticket Loading: Load individual tickets for every trip made.
- Zapping: load specific amount onto the card which will be deducted as fare after every ride taken with it; often cheaper than buying single tickets.
- Day Passes: Provide unlimited travel within 24 hours cost about €6.80 per person
3)Lisboa Card (Lisbon Card)
- Where to Buy: At the airport, tourist offices or online .
- Usage: Available in 24hr/48hr/72hr versions allow free access into all public transports during this period & also offer reduced rates for many museums and attractions around town too!
Steps to Purchase and Load Tickets
At Metro Stations:
- Step 1 : go over where ticket machines are available
- Step 2 : Choose your language on machine (English Portuguese etc.)
- Step 3 : Select type of ticket (single/zapping/pass)
- Step 4 : Pay cash/card
- Step 5 : Take your loaded card/ticket
On Buses:
You can purchase individual tickets from the bus driver. Keep in mind that this method is typically used for single-use tickets and may be slightly more expensive.
At Tourist Offices or Various Kiosks:
The Viva Viagem or Lisboa Card can be bought and loaded at these places.
Nearby Attractions
Notable Stops and Attractions on Bus Routes
Riding public buses not only will transport you from the airport to downtown, but it also provides access to a number of points of interest along the route:
Marquês de Pombal:
Attractions: This central roundabout serves as a major transportation hub and is near Avenida da Liberdade, which is known for its luxury shops and hotels. It is also within walking distance of Parque Eduardo VII, a beautiful green space that offers panoramic views of the city.
Campo Grande:
Attractions: Situated close to the University of Lisbon, Campo Grande is a large park area perfect for leisurely strolls. It is also home to Alvalade Stadium–one of Lisbon’s main football stadiums.
Saldanha:
Attractions: This busy commercial district boasts numerous shops, cafes, and office buildings. It’s an excellent place to see contemporary Lisbon; moreover, it has good connections with other parts of town.
Campo Pequeno:
Attractions: Campo Pequeno features an eye-catching bullring where various events and concerts take place. There are many restaurants and stores around it, making this a vibrant stop on your trip.
Entrecampos:
Attractions: As one of the city’s major business areas, Entrecampos is conveniently situated near Jardim do Campo Grande–a large garden & park ideal for relaxation.
Taxis
The taxis operating in the Lisbon city are the easiest and quickest way to get from the airport to the center. These cars provide a door-to-door service which means that one can reach his accommodation or destination without having to transfer again or walk. This comes handy if you have bulky luggage or travel as a group because it makes the journey more comfortable and less stressful.
How to Use Taxis
Taxi Ranks at the Airport
Once you get out of arrivals at Lisbon airport, just follow signs for taxi ranks. They are easy to see and will direct you towards an area designated for taxi pick-ups. There is a major rank situated outside Terminal 1 but there are also cabs available at Terminal 2 where shuttle bus runs between two terminals.
Estimated Costs to Various City Center Locations
The cost of driving by taxi from Lisbon Airport into town varies with your final destination within the central area, as well as time of day. Below are some approximations regarding popular locations in downtown:
- Baixa/Chiado: €15-20 approximately.
- Alfama: €15-20 approximately.
- Bairro Alto: €15-20 approximately.
- Marquês de Pombal: €10-15 approximately.
- Belém: €20-25 approximately.
Always use official taxis waiting at designated airport ranks. Official taxis usually cream-colored, with sign on roof.
Ride-Sharing Services
Lisbon has seen a rapid increase in popularity of ride-hailing services such as Uber, Bolt and Free Now due to their contemporary technological appeal. The ability to book a trip from your phone, track the arrival of your driver in real-time and even share trip details with friends or family for added security makes these services extremely convenient. Ride-sharing is a great option for tech-savvy travelers because it offers user-friendly interfaces and reliable service.
Flexible and Easy to Book
The biggest benefit of using a ride-hailing service is flexibility and ease-of-use when booking. You can request rides around the clock, 24/7, and choose between different types of vehicles depending on your needs – from standard cars to larger ones for groups or extra luggage. Seeing driver ratings and reviews also gives you some peace of mind about getting good service.
How to Use Ride-Hailing Services
Popular Apps (Uber, Bolt, Free Now)
Uber: Uber is one of the most widely used ride-hailing apps worldwide that provides various options in Lisbon including UberX, UberXL and Uber Black which cater for different preferences and budgets.
Bolt: Bolt (previously known as Taxify) is another well-known ride-hailing app in Lisbon that stands out with competitive prices combined with fast service; just like Uber it has got more types of vehicles available for different needs.
Free Now: Formerly MyTaxi – this ride hailing application connects users with licensed taxis as well as private hire cars supporting local taxi services beyond what both uber & bolt do offer.
Pickup Locations at the Airport
In order to make it easier for passengers, Lisbon Airport has established certain meeting points where customers can meet their drivers who use ride-hailing services. You should be aware of the following locations:
Terminal 1: Ride-hailing pickup area is on level 1 (departures level) – after you have collected your baggage and are in the arrivals hall, follow signs saying “Ride-Sharing” or “Rideshare”. Specific location may vary so check with app for exact instructions from driver.
Terminal 2: As Terminal 2 mainly serves low-cost airlines and is smaller than T1, the pickup area is located right outside of the terminal building. Again – follow app’s instructions about exact spot.
Cost and Payment
Fare Estimates and Payment Methods
Here are some fare estimates:
- UberX/Bolt: Around €10-15 will take you to central parts like Baixa, Chiado or Bairro Alto.
- UberXL: For larger groups or more luggage expect to pay about €20-25.
- Free Now: Prices comparable with regular taxis; usually between €15-20 for a ride within central Lisbon.
Payment Methods: Most ride-hailing services offer various ways of payment which include credit/debit cards, PayPal and sometimes cash. You can set up your payment method in the app to ensure smooth transaction without using any cash while hailing a cab. It’s also possible to add multiple methods of payment then choose one when booking trips depending on situation.
Private Transfers
A good way to book a taxi is through private transfers. You can choose where you want to go in the city center of Lisbon from the airport. This saves you from having to hail a cab or find your way around public transportation when you arrive.
Personalized Service
Private transfer services are personalized according to your requirements. Drivers may personalize services by helping with luggage, giving local knowledge and ensuring a comfortable ride to your place of stay. This level of service caters for families with young children, travellers carrying bulky luggage or simply anyone who would prefer a more luxurious and stress free option when transferring.
How to Arrange Private Transfers
Recommended Companies
Booking Procedures: The process of arranging for private transfer is simple. Do this:
Online Booking: Visit the company’s website or use their mobile app and book your transfer online. Key in your flight details, destination and any other specific needs e.g child seats required or additional space for luggage.
Confirmation: After booking has been done successfully, an email confirming all necessary information about your transfer will be sent including contact details of driver and meeting point instructions.
Communication: Some companies have apps which allow real time communication with drivers thus enabling them know if there are any changes or delays.
What to Expect Upon Arrival
In most cases, the person who picks you up will be standing at Arrivals holding a sign displaying your name so that he/she can be easily identified even in crowded airports. He/She will offer assistance with bags then lead you towards vehicle. Many amenities like bottled water, Wi-Fi and air conditioning are provided by some private transfer services to enhance customer satisfaction during transit.
Cost and Payment
Pricing Details and Payment Options
Pricing Details: Cost of private transfers vary depending on distance between starting point and destination; type of selected vehicle; as well as establishment offering this particular service among others factors such as those mentioned below:
Standard Sedan: About €20-30 for central Lisbon transfers.
Minivan or Larger Vehicles: For groups or families, expect to pay between €30-40 depending on size of vehicle and number of passengers.
Luxury Vehicle: Starts from around €40-50 thus providing an upmarket experience.
