Metro Upgrades and New Station Access

For current hours, prices, and announcements, start with Visit Lisboa.

For current hours, prices, and announcements, start with Câmara Municipal de Lisboa.

By early 2026, the completion of the Green and Yellow line extensions has streamlined travel across the entire city. You can find detailed information in our Lisbon metro extension guide to help plan your daily routes. These updates reduce the number of transfers needed to reach popular neighborhoods like Baixa, Chiado, and Cais do Sodre. The metro runs from 6:30 AM until 1:00 AM every single day of the week.

A single journey on the metro currently costs 1.80 Euros plus the price of a reusable card. You should purchase the Viva Viagem card for 0.50 Euros at any station vending machine upon your arrival. This card allows you to load multiple trips or use the convenient Zapping credit system for lower fares. Most metro stations now offer elevators and escalators to assist travelers who are carrying heavy suitcases.

Wait times for trains on the Red Line usually range between six and ten minutes during the day. During peak hours, the frequency increases to ensure that the platforms do not become too crowded with tourists. The journey from the airport to the central Alameda station takes approximately twenty minutes in total. From there, you can easily switch to the Green Line to reach the historic riverside districts.

Lisbon Aerobus and Public Bus Routes

The Aerobus offers a specialized shuttle service that caters specifically to tourists with larger amounts of luggage. This service provides two main routes that stop at major hotel clusters and important transport hubs in Lisbon. You can find the Aerobus stop directly outside the arrivals hall of Terminal 1 for your convenience. Tickets can be purchased online or from the driver for approximately 4.00 to 6.00 Euros per person.

Local buses operated by Carris also serve the airport but have stricter rules regarding the size of luggage. These buses are a great choice for budget travelers who are only carrying a small backpack or carry-on. You must ensure your bag does not exceed the maximum dimensions of 50x40x20 centimeters on these routes. Bus numbers 705, 722, and 744 are the most common lines serving the airport area.

For those arriving on late-night flights, the 208 night bus provides a reliable connection to the city center. This service runs every 30 to 60 minutes between the hours of 11:30 PM and 5:30 AM. It stops at both the Cais do Sodre and Oriente train stations during its nightly route through Lisbon. Using the night bus is a very safe and cost-effective alternative to taking a private taxi.

Travelers should check the digital displays at the bus stops for real-time arrival information and potential service delays. Most buses in Lisbon are now equipped with free Wi-Fi and USB charging ports for all passengers to use. The city has invested heavily in modernizing the fleet to improve comfort and reliability for every single rider. Remember to validate your ticket as soon as you board the bus to avoid any potential fines.

Taxis and Rideshare Pickup Zones

Taxis are available 24 hours a day and provide a door-to-door service to any destination in the capital. You will find the official taxi rank located just outside the arrivals area of both airport terminal buildings. A typical ride to the city center usually costs between 15 and 25 Euros depending on traffic. Always ensure the driver starts the meter at the beginning of your journey to guarantee a fair price.

Rideshare applications like Uber and Bolt are extremely popular in Portugal and offer very competitive pricing for all users. These services have a dedicated pickup zone located in the short-term parking lot near the Terminal 1 departures. You should follow the signs for "Kiss & Fly" to reach the correct area for your requested car. Using these apps can often save you money compared to traditional taxis during the quieter times of day.

Many drivers are involved in neighborhood revitalization projects by using electric vehicles to reduce local pollution levels. This shift toward greener transport is part of a larger city-wide effort to protect the environment and residents. You may notice that many rideshare cars now feature special green stickers to indicate their eco-friendly status. These vehicles often have access to priority lanes which can help you avoid some of the city traffic.

Official airport authorities at ANA Aeroportos recommend only using licensed transportation services for your personal safety and security. Avoid accepting rides from individuals who approach you inside the terminal building with offers of cheap private transport. These unofficial drivers often lack the proper insurance and may charge much higher rates than the standard legal fees. Stick to the designated ranks and official app pickup points to ensure a safe trip to Lisbon.

Private Transfers and Group Travel

Private transfers offer the highest level of comfort and convenience for families or those traveling in large groups. When you book a private transfer, a professional driver will meet you in the arrivals hall with a sign. This service eliminates the need to navigate public transport maps or wait in long lines for a taxi. Most companies offer a fixed price which includes all tolls and luggage fees for your entire party.

Large vans and minibuses are available for groups of six to sixteen people who want to travel together easily. These vehicles provide ample space for multiple suitcases and offer a more social experience for friends and family members. You can often request child seats or boosters in advance to ensure the safety of your younger travelers. Booking these services at least 48 hours before your arrival is highly recommended during the busy summer months.

Executive transfer services provide luxury vehicles for business travelers or those who want a premium experience in the city. These cars often feature leather interiors, climate control, and bottled water for a very relaxing journey after your flight. Prices for executive transfers usually start at around 50 Euros for a trip to the main business district. Many hotels can also arrange these transfers on your behalf if you contact their concierge desk before arriving.

Comparing the cost of a private transfer to multiple taxi fares often shows that the transfer is more economical. You gain peace of mind knowing that your transportation is secured and the price is locked in before you land. Most reputable companies allow for free cancellations up to 24 hours before your scheduled pickup time for extra flexibility. This option is perfect for those who value time and comfort over the lowest possible transport price.

Sustainable Transport and Future Mobility

Lisbon is quickly becoming a leader in eco-friendly urban mobility through several sustainable travel initiatives across the city. The airport has introduced a fleet of fully electric shuttle buses to transport passengers between the two main terminals. These quiet vehicles help to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the airport's daily ground operations for everyone. Travelers are encouraged to choose these green options whenever they are available during their visit to Portugal.

For those staying in nearby hotels, new walking and cycling paths now connect the airport to the surrounding neighborhoods. You can easily rent an electric bike or scooter using one of the many shared mobility apps in Lisbon. These paths are well-lit and feature clear signage to guide you toward the nearest metro or bus station. This is a fantastic way to enjoy the famous Lisbon sunshine immediately after stepping off your long flight.

The city's commitment to sustainability includes the gradual expansion of pedestrian-only zones in the historic heart of the capital. Choosing public transport over private cars helps to support these efforts and keeps the city streets clean and quiet. Many transport tickets now include a small environmental fee that funds the planting of new trees in urban parks. By using the metro or electric buses, you are contributing to the long-term health of this beautiful city.

Future mobility plans for late 2026 include the introduction of autonomous shuttle pods for short-distance travel near the airport. These innovative vehicles will provide a glimpse into the future of urban transportation for all residents and visiting tourists. Lisbon continues to innovate to ensure that getting around the city remains easy, safe, and environmentally friendly. We invite you to explore the Europe Highlight website for more tips on traveling responsibly in 2026.