Jazmin Li
Lisbon is a great layover destination, with easy access to the city centre, a variety of attractions, great food, and affordable prices. Lisbon Airport is only 6 km from the city centre, making it one of the shortest distances in all of Europe. If you have a layover of at least 6 hours, you can leave the airport and explore the city, but you'll need to allow enough time to return to the airport and go through security. The metro is a convenient and affordable option for getting to and from the city centre, taking about 20-30 minutes and costing €1.50-3.60 one way. If you're flying to a country outside of the Schengen Area, such as the UK or US, you'll need to allow extra time for passport checks and security, with a recommended minimum of 2 hours before departure.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Leaving the airport during a layover | Yes, you can leave the airport during a layover in Lisbon, especially if you have a layover of at least 6 hours. |
| Transportation options | Lisbon offers various transportation options, including buses, taxis, the metro, Uber, Bolt, and FREE NOW. |
| Travel time to the city centre | It takes around 20-40 minutes to get from the airport to the city centre, depending on the mode of transportation. |
| Metro travel time and cost | The metro takes around 30 minutes and costs €3.60 for a round trip. |
| Minimum layover time for international-to-domestic connections | 45 minutes |
| Minimum layover time for leaving the airport | 6 hours |
| Visa requirements for US citizens | US citizens can enter Portugal for up to 90 days for tourism or business without a visa. |
| Passport validity requirement | The passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay. |
| Luggage storage | Lisbon airport offers luggage lockers near one of the car parking areas, close to the subway entrance. |
| Boarding pass and security considerations | Allow enough time for security checks and passport control, especially when returning to the airport. |
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What You'll Learn
Lisbon airport to city centre
Yes, you can leave Lisbon airport during a layover, especially if you have a layover of at least 6 hours. Lisbon's city centre is just 7km away and easily accessible, and you can explore the city, but you'll need to allow enough time to return to the airport and go through security again. The passport check to exit Schengen when you get back to the airport can be pretty slow for non-EU citizens.
There are several ways to get to the city centre from Lisbon Airport. The metro (subway) will take you from the airport to the city in about 30 minutes for €3.60 each way. The entrance to the metro is easy to spot once you're outside the arrivals hall. Lisbon's metro is modern, safe, and inexpensive, and it is the recommended means of onward travel for most passengers.
If you prefer a faster transfer, have bulky luggage, or are travelling as a group, you can take a taxi or ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt. A typical journey from the airport to central Lisbon will cost €12 to €15, with an additional luggage surcharge of €1.60. All journeys are calculated using a taximeter, which must be used by law.
You can also take a bus to the city centre. Terravision buses run from the airport to the centre of Lisbon every day between 8 am and 9 pm, with tickets costing $21.13 each way. The Carris company also operates five bus lines that connect the airport with central Lisbon, with tickets costing around $29.35. The cheapest way to get from the airport to the centre of Lisbon is to buy the 7 Colinas Card, which is valid for the subway, as soon as you arrive at the airport.
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Transport options
Lisbon Airport is small compared to other European capital city airports, and the city centre is just 20 to 40 minutes away, depending on your mode of transport. You can easily walk if you don't mind hills, or you can take the metro, a bus, a taxi, or even an Uber, Bolt or FREE NOW ride-share.
The metro is the cheapest option, with a one-way ticket costing €1.50, and it takes around 25 to 40 minutes to reach the city centre. The airport is the last station on the red line, which is the most efficient way to get around the city. Lisbon's metro system only has three other lines, so it's easy to navigate.
Buses are available, but they won't save you much time. A taxi is a more comfortable option, and the fare from the airport to downtown is around €15 for a 20-minute journey.
If you want to visit the beach, you can take the train from Cais do Sodré to Cascais, a 20-minute journey along the river and ocean. Get off at Carcavelos station and walk 14 minutes to the beach. You can also take the same train to Belém, a beautiful and lively neighbourhood.
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Visa requirements
Whether you need a visa to leave Lisbon Airport during your layover depends on your nationality and travel plans. If you are a citizen of the US, Canada, or Australia, you can enter Portugal without a visa for up to 90 days within the Schengen Zone. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your period of stay.
If you are travelling within the Schengen Area, you won't need a new visa to step out and visit Lisbon. However, if you are from a non-Schengen country, you should check if your passport allows short stays in Portugal without a visa. Always confirm your status and specific entry requirements before your layover to ensure a hassle-free experience.
If you are travelling on to another Schengen country, you will connect in the same terminal as you arrive at Lisbon Airport. An hour is a comfortable connection time, but if you need to go through security again, such as when travelling to the US, 2.5 hours is a safer amount of time. With a layover of at least 6 hours, you can leave the airport and explore Lisbon, but you will need to allow time to return to the airport, go through security, and passport control.
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Things to do in Lisbon
Yes, you can leave Lisbon airport during a layover. The airport is conveniently located, with the city centre just a 20-40 minute journey by bus, metro or taxi. However, it is recommended that you allow for at least six hours between flights if you want to leave the airport, and remember to factor in time to get through security and passport control on your return to the airport.
Admire the Views
Take in the sunrise or sunset at the iconic Belém Tower, a 16th-century fortification on the Tagus River. Or, head to one of the many lookout points, or miradouros, such as Miradouro de Santa Luzia, Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, or Miradouro da Graça.
Explore the Neighbourhoods
Stroll through the picturesque Alfama neighbourhood, with its narrow streets, colourful houses and tiled facades. Or, take a walk on the wild side in Bairro Alto, known for its lively nightlife and vibrant restaurants and bars.
Indulge in Delicious Food
Sample the famous pastel de nata, a must-try culinary treat when in Lisbon. For something more substantial, tuck into traditional Portuguese dishes like bacalhau and grilled octopus.
Visit Museums and Monuments
Roam along the ramparts of fairytale castles, such as St. George's Castle, or explore one of the many museums Lisbon has to offer.
Relax in the Parks
Take a short pit stop in Parque das Nações, an urban park full of contemporary architecture. Here, you can see the Tagus River, the Vasco da Gama Bridge, and the Oriente Train Station.
With its colourful coastal scenery, charming neighbourhoods, and abundance of attractions, Lisbon is the perfect place to spend a layover. So, go ahead and explore this beautiful city during your next layover!
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Food and drink in Lisbon
Yes, you can leave Lisbon airport during a layover, especially if you have a layover of at least 6 hours. Lisbon's city centre is easily accessible, and you can explore the city, but make sure to allow enough time to return to the airport and go through security. The subway is super convenient and Lisbon is a great place to explore. The metro will take you from the airport to the city in about 20-40 minutes for €3.60 each way.
Now, on to the food and drink! Lisbon is known for its delicious food and world-class restaurants. Here are some of the culinary delights you can enjoy during your layover:
Portuguese Specialties
- Pastel de nata: This famous Portuguese egg tart pastry is a must-try. It is believed that the original recipe comes from Pasteis de Belem, a patisserie located near the Jeronimos Monastery in the Belem area. You can also find excellent pastel de nata at Pasteis de Belem in the Alfama neighbourhood.
- Bacalhau: Cod is a versatile ingredient in Portugal, and there are countless ways to cook it. Try the Lisbon-style bacalhau à Brás, flaked and pan-fried with potato chips and scrambled egg.
- Grilled octopus: Another popular seafood dish in Lisbon.
- Bitoque: A classic Portuguese dish of fried steak with french fries, white rice, salad, and a fried egg on top.
- Pataniscas de bacalhau: Cod fritters served with bean rice.
- Bolo Rei: Portugal's traditional Christmas cake, a ring-shaped fruit bread covered in crystallized fruit and nuts.
Drinks
- Ginjinha or ginja: A sour cherry liqueur made with ginja berries, sugar, and other ingredients. It is typically served in a small glass or an edible chocolate cup. You can find it all over Lisbon, including in the Alfama District, where locals sell homemade ginja outside their homes. Ginginha do Carmo, a small bar near Rossio railway station, is another recommended spot.
- Beer: Lisbon is a great place to enjoy a cold beer, even at 10 in the morning!
- Gelato: Niva Gelato, located near Bairro Alto, is highly recommended for its thick, gooey, and intensely flavoured gelato.
Other Dining Options
- Time Out Market: This trendy food hall, located in the historic Mercado da Ribeira, offers a variety of bars, restaurants, and shops serving some of the best Portuguese food and drink.
- Japanese cuisine: Lisbon has excellent Japanese restaurants, offering everything from sushi and ramen to Michelin-starred tasting menus.
- Italian cuisine: You can find fantastic Italian options in Lisbon, from pasta parlours to organic pizzas.
- Vegetarian restaurants: Lisbon's vegetarian scene is vibrant, serving up creative and delicious meatless options.
- Seafood restaurants: With its proximity to the sea, Lisbon has exceptional seafood restaurants, some of which have been awarded Michelin stars.
- French flavours: For a taste of France, visit the PAUL bakeries, which offer classic French treats.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can leave the airport during a layover in Lisbon, especially if you have a layover of at least 6 hours. You will need a valid passport and any other necessary documentation to enter Portugal.
Lisbon's city centre is just 6km away from the airport, and it takes between 20 and 40 minutes to reach, depending on your mode of transport. The metro is the most efficient way to get around the city, with a one-way ticket costing €1.50.
Lisbon has tons to see and do, including museums and monuments, magical local experiences, delicious food, and a lively nightlife scene. Must-see attractions include the Alfama neighbourhood, the Belém Tower, Castelo de São Jorge, and Lisbon Cathedral.
Yes, Lisbon airport has luggage lockers where you can store your bags while exploring the city during your layover. The lockers are located near one of the car parking areas, close to the subway entrance.
It is recommended to allow at least 2 hours for returning to the airport, clearing security, and getting to your gate. If you are flying to a non-Schengen country like the UK, you will need additional time for passport checks as you will be exiting the Schengen Area.
