Sachin Walls
Lisbon Airport is conveniently located close to the city centre, with the metro taking around 20 to 40 minutes to reach the heart of the city. With a long layover, it is an excellent idea to head into Lisbon, where you can enjoy local eats, explore the picturesque neighbourhood of Alfama, stroll through the historic centre, and visit museums and monuments. For those who prefer to stay at the airport, there are plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants to keep you entertained, as well as lounges offering quiet spaces, unlimited drinks and food, and shower facilities.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Distance from the city centre | 20-40 minutes by metro |
| Transport options | Metro, taxi, tuk-tuk |
| Things to do | Visit the castle, explore the Alfama and Chiado/Bairro Alto neighbourhoods, stroll along Praca do Comercio, visit museums and monuments, try custard tarts in Belem, take a tram tour, visit the Oriente Train Station, see the Tagus River and the Vasco da Gama Bridge, shop at the Vasco da Gama mall |
| Airport facilities | Free airport WiFi, food and drink options, duty-free shopping, lounges with showers |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Explore the city centre and its riverfront
Lisbon is a city full of character and charm, with plenty to see and do in its vibrant city centre and along the riverfront. The city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious food.
Start your exploration in the historic Baixa district, where you can admire the beautiful tiled facades that Lisbon is famous for. Take a stroll down Rua Augusta, the main tourist pedestrian area, lined with outdoor cafes and street performers. From here, you can walk downhill to Rossio Square, a lively hub with impressive views of the castle battlements and the river beyond. For even more breathtaking views, take the Gloria Funicular up to the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara.
No visit to Lisbon is complete without a ride on the iconic tram. The most famous route is the number 28, which will take you through the charming neighbourhoods of Graca and Estrela, offering a glimpse into local life. Another unique way to get around is by taking the Santa Justa elevator, a 19th-century Neo-Gothic structure that offers enviable views of the old town.
For a taste of Lisbon's culinary delights, head to the Pasteis de Belem, famous for its delicious custard tarts, or try the much-loved Portuguese dish of chicken at Frangasqueira Nacional near Jardim do Príncipe Real. Be sure to wash it down with a glass of Port, a sweet wine enjoyed throughout Portugal. You can also find traditional dishes at Pharmacia, a restaurant set in an old pharmacy, or enjoy dinner with a view at Chapitô à Mesa, located next to the castle.
As you wander through the city centre, keep an eye out for the many museums and monuments that showcase Lisbon's rich history and culture, including the Fado Museum, the National Tile Museum, and the Coach Museum. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the Castle of São Jorge, which offers unbeatable views of the city and the Tagus River.
Flint, Michigan: Airport Accessibility and Travel Options
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$49.99
Visit the castle and the Alfama neighbourhood
Lisbon's oldest neighbourhood, Alfama, is a delightful maze of cobbled streets and traditional houses that meander up a steep hill from the banks of the Rio Tejo to the São Jorge Castle. Within Alfama, you'll find many of Lisbon's most iconic historic buildings, including the Sé Cathedral, the Castelo de São Jorge, the Panteão Nacional, and the Igreja de Santo António.
One of the most exhilarating ways to discover the area is aboard the quirky tram number 28, which connects the districts of Graça and Estrela. The most scenic section of this route passes through the charming streets of Alfama. Due to the narrow and steep nature of the route, modern trams cannot navigate it, so the traditional Remodelado trams from the 1930s are still in use, offering a unique journey through one of Lisbon's most beloved neighbourhoods.
First stop on the tram route is the Cathedral Sé, built in 1150. Three earthquakes and numerous restorations are responsible for its eclectic architectural style. Next, you'll come across the Miradouro Santa Luzia and Miradouro das Portas do Sol—two of many beautiful viewpoints across the city—offering riverscapes and rooftops on one side and the National Pantheon (the 17th-century Church of Santa Engrácia) on the other.
Continue onwards and upwards to the Castle! The ancient Castelo de São Jorge stands at the highest point of Alfama. Its battlements provide spectacular views across the city, and at its centre is a fortified keep from which early Portuguese kings ruled. Within the castle, you'll also find courtyards, beautiful gardens within its ancient Moorish walls, and a multimedia exhibition that brings the city's history to life.
Las Vegas Airport: Cigarettes Availability and Restrictions
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Take a tram tour of the historic centre
Lisbon's historic centre is best explored by tram, and the number 28 tram ride is one of the highlights of the city. The tram connects Martim Moniz with Campo Ourique, passing through popular tourist districts such as Alfama, Baixa, Estrela, and Graca. The route starts in the historic centre, Largo Martim Moniz (square), heading to the Graça quarter and continuing to the Church of São Vicente de Fora. It then heads to Alfama, with its picturesque medieval streets and squares, such as Rua das Escolas Gerais and Largo das Portas do Sol, which offers a lovely viewpoint over the hillside down to the river. From here, you can walk to the São Jorge Castle.
The tram then continues to the city centre, passing the Cathedral, the Church of Santo António, and down the busy Rua da Conceição, a traditional shopping street. The route also includes the Parliament building, the former Convent of São Bento, the Basilica and Estrela Garden, and the traditional residential area of Campo de Ourique. The tram will then reverse and retrace its route back to the city centre, offering a different perspective on the way back.
The number 28 tram is a historic, quaint yellow tram that rattles and screeches through the narrow streets of the city. These trams date back to the 1930s and retain many original features, including polished wood interiors, brass dials, and cheerful yellow paintwork. They are an integral part of the public transport network in Lisbon, as the route is unsuitable for modern trams due to its tight turns, narrow streets, and steep gradients.
To make the most of your tram tour, consider the following tips:
- Ride the tram early in the day or late in the day to avoid midday crowds.
- Board the tram at Martim Moniz or Campo Ourique to increase your chances of getting a seat.
- Be wary of pickpockets.
- Purchase a 24-hour public transport ticket in advance from any metro station to save money and avoid the hassle of buying a ticket on board.
- Ride the entire route to take in all the sights.
- Hold on tight, especially when standing, as the brakes are very sharp!
Airports and COVID-19: Negative Test Requirements for Travel
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Head to the upper neighbourhoods via the Santa Justa Elevador
Lisbon Airport is conveniently located close to the city centre, so it won't take long to get there and explore. One of the best ways to experience the city is to head to the upper neighbourhoods via the Santa Justa Elevador. This elevator is a unique way to travel between the upper and lower parts of Lisbon. It is a quick and easy way to get from the Baixa neighbourhood to the Bairro Alto district, also known as Chiado/Bairro Alto.
The Santa Justa Elevador is an attraction in itself, with its fascinating steel construction and stunning observation deck offering panoramic views of the city. The elevator is located inside a gothic tower and is designed in the same style as the Eiffel Tower. It is 147 feet (45 metres) tall and was inaugurated as one of the city's public transport systems in 1902. The elevator is a popular viewpoint and offers a quick way to get to the upper neighbourhoods.
To access the Santa Justa Elevador, head to Rua do Ouro, near Rossio Square, which is reachable by metro (green line). You can also ride the elevator for free with the Lisboa Card. The ticket to ride up and down the elevator is usually €5.30, and access to the observation deck is €1.50. There can be long lines at the ticket counter, so consider buying the Lisboa Card or a 24-hour public transport ticket in advance to save time.
Once you're in the upper neighbourhoods, you can explore the narrow cobblestone streets, beautiful tiled buildings, and amazing views. You can also visit some of the museums in the area, including a museum in the ruins of an old Carmelite church and a tile museum. The upper neighbourhoods offer a different perspective of the city and are a great way to experience the local culture and architecture.
Krakow Airport Taxi Services: Availability and Convenience
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Wander through the Belem neighbourhood
Lisbon Airport is conveniently located close to the city centre, so it won't take long to get a taxi or the metro to the heart of the city. If you have a long layover, it is well worth taking the time to explore the city and its neighbourhoods. One such neighbourhood is Belem, a historic and picturesque district located in the western part of Lisbon. Known for its monuments and landmarks celebrating Portugal's Age of Exploration, Belem is a great place to wander around and soak up the local culture. Here are some tips for exploring Belem:
Start your day early and take the E15 tram from Lisbon to Belem, which will take around 20 to 30 minutes. If you want to get a feel for the neighbourhood and explore on your own, this is a great way to do it. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or even cycle there. Exit the bus or tram at the "Belem" stop and begin your wanderings.
Your first stop could be the famous Pasteis de Belem, a bakery known for its delicious Portuguese custard tarts. Enjoy a tasty breakfast in a comfortable spot inside, or if you prefer, you can take your treats to go and eat them as you explore. The monks from the monastery are said to have invented the original recipe for these tarts, so it's a great way to get a taste of history!
After breakfast, make your way to the Belem Tower, one of the most well-known monuments in the area. This stand-alone tower on the water, built in the 1500s, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see. It's best to arrive a few minutes before it opens at 10 am to avoid the crowds and have the tower to yourself.
As you continue your wanderings, you'll discover that Belem is home to several gardens, including the Tropical Botanical Gardens. These green spaces offer a peaceful escape from the city and a chance to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. You can also walk along the waterfront and take in the views of the river.
If you're interested in learning more about the history and culture of the neighbourhood, consider taking a guided tour. There are various options available, including walking and e-bike tours, that can provide you with insights and access to places you might not discover on your own.
With its collection of notable monuments, landmarks, and cultural offerings, Belem is a great neighbourhood to explore during your layover in Lisbon. Whether you're strolling through gardens, sampling delicious pastries, or taking in the views from the Belem Tower, you're sure to have a memorable experience.
Hong Kong Airport: Lockers Available for Travelers?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Lisbon Airport has plenty of amenities to keep you entertained during a long layover. You can take advantage of the free airport WiFi, or shop at any of the airport's duty-free stores, convenience shops, newsstands, and high-end fashion brands. There are also several 24-hour dining options in Terminal 1, including Western chains like KFC, McDonald's, Starbucks, and Pizza Hut.
The cheapest way to get to the city centre is by taking the Metro's red line, which takes about 40 minutes. You can also take a taxi, which should cost around €15 and take 20 minutes.
Lisbon Airport is conveniently located close to the city centre, with plenty of popular attractions easily accessible via public transport. Popular neighbourhoods to explore include Alfama, Chiado/Bairro Alto, and Belem. You can also stroll along the Praca do Comercio, a pedestrian walkway that leads from Bairro Alto towards the Tagus River. For beautiful views of the city, take the Gloria Funicular up to Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara or the Santa Justa Elevador up to the upper neighbourhood.
