Getting Around Lisbon

Walkable but hilly

Foodietravellersguide

Foodietravellersguide

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is a very walkable city, but the hills are no joke, especially in areas like Alfama and Bairro Alto.

We mostly use:

  • Bolt/Uber – cheap, reliable and ideal for short trips or getting up steep hills

  • Walking – the best way to explore neighbourhoods and discover hidden spots

  • Tram 28 – iconic and a great experience, but often crowded and slow

You’ll also come across funiculars and lifts (like Elevador da Bica or Santa Justa Lift), which are useful for tackling some of the steeper climbs.

For public transport, it’s worth getting a Viva Viagem card, which you can top up and use across trams, buses, metro and funiculars.

On historic trams like Tram 28, you’ll usually pay onboard in cash (and it’s more expensive), while newer transport options often accept contactless – another reason the Viva Viagem card is the easiest option.

Tip: Bolt is often only €3–€6 for short rides and saves a lot of time and energy – especially at the end of the day when the hills hit harder. But we do recommending walking as much as you can – it’s the best way to really explore the city.

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