Lisbon Trams

The tram in Lisbon extends the reach of the city's public transportation network. It reaches the narrow streets of Lisbon's most charming neighborhoods and the most important sights, where a bus simply couldn't go.

Below you'll find information about the different routes and what to keep in mind when boarding the "elétrico", as the Portuguese call it.

If you'd rather avoid the tourist crowds and not inconvenience locals by using their public transport, you can take the Tourist Tram. The experience is very different, and pricier, but you'll reach the same stops without the hassle.

Lisbon Tram Routes

The Lisbon tram network consists of 5 routes, 3 of which are the most interesting for visitors: the 28, 12, and 15. All three pass through the city center.

The Iconic Tram 28

The Tram 28 is the most popular. On board, you'll pass through Bairro Alto,,  Alfama,, Chiado,, Graça,, and all the way to the Jardim da Estrela  area in Estrela and Campo de Ourique..

It retains its original look — built with wood on the inside, simple seats, and heavy windows from which you can take in the very best of Lisbon. To find out where to board, check the list of stops here..

Tram 12

The Elétrico 12 also retains its classic design, running between Praça Martim Moniz, the Graça neighborhood, the Lisbon Cathedral, and ending/departing at Praça da Figueira. 

This route is shorter than the others, but very useful for those who live or are staying in the Martim Moniz, Intendente, Graça, and Alfama areas. See here all the stops.

Tram No. 15

The modern tram, similar to a metro car and essential if you want to visit Belém, see the Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery and try the famous pastéis de nata from Belém.

This tram departs from Praça da Figueira, then passes through Praça do Comércio, then through Praça do Comércio, the Cais do Sodré train and metro station, Alcântara, Belém, and Algés. You can see all its stops here.

Tram Schedules in Lisbon

The official schedules, which may be subject to temporary changes, vary by route. Keep in mind that daily delays are common, as the tram lines share the road with cars — so if someone parks illegally or there is an accident along the way, the driver has no choice but to wait.

Tram 28 Lisbon Schedule:

• March to October: Monday to Friday from 5:40 to 23:30 / Saturdays from 5:45 to 22:30 / Sundays and public holidays from 6:45 to 22:30.
• November to February: Monday to Friday from 5:40 to 23:30 / Saturdays from 5:45 to 22:30 / Sundays and public holidays from 6:45 to 22:30.
• You can see the full schedule with details and frequencies here.

Tram 12 Lisbon Schedule:

• Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 20:45 / Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays from 9:00 to 20:15
• You can see the full schedule with details and frequencies here.

Tram 15 Lisbon Schedule:

• Monday to Friday from 5:45 to 1:00
• Saturdays from 5:45 to 1:00
• Sundays and public holidays from 6:05 to 1:00
• See the full schedule with details and frequencies here.

Trams are usually packed (with locals and visitors alike), so when you board, please respect the priority seats reserved for elderly passengers and women with young children.

Respect the queue when boarding — Lisboetas take this quite seriously.

You should also always watch out for pickpockets who take advantage of the crowds to ply their trade.

Tourist trams

There is also a tram exclusively for tourists in Lisbon. You can spot it easily because it looks just like the yellow trams but is red.

It departs from Praça da Figueira, heading up through the area of the Lisbon Cathedral, the São Jorge Castle and its surroundings.

Tickets for these special trams cost around €20 and are valid for 24 hours.

If you can afford to ride the tourist tram, go for it. You'll deal with fewer crowds, you're guaranteed a seat, and it gives locals a better chance of finding a spot on the yellow tram they've used all their lives to get home.

You can buy tickets at Praça do Comércio, Praça da Figueira, Elevador de Santa Justa or save time and hassle and travel with your ticket ready by buying here.