One of the best ways to explore the hilly and charming streets of Lisbon is on the iconic Tram 28. This vintage yellow tram has been rattling through the city since 1914, connecting many of Lisbon’s top attractions. Riding Tram 28 is a quintessential Lisbon experience and a must-do for any visit to Portugal’s capital city. Here’s everything you need to know to ride this historic tram.
A Self-Guided Tour of the City’s Highlights
Tram 28 operates as a loop, beginning and ending in the Graça neighbourhood. The full loop takes about 30-40 minutes if you remain on the tram the entire time. However, the tram stops at many of Lisbon’s most popular spots, so you’ll want to hop on and off to explore.
Some of the highlights along the route include:
- Graça: Start your journey at the Graça stop, where you can visit the Graça Church and National Pantheon. Climb to the top of Graça Hill for panoramic views of the city.
- Alfama: Get off at Alfama and lose yourself in the winding streets of this ancient Moorish neighbourhood. Stop by the Sé de Lisboa cathedral and Saint Anthony church. Listen for the mournful sounds of fado music escaping from local bars.
- Baixa: The Baixa stop drops you in the heart of downtown Lisbon. Walk around the grand squares, shop at local stores, and dine on delicious Portuguese cuisine.
- Bairro Alto: The lively Bairro Alto district comes alive at night with people bar hopping and dancing. By day, wander through the charming cobblestone streets lined with wall murals.
- Estrela: At the western end of the line, the Estrela stop provides access to the Estrela Basilica and Estrela Garden – one of Lisbon’s most beautiful green spaces.
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Hopping On and Off
Tram 28 runs from early morning until late evening, departing every 10-15 minutes.
You can hop on and off the tram as many times as you like using your reusable Viva Viagem card, which works for all of Lisbon’s public transit options. Buy the card for 6 EUR and load it with trips – each Tram 28 trip costs 2.85 EUR.
The trams do get very crowded, especially in the summer and on weekends. I’d recommend going early and avoiding the midday rush to get a seat with unobstructed views.
Also, be aware of your belongings in the crowded tram and hold onto the railings when the tram is moving.
While a timetable for Tram 28 exists, it is very loosely followed.
Don’t count on the times printed to plan your exploring or transfers. Just hop on the next tram that comes by for the start of your self-guided tour! Tram 28 is a Lisbon tradition and riding it is an experience in itself. Enjoy rattling through the city’s neighbourhoods and hopping on and off at the stops that interest you.
