Tram 28 has become one of the most iconic things to see whilst spending time in Lisbon. With the infamous yellow trains rolling through the steep hills and narrow lanes of the Portuguese capital, there’s no better way to see what this incredible city has to offer. The journey will take you along a stunning route, through the many different districts of Lisbon, passing by some of the best landmarks.
Despite the stunning route and beautiful, wooden vintage trams, it can feel like a let down. With Lisbon booming in popularity in recent years, Tram 28 has become overwhelming busy as a tourist destination. The queues at Martim Moniz for Tram 28 are CRAZY! It’s not unusual to have over 200 people waiting at Martim Moniz to board. If you’re lucky to get on, you’ll likely be crammed in like sardines. But often, tram drivers won’t stop to pick up people if their trams are too full.
For Locals, Tram 28 is part of their daily life and a necessary way to travel to other parts of the city. Many are now unable to use it for its normal purpose given how dominated it is by tourists.
If you’re wanting to ride this tram, continue on for information and advice on how to get a space. Otherwise I’ve included alternatives to Tram 28, that’ll still let you experience the traditional trams but without any queues, hassle or disruption to locals’ life.
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Tram 28 Route
The route connects Martim Moniz to Campo Ourique, and passes through a number of popular districts including Graça, Alfama, Baixa and Estrela.
Sites along the route
- Praça Martim Moniz (Stop: Praça Martim Moniz)
- Monastery of São Vicente de Fore (Stop: Voz Operário)
- Portas do Sol (Stop: Portas do Sol)
- Lisbon Cathedral (Stop: Sé)
- Baixa & Terreiro do Paço (Stop: Conceição)
- Basilica da Estrela (Stop: Estrela)
- Prazeres Cemetery (Stop: Campo Ourique)
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Schedule
Tram 28 runs every day of the week typically from 6am to 10pm.
- Weekdays: 5:40am – 11:30pm
- Saturday: 5:45am-10:30pm
- Sunday: 6:45am – 10:30pm
Taking Tram 28 typically takes between 45 minutes and an hour from start to finish. With trams running every 10 minutes during rush hour, and 15 minutes during off-peak hours.
Check out the official Lisbon Tram website for more detailed information and scheduling.
Cost of Tram 28
You should expect to pay:
- Single Ride: €3 (€1.50 with Viva Viagem)
- 24hr Pass (1 day ticket): €6.40
A Viva Viagem card is worth getting for a trip to Lisbon. They’re easy to top up, convenient to use and can save you up to 50% on single rides. These cards can be purchased for €0.50 from tram conductors, metro stations, ferries and PayShop locations.
Without a Viva Viagem travel card, you can buy tickets onboard from the tram conductor.
This isn’t a hop on/hop off ride, so if you’re looking to do that, buy a 24 hour pass. Although you can’t guarantee getting a seat.
Tips for beating the crowds
If you’re visiting Lisbon during peak tourist season (June-August), or at peak times, getting a spot might prove to be impossible. I’d advise going early in the morning or in the evening to try and beat the crazy crowds. Alternatively, consider taking the journey from the opposite direction.
Travellers usually start this journey at Martim Moniz, with the line getting busier over the next few stops. The queues are these stops are insanely long!! However, once the tram has reached its final destination, its likely to have emptied out. Therefore, you’ll have a higher chance of getting a seat if you start your journey at Campo Ourique.
Campo Ourique is also really easy to get to! Tram E25 from Martim Moniz itself will take you straight there. Alternatively, you can catch the 711 bus, which departs downtown Lisbon from Praça de Comércio.
Alternatives to Tram 28
- Walk the route of Tram 28. Picking out the key points along the route could make a for a nice makeshift walking tour. Whilst taking out the stress of finding a seat or being crammed inside a tram.
- Go on a hills tram tour. Although it’s more expensive than Tram 28, you’ll be sat in comfort on a traditional vintage Lisbon Tram. It’s is a hop on/off tour, so you can visit different parts of the city as you wish. You’ll pass through the neighbourhoods of Alfama, Mouraria, Chiado, Bairro Alto and Lapa. It’s a great way to see iconic landmarks such as Castelo São Jorge and Sé Cathedral. The audio guide/headphones come in many languages too. Check out their site here for more information.
- Take a different tram route. If you just want to experience a ride in a traditional wooden Lisbon tram, take a different line. Tram 12, 15e, 18, 24 and 25 all use the infamous Lisbon trams. These will be the same price as Tram 28.
Other things to note
- There’s WiFi and air-conditioning on board.
- It’s a bumpy ride! If you’re someone who suffers from motion sickness, you might reconsider doing this trip. Particularly in the summer, when it’s hot and crammed – having a rocky ride might not be desirable.
- Be extra careful with any belongings as pickpockets are rife on this tram. We were warned during our walking tour and by the hotel.
Happy Travels xx