Tram 28: Lisbon’s Most Famous Ride
No trip to Lisbon is complete without a ride on Tram 28. This vintage yellow tramcar, operated by Carris since 1928, rattles through some of the city’s most beautiful and historic neighbourhoods on a route that feels more like a sightseeing tour than public transport. The wooden-panelled carriages, with their polished brass fittings and leather seats, climb impossibly steep streets, squeeze through narrow alleys where you can almost touch the buildings on either side, and round corners so tight that the wheels screech against the rails. It is charming, chaotic, and entirely unforgettable.The Route: Where Tram 28 Goes
Tram 28 runs between Martim Moniz in the east and Campo de Ourique in the west, covering approximately 7 kilometres. The full journey takes around 40 minutes, though it often takes longer due to traffic and the frequent stops. Here are the key neighbourhoods and landmarks along the route: Martim Moniz to Graça: The tram starts in the multicultural Martim Moniz square and immediately begins its steep climb towards Graça. This section passes the Mouraria neighbourhood, the birthplace of Fado, and the Igreja da Graça. Graça to Alfama: From Graça, the tram descends through the heart of Alfama, passing the Miradouro da Graça, the Castelo de São Jorge perched above, and the Sé de Lisboa (Lisbon Cathedral). This is the most scenic stretch, with the tram threading through medieval streets barely wider than the carriage itself. Alfama to Baixa: The route descends past the cathedral to the Praça do Comércio area, passing close to the river before climbing again. Baixa to Chiado and Estrela: The tram ascends through the elegant streets of Chiado, passing the Praça Luís de Camões and continuing west through the Príncipe Real neighbourhood to the Basílica da Estrela, one of Lisbon’s most impressive churches. The adjacent Jardim da Estrela is a peaceful park worth a stop. Estrela to Campo de Ourique: The final section crosses into the residential neighbourhood of Campo de Ourique, known for its excellent food market and local atmosphere far from the tourist centre.Tips for Riding Tram 28
Avoid peak hours. The tram is extremely popular with tourists and locals alike. The busiest times are between 10:00 and 16:00. Try to ride early in the morning (before 9:00) or in the late afternoon (after 17:00) for a more comfortable experience. Board at the terminus. Starting at Martim Moniz or Campo de Ourique guarantees you a seat. If you board mid-route in Baixa or Chiado, you’ll likely have to stand — and the ride is much better when you can sit by the window. Watch your belongings. Pickpockets are known to operate on crowded tram 28. Keep your bags closed and in front of you, and be especially alert in crowded carriages. Use a Viva Viagem card. A single ticket bought on board costs significantly more than tapping your rechargeable Viva Viagem card. Load the card at any metro station before your ride.What to See Along the Way
Tram 28 passes — or comes close to — several of Lisbon’s top attractions: The Castelo de São Jorge, visible from several points along the route, with its Moorish walls and sweeping views. The Sé de Lisboa, the city’s oldest church, right on the tram line. The miradouros of Graça and Santa Luzia, both a short walk from tram stops. The Basílica da Estrela and its peaceful gardens. Hop off at any stop that catches your eye, explore, and catch the next tram when you’re ready. They pass every 10 to 15 minutes.Alternatives to Tram 28
If the crowds put you off, there are other ways to enjoy Lisbon’s vintage tram experience. Tram 12E follows a shorter circular route through Alfama and is much less crowded. The Glória, Bica, and Lavra funiculars offer short but scenic rides up the city’s steepest hills. For a truly personal experience, book a private tour that includes the best tram routes combined with a walking tour of the neighbourhoods. Our local guides know exactly when and where to ride to avoid the crowds while seeing everything. Get in touch to plan your Lisbon tram adventure.