Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a beautiful city full of charm, color, and history. With its cobblestone streets, tiled buildings, and scenic viewpoints, it’s no wonder so many travelers fall in love with it. But exploring Lisbon can be tiring—especially with all the steep hills! Don’t worry—this guide offers easy and practical travel hacks to help you ride the famous trams and avoid climbing too many hills during your visit.
1. Use the Viva Viagem Card
If you plan to use public transport in Lisbon, the Viva Viagem card is your best friend. This reusable card costs just €0.50 and can be topped up with money or daily passes. You can use it on:
- Trams
- Buses
- Metro
- Elevators (like Santa Justa)
- Trains to nearby towns like Sintra and Cascais
Tip: Get a 24-hour public transport pass for around €6.80—it includes unlimited rides and covers the historic tram 28.
2. Hop on Tram 28 Early in the Morning
Tram 28 is the most popular tram line in Lisbon. It winds through the city’s most famous neighborhoods, including Graça, Alfama, and Baixa. But it’s also very crowded, especially in the afternoon.
Hack: Ride early in the morning (before 8 AM) or later in the evening to get a seat and enjoy the ride without crowds. Start your journey in Martim Moniz or Campo Ourique for the best chance of finding space.
3. Use Elevators and Funiculars to Beat the Hills
Lisbon is known as the “City of Seven Hills,” and walking up and down them can be exhausting. But the city has smart solutions—elevators and funiculars that help you avoid the uphill climb.
Here are some of the best:
- Santa Justa Elevator: Links Baixa and Bairro Alto. Offers great views from the top.
- Elevador da Glória: Runs between Restauradores and Bairro Alto. Use it to reach the popular viewpoint São Pedro de Alcântara.
- Elevador da Bica: A short but scenic ride that takes you up a steep street in the Bica neighborhood.
Hack: These rides are covered by the Viva Viagem card or 24-hour pass, so take full advantage.
4. Plan Your Route With Google Maps (Walk Smart!)
If you plan to walk, use Google Maps’ terrain view to see how steep your route will be. Sometimes it’s easier to walk a little longer on flat streets than take a steep shortcut.
Hack: Always check the walking time and elevation to avoid climbing when there’s a gentler path nearby.
5. Ride E-Bikes or Scooters on Flat Areas Only
Lisbon has many e-bikes and scooters for rent (like Gira or Lime), but be careful—riding them uphill can be tough and even dangerous on narrow cobblestone streets.
Hack: Use them only in flat areas like Avenida da Liberdade, Belém, or along the riverfront. Avoid the older parts of the city like Alfama or Mouraria, which have steep and winding lanes.
6. Stay in a Central and Flat Area
To avoid climbing every day, book accommodation in Baixa or Cais do Sodré. These are central, flat, and well-connected areas. You’ll be close to trams, trains, ferries, and restaurants—making it easy to explore without too much effort.
7. Take a Tuk-Tuk for Steep Sightseeing
Lisbon’s tuk-tuks are small motorized vehicles that zip around the hills with ease. They are more expensive than public transport but perfect if you want a relaxed way to explore without walking uphill.
Hack: Share a tuk-tuk with other travelers to save money, or ask your driver for a short ride up to a viewpoint like Miradouro da Senhora do Monte or São Jorge Castle.
8. Use the Train for Day Trips—Skip the Hills Entirely
Lisbon’s hills aren’t the only thing to see. Hop on a train to Sintra, Cascais, or Belém for a flat and fun escape from the city center.
Hack: These trains are affordable and included in some public transport passes. Sintra and Cascais are especially scenic and easy to reach.
Final Thoughts
Lisbon is a stunning city that’s full of life, but the hills can wear you out if you’re not prepared. By using trams, elevators, funiculars, and smart transport hacks, you can explore the city comfortably and make the most of your trip. Whether you’re gliding through the streets on Tram 28 or enjoying the views from a hilltop terrace without breaking a sweat, these tips will help you enjoy Lisbon the easy way.
Happy travels!
