Lisbon travel hot spots by tram, part 1
If you’re traveling to Lisbon, you can’t miss the trams. Along with the Ascensor Vicar, Lisbon’s iconic tram line 28 is the one that most travelers to Lisbon will take at least once.
The tram makes traveling up and down the hills a lot easier and more enjoyable. A thorough comparison of Lisbon’s transportation options
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is made up of seven hills. Everywhere you look, you’ll see hills and picturesque landscapes. The yellow trams that ding, ding, ding, ding between the pastel-colored buildings add to the quaint atmosphere. Take your time and you’ll come across squares, cathedrals, and maze-like alleys. Wandering through the hills like a treasure hunt will make the journey even more interesting.
Alfama neighborhood:
Wandering the Wonderful City
Alfama Tour in Lisbon Old Town
Alfama is in the top 1% of steepest neighborhoods in hilly Lisbon. You can take the tram up the hill or explore the nooks and crannies on your own two feet. Laundry hangs out among the faded buildings, and fado, a Portuguese folk song, wafts from every corner. As the golden sunlight caresses Alfama, climb to São Jorge Castle for a panoramic view of the city bathed in sunset.
Tip: The Viva Viajem One Day Pass also includes unlimited rides on tram 28, the funicular “Ascensor” bicar line that winds its way up the hills of Lisbon, so it’s a good idea to add the Ascensor to your day pass when you buy it.
Castelo de São Jorge
for a spectacular sunset
Private Amphibious Sightseeing and Castelo de São Jorge Trip
As the golden sunlight breaks over your shoulders, you should climb up to São Jorge Castle. The castle was built on top of Alfama by the Moors when they conquered Portugal. The best part is the view overlooking the city. As you walk along the walls, you’ll see the ferry crossing the river to Comercio Square, the streets of Baixa, and the alleys of Alfama. The view of Lisbon at sunset is dazzling, and it’s no wonder: the built-in chairs throughout the walls are often occupied by lovers whispering their love. After buying your ticket at the entrance, don’t forget to pick up a free map. It’s quite large inside, so it’s a good idea to study the map to save time.
Lisbon Cathedral,
Sé de Lisboa, looks like something out of a picture postcard
Lisbon Hills Red Tram by Tram 28 route
The yellow tram passing in front of Lisbon Cathedral is an iconic image of Lisbon. Souvenir shops sell postcards of the cathedral and the number 28 tram. Originally built as a mosque by the Moors, it was rebuilt as a Romanesque cathedral by King Enrique, who drove them out and founded Portugal. Inside is the Nativity of St. António, the patron saint of Lisbon, and the sanctuary of St. Ana. The cathedral is free to visit, but the Gothic cloister and the treasure room require an entrance fee. Meanwhile, the cathedral is the number one place couples in Lisbon want to get married. Once reserved for the royal family, today anyone can ring the bell at the cathedral.
The best views, a heavenly retreat:
Miradouro das Portas do Sol Observation Deck
Old town Tour
To reach São Jorge Castle by tram number 28, get off at the ‘Portas do Sol’ stop. A few steps from the stop, you’ll see the orange rooftops and the Teju River rushing past. This is the Portas do Sol observation deck. The blue sky, the cruise ships on the river, the houses lining the hillside, the Monastery of São Vincente de Fora and the National Pantheon make up the golden ratio. It’s a spectacular view that will leave you breathless. If you’re looking to soak it all in, head to Portas do Sol, an open-air cafe next to the viewing platform. The air flows freely over the terrace, which is larger than most rooftops. Order a cold mojito, settle into the most comfortable position in the world, and enjoy the incredible views.
Grassa Observatory
(Miradouro da Graça)
Private Luxury Tour
The Graça Observatory is another favorite because it offers views of the city of Lisbon, especially the view of São Jorge Castle. I’ve heard that it’s especially stunning at sunset, but I didn’t intentionally time my visit for sunset; I happened to arrive just as the sun was setting, which made the view even better.
Tram28, an icon of Lisbon
No trip to Lisbon is complete without a ride on the city’s oldest tram, Tram 28. Sitting in a wooden chair and gazing out the window, it’s hard to envy the tour buses. It runs from Martim Moniz to Prazeres, making 35 stops in total, over hills and through alleys, dropping you off at every major attraction. It’s very crowded with tourists.
Tip: Get on at Marting Moniz to get a seat.
