Lisbon Bus Guide: Tickets and Using the Bus
Lisbon Bus Guide: Tickets and Using the Bus
Lisbon Bus – Stations and Ticket Guide
The Lisbon bus system is an easy and cheap option for navigating the city of Lisbon. This guide gives you the lowdown on how to use Lisbon’s bus network, covering essentials like where to buy tickets, understanding the routes, and helpful hints for tourists.
Overview of Lisbon Bus
Lisbon’s bus system is a key part of the city’s public transport, making it easy to get around whether you’re a local or a visitor. The main operator for local buses is Carris, and they run routes that cover pretty much the entire city and even the suburbs outside it.
You’ll find buses that can take you from the city centre to popular spots like the beach, key tourist attractions, and the airport.
For longer journeys outside of Lisbon, you can catch long-distance buses operated by companies like Rede Expressos. These can take you to other cities in Portugal, and some even go as far as Spain. The main hub for these buses is the Estación de Oriente, Lisbon’s main bus station.
There are also a large number of buses departing from Lisboa Santa Apolonia, the main train station in Lisbon.
Lisbon Buses Tickets and Fares
| Ticket Type | Price per Journey |
|---|---|
| Single Journey Ticket | €1.80 |
| Navegante Card (Single Journey) | €1.61 |
| Navegante Card (24 Hour Unlimited Pass) | €6.60 (per 24 hours) |
One-way tickets cost €1.80 and can be purchased by scanning a contactless bank card when getting on the bus or paying with cash (exact change is often required). There are no ‘return’ tickets, and each single trip is charged.
However, a more cost effective way for travel in Lisbon using the bus is to purchase a Navegante Card. The card allows you to get a discount on each single trip and pay €1.61 (a saving of €0.19).
Lisbon Bus Navegante Card
The Lisbon Navegante card is a great option for riding the bus around Lisbon. The card can be used across a variety of public transportation including buses, trams, the metro, trains, and ferries in Lisbon.
This re-usable card can be purchased from any transport station (bus, metro or tram) for an admin fee of €0.50, and reloaded (again, at any station) with amounts between €3 and €40.
The Navegante card can also be used to purchase a ’24 hour pass’ for just €6.80 which allows you unlimited travel across Lisbon for 24 hours.
Where to Buy Lisbon Bus Tickets
Buying bus tickets in Lisbon is pretty straightforward. Here are your options:
- On the Bus: You can buy a single ticket directly from the bus driver. If paying by cash try to have exact change.
- Ticket Machines: Some major bus stops and stations have machines where you can buy tickets.
- Online: Some tickets are able to be purchased online. Just check the Lisbon Bus website.
- Bus Station: If you’re taking a long-distance bus, you can buy tickets at the main bus station.
Lisbon Bus Routes
Lisbon’s bus system is pretty extensive, making it easy to get around the city and see the sights. Here’s a an overview of some of the key local routes. For full information visit the Official Carris Bus Website.
| Bus Route | Route Details | Notable Stops |
|---|---|---|
| 28 | Historic route through Baixa, Graça, and Alfama | Various historic landmarks |
| 15E | Central area to Belém, passing by Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower | Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, Monument to the Discoveries |
| 783 | Lisbon Airport to city center | Lisbon Airport, City Centre |
| 727 | Central areas including Areeiro, Saldanha, and Campo de Ourique | Areeiro, Saldanha, Campo de Ourique |
| 714 | Connects Alameda with Parque das Nações, passing through Chelas and Olivais | Alameda, Parque das Nações, Chelas, Olivais |
| 735 | Travels from Cais do Sodré to Ajuda | Cais do Sodré, Ajuda |
| 746 | Links Marquês de Pombal to Estrela | Marquês de Pombal, Estrela |
| 742 | Connects Bairro Alto to Marquês de Pombal | Bairro Alto, Marquês de Pombal |
Lisbon Bus Tips for Visitors
- Have Cash: Not all buses take cards, so have some change for tickets.
- Check Times: Buses usually run from early morning to late at night, but times can vary. Check the schedule.
- Use Maps: Apps like Google Maps can help you find the best bus routes to your destination.
- Know the Stops: Stops aren’t always well-marked. Keep an eye on where you are, especially if you’re new to the city.
- Sit or Stand: Buses can get crowded. Be prepared to stand if no seats are available.
- Keep Tickets: Always keep your ticket until you leave the bus. You might be asked to show it.
City Pass Deals
