Lisbon’s iconic yellow tram has become one of the city’s most beloved attractions, winding its way through narrow cobblestone streets and offering passengers a journey through time. This vintage streetcar isn’t just transportation—it’s an experience that combines stunning views, historic neighbourhoods, and authentic Portuguese charm. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, knowing how to navigate this popular route will help you make the most of your ride.
Start your journey early in the morning
The single best decision you can make is to board before 9 AM, ideally around 8 AM when the route begins its daily service. At this hour, you’ll avoid the massive crowds of tourists that pack the tram by mid-morning, and you’ll actually have a chance to snag a window seat.
Early morning Tram 28 rides in Lisbon also give you a glimpse of authentic Lisbon life. You’ll share the tram with locals heading to work, children going to school, and elderly residents running their daily errands. The soft morning light creates perfect conditions for photography as it illuminates pastel-colored buildings and terracotta rooftops.
Starting early means you can complete the full route in reasonable time without excessive stops and starts. During peak hours, the tram often becomes so crowded that boarding and alighting at each stop takes several minutes, turning what should be a 40-minute journey into a two-hour ordeal.
Choose the right starting point
While most tourists board at Martim Moniz in the city centre, this stop is actually the worst place to start your journey. This stop sees the highest concentration of visitors, making it nearly impossible to get on during busy periods.
Instead, consider starting from either terminus: Prazeres Cemetery or Campo de Ourique on one end or Graça on the other. These endpoints give you the best chance of boarding an empty or nearly empty tram, guaranteeing you a seat for the entire journey.
Campo de Ourique is particularly recommended because it’s a charming residential neighbourhood worth exploring before your ride. You can grab a coffee and a pastel de nata at a local café, then board the tram with confidence knowing you’ll have a comfortable journey ahead.
Protect your belongings at all times
The popularity of Tram 28 has unfortunately attracted pickpockets who target distracted tourists. The crowded conditions create perfect opportunities for thieves, so vigilance is essential throughout your journey.
Keep your bag in front of you where you can see it, and avoid placing phones or wallets in back pockets. If you’re carrying a backpack, wear it on your front when the tram is crowded. Be especially alert during boarding and alighting, when the chaos provides cover for quick-handed criminals.
Don’t let this warning dampen your experience—just stay aware of your surroundings. Most rides pass without incident, but a little caution goes a long way toward ensuring your trip remains memorable for the right reasons.
Consider riding the full route first
Many visitors make the mistake of hopping on and off at various stops, but this approach has significant drawbacks. You’ll spend more time waiting for the next tram than actually exploring, and you might not get back on if crowds are heavy.
A smarter strategy is to ride the complete route first, taking in all the sights from your seat. This gives you an overview of the neighbourhoods and helps you identify which stops deserve closer exploration. Take mental notes or photos of areas that intrigue you.
After completing the full journey, you can return to specific neighbourhoods using alternative transportation like regular buses, the metro, or even on foot. The Alfama and Graça districts are particularly walkable and actually more enjoyable to explore by wandering their maze-like streets.
Buy your ticket before boarding
While you can purchase tickets directly from the driver, such an action significantly slows down boarding and creates frustration for everyone waiting. The driver must handle cash, make change, and issue tickets while managing the tram’s operation.
Purchase a rechargeable Viva Viagem card from any metro station and load it with credit before your journey. This allows you to simply tap and board, making the process seamless for you and your fellow passengers.
The card costs just 50 cents and can be used on all Lisbon public transportation, making it a worthwhile investment even if you’re only in the city for a few days. Single rides on the tram cost significantly less with the card compared to buying tickets from the driver.
Making memories on Lisbon’s rails
Riding this historic tram offers an unforgettable way to experience Lisbon’s hills, history, and heart. By following these practical tips, you’ll transform what could be a frustrating tourist trap into a genuine highlight of your Portuguese adventure. The key is preparation, patience, and a willingness to adapt your plans based on crowds and timing. With the right approach, you’ll understand why this rattling yellow streetcar has captured the imagination of millions of visitors and remains an essential part of any Lisbon itinerary.
