Lisbon Card: 24, 48, or 72-Hour Pass

If you’re planning a trip to Lisbon and want to make the most of your stay without breaking the bank, the Lisbon Card might just be your new best friend. Offered by GetYourGuide, this flexible pass grants free access to many top sights, unlimited public transport, and a range of discounts—all within a chosen time window of 24, 48, or 72 hours.

We love that this card combines convenience with value, especially if you’re eager to pack your days with sightseeing without fussing over tickets. Plus, the inclusion of unlimited transport across buses, trams, metro, and even train lines to places like Cascais makes it a real time-saver. However, a word of caution: public transport in Lisbon can sometimes feel a bit chaotic and inconsistent, which you’ll want to keep in mind. This experience suits travelers who want a hassle-free way to explore Lisbon intensively, whether you’re on a weekend getaway or an extended city break.

Key Points

• Unlimited Access: The card provides unlimited travel on buses, trams, metro, cable railways, and certain train lines, making getting around easy and stress-free.
• Free Museum and Attraction Entry: Enjoy free admission to over 50 museums, palaces, and historic sites, including classics like Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery.
• Time Flexibility: Choose between 24, 48, or 72 hours to match your itinerary and maximize sightseeing.
• Discounts & Offers: Get deals on shops, restaurants, and additional activities—great for saving money on extras.
• Convenience: Pick-up at the airport is quick, and the included mobile guide helps you plan your days efficiently.
• Consideration: Some attractions like Belém Tower may be closed during refurbishment, and not all museums are open daily.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Lisbon with the Lisboa Card

The Lisbon Card acts as your all-in-one ticket to the city’s highlights. We’ll walk through what you can expect, the advantages, and some points to consider, based on traveler reviews and the official overview.

Easy Access to Major Attractions

One of the biggest perks of the Lisboa Card is the free access to some of Lisbon’s most iconic sights. These include the Jerónimos Monastery, Belem Tower, the National Tile Museum, and the National Coach Museum. When we read reviews, many travelers appreciated how smooth it was to skip queues at these popular sites, saving both time and money.

However, it’s worth noting that public museums may be closed on Mondays and during specific holidays like Christmas and New Year. The Belem Tower, a major draw, was temporarily closed for refurbishment starting April 22nd, so it’s wise to check ahead during your planning.

Transportation Freedom

The card’s ability to provide unlimited free access to Lisbon’s public transportation network is a real game-changer. Instead of buying individual tickets, you simply tap your card for metro rides, tram trips, buses, and even cable cars. This makes touring both quick and cost-effective since you can hop on and off as often as you like.

From reviews, travelers frequently mention how this feature saves time and simplifies travel logistics. Some, however, pointed out that public transport can sometimes be unpredictable—delays and missed buses happen, but overall, most found it convenient and economical.

Traveling Outside the City

The Lisboa Card includes train rides on CP trains between Cais do Sodré and Cascais, and between Oriente, Rossio, and Sintra. This is fantastic for day trips to nearby towns and palaces without worrying about separate tickets. One reviewer shared that the train trips to Sintra and Cascais were smooth, and the free train access made it easy to explore beyond Lisbon’s immediate center.

That said, buses in Sintra are not covered, as they’re operated by different companies. If you plan to visit Sintra extensively, be aware that some local bus routes won’t be included in the card.

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Value for Money

The reviews overwhelmingly highlight the excellent value of the Lisboa Card. Travelers reported saving a lot of money compared to buying tickets individually, especially when visiting multiple sites or taking multiple transport trips. For instance, one review mentioned, “This is honestly such a good value for money, you end up saving a TON,” which resonates with the overall sentiment among visitors.

We’d suggest starting your card in the middle of a day if you’re only going for the 48-hour option. That way, you maximize the 48 hours, allowing for several full sightseeing days.

Tips From Travelers

• Many travelers recommend planning visits to sites in clusters to make the most of your free entries and avoid unnecessary walking or backtracking.
• Picking up your card early at the airport is quick and easy, with friendly staff who can explain how to use it.
• Some reviews note that timing of buses and trams can be frustrating—delays and missed connections happen, but they’re generally manageable with patience.
• To keep your planning simple, download the Lisboa Card Guide on your mobile, which provides detailed instructions and tips.

What To Expect on Your Day(s) in Lisbon

Once you’ve got your Lisboa Card, you’re set to explore the city confidently. Expect to start your day with a quick scan of your card as you hop on the metro or tram, giving you the freedom to get around without fuss. Many visitors love how easy it is to visit highlights like Belém, where they can enjoy stunning views of the river, sample pastéis de nata, and visit historic sites like the Jerónimos Monastery.

The famous Santa Justa Lift is included, offering a quick ride up to catch panoramic city views—definitely worth the short wait. For museums and palaces, the free entry often means skipping long lines, so you can spend more time appreciating the art and architecture rather than waiting at ticket counters.

During busy times, some sites may have limited hours, especially during the holiday season or on Mondays, so always double-check opening days. Keep in mind that some attractions might be closed on certain holidays—for example, December 24th, 25th, and January 1st.

The Experience of Using the Card

From reviews, travelers said that the card’s ease of use makes travel less stressful. You just tap and go—no need to carry cash or multiple tickets. This was especially helpful for families or groups, where managing several tickets could become cumbersome.

One reviewer shared, “Having the 48-hour Lisboa Card allowed us to easily travel on any public transport and visit many of Lisbon’s amazing sites during the two days,” highlighting how it simplifies city exploration.

The Downsides

While most reviews are positive, some travelers found public transport to be somewhat chaotic—buses and trams don’t always arrive on time, and occasional delays can occur. For instance, one review mentioned waiting 40 minutes for a bus that was supposed to come every 15 minutes.

Another consideration is that not all sites are open every day, and some attractions, like the Belém Tower, may be temporarily closed for refurbishment, potentially limiting your sightseeing options.

Who Is This Card Best For?

The Lisboa Card is ideal for travelers who want a flexible, all-in-one solution to explore Lisbon intensively. If you’re planning to visit multiple major attractions, take several train trips around the area, and use public transportation frequently, the card offers significant savings and convenience.

It’s especially good for those who prefer not to worry about buying individual tickets and want the freedom to hop on and off transport as they go. Families, groups, and solo travelers alike will find value here, though the card isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to accessibility restrictions.

If your stay is short, and you focus mainly on a few key sites, you might want to plan your visits carefully to maximize the benefits of the 24- or 48-hour options. For longer trips, the 72-hour pass provides ample time to soak in Lisbon at a relaxed pace.

Final Thoughts

The Lisbon Card offers a cost-effective, convenient way to see the best of the city without the hassle of buying individual tickets at every turn. Its strength lies in combining transportation and admission to major sights into one seamless experience, saving you time and money.

While public transport can be unpredictable at times, most travelers find that the overall benefits outweigh the inconveniences, especially if you plan your days thoughtfully. The included discounts and extra offers also add value, making it a smart choice for those eager to explore beyond just the main sights.

If you’re someone who likes to cover a lot of ground in a limited time, the Lisboa Card will serve you well. Just remember to check opening days and site closures in advance, and download the mobile guide for a smoother experience.

FAQ

Can I buy the Lisboa Card in advance?
Yes, you can reserve it online through platforms like GetYourGuide and pick it up at the airport or other designated locations.

How long can I use the card after I activate it?
You can use it for either 24, 48, or 72 hours from the moment you start using it, depending on the option you select.

Are all museums and attractions free with the card?
Most major museums and sites are free, but a few, like the Castelo de São Jorge, are free only for certain age groups, and some sites may be temporarily closed or have limited access during holidays or refurbishments.

Can I use the Lisboa Card on trains to Sintra?
Yes, train trips on CP trains between Oriente, Rossio, and Sintra are included, which is great for day trips. Just note that buses in Sintra are not covered.

Where do I pick up the card?
The card can be picked up at the airport or other designated locations. It’s quick and simple, and staff are usually friendly and helpful.

Is the card suitable for families?
Yes, many reviews mention it working well for families, especially since it simplifies transportation and entry to attractions. Just be aware that children aged 13 to 15 might need separate tickets for some sites, like Castelo de São Jorge.

Is it worth it if I only plan to visit a few sites?
It depends. If you plan to visit several major attractions and use public transport frequently, it’s definitely worth it. If your plans are more relaxed or limited, you might want to compare individual ticket costs.

The Lisboa Card offers a practical, money-saving way to see Lisbon efficiently. It’s especially suited for energetic travelers eager to pack their days with sightseeing, and those who appreciate the convenience of all-in-one access. Happy exploring!

You can check availability for your dates here: