Lisbon: Hills Red Tram Tour by Tram 28 Route 24-Hour Ticket

Traveling through Lisbon’s charming, hilly streets on a vintage tram sounds pretty much like the quintessential experience, right? That’s what this Lisbon Hills Tram Tour promises. With a 24-hour ticket, you get a full day of cruising through some of the city’s most historic neighborhoods, with a mix of scenic views, local flavor, and notable landmarks.

From what we’ve gathered, this tour is a smart choice for travelers wanting a relaxed, immersive way to explore Lisbon’s steep streets without the hassle of walking or navigating public transport on your own. We love that it combines comfort with cultural insights—and that it’s a flexible way to get an overview of the city’s different districts.

One thing to keep in mind, however, is that this isn’t a guided tour with a live guide to answer questions—though an audio guide in multiple languages is included. Plus, some reviews point out that the meeting point details can be a little confusing if you’re not prepared. Still, if you’re after a leisurely, scenic introduction to Lisbon, this tour could be just the ticket.

This experience is especially well-suited for those who appreciate seeing the city at a relaxed pace, wanting to cover lots of ground in one day, and enjoy panoramic views from the comfort of a vintage tram. It’s a particularly good fit if you’re traveling with family or friends and want a straightforward way to soak up the sights.

Key Points

• Flexible 24-hour ticket allows you to hop on and off at various points, making it easy to explore at your own pace.
• Vintage tram experience offers a nostalgic way to see Lisbon’s traditional neighborhoods, avoiding crowded, modern buses.
• Includes top landmarks like Castelo São Jorge, Sé Catedral, and viewpoints such as Miradouro da Graça and Senhora do Monte.
• Audio guide available in 12 languages adds context without the need for a guide in person.
• Entrance to Santa Justa Lift included gives you a fantastic view of the city from above.
• Good value for the price—especially since public transport, funiculars, and the Santa Justa Lift are all covered within the ticket.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why This Tour Works Well

Imagine starting your day in Praça do Comércio, the grand square facing the river. Here, you hop aboard this charming vintage tram, which runs every 20 minutes in the morning and early evening, giving you the freedom to ride as long or as little as you want. The route takes you through Lisbon’s most traditional districts, such as Alfama, Mouraria, and Baixa, each offering a different flavor of the city.

We loved the way the tram snakes through narrow, winding streets in Alfama, revealing hidden corners and stunning viewpoints that you might otherwise miss. The tram is designed for comfort—more spacious than the packed yellow trams that sometimes get overwhelmed with travelers. As one reviewer pointed out, “The ride was smooth, and the ticket was worth the value,” which is quite a compliment for a city tour.

The audio guide is a highlight, especially if you’re a history buff or just curious about what you’re passing by. It’s available in a dozen languages, making it accessible for many visitors. You’ll learn about the districts, the landmarks, and some local stories, enriching your experience without the pressure of a live guide.

The Route Breakdown: What to Expect

Starting Point: Praça do Comércio — This central square is the perfect launchpad. Facing the arch, it’s accessible and easy to find, though some reviews mention that the initial ticket collection process can be confusing. A helpful tip: look for the ticket operators with the handheld machine, and don’t be shy about asking for clarification.

Alfama & Mouraria — The authentic heart of Lisbon, full of narrow alleys, colorful houses, and viewpoints like Miradouro de Santa Luzia. Here, the tram’s slow pace allows you to soak in the local atmosphere and snap photos of the city’s oldest neighborhoods.

Baixa & Chiado — The bustling commercial districts with shops, cafes, and lively streets. This area is perfect for exploring on foot after your tram ride, especially if you want to enjoy some shopping or grab a bite.

Castelo São Jorge & Lisbon Cathedral — Iconic landmarks that you’ll glimpse from the tram or visit more closely later in the day. The tram route offers fantastic views of these historic sites, giving you photo opportunities.

Viewpoints: Miradouro da Graça, Senhora do Monte, Portas do Sol, Santa Luzia — These are some of the most celebrated spots for panoramic views of Lisbon. You’ll love the scenery from these points, and some stops even allow you to hop off for a quick visit.

Santa Justa Lift — Included with your ticket, this elevator is a must-see. It connects Baixa and Chiado and offers sweeping views of the city’s rooftops and landmarks.

Throughout the day, the tram operates with a high frequency—every 20 minutes in the morning and early evening, and every 30 minutes later in the day—so you can tailor your experience to your pace. You can hop off at any stop, explore, and catch the next tram, making this a flexible option.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many reviews highlight the value and comfort of this tour. For example, one reviewer said, “We had comfortable seating, windows were open because it was hot, earphones ready and off we went following the route of yellow tram 28 but in more comfort.” This points to the benefit of avoiding the crowded yellow trams, which can be packed.

Another traveler appreciated the informative audio guide, noting “The audio portion of the tour and our driver was nice and accommodating,” which made the journey both relaxing and educational. Several reviews mention that the views from viewpoints like Miradouro Senhora do Monte are truly picture-perfect, and the inclusion of the Santa Justa Lift was a highlight, giving a bird’s-eye perspective of Lisbon.

However, not everything is perfect. Some travelers found the ticketing process at the start confusing, mentioning that the actual ticket collection point wasn’t always clear. One user said, “Info to collect ticket is lacking at the tram stop,” and suggested signs or clearer instructions could improve the experience.

Others pointed out that organizing the meeting point can be tricky if you’re not familiar with the city. It’s best to double-check the exact address and arrive a little early.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros:
– The vintage tram adds charm and nostalgia that modern buses can’t match.
– The 24-hour validity means you can explore the city over an entire day, hopping on and off as you see fit.
– The audio guide in multiple languages enhances understanding and engagement.
– Entrance to Santa Justa Lift and funiculars is included, saving you extra tickets and hassle.
– The comfortable seats and open windows make for a pleasant ride, even on a hot day.

Cons:
– The initial ticket collection can be confusing without clear signage.
– The meeting point listed on some booking platforms might be slightly off, so be sure to verify the exact location.
– This is a self-guided experience, so if you prefer a live guide and direct interaction, this might feel a bit impersonal.
– It’s not a deep-dive tour into Lisbon’s history or culture—more of a scenic overview with some commentary.

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Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the cost of $28 per person, this tour offers quite a bit of value. You gain access to multiple transport modes—tram, funiculars, lifts—and the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Plus, the included audio guide and landmarks make it a worthwhile outing, especially if you want a rundown without the crowds or the pressure of guided groups.

The reviews speak volumes about the comfort, scenic views, and the overall enjoyable nature of the ride. Travelers particularly appreciated the ability to see neighborhoods they might not visit on foot or to hop on and off conveniently.

While it’s not a guided tour with a dedicated guide answering questions, the audio guide and the ability to explore independently make it a versatile choice. It’s especially appealing for those who value comfort, scenic views, and a hassle-free way to get an introduction to Lisbon’s many hills and districts.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is best suited for first-time visitors wanting a broad, leisurely introduction to Lisbon’s most scenic and historic neighborhoods. It’s a good pick if you’re traveling with friends or family who prefer a relaxed, sit-back experience with plenty of photo opportunities.

Those interested in viewpoints and landmarks will find it particularly rewarding, especially since the route includes stops at the city’s most famous vistas and landmarks. If you’re someone who appreciates a bit of nostalgia and comfort while sightseeing, this tram tour hits the mark.

However, if you’re after a deep cultural or historical tour, with guided commentary and interaction, you might want to look for a different experience. Also, if meeting points and ticketing logistics are a concern, be prepared to double-check your details ahead of time.

FAQs

Do I need a physical ticket to ride the tram?
No, your digital QR code or voucher is enough. You simply show it at the tram stop, and staff will scan it.

Where do I start the tour?
The meeting point is Praça do Comércio, facing the arch. Some reviews mention that the initial ticket collection can be confusing, so arrive early and look for the staff with the handheld ticket scanner.

Can I hop off the tram and rejoin later?
Yes, your ticket is valid for 24 hours from the first use, so you can hop on and off at different stops throughout the day.

What languages is the audio guide available in?
It’s available in Portuguese, Spanish, English, French, German, Italian, Dutch, Swedish, Russian, Chinese, Japanese, and Mandarin.

Does the ticket include entrance to any attractions?
Yes, it includes entrance to the Santa Justa lift, funiculars, and other public trams.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, meals and drinks are not included in the tour.

What should I bring?
Bring your smartphone or printed voucher, comfortable walking shoes for exploring neighborhoods, and maybe a bottle of water.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for most travelers. No specific age restrictions are listed, but keep in mind the ride involves some hills and walking in the neighborhoods.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the comfort and panoramic views make it a nice outing for families traveling together, provided children are comfortable on a tram ride.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic way to get to know Lisbon’s neighborhoods, this vintage tram experience offers genuine comfort and value. It’s a practical way to see the city’s highlights, especially the viewpoints and landmarks that define Lisbon’s character. The included Santa Justa Lift and the flexibility of a 24-hour ticket mean you can tailor your day to your interests, whether it’s snapping photos, exploring on foot, or simply enjoying the ride.

It’s not a guided deep dive, but if you want an easy, enjoyable overview with plenty of opportunities for photos and discovery, this tour is a solid choice. Just be sure to check the meeting point details in advance, arrive a bit early, and prepare to relax and soak up Lisbon’s hills and history at your own rhythm.

In summary, this tour is best for travelers who value comfort, panoramic views, and the chance to explore Lisbon’s districts at a leisurely pace. It’s perfect if you want a hassle-free way to see the city’s most photogenic spots without the crowds or stress. While not perfect for those seeking detailed guided commentary, it excels as an easy, scenic introduction to the Portuguese capital.

You can check availability for your dates here: