Lisbon Tram No. 28 Ride & Walking Tour

If you’ve ever wondered how to get a real feel for Lisbon without feeling overwhelmed, a combined experience of riding Tram No. 28 and exploring the Alfama neighborhood might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the reviews and descriptions make it clear that it offers a charming, informative overview of the city’s quintessential sights. For those who want a taste of Lisbon’s famous hilltop views, historic streets, and local culture—all in one manageable trip—this tour hits many of those marks.

What really appeals is the historic tram ride itself—an icon of Lisbon—and the opportunity to walk through one of its most atmospheric districts. We also love how guides seem to make the experience engaging and full of stories, bringing this vibrant city to life. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that since the tram is a mode of public transport, delays or traffic could affect the timing. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy guided walks, panoramic views, and a relaxed pace.

If you’re after a straightforward, budget-friendly way to see some of Lisbon’s highlights with a friendly guide, this tour could be a great fit. Whether you’re traveling solo, a couple, or small group, you’ll likely appreciate the combination of transportation and walking that covers both sightseeing and local flavor. Perfect for those who want an authentic, approachable introduction to Lisbon’s most loved neighborhoods.

Key Points

• Authentic Lisbon Experience: Combines a historic tram ride with a walking tour through iconic neighborhoods.
• Great Value: At $23, it packs in transportation, sightseeing, and expert commentary.
• Stunning Views: Expect panoramic city and river vistas from the tram and hilltop points.
• In-depth Local Insights: Guides are praised for their knowledge, storytelling, and engaging manner.
• Flexible and Convenient: Small group size (up to 10 people) ensures a more personal experience.
• Time and Timing: Tours last around 3 hours, with different start times; check availability.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Lisbon Tram No. 28 & Alfama Tour

What’s Included and How It Works

For $23 per person, this experience offers a ride on Tram 28, known as Lisbon’s most famous tram, and a walking tour of Alfama, the city’s oldest and most atmospheric neighborhood. The tour is operated by Lisbon Spirit and usually lasts about 3 hours, which makes it a manageable introduction for travelers with limited time.

You’ll meet at Praça Luís de Camões, near a statue, where your guide, identifiable by a black backpack with the Lisbon Spirit logo, will be ready to lead you into the experience. The tour is guided in English and limited to a small group (max 10), so you get plenty of interaction and personalized attention.

The Tram Ride: A Classic Lisbon Experience

Riding Tram No. 28 is more than just transportation—it’s an experience in itself. This vintage tram winds through Lisbon’s narrow, steep streets, giving you a front-row seat to the city’s charming, sometimes chaotic, urban life. The tram’s route covers the Old Town, and as it climbs the city’s hills, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Lisbon’s rooftops, the Tagus River, and beyond.

Many reviews mention how the tram ride is packed with interesting commentary, and guides often share stories and insights that bring Lisbon’s streets and history alive. Participants note the “nice weather and good views” add to the pleasure, and some describe the ride as great fun, especially if you enjoy scenic, historical routes.

Walking Through Alfama

Once the tram ride concludes, the walking part invites you to explore Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood. This area is famed for its labyrinth of narrow, steep streets, tiny squares, and authentic local life. Your guide will take you beyond the tram route to highlight important sites like the Sé de Lisboa (Lisbon Cathedral), the Mosteiro de São Vicente de Fora, and the Panteão Nacional with its iconic dome.

You’ll see how residents live amid historic buildings, and on Tuesdays and Saturdays, you may catch the bustling Feira da Ladra, Lisbon’s oldest flea market—another highlight for shopping enthusiasts or those curious to see local life in motion.

Many travelers note how the guide’s storytelling adds depth to the experience—”lots of information and tales of historical value” says one review—making the streets come alive with stories of politics, religion, and daily life.

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Cultural Highlights: Fado and Local Life

While walking through Alfama, you’ll encounter tiny bars and cafes where Fado music—Portugal’s soulful, melancholic folk song—permeates the air. Guides often explain its significance, adding a cultural layer to your visit. It’s a chance to see the authentic Lisbon lifestyle, far from touristy spots.

The Tour’s Pacing and Comfort

The entire experience is described as relaxed, with enough walking to stretch your legs but not so much that it becomes tiring. Many reviews mention the comfortable pace, suitable even for older travelers or those who prefer a leisurely exploration.

The Guide: Knowledgeable and Friendly

From the reviews, it’s clear that having a guide who’s well-informed and personable makes a huge difference. Many travelers praised guides like Nuno or Nono for their storytelling, humor, and local insights, which enrich the experience far beyond just seeing sights. Their ability to adapt to changing circumstances, like traffic or weather, also seems to be appreciated.

The Practicalities: What to Expect and What You’ll Need

• Duration: Approximately 3 hours, which is perfect if you want a rundown without a full-day commitment.
• Cost: At $23, it’s quite reasonable considering it includes both the tram ride and an expert-guided walk.
• Meeting Point: Central and easy to find, near Praça Luís de Camões.
• Group Size: Small groups (max 10) mean more interaction and less waiting.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes are a must, given the uneven streets of Alfama.
• Weather Considerations: The tram is open-air, so good weather enhances the experience, but be prepared for rain or sun.

Potential Drawbacks

Since the tram is part of public transportation, delays due to traffic can occur, which might slightly affect timing or the order of stops. Also, if you’re sensitive to crowds or traffic noise, this may not be your ideal tour. Some may wish for a longer tram ride, but many see this as a feature—giving a true flavor of Lisbon’s lively streets.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is especially suited to travelers who want an enticing taste of Lisbon’s highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. It’s perfect for those interested in historic neighborhoods, scenic views, and local culture. Budget-conscious travelers will also find the price point attractive, considering the combination of transportation and guided insights.

Since the group is small and the guide is praised for their knowledge, it’s a good choice for anyone who enjoys engaging storytelling and a more personal experience. If you’re visiting Lisbon for the first time and want to get an authentic, well-rounded impression, this tour offers a nice balance of sights and stories in just a few hours.

Final Thoughts

Lisbon’s Tram No. 28 Ride & Walking Tour offers a fun, approachable way to get acquainted with the city’s charm. The tram’s scenic route, combined with the walk through Alfama’s narrow streets and historic sites, delivers a satisfying overview without the hassle of planning or navigating independently. The knowledgeable guides add real value through engaging stories and local insights, making each stop more meaningful.

While it’s not a deep dive into Lisbon’s every detail, it’s a solid, enjoyable introduction—especially for those who appreciate scenic views, local culture, and a relaxed pace. At a reasonable price with small-group intimacy, it’s a tour that many travelers find worth their time and money.

If you want a light, scenic, and culturally rich way to start your Lisbon adventure, this experience could be just what you’re looking for. It’s ideal if you want to see a lot while feeling like you’re exploring with a friendly local who knows their city inside out.

FAQs About the Tour

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the relaxed pace and interesting sights suggest it can be suitable for families with children comfortable walking and sitting for short periods. Always check with the provider if you have specific needs.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot, especially as availability varies. You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours beforehand, giving flexibility.

Where do I meet the guide?
The meeting point is at Praça Luís de Camões, near the statue, and the guide wears a black backpack with the Lisbon Spirit logo.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts around 3 hours, including both the tram ride and the walking component.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential because of the uneven streets and walking involved.

Is the tram part of public transport?
Yes, the tram is a form of public transport, so delays or traffic are possible but are generally manageable.

Will I see Lisbon’s main sights?
Yes, the tour covers key spots such as Sé de Lisboa, Mosteiro de São Vicente de Fora, and scenic viewpoints, plus walks through Alfama.

Can I join if I only want the tram ride or the walking tour?
The package is designed as a combined experience, but check with the provider if custom options are available.

Is there an audio guide option?
The tour is guided in English, but the tram ticket does include an audio guide option if purchased separately.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing peace of mind if your plans change.

Hopefully, this detailed look helps you decide whether this Lisbon tour suits your travel style. It’s a solid mix of scenic transportation, cultural sights, and local stories—offering a window into the heart of Lisbon without overloading your day.

You can check availability for your dates here: