Tram 28
The yellow vintage tram that grinds through Graça, Alfama, Baixa and Estrela on a route built for hills, not tourists.
The call
Worth it if you are watching the budget and you are traveling as a couple.
Why
- 01
When it works — an off-peak winter morning, a seat by the open window — the 28 is pure Lisbon: the wooden carriage groans and tilts up gradients no modern tram could climb, the bell clangs, and you brush past laundry lines and tiled facades close enough to touch.
Our read - 02
That's the payoff everyone's chasing.
Our read
Is it a fit?
Go if
This is your first trip to Lisbon
Worth it only at 7am or off-season; otherwise you'll spend the ride crushed and guarding your pockets. The fallback that actually delivers the magic is walking the route on foot.
You are watching the budget
On a budget, Tram 28 still earns its price.
You are traveling as a couple
As a couple, Tram 28 works.
You are traveling solo
Solo, Tram 28 works.
Think twice if
You want context, not just the photograph
For depth & learning, look elsewhere.
You want something active
For adventure, look elsewhere.
You only have one day
Tram 28 is a real time commitment — fit it in only if it's a priority.
You are traveling with kids
With kids, it depends on the day.
Plan it well
- Cost
- €3.10 onboard / cheaper on Navegante card
- Timing
- Around 7am before the crowds; avoid late-morning to afternoon peaks
- Booking
- No booking; cheaper on a rechargeable Navegante card than the €3.10 onboard fare
- Allow
- 40–60 min full loop
- Getting there
- Board at Martim Moniz for the full route, or pick it up mid-line to skip the start queue
Consider instead
Sources and method (2)
- Route 28 was inaugurated in 1914; today it runs vintage 'Remodelado' trams retaining 1930s features (polished wood, brass dials). lisbonlisboaportugal.com ↗
- Connects Martim Moniz to Prazeres through Graça, Alfama, Baixa and Estrela; onboard single fare ~€3.30, and it is among Lisbon's highest-risk routes for pickpockets. lisbonportugaltourism.com ↗