Trams in Lisbon are not only one of the most useful types of vehicles to explore the city, but also one of its most popular tourist attractions.
In the capital of Portugal, there are currently five routes and 58 trams, of which 40 are old. Lisbon's trams are small and nostalgic, they are the unspoken symbol of the city. Of the five routes, tourists will be especially interested in two: 15 and 28 trams. The first is the most popular in Lisbon, as it connects the city center and the Belem area. But this tram is not as romantic as the second, which will be discussed in the article.
What is famous for tram number 28 in Lisbon
He is deservedly called nostalgic. This small wooden tram takes you to a different era. He is more than 80 years old, moving on board, you can explore all the main attractions of the city and at the same time feel that you are in the past, because the sound of creaky brakes and piercing bells provides nostalgic background noise. Tram No. 28 in Lisbon runs along steep slopes and narrow streets. The wagon masterfully maneuvers, making sharp turns and warning scattered pedestrians with a ringing signal. Thousands of tourists choose this tram to explore the city.
The delightful Remodelado trams date back to the 1930s, and in any other city they probably would have stood in a museum, but in Lisbon they are an integral part of the public transport network. Why not replace them with new ones, you ask. For modern trams 28, the route in Lisbon is completely unsuitable because of its many sharp turns and the features of the urban landscape. Well, the authorities do not raise a hand to close it, because it has long become a kind of landmark in the capital.
Tickets
Tickets can be purchased on board either in advance at any metro station or at kiosks located throughout the city. In this case, it will cost you 2.90 €. A better option is to buy a 24-hour public transport ticket. With it, you can freely ride the metro, trams and buses during the day. In addition, you can get off at any stop, and after seeing the sights, continue on the route again without buying a new ticket. This is a significant savings. Such a ticket costs 6.15 euros. Keep in mind that you can only purchase it at ticket machines at subway stations.
You can also use the Lisboa Card, which provides various benefits for visiting museums, historical sites and free use of any public transport for a certain period of time.
Route
Where is the tram number 28 in Lisbon? Perhaps this is one of the first questions tourists arrived in the capital of Portugal. In principle, you can get on the tram at any stop on the route and continue on. However, if you want to drive it to explore the city, then you should start from the first stop.
Tram No. 28 in Lisbon runs from Martim Moniz Metro Station to Campo Ourique (Prazeres). Getting to the point of departure will not be difficult if your goal is a sightseeing trip on a tram. Keep in mind that if you end your journey in the Prazeres area, you will need to return by bus or by the same tram (in the opposite direction).
Experienced travelers and guides recommend a trip along the tram route No. 28 in Lisbon from start to finish. So you can enjoy the best city landscapes. Try to sit in the double seats on the left.
There is always a long line at Martim Moniz station, and waiting can take at least an hour, and sometimes even longer. However, people stand in line to take a seat on the tram, so if you are ready to ride while standing, you can not wait.
Schedule of tram number 28 in Lisbon
The first tram leaves at 5:40 on weekdays, 5:45 on Saturdays, and 6:45 on Sundays. The interval between flights is very short - about 15 minutes. The most recent tram from the Martim Moniz stop leaves at 21:15 on weekdays and 22:30 on weekends.
For those who do not want to stand in a long line, but at the same time dream of exploring all the attractions of the route, comfortably sitting on the seats of the tram, we recommend using its earliest flight or, conversely, the latest. At this time, tourists and townspeople are very few.
The best stops
The number of stops of tram number 28 in Lisbon differs depending on which direction you are traveling. So, if you are leaving from Martim Moniz station, there will be 34 of them, and the length of the route is 7.02 km. In the opposite direction, the tram overcomes a little more distance (7.51 km) and makes 36 stops.
Below you can find a list of the best stops on the route.
Mouraria quarter
This is the place where the Moors were allowed to live after the Christian conquest of Lisbon in 1147, before they were expelled together with the Jews in 1497. Little has been preserved from that period, with the exception of the remains of the medieval wall. Curiously, Mouraria is still the most multinational area of the city. It is also known as the birthplace of Fado, a musical dance genre.
Quarter of Alfama
One of Lisbon's oldest neighborhoods, a delightful maze of narrow cobbled streets and old houses that lead onto a steep hill from the mouth of the Tagus mouth to the castle. In this colorful area there are numerous historical buildings.
Initially, Alfama was outside the city walls and was associated with poverty and wretchedness, only the poor and destitute lived in it. As Lisbon turned into an important port, the area retained its modest status, sailors and dock workers lived in it. Today, Alfama abandoned his grim reputation, turning into a fashionable area, but retaining his character and dilapidated charm.
The labyrinth of Alfama's streets is best explored simply by walking, as on every corner or steep climb you will find a delightful tiny square, a unique store, cafe or a beautiful observation deck.
National Pantheon of Portugal
A beautiful and unique church, which is the burial place of many famous Portuguese. The church is located in the Alfama area, and a massive white dome is a feature of the cityscape.
The church has a complicated story. Since its founding in the sixteenth century, it has experienced destruction and countless financial difficulties, but was eventually opened in 1966.
Castle of St. George
The historical core of the city is a fortress located on a high hill. It can be seen from almost anywhere in Lisbon. It was originally the residence of the Moorish emir, after it was captured by the first king of Portugal - Afonso Enriques.
Lisbon Cathedral
One of the main attractions in Lisbon on tram route number 28. The construction of the Cathedral dates from the twelfth century; its style is defined primarily as Romanesque. The official name is Santa Maria Major.
Surprisingly, the cathedral survived several natural disasters, such as the great earthquake of 1755, which left part of the building in ruins. Over the centuries, the cathedral was reconstructed and rebuilt more than once.
Baisha Pombalino District
One of the most popular areas of the city from a tourist point of view. It is one of the first and most impeccable earthquake-resistant urban planning and construction projects in Europe.
The Baisha area was completely renovated after the disastrous earthquake of 1755, followed by a tsunami and fire. His current well-being, he owes mainly to the first Marquis of Pombal (where the name "Pombalina" comes from). The area is teeming with architectural wonders.
Trade area
One of the important areas of Lisbon, which is worth exploring. She is one of the largest in Europe. Being a symbol of the city, the square opens up various sights not to be missed for tourists: the Patio da Gale mansion, Cais das Colunas and the innovative center for the history of Lisbon. Climb onto the arch of Arco da Rua Augusta to admire the interweaving of streets and sea views. Relax at the feet of King José I and his horse Gentil, a statue made by Machado de Castro that illustrates so well the royal power and nobility of the Lusitano breed. The square is a great starting point for exploring the city.
Elevador di Santa Zhusta
This is a 19th-century elevator that takes passengers to a steep hill from the Baixa region to Largo do Carmo and the ruins of the Carmo Church. The lift dates back to the era when wrought iron was not just a building material, but also an art form. The elevator is decorated with beautiful neo-Gothic arches and geometric patterns, and inside there are two luxurious polished wooden cars.
Historically, the elevator excluded a sharp turn to Karmo Hill and made life easier for citizens, but today it is, above all, a tourist attraction, one of the most unique in the city. At the top of the lift is a recently opened observation deck with a beautiful panoramic view of the historic center of Lisbon.
Chiado District
This is a traditional shopping district that combines old and modern commercial establishments, mainly located on Karmo and Garret streets. The most famous cafe is Brasileira, it was in it that the poet Fernando Pessoa often visited.
In 1988, there was a strong fire in the area, 18 buildings were partially or completely destroyed. Since then, thanks to the reconstruction project, which was coordinated by the architect A.S. Vieira for 10 years, the affected area has been restored and has the highest property prices in Portugal.
As with any travel by public transport in an unfamiliar city, be careful with pickpockets, which, as you know, are often found in trams. Stay alert and securely hide wallets and phones.