Flying in to Lisbon:

Lisbon airport can occasionally experience longer passport control lines during busy travel periods. We recommend allowing extra time upon arrival and ensuring you have a valid biometric passport for the smoothest entry experience. Uber and Bolt are the easiest ways to get into the city once you land.

Best Ways to Speed Up Arrival in Lisbon

Use the ePassport Gates (If Available)

Many U.S. travelers with biometric passports can use the automated e-gates at Lisbon Airport instead of the fully manual immigration line. Availability can vary depending on staffing and the new EU Entry/Exit System rollout.

To maximize your chances:

- Use a newer biometric U.S. passport

- Avoid removing passport covers before scanning

- Follow signage for “Automatic Border Control” or “eGates”

Book VIP Meet & Greet / Fast Track Services

There are paid VIP airport concierge services that can escort you through immigration and security faster at Humberto Delgado Airport. These are usually best for:

- older family members

- large groups

- travelers with tight connections

- luxury travelers

Note: the airport’s official “Fast Track” product mainly speeds up security departure lines — not always immigration on arrival.

Arrive Earlier in the Day If Possible

Lisbon immigration tends to get busier when multiple overnight U.S. flights land simultaneously in the morning. Midday arrivals are often smoother.

How to get around Lisbon!

1. The Metro (Fastest for the City)

The Lisbon Metro is clean, modern, and inexpensive.

Airport Connection: The Red Line takes you straight from the airport to the city center in about 20 minutes.

Lines: Four color-coded lines (Blue, Yellow, Green, and Red) cover most major neighborhoods.

2. Trams & Funiculars (Most Iconic)

Lisbon’s famous yellow trams are both a transport method and a major tourist attraction.

Tram 28: Famous for winding through historic Alfama, but expect extreme crowding.

Funiculars: To conquer the infamous hills, ride historic funiculars like Bica, Glória, or Lavra.

3. Rideshares: Uber & Bolt (Convenient & Affordable)

Ridesharing apps are highly popular, cost-effective, and ideal when you are carrying luggage or traveling late at night. They are often preferred over traditional taxis, which can sometimes overcharge tourists.

4. Walking (Best for Sightseeing)

Walking is the best way to immerse yourself in the city's charm. Just prepare yourself for a workout—Lisbon is the "City of Seven Hills," so sturdy, comfortable walking shoes are an absolute must.

How to Pay: The Navigante Card

To use the public transport network (metro, buses, and historic trams), purchase a Navegante card (formerly Viva Viagem) for €0.50 at any metro station or kiosk.

Zapping: Load a cash balance onto the card for discounted single trips (around €1.61).

Daily Pass: For €6.80, you get unlimited 24-hour access to all Carris buses, trams, funiculars, and the metro.

Apps: Download the Citymapper or Carris app to easily plan your transit routes around the city.