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Lisbon's Metro and Bus Time Table For 2026: Transport Guide

Lisbon's public transport system is one of Europe's most efficient and charming ways to explore a city built on seven hills. In 2026, the network remains reliable, affordable, and tourist-friendly, blending modern metro lines with iconic yellow trams and a vast bus fleet operated by Carris. Whether you're zipping from the airport to the historic center or hopping between neighborhoods, understanding the metro and bus timetables will make your trip seamless. This guide covers everything from operating hours and fares to practical tips—perfect for first-timers or seasoned visitors planning ahead.

The system is integrated: one ticket or card often works across metro, buses, trams, funiculars, and even some trains. Key operators are Metropolitano de Lisboa (metro) and Carris (buses, trams, elevators). No major disruptions are expected in 2026, though ongoing expansions (like the circular line project) may bring exciting improvements later in the decade.

The Lisbon Metro: Fast, Clean, and Artful

The metro is your best bet for quick, hassle-free travel—clean stations, frequent trains, and stunning tile art in many spots. Four color-coded lines (Blue, Yellow, Green, Red) cover 56 stations across the city and suburbs, including direct airport access.


  • Operating Hours and Timetables (2026): Trains run daily from 6:30 AM to 1:00 AM, including weekends and holidays. Peak hours (weekdays 7-10 AM and 5-8 PM) see trains every 3-6 minutes; off-peak and weekends every 6-12 minutes. No major changes from previous years—reliable and consistent.

  • Key Lines for Tourists:

    • Red Line: Airport to city center (e.g., Saldanha or Oriente hubs).

    • Blue Line: Connects north (Reboleira) to downtown (Santa Apolónia).

    • Yellow Line: North (Odivelas) to center (Marquês de Pombal/Rato).

    • Green Line: Loops through central areas (Cais do Sodré to Telheiras).

The Red Line is ideal for arrivals: From the airport station (right outside terminals), reach downtown in 20-30 minutes.



Carris Buses and Trams: Exploring the Hills and Hidden Gems

Carris operates the yellow buses that weave through Lisbon's steep streets, plus the famous trams (including the scenic 28E route) and funiculars like Glória.

  • Bus Operating Hours and Timetables (2026): Most routes run from around 6:30 AM to midnight, with some night buses (e.g., 2XX series) extending to 5 AM. Frequency varies: every 10-20 minutes on major routes during the day, less frequent evenings. Check the Carris app or website for real-time updates—routes like 728 (to Belém) or 736 (airport connector) are tourist favorites.


  • Iconic Trams: The vintage yellow trams (especially 28E) are more for sightseeing than speed—crowded but unforgettable. They operate similar hours to buses.

Buses complement the metro perfectly for areas without underground access, like Belém or uphill neighborhoods.


  • Cirque du Soleil - OVO (December 25-28, 2025, MEO Arena) dazzles with acrobatics, tickets from €45-104.Tickets, Fares, and the Best Options for Visitors (2026 Updates)

Fares saw a slight increase in early 2026 (around 2-3% adjustment).


  • Single Tickets: €1.80-€2.20 (metro/bus), valid 60 minutes with transfers on Carris.

  • Zapping (Prepaid on Navegante Card): Load credit for cheaper rides (€1.66 per journey). Card costs €0.50.

  • 24-Hour Tickets:

    • Carris/Metro only: Around €7.

    • Including trains to Sintra/Cascais: €11.40 ("Travelling all Lisboa").




  • Lisboa Card (Top Recommendation): Unlimited transport (metro, buses, trams, funiculars, elevators) plus free entry to 50+ attractions (Jerónimos, Belém Tower, etc.). 24h: ~€31; 48h: ~€51; 72h: ~€62 (adult prices; child discounts). Includes airport metro—activate on first use.


Buy tickets at machines (English options), onboard buses (cash), or apps. Contactless payments work in many places.

Lisbon Metro (Metropolitano de Lisboa) Timetables - Updated for 2026


As of January 2026, the Lisbon Metro operates daily from 6:30 AM to 1:00 AM, including weekends and public holidays. This is the standard schedule under normal operating conditions, with the last trains departing from terminal stations at 1:00 AM. Entry into stations is allowed until 1:00 AM.

  • Frequencies vary by line, time of day, and demand (typically 3-6 minutes during peak hours, 6-12 minutes off-peak).

  • Some stations have secondary entrances with slightly different hours—check the official site for details.

  • No major changes announced for 2026; ongoing expansions (e.g., potential new lines) may affect specific routes later.

Official Sources and Links:





Practical Tips for Smooth Travels

  • Apps and Planning: Use Google Maps, Moovit, or the official Carris/Metro apps for real-time timetables and routes.

  • Airport to Center: Red Line metro (cheapest/fastest) or AeroBus (direct but pricier).

  • Accessibility: Many stations/buses are wheelchair-friendly; check official sites.

  • Crowds and Safety: Avoid peak hours if possible; watch belongings on crowded trams/metro.

  • Night Travel: Limited but safe—night buses cover main areas.


Lisbon's transport in 2026 rewards planners: Grab a Lisboa Card for unlimited freedom, and you'll spend less time waiting and more exploring the city's magic. Safe journeys—boa viagem!

 
 
 
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