How to Take Tram 28 in Lisbon and Skip Crowds

Everything you need to know about Tram 28

Tram 28 Schedule

Tram 28 in Lisbon operates daily from early morning until late at night. The first tram starts at around 5.40 am from Martim Moniz, and the last tram runs until about 11 pm. 

On weekdays, trams are more frequent in the morning, with intervals of about 10 minutes, gradually shifting to 15-minute intervals during the day and 20 minutes in the evening.

On weekends, the first tram departs at 6 am with a 15-minute frequency in the morning, changing to 20 minutes during the day, and 25 minutes in the evening. Holidays follow a similar pattern.

You can find the timetable at every stop of Tram 28, however, it is not very reliable. Sometimes you could wait longer to find 2-3 trams one after another. Early mornings guarantee the most precise schedule.

Tram 28 Tickets and Prices

A single Tram 28 ticket costs 3 euros and can be purchased in cash from the driver. If you have a Lisbon Card or a daily ticket (6.45 euros), you can ride Tram 28 for free. Alternatively, you can buy a ticket at metro stations for 1.80 euros per ride.

Always validate your ticket when boarding. Tickets purchased from the driver or metro stations are valid until the tram’s final stop, regardless of where you board, even if you join a few stops before Martim Moniz or Prazeres.

Another thing to note: you use the front door to board the tram and the back door to jump off.

Tram 28 Length

Tram 28 in Lisbon runs on a historic route that covers a significant part of the city. The entire length of the tram line is approximately 7 kilometers as it drives through Martim Moniz, Graca, Alfama, Baixa, and Estrela. 

It offers scenic views and a convenient way to see many of Lisbon’s attractions. Despite its relatively short length, the tram line’s winding path through narrow streets and steep hills makes it a unique and memorable experience.

The entire ride from Martim Moniz to Prazeres lasts approximately one hour, depending on traffic and crowds.

Tram 28 Route

Starting at Martim Moniz, the tram heads into the Graça neighborhood, which is a residential neighborhood known for its stunning viewpoints and charming streets. Nearby, you will find Miradouro da Graça and Miradouro da Senhora do Monte.

The next neighborhood is Alfama, which is the city’s oldest district and doesn’t need an introduction. You will pass São Vicente de Fora, Miradouro de Santa Luzia, Portas do Sol, and Lisbon Cathedral. You can also walk to the National Pantheon and Castelo de São Jorge.

The Tram 28 then moves through Baixa and Chiado and you can enjoy the views of the commercial heart of Lisbon as you head to Estrela. The final stop is in Campo Ourique next to the Prazeres Cemetery.

Please note! Tram 28 does not pass Praça do Comércio, that is tram 15 instead. But you can see Rua Augusta Arch from R. Conceição if you sit on the left side and come from Martin Moniz.

Important attractions that you can see from Tram 28

1. São Vicente de Fora: stunning 17th-century monastery and church.
2. Portas do Sol: viewpoint with panoramic views of the city.
3. Miradouro de Santa Luzia: another scenic viewpoint with beautiful tile work.
4. Lisbon Cathedral (Sé): the city’s oldest church known for its Romanesque architecture.
5. Rua Augusta: lively pedestrian street leading to Commerce Square.
6. Largo do Chiado: charming square in the Chiado district.
7. Praça Luís de Camões: square dedicated to the famous Portuguese poet.
8. Bica: one of the most iconic elevadors in Lisbon.
9. Palácio de São Bento: Portuguese Parliament building, known for its neoclassical architecture and historic significance.
10. Basílica da Estrela: beautiful 18th-century church known for its impressive dome and striking architecture.

Tips to help you skip crowds on Tram 28

First and foremost, it’s better to avoid taking Tram 28 on weekends and public holidays due to reduced frequency. Winter is the low season in Lisbon which means that there are fewer tourists around.

If you’re visiting Lisbon during peak or shoulder seasons, waking up early can help you avoid crowds. Martin Moniz sees most tourists arriving around 9 am, with midday being the busiest time when you might end up waiting in line for hours.

But the best way to avoid crowds is to board Tram 28 at its final stop in Campo Ourique, near the Prazeres Cemetery. While most tourists board at Martin Moniz and disembark in Alfama or Baixa-Chiado, starting from Campo Ourique ensures the tram is nearly empty when it arrives.

I have never seen a long line at the final stop of Tram 28 in Campo Ourique, but if there is a line and no seats are available, you can always wait until the next one. To be fair, I don’t recommend taking the tram unless you can get a seat.

Also, note that there are some seats reserved for the elderly in front of the tram. If you choose to take one of those seats, you might end up losing your spot somewhere along the way.

Key takeaways:

• Come before 9 am
• Avoid weekends and holidays
• Board Tram 28 at the Campo Ourique
• Low season.

Best Tram 28 photo spots in Lisbon

Once you have seen amazing views from your window and enjoyed the fun ride on the Tram 28, it is time to create some photos to keep these memories alive. If you love photography, you don’t want to miss these amazing Tram 28 photo spots.

Other alternatives to Tram 28

Route numbers 12, 15, 18, 24, and 25 use iconic vintage trams and provide a similar ride experience, though with less striking views. If you want to see the same route as Tram 28, check Historic Hills Tram Tour.

Useful things to know about taking Tram 28

Where does Tram 28 start?

Tram 28 in Lisbon starts its journey at Martim Moniz Square, which is located in the heart of the city. But that does not mean that you can’t embark on Tram 28 on the final stop or any other stops in between.

Where does Tram 28 end?

Tram 28 in Lisbon ends its route in the neighborhood of Campo Ourique, near the Prazeres Cemetery. It is located farther away from central attractions, so only a few tourists stay on the tram until there. This is the best stop to embark on Tram 28 to avoid long lines.

Which side of Tram 28 to sit on?

If you are coming from Martin Moniz, most attractions will be located on the left side of the tram. Instead, if you are coming from Campo Ourique, you should sit on the right side.

Why is Tram 28 famous in Lisbon?

The main reason that makes Tram 28 so famous is its scenic route through Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods and picturesque streets. It covers a lot of top Lisbon attractions and in the past, tourists could use Tram 28 as a hop-on and hop-off transport.

Nowadays, Tram 28 is so crowded that this is almost impossible. Most times trams are so packed that it doesn’t even stop to take more passengers. But you can still enjoy a one-hour-long scenic ride on Tram 28 if you follow these tips.

How much is Tram 28 in Lisbon?

If you buy your ticket at the metro station, one ride will cost you 1.80 euros. If you purchase from the driver, it will be 3 euros instead. If you have a daily ticket or Lisbon card, you can ride Tram 28 for free.

Is the 12 or 28 tram better in Lisbon?

If you prioritize iconic sights and a classic Lisbon tram experience, Tram 28 is often the preferred choice. However, if you seek a similar experience with potentially fewer crowds and different views, Tram 12 can also be a great option.

Can you walk Tram 28 Route?

Technically, you could walk the entire Tram 28 route, however, it will take you more than 2 hours and it is simply not necessary. If you want to follow the path, you can start from Lisbon Cathedral and follow the tramway track in the heart of Alfama.

Final thoughts…

This is the end of the Tram 28 guide and I am sure you have all the insights on how to take Tram 28 and how to skip crowds on Tram 28 in Lisbon.

I would love to hear your feedback, so feel free to leave a comment below. If you need further help with planning, check out these Lisbon travel tips, hotel recommendations, or food guides.