Lisbon: Hills Red Tram Tour by Tram 28 Route 24-Hour Ticket

Lisbon: Hills Red Tram Tour by Tram 28 Route 24-Hour Ticket — An In-Depth Review

Taking a ride through Lisbon’s famously hilly streets gives you a unique way to see the city’s highlights without wearing out your legs. The Lisbon Hills Red Tram Tour offers an authentic journey on a vintage tram, giving you access to some of the most picturesque neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and viewpoints—all with a single 24-hour ticket. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this tour promises a practical and enjoyable way to familiarize yourself with the city’s diverse districts.

What really sets this experience apart is the way it combines historic charm with informative commentary—plus, the included access to landmarks like the Santa Justa Lift. However, as with any popular sightseeing activity, there are a few things to keep in mind, such as the need to find the correct meeting point and the fact that meals or entrance fees to individual attractions are not included. Still, it’s a well-rounded option for those wanting to see Lisbon comfortably and at their own pace.

If you enjoy scenic rides, cultural insights, and a bit of adventure over Lisbon’s hills and alleyways, this tour might be just what you’re looking for. It’s especially suited to travelers who value flexibility, comfort, and authentic local experiences.

Key Points

• Flexible 24-hour ticket lets you hop on and off throughout the day, maximizing your sightseeing.
• Vintage tram ride offers a nostalgic feel and a comfortable way to explore hilly Lisbon.
• Includes access to iconic landmarks like Castelo São Jorge and the Santa Justa Lift.
• Audio guide available in 12 languages helps you learn about the city’s history and sights.
• Stops at viewpoints such as Miradouro da Graça and Portas do Sol provide perfect photo opportunities.
• Not just a tram ride — also covers funiculars and other public transport, adding to your Lisbon experience.

What to Expect from the Lisbon Hills Tram Tour

This tour is designed to give you a broad yet detailed snapshot of Lisbon’s varied neighborhoods and landmarks, all from the comfort of a vintage tram. The ticket is valid for 24 hours from first use, allowing you to explore at your own pace, whether you choose to do it all in one day or spread it out over a couple of days.

Starting at Praça do Comércio — a grand square facing the river — you’ll board a charming yellow tram that mimics the historic Tram 28 route, but with a more relaxed vibe. The experience is guided by an onboard audio system that narrates the sights in 12 languages, making it accessible for global travelers.

Neighborhoods and Landmarks

The tour winds through Alfama, Mouraria, Baixa, Graça, and other traditional districts. You’ll pass narrow streets, lively markets, historic shops, and colorful houses. The neighborhoods are famous for their viewpoints or “miradouros,” where you’ll get sweeping vistas of Lisbon’s rooftops, bridges, and river.

Alfama is a highlight, with its labyrinth of alleys and its proximity to Castelo São Jorge, which you’ll see from a distance. Many reviews mention the elevator and funicular rides included in the ticket, allowing you to tackle Lisbon’s steep hills easily — a real boon when walking seems daunting.

Viewpoints and Photo Opportunities

Visitors consistently praise the views from Miradouro da Graça, Miradouro Senhora do Monte, and Portas do Sol. These spots are perfect for snapping memorable photos or just enjoying a quiet moment with Lisbon sprawling beneath you. One reviewer noted that their photo postcard views were thanks to the included access and their time spent at these scenic spots.

The Tram Experience

The vintage tram itself is a delightful throwback, providing comfortable seating and large windows that showcase Lisbon’s colorful streets. Noted by many as a much more comfortable alternative to the crowded Tram 28, especially during peak hours, it’s a better choice for families or those who prefer a relaxed pace.

The on-board audio guide is generally well-received, offering explanations in multiple languages. Several travelers appreciated the knowledgeable drivers, describing them as friendly and accommodating, adding a personal touch to the ride.

The Value of the Tour

At $28 per person, the price is quite reasonable considering what’s included: a full day of unlimited tram rides, funiculars, access to key viewpoints, and entrance to the Santa Justa Lift. It’s a smart way to see many parts of Lisbon without the expense or fatigue of multiple individual tickets.

Reviews highlight the good value for money, especially since the ticket also grants discounts at local restaurants, bars, and shops through the Yellow Bus discount booklet. One traveler mentioned that the entire experience was worth the cost, enabling them to see areas they wouldn’t normally visit and learn about the city’s neighborhoods.

It’s worth noting that you will need to find the correct meeting point—the ticket exchange happens at Praça do Comércio, not Martim Moniz as some might expect—and to be aware that meals, drinks, and entrance fees to individual sites are not covered by the ticket.

Itinerary Breakdown: What’s Included?

The tour begins at the Praça do Comércio, where you’ll get your ticket scanned and hop aboard your vintage tram. From there, the route takes you through:

• Alfama and Mouraria: The oldest districts, full of winding streets, local taverns, and hidden corners. From here, you can easily walk to Castelo São Jorge, one of Lisbon’s most famous castles offering panoramic views, or choose to stay on the tram for more sightseeing.

• Baixa and Chiado: The bustling shopping district, perfect for browsing shops or grabbing a pastry. Many reviews note this area as lively and charming, with excellent cafes and boutiques.

• Graça and Senhora do Monte: Known for their viewpoints, which you can visit for free before or after your tram ride. The views here are often described as breathtaking, making it a popular photo stop.

• Portas do Sol and Santa Luzia: Smaller viewpoints where you’ll find some of the best vistas over the city. Several reviewers mention how these spots make their trip memorable.

The tour also includes access to funiculars and the Santa Justa Lift, essential features given Lisbon’s challenging hills. One reviewer appreciated that the elevator and funicular rides were included in the 24-hour ticket, making city exploration easier and more comfortable.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many travelers appreciated the knowledge and friendliness of the drivers, with one noting that their guide was “polite and helpful,” and another mentioning the audio guide as being both informative and easy to follow. The comfort of the tram was also frequently praised, especially compared to the crowded Tram 28, which can be overwhelming during busy hours.

A common concern among reviews was the initial ticket exchange process. Several travelers found the instructions slightly unclear, with one mentioning that the ticket booth is not at the original meeting point listed on the voucher, so be sure to double-check the exact location to avoid confusion. Another user appreciated the QR code system that allowed quick entrance once they located the correct stop.

Several travelers highlighted the views from viewpoints as a major highlight, with some saying they used the tram as a “terrific introduction” to Lisbon, enabling them to identify which areas they wanted to explore further on foot afterward.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Arrive early at Praça do Comércio to avoid missing your ticket exchange, and be prepared with your voucher or QR code.
• Check the route and stop locations beforehand, especially since some reviews mention inconsistent meeting point info.
• Bring headphones for the audio guide, as many appreciated the commentary, especially when exploring neighborhoods.
• A comfortable seat and open windows make the ride more enjoyable, so arrive prepared for some sunshine or a breezy ride.
• Although the ticket includes access to viewpoints, consider bringing a camera or smartphone to capture Lisbon’s scenic vistas.
• For those wanting to explore on foot, the hilly terrain means comfortable shoes are a must, but the included funiculars and elevator rides help ease the climb.

The Sum Up

The Lisbon Hills Red Tram Tour offers a practical, authentic, and scenic way to get acquainted with Portugal’s vibrant capital. With a 24-hour ticket, you can explore at your own pace, hopping on and off to discover historic neighborhoods, panoramic viewpoints, and iconic landmarks. The vintage tram ride, combined with helpful audio commentary and included access to funiculars and the Santa Justa Lift, makes it a fantastic value for travelers keen to see Lisbon without fatigue or hassle.

It’s especially ideal for those who want a comfortable, guided overview of the city’s most photogenic areas and are happy to do some walking afterward. The tour’s flexibility, combined with the scenic views and local flavor, makes it a great introduction to Lisbon’s charming neighborhoods.

If you’re looking for an easy, engaging way to get your bearings and enjoy Lisbon’s hills from a unique vantage point, this tour is a solid choice. Just remember to verify the meeting point details and be prepared for some uphill walking if you plan to explore beyond the tram route. Overall, it’s a memorable, well-priced experience perfect for your Lisbon itinerary.

FAQ

Do I need to print anything to join the tour? No, the ticket is digital and can be scanned via QR code at the meeting point.

Where do I meet for the tram tour? The tour starts at Praça do Comércio, facing the Arch, not Martim Moniz as some sources suggest.

Is the ticket valid for multiple days? No, it’s valid for one day from the moment you first activate it.

Does the ticket include rides on other public transport? Yes, it includes access to funiculars, the Santa Justa Lift, and other public trams.

Are meals or drinks included? No, meals and drinks are not part of this tour.

Can I visit the landmarks like Castelo São Jorge or the Santa Justa Lift? Entrance is included for the Santa Justa Lift; for castles and other attractions, entrance fees are separate.

Is the tram crowded? The vintage tram is less crowded than the regular Tram 28, making for a more comfortable ride, especially if you prefer less hustle.

Are the views worth the ride? Absolutely—many reviewers highlight the stunning vistas from viewpoints like Miradouro da Graça and Portas do Sol.

How long is the tram ride? The full loop takes about an hour, but with stops, sightseeing, and optional exploring, you can easily fill a full day.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, headphones for the audio guide, and a camera for those scenic viewpoints.

This tour offers a memorable, flexible way to see Lisbon’s most beautiful districts and viewpoints with comfort and ease. If you love scenic rides, authentic neighborhoods, and insightful commentary, it’s definitely worth considering as part of your Lisbon adventure.