Lisbon 24 Hours Pass with Tram 28 Riding Ticket

Lisbon’s charm is best experienced on foot and via its historic streetcars, especially the legendary Tram 28. This review takes a closer look at a popular sightseeing package that combines a 24-hour public transport pass, a Tram 28 riding ticket with audio guide, and access to some of the city’s most photogenic elevators and funiculars. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, this package offers a convenient way to enjoy Lisbon’s winding streets and lively neighborhoods.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are the flexibility it offers—you can hop on and off as you please—and the engaging audio guide that enriches the ride with historical tidbits and cultural insights. One potential consideration is the long queues and the chance of missing the tram, given how popular and busy Lisbon is. Still, if you’re looking for an affordable, easy way to get a broad overview of the city, this tour might be just what you need.

This experience suits travelers who want to explore independently but with some guidance, those eager to see Lisbon’s highlights without the hassle of planning individual tickets, and anyone interested in authentic transportation experiences that also provide glimpses into local life. Let’s get into the details.

• Convenience & Flexibility: Unlimited rides on public transport, including trams, elevators, and funiculars, for 24 hours.
• Iconic Tram 28 Experience: Ride Lisbon’s most famous tram with an audio guide for added context.
• Landmark Access: Entry to Santa Justa elevator and funiculars Bica, Glória, and Lavra, all included.
• Authentic Local Transport: Use real city transport, not just touristy gimmicks, for a genuine experience.
• Crowd Considerations: Expect long lines, especially for Tram 28, which can mean waiting in the sun.
• Helpful Guides & Support: Some reviews highlight friendly guides who help navigate arrangements.
• Cost-Effective: For about $22.50, you get a full day of unlimited transport and guided insights.
• Limited Entry Tickets: No museum or monument entries, but the transport itself is a highlight.

The Core of the Experience: Tram 28 and Its Audio Guide

The highlight of this package is undoubtedly riding Tram 28, Lisbon’s most iconic streetcar. Known for its scenic route through the city’s historic districts—Alfama, Graça, Baixa, and Estrela—this tram is a must-do for many visitors. The ticket includes an audio guide accessible on your smartphone, providing commentary that enriches the journey with historical snippets, local stories, and cultural insights.

You can hop on and off this tram as often as you like during the 24-hour window, making it a flexible way to explore at your own pace. However, several reviews mention long queues—sometimes over an hour just to board—and some travelers found it frustrating. One reviewer noted that “lines were so long we gave up after wasting one and a half hours,” highlighting how busy the tram can get during peak times.

The audio guide is a thoughtful addition, especially for those who want context without joining a guided tour. It’s sent via WhatsApp, which is convenient, but some reviewers found it less useful during the ride itself. Still, it’s a nice feature for understanding what you’re seeing and hearing.

The Elevators and Funiculars: Santa Justa, Gloria, Bica, and Lavra

Beyond Tram 28, this pass grants unlimited access to several of Lisbon’s beloved elevators and funiculars. The Santa Justa elevator is a standout, offering panoramic views over the Baixa district. It’s a short walk from the main shopping streets and a good vantage point, especially if you’re lucky enough to catch clear weather.

The Elevador da Glória and Bica Funicular are equally scenic and fun, each offering a different perspective of Lisbon’s hilly terrain. The Bica Funicular, in particular, is a favorite among travelers for its steep, zig-zag route that takes you from Bairro Alto to the riverside. While some reviews describe these as “unlimited,” others warn that the lines can be long, and during busy days, waiting might be unavoidable.

How the Itinerary Unfolds

The schedule allows roughly two hours at Santa Justa, giving you time to enjoy the view, take photos, and perhaps visit nearby cafes or shops. Then, there’s about an hour each at Glória and Bica, enough to ride multiple times or explore the neighborhoods.

An important note: the ticket includes all these rides, but the experience depends heavily on timing and crowd levels. The reviews echo mixed experiences—some say guides and staff are helpful, while others complain about disorganization and long waits.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package includes:

• The audio guide for Tram 28.
• A 24-hour pass allowing unlimited use of public transport.
• Tickets for the Elevator of Santa Justa.
• Tickets for the Funiculars of Bica, Glória, and Lavra.

However, travelers need to bring their own headphones, and food, drinks, or entry to museums and other monuments are not part of the package. Also, this experience is non-refundable—so if your day gets disrupted by weather or long lines, you’re out of luck.

Real-World Insights from Travelers

Many travelers praise the value for money—for around $22.50, you get a whole day of transportation and access to iconic landmarks. One reviewer mentions, “Loved my experience, we saw a lot of places around the city and we were able to use many types of transportation.” Conversely, others warn about the long queues and organizational issues. Comments like, “You will wait over 2 hours in line,” and “too many people and unorganized,” highlight the unpredictability during peak times.

Several travelers appreciated the friendly guides who explained how to use the tickets, making navigation easier. One said, “Alex was very helpful in explaining how the tickets work making our experience easy to navigate,” emphasizing that good support can make a difference.

Cost and Value Considerations

While the price of approximately $22.50 appears reasonable, some reviews suggest that buying individual tickets for certain attractions might be cheaper or more efficient. For example, one comment pointed out that “getting a day ticket plus a ticket for the elevator is still cheaper,” but that depends on your plans. This package is best for visitors who want to maximize convenience and see multiple sites without fuss.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

If you’re the type of traveler who enjoys urban exploration at your own speed, this pass offers a straightforward solution. The ability to use the entire public transport network—including elevators and funiculars—means you can discover neighborhoods off the beaten path, like the steep streets of Alfama or the lively Bairro Alto.

However, bear in mind that crowds can be intense, especially for Tram 28. Arriving early or late in the day might help avoid the longest lines, but there’s no guarantee. Keep your expectations flexible, and be prepared for some waiting.

This package is ideal for independent travelers eager to see Lisbon’s highlights without the hassle of buying multiple tickets. If you enjoy navigating city transport and appreciate audio guides for context, you’ll find this a good fit. It’s also perfect for those on a budget who want access to key landmarks with minimal fuss.

However, if you prefer guided tours with small groups or dislike waiting in lines, you might find this experience less satisfying. The reviews reflect a common theme: good value, but busy and sometimes disorganized.

In essence, this Lisbon 24-Hour Pass with Tram 28 riding ticket offers a cost-effective, flexible way to explore the city’s most beloved sights and neighborhoods. The inclusion of unlimited transport and entry to key elevators and funiculars allows for a broad, authentic experience of Lisbon’s unique topography and architecture. The audio guide adds a layer of depth, making your ride more engaging.

While waiting in lines can be a real challenge, especially during busy periods, many travelers find that with patience, this package makes seeing Lisbon easier and more enjoyable than piecing together individual tickets. For those who want a self-guided, all-in-one transport solution that captures the essence of Lisbon’s vibrant streets, this pass is worth considering.

If you love independent exploration combined with the convenience of unlimited city transport, this experience is a good choice. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who want to see the city from multiple angles, using iconic trams and scenic elevators. It’s also ideal if you’re comfortable with some crowds and are looking for value for money.

But if your trip depends on avoiding long waits, or if you prefer guided, smaller-group experiences, you might want to explore other options. This package strikes a decent balance between autonomy and guided insight—a practical way to taste Lisbon from the inside out.

Does the ticket include entry to museums or other attractions?
No, the ticket covers public transportation, Tram 28, and several elevators and funiculars. Entrance to other museums or monuments is not included.

Can I use the pass on any public transport in Lisbon?
Yes, the 24-hour pass provides unlimited rides on Lisbon’s public transport network, including buses, trams, elevators, and funiculars.

Is there a guide to help me find the boarding points?
The experience includes a helpful guide who explains how to use the tickets, but some reviews mention that the meeting points and instructions can be confusing.

What should I bring to maximize the experience?
You’ll need headphones for the audio guide, and it’s wise to carry water, sunscreen, and sunglasses, especially on hot days when waiting in lines.

Is this experience suitable for families?
Most travelers can participate, and kids often enjoy riding the iconic tram and funiculars, but keep in mind the long queues and crowded conditions.

How long does each stop typically take?
You might spend about one to two hours at each key stop, depending on your pace and interest, leaving time for exploring neighborhoods.

What if I arrive late or miss the scheduled times?
The pass is valid for 24 hours from the first use, but it’s best to plan ahead. If you encounter issues, some reviews mention helpful staff and guides.

Can I buy this ticket on the spot?
Yes, but some travelers report better support and support from guides when purchasing through authorized vendors. Check the pickup details carefully.

What is the main advantage of this package?
It provides unlimited transportation and access to key landmarks for a single, affordable price, making it a practical choice for exploring Lisbon independently.

In the end, this Lisbon pass offers a pragmatic approach to seeing the city’s essentials—iconic trams, scenic elevators, and vibrant neighborhoods—all while providing the flexibility to explore at your own pace. It’s a superb option for travelers who value autonomy, local transport, and authentic city views, with a caveat about the potential for crowds and waits.