Tram Guide - Summary of Routes

Lisbon has an excellent tram network and all visitors to lisbon should experience a ride on a traditional tram. Here is a summary of the routes that the trams follow, it has been ordered so that the most populare route for tourists is first.

Route 15 from Praca do Commercial (Baixa) to Alges (Belem)

This is one of the most popular tram routes in Lisbon for both for tourist and locals alike and connects the historical central districts of Baixa & Rossio to the beautiful parked region of Belem. Belem should be high on the list for all visits to Lisbon, for a photo tour of Belem please click here. The route is serviced by smooth modern air-conditioned trams and wooden traditional trams. The tram route passes under the Ponte de April Bridge and provides good views over the river Tejo. Of all of the tram routes this is the most highly recommended. To see the route on the Carris web site please click here (this opens a new window)

Route 28 Campo Ourique to Martim Moniz

This route for tourist is distinctly split into two; the section to the west of Rossio has limited interest but the easterly section includes; Castelo Sao Jorge, skirts the narrow streets of Alfama, the high view point of the river Tejo and charming district of Graca and to cap it all returns to Martim Moniz on the north end at Baixa & Rossio. As the streets are so narrow and steep the only trams able to make the rout are the old traditional yellow trams. This route is very popular with tourists and can be standing room only during the middle of the day, for a relaxed journey plan to take the tram either early or late in the day. This tram route attracts pick-pockets due to crowded nature and number of tourists so keep an eye on your wallet and bags. To see the route on the Carris web site please click here (this opens a new window)

Route 12 Praca Figueira loop via Castelo Sao Jorge

This tram route is solely for the tourist trade and provides for a means to reach the castle. The route follows the same rails as tram route 28 and passes the Se Cathedral and Saint Anthony’s Church. I suggest taking the tram to the top of the hill to view the castle and walking gently down taking in the sights, especially in the heat of the summer months. Traditional trams only take this route and can get very busy so care should be taken with bags and wallets.
To see the route on the Carris web site please click here (this opens a new window)

Route 18 From Rossio to Estrela Basilica

The Estrela Basilica was built on the western edge of Lisbon and as a consequence is a distance from the popular tourist areas of Lisbon but luckily is connected by the tram network. The tram terminus is directly in front of the Basilica and the associated well maintained parks. For any longer stay in Lisbon it is highly recommend to venture slightly off the tourist trail to enjoy the district that surrounds the Basilica. Both the traditional and modern trams take this route and, outside of rush hour is one of the quieter tram routes.
To see the route on the Carris web site please click here (this opens a new window)

Route 25 Praca do Commercial to Campo Ourique

This route has very little interest for tourist and the majority of the tram route is covered by tram route 28.
To see the route on the Carris web site please click here (this opens a new window)

Tram Guide - Summary of Routes