Lisbon airport transfers to the city center
Lisbon Airport is close to the city, but your final address matters more than the distance. The metro works well for accommodation near a station, while a taxi or booked car helps with luggage and steep streets. Check your departure terminal separately, since the metro station is beside Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 requires an additional connection.
The airports
- Lisbon Airport (LIS)
- about 7 km north of the center, roughly 20 to 45 minutes depending on transport and traffic
Every way from the airport to Lisbon
| How | Airport | Time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| MetroRed line with a central interchange | LIS | about 30 to 45 minutes to Baixa, including a change | Light luggage and accommodation near a metro station |
| TaxiOfficial airport taxi rank | LIS | about 15 to 30 minutes, longer in heavy traffic | Luggage, small groups and addresses on steep streets |
| Private transferPrebooked airport car | LIS | about 15 to 30 minutes after meeting your driver | An arranged meeting point and larger luggage loads |
How each one works
Metro: Red line with a central interchange
Follow signs to the metro beside Terminal 1. Take the red line to Alameda and change to the green line for Rossio or Baixa-Chiado. Buy a valid ticket at the station machines and keep it for the exit gates.
Taxi: Official airport taxi rank
Follow airport signs to the official taxi rank and show the driver your full accommodation address. Confirm the payment method before setting off and request a receipt. In Alfama and other narrow streets, the nearest vehicle access may be below your door.
Private transfer: Prebooked airport car
Book directly with a transfer operator and supply your flight number, arrival terminal and accommodation address. Follow the meeting instructions in your confirmation. Agree the fare, waiting allowance and any child seat requirements before travel.
Arriving late or leaving early
The metro does not run throughout the night, so check official first and last services for your journey. For late arrivals, use the official taxi rank or a prebooked car. For an early departure, confirm your terminal and allow extra time if you need the Terminal 2 shuttle.
Before you land
- Check your accommodation's nearest practical vehicle access if the address is on a pedestrian lane or staircase.
- Allow time for the Terminal 2 shuttle when departing, following the airport's official instructions for your airline.
- Keep your metro ticket accessible until you have passed through the exit gates at your destination.
Lisbon airport transfers to the city center
Does the airport metro go directly to Baixa?
You need to change lines. Take the red line to Alameda, then the green line toward Rossio or Baixa-Chiado.
Which terminal has the metro station?
The metro station is beside Terminal 1. For a flight from Terminal 2, follow the airport's shuttle connection instructions.
Is a taxi better for accommodation in Alfama?
A taxi can reduce uphill walking with luggage, but some Alfama addresses still require a final walk along narrow lanes or steps.
What should I do if my flight arrives late?
Check whether the metro will still be operating after baggage collection. Otherwise, use the official taxi rank or your booked transfer.