Picture it : the 1950s. Lisbon is already beautiful, but traffic’s on the rise and the city’s hilly geography makes some commutes… well, let’s say “cardio-friendly”! It’s in this setting that the idea of an underground metro began to take shape. Construction started on 7 August 1955, and four years later, the very first section of the Lisbon Metro was inaugurated !  Back then, it was a huge leap forward, a network that would slowly transform the way the Portuguese capital moves.

A bit of history (because who doesn’t love that)

The original system, shaped like a “Y”, connected Sete Rios (now Jardim Zoológico) to Restauradores via Rotunda (today’s Marquês de Pombal) and then on to Entrecampos.

Today, Lisbon’s metro stations aren’t just practical : some have become true little gems of architecture and art, a special nod to those decorated by artist Maria Keil in the early years.

How it works ? in real life

Okay, enough nostalgia, how do you actually use it when you arrive ?

The metro runs every day, including weekends : it opens around 6:30 a.m., and the last trains leave around 1 a.m. (from terminal stations).
You can buy your ticket (single ride or rechargeable card) at automatic machines inside the stations. There are also monthly passes available.
At the entrance, tap your card, walk through the gates, and voilà, your “journey begins” the moment you pass through !
By the way, on the official metro website, you’ll find maps, timetables and real-time updates super handy !

©lisbonne-idee

Useful tips to make your life easier

Download the official Lisbon Metro app (and/or any Lisbon transport app), you’ll have the network map, alerts, schedules and routes right in your pocket !
If you’re a tourist or a newcomer, stick to the main lines (Red, Blue, Yellow, Green), they cover the city centre and key areas.
Think about rush hours : like in every big city, mornings (8-10 a.m.) and evenings (5-7 p.m.) can get crowded.
Be ready for tunnels and slopes, Lisbon is hilly, and some stations are pretty deep or inclined.
If you’re carrying luggage or pushing a stroller, look for stations with lifts or ramps, accessibility info is available online.
Why I love it (and you probably will too)

Personally, I love taking the Lisbon Metro because it gives me that “I’m part of the city” feeling : you glide beneath the streets, skip the traffic, and get there fast. And it’s actually very clean (modern, for a network of its age) ; some stations are beautifully decorated ; and for expats or visitors, it’s the easiest way to explore Lisbon (just a few stops and boom, new scenery).
A few limits to keep in mind (because honesty first)

The metro doesn’t directly reach all the major tourist or popular areas (for example : historic neighbourhoods like Alfama or Belém aren’t that close to a station, but hey, a sunny walk never hurt anyone, and it’s good for you !)
Depending on where you stay, getting to the nearest station might mean a bit of an uphill or downhill walk (goodbye high heels !). And like everywhere, at night or in busy stations, keep an eye on your belongings and stay alert (it’s still the capital city, after all).

The Lisbon Metro is much more than a simple mode of transport : it’s a piece of history, a practical tool for living the city, and a daily (or occasional) travel companion. Whether you’re a local, an expat, or just visiting, using it with a bit of preparation (app, map, schedule) will save you time, energy and maybe even give you a few nice snapshots of your Lisbon life.

So next time you hear a train whistle echoing down the platform, think of it this way : you’re not just getting from A to B, you’re travelling through Lisbon’s history. Enjoy the ride !