Tram 28 (Eléctrico 28)

Tram 28 is Lisbon’s most iconic tram line, officially known as route 28E in the Carris network. It has operated since 1914 and runs about 7 km (4.5 mi) from Martim Moniz Square in downtown Lisbon to Campo de Ourique (Prazeres) on the western hillslisbonportugaltourism.com. The line survived the closure of other tram routes thanks to its ability to navigate the steep, winding medieval streets where buses cannot pass. Riding Tram 28 feels like a trip back in time aboard vintage 1930s streetcars that remain part of the city’s everyday transit system.

Winding through Lisbon’s oldest quarters, Tram 28 snakes from the historic hills of Graça and Alfama, through the downtown Baixa, then up again to Chiado and Estrela, finally ending near the Campo de Ourique neighborhoodvisitlisboa.com. Along the route, the petite yellow tram squeals around hairpin turns and creaks up sharp inclines, at times so close to buildings that riders could almost touch the tiled walls (not recommended!) as they pass. Major landmarks line the journey – from São Vicente de Fora monastery and the Sé Cathedral in Alfama to the Basilica da Estrela in late-route – offering postcard-worthy scenes at every bend. The constant rattling and the ding of the tram’s bell have become part of the soundscape of the city, and locals consider Tram 28 not just a transit line but a moving symbol of Lisbon’s heritage.

For railfans and history enthusiasts, Tram 28 offers the rare chance to ride genuine “Remodelado” tramcars – these are refurbished wooden streetcars dating from the 1920s–1930s, still faithfully serving passengers in daily traffic . Each tram carries only about 20 seated passengers (with room for 30 standing), and features beautiful polished wood interiors and vintage controls, evoking a bygone era of urban transit . The line runs on narrow 900 mm gauge tracks, a legacy of Lisbon’s old tram network that will intrigue railway enthusiasts en.wikipedia.org. Riding Tram 28 isn’t a scripted tourist attraction; it’s an authentic public transport experience where you mingle with locals on their daily commute, all aboard a piece of living history.

Beyond the heritage rolling stock, Tram 28 is beloved for the views and atmosphere it provides. Railfans will appreciate how the tram deftly climbs Lisbon’s gradients and negotiates curves with just centimeters to spare – at times two trams pass each other so closely you can literally study the mechanics of the approaching car through the open window . The route offers spectacular vantage points: as the tram ascends to hilltop neighborhoods, sudden panoramas of red-roofed Lisbon and the Tagus River appear between the buildings. You’ll rumble across small squares and old junctions where the rails diverge with the clang of switches beneath the floor. Every steep ascent, tight turn, and clattering descent on Tram 28 showcases a triumph of early 20th-century tram engineering that continues to delight rail aficionados today . In short, it’s a must-do for anyone who appreciates historic urban transport and scenic journeys.

Tram 28 operates as a normal city tram line, which means it can get extremely crowded during the day. The first trams start before 6:00 am, and the last run is around 11:00 pm (slightly earlier on weekends) freetoursbyfoot.com. Cars run roughly every 10–15 minutes, but by mid-morning they are usually packed to standing-room only, especially in peak tourist season. To have a chance at a seat on the wooden bench, it’s best to board at the Martim Moniz terminus at dawn, when the tram is empty at the start . If you do stand, be sure to grab a handrail and brace yourself – the ride is very jerky at times, with sudden braking on downhill segments and sharp curves that toss unsuspecting riders off balance . Expect a noisy, bumpy ride: you’ll hear the screech of metal wheels on track and feel the tram lurch as it climbs steep hills at a max speed of about 50 km/h, then slows to a crawl through tight alleyways. This is all part of the experience!

During the journey, you’ll get an intimate look at daily life in Lisbon’s old town. The tram inches within arm’s length of doorways and lamp posts, offering views straight into local cafés and balconies as you pass. It’s not a hop-on, hop-off tour – in fact, given the crowds, if you step off at a popular stop (say, to visit a viewpoint or church), you might struggle to squeeze onto a later tram because each one comes by already full . Many visitors now choose to ride the line end-to-end without disembarking, which takes about 45–50 minutes. Do be mindful of your belongings: Tram 28’s tightly packed cars are a known target for pickpockets who prey on distracted tourists portugal-magik.com. Keep bags zipped and in front of you, and avoid displaying valuables. Despite the crowds and occasional frustrations (like waiting in a long queue or a service delay due to traffic), most railfans find the Tram 28 ride to be a charming and unforgettable journey through Lisbon’s history and hills.

Tram 28 runs year-round and follows the standard Lisbon public transport schedule. On weekdays, the first tram departs Martim Moniz around 5:40 am and the last around 11:30 pm (with similar first/last times of 6:30 am and 11:50 pm from the opposite end at Campo de Ourique) freetoursbyfoot.com. Weekend service starts slightly later (around 6:45 am on Sundays) and ends by 10:30–11:00 pm. Cars typically run at roughly 10-minute intervals during rush hours and every 15 minutes during off-peak times. However, timings can be affected by traffic jams in the narrow streets – it’s not unusual for a tram to get delayed behind a double-parked car or heavy congestion. In the busy summer months, trams are extremely popular and often reach capacity, so consider riding very early or late in the day to avoid the worst crowds timetravelturtle.com. Fortunately, there is no seasonal closure; Tram 28 operates daily even in winter (except perhaps on major holidays), so you can plan a trip any time of year.

Tram 28 is part of Lisbon’s public transit system, so standard city ticketing applies. A single ride fare purchased on board costs around €3.00 (cash only, paid to the driver) freetoursbyfoot.com. If you use a reusable Viva Viagem transit card, the tram fare is much cheaper – about €1.50 per ride – since you’re paying the standard network fare. You can also buy a 24-hour public transport pass for roughly €6.50 (loaded onto the Viva Viagem card), which covers unlimited rides on all trams, buses, and the metro for a day. This day pass often pays off if you plan to ride Tram 28 and other lines multiple times.

For convenience, most visitors purchase tickets or top-up cards before boarding. Viva Viagem cards (initial cost €0.50) are sold at any metro station, ferry terminal, or newsstand, and you can load them with credit (“zapping”) or passes lisbonportugaltourism.com. Using a prepaid card means you can simply tap it on the onboard reader and avoid fumbling with cash on a crowded tram. If you do need to buy a ticket on the tram, enter at the front door and have exact change in euros ready (the driver likely won’t break large bills). Another option is the Lisboa Card (city tourist pass), which includes unlimited free travel on all Lisbon public transport including trams. The Lisboa Card can be a good deal if you’re also visiting museums and attractions, since it bundles free entries with transport. Note that Tram 28 does not take reservations – it’s first-come, first-serve like a normal tram. In high season, you may see long queues at Martim Moniz; everyone with a valid ticket still has to line up to board in order. Plan accordingly and give yourself extra time if riding during peak hours.

Due to the historic tram cars and old infrastructure, Tram 28 is not very accessible to those with limited mobility. The trams have steep steps up from street level and narrow doorways, making it impossible to board with a wheelchair or mobility scooter tripadvisor.com. There are no ramps or lifts, and inside the tram there’s only a small platform area which gets very crowded. If you use a stroller/buggy for a child, you’ll need to fold it before boarding and hold it, as there’s no dedicated space. 

While riding, seating is limited and standing passengers must hold on tightly as the tram jerks around. In short, the 1930s tram design wasn’t built with modern accessibility in mind. Those who cannot manage the tram’s steps or who risk standing in a jolting vehicle may want to skip Tram 28. As an alternative, consider the modern 15E tram to Belém (which uses low-floor articulated trams that are more accessible), or look into accessible tour buses that cover similar routes in Alfama and Graça. Lisbon’s streets are hilly and often cobbled, so even reaching some Tram 28 stops can be a workout – but taxis or ride-share services can help bridge the gap for travelers with mobility issues.

Pack light and smart for your Tram 28 adventure. 

• Comfortable shoes are a must, as you might be standing in a moving tram or walking up hilly streets to reach a stop. 
• In summer, bring sun protection (a hat, sunscreen, and water bottle) because you may wait in an outdoor queue under strong sun. 
• Photographers will want a camera or smartphone easily at hand – a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the tram in tight cityscapes. 
• Keep your gear secure; use a crossbody bag or backpack worn in front, and avoid flashing expensive equipment. Given Tram 28’s reputation for pickpockets, carry only the essentials and secure wallets/phones in inner pockets or money belts portugal-magik.com. It’s wise to leave unnecessary valuables (extra credit cards, passports, jewelry) locked in your hotel safe and just bring what you need for the day. 
• If traveling in cooler months, have a light jacket or sweater since early mornings and evenings can be chilly, especially with windows open on the tram. 
• Lastly, bring a bit of patience – you may encounter lines or tight squeezes, but it’s all part of the experience!

Tram 28 is one of Lisbon’s most photogenic features, and there are a few strategies to get great shots. Aim to go early in the morning for the best light and minimal crowds – the first yellow trams around 6–7 am offer beautiful soft light and you won’t have as many people in your framefreetoursbyfoot.com. One classic photo spot is on Rua das Escolas Gerais in Alfama: here the tram comes around a sharp bend on an narrow street with pastel-colored houses, and you can capture the tram with the imposing white dome of São Vicente de Fora church in the backgroundlisbonunlocked.com. Another famous viewpoint is the Largo das Portas do Sol lookout. Position yourself at the curve just below this viewpoint so you can snap Tram 28 as it glides by with the Alfama rooftops and Tagus River behind it – morning is ideal before crowds arrive at the lookout, and you might include the statue of St. Vincent in your composition for context. The area in front of the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé) is also popular: the tram passes right under the twin bell towers, making for a quintessential Lisbon shot. If you want this scene without dozens of tourists, be there at dawn for the first tram of the day.

When photographing the tram, a wide-angle lens (or phone in wide mode) helps capture the vehicle plus the narrow street surroundings. However, also consider a medium zoom to isolate the tram against landmarks (for example, as it climbs toward the castle or passes the cathedral). Use a fast shutter speed if shooting the tram in motion to avoid blur – these trolleys move quicker than they look on downhill stretches. Many great photos are taken from street level looking upward as the tram ascends a hill, emphasizing the steepness of the route. Don’t hesitate to include people in your shots (passengers in windows or locals on the street) to convey the human element of the tram in Lisbon’s daily life. Finally, watch your timing: trams run frequently, so if you miss a shot, another will likely come along in 10 minutes. Practice patience, explore different angles along the route, and you’ll come away with some iconic images of Tram 28.

The nearest airport is Lisbon Humberto Delgado International Airport (LIS), conveniently located within the city limits about 7 km (4 mi) north of central Lisbon lisbonlisboaportugal.com. From the airport, getting to Tram 28 is straightforward: you can take the metro (Lisbon’s subway) from the airport’s Terminal 1 (Red Line) and transfer to the Green Line at Alameda station, then ride to Martim Moniz station, which is adjacent to the Tram 28 terminus. This metro journey takes roughly 30–35 minutes. Alternatively, a taxi or ride-share from the airport to Martim Moniz/Alfama will take about 20–25 minutes in light traffic (up to 40 minutes in heavy traffic). The airport is well-served by taxis, Uber, and Bolt – just follow the signs to the designated pickup areas. No domestic flights are needed if you’re already in Portugal; Lisbon’s airport handles all the major international and domestic flights, making it the primary gateway for air travelers heading to Tram 28.

Lisbon is well-connected by rail, and arriving by train will put you close to Tram 28’s route. The main Lisbon Santa Apolónia railway station is on the edge of the Alfama district – only about a 500 m (0.3 mi) walk uphill to where Tram 28 runs lisbonlisboaportugal.com. Santa Apolónia is the terminus for many long-distance trains (including from Porto and the Algarve), and if you arrive here you can either walk about 10 minutes into Alfama or take a short taxi/uber to Portas do Sol or Martim Moniz to catch the tram. Another major station, Lisbon Oriente, is in the northeast of the city; if your train arrives at Oriente (common for international and some high-speed services), just hop on the Metro Red Line to the city center (around 15 minutes), or a regional train to Santa Apolónia, then proceed to Tram 28. There’s also Rossio Station, which is used for regional trains (like from Sintra) – Rossio is actually very close to Martim Moniz (about a 5-7 minute walk). From Rossio, you can walk through Praça da Figueira to Martim Moniz and board Tram 28 there. All in all, Lisbon’s compact layout and transit links mean that coming by train will leave you only a short distance from a Tram 28 stop. Just follow signs for Metro or taxis at the station if you prefer not to walk through the hilly streets with luggage.

Driving to Tram 28’s locale in central Lisbon is possible, but be prepared for some challenges. Lisbon’s historic center has a maze of narrow one-way streets, especially in Alfama and Graça, which can be very difficult to navigate by car (and some lanes are tram-or-pedestrian only) bleisured.com. If you’re coming from elsewhere in Portugal, major highways lead toward Lisbon – for example, the A1 highway from the north (Porto) ends in Lisbon, and the A2 from the south crosses the Tagus into the city. From the north or east, you can also take the Vasco da Gama Bridge (A12) into Lisbon, and from the south, the 25 de Abril Bridge (aligns with A2) is a common entry. Once in the city, follow signs for the city center (Centro) or Baixa. Martim Moniz Square (the start of Tram 28) is in the downtown area just north of Rossio. Keep in mind that traffic in Lisbon can be heavy, and the streets around Martim Moniz/Mouraria are quite congested during the day. It’s wise to plan for extra time, drive defensively, and use a GPS. Also note that Alfama’s streets are extremely narrow and often restricted – it’s not practical to drive into Alfama to “follow” the tram route, and in many places only trams or residents’ cars are allowed. Instead, consider parking outside the immediate center (for example, in a garage – see below) and using public transit for the last part of your journey into the old town.

Lisbon’s public transportation network makes it easy to reach Tram 28 and get around the area without a car. 

• The Metro (subway) is particularly useful: the Green Line’s Martim Moniz station is directly adjacent to the Tram 28 start point – less than a 2-minute walk from the metro exit to the tram stop tripadvisor.com. If you’re coming from elsewhere in the city, you can take the Green Line to Martim Moniz, or take the Blue Line to Rossio or Baixa-Chiado and walk a few minutes to connect with the tram along its route. 
• Public buses also serve the neighborhoods along Tram 28’s path (for example, Carris bus 734 runs through Graça and Martim Moniz). Once you’re in the Alfama/Graça area, the districts are compact enough to explore on foot – albeit hilly and with many stairs. In fact, some sections of Alfama are only accessible by walking or tram, as cars can’t go down certain alleys.

If you hop off Tram 28 to sightsee and don’t want to wait for the next tram, you can often use alternate transport: 

• for example, from Castle São Jorge or Graça, there are small local buses and tuk-tuk tours that can take you back down. 
• Taxis and ride-sharing (Uber/Bolt) are plentiful in Lisbon and relatively affordable; you can always call a ride to get from one end of the tram line to the other or back to your hotel. 
• Another fun option for local travel is the network of funiculars and elevators – like the nearby Elevador de Santa Justa or Elevador da Glória – which connect different elevations in the city.