How to Get to Belém Lisbon by Tram

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A single ticket purchased on the tram costs three euros in cash from the driver. You can save significant money by using a pre-loaded Viva Viagem card for your journey. This reusable card reduces the price to approximately one euro and sixty-five cents per trip. Simply tap your card on the yellow reader when you step onto the tram car.

Trams run frequently throughout the day with departures every ten to fifteen minutes on average. During the peak summer season, these vintage vehicles can become very crowded with many eager tourists. Try to board at the starting stop to secure a seat for the entire ride. You will enjoy watching the city architecture pass by from your window seat.

Get off at the Belém stop which is located right in front of the Jerónimos Monastery. This central location makes it easy to start your sightseeing adventure immediately after you arrive. You can find many shops nearby where to buy Pasteis de Belém for a delicious local treat. The tram stop is clearly marked and easy to find for all visitors.

Taking the Train from Cais do Sodré

Taking the train is often much faster than riding the tram during the busy peak hours. Head to the Cais do Sodré station to find the green line for the Cascais train. Trains depart every twenty minutes and the journey to Belém takes only seven minutes. This is the most efficient method for travelers who want to maximize their time.

The train station in Belém is located near the river and the famous MAAT museum building. You will need to walk about ten minutes from the station to reach the monastery. The walk is flat and offers lovely views of the 25 de Abril Bridge. This route is perfect for those who enjoy being near the water.

Tickets for this short journey cost around two euros if you use a prepaid travel card. You must validate your ticket at the electronic gates before you enter the train platform. The trains are modern and offer plenty of space for passengers and their small bags. Look for the screens in the station to find the next departure time.

The train ride offers beautiful views of the Tagus River as you head toward the west. It is a relaxing way to see the industrial and modern sides of the Lisbon waterfront. Many locals use this train to commute so it provides a very authentic travel experience. Ensure you keep your ticket until you exit the station at your destination.

Using Local Buses for the Journey

Several local buses provide another reliable way on how to get to Belém Lisbon from the center. Bus number 728 is a great choice because it connects the eastern and western parts of Lisbon. It passes through major hubs like Santa Apolónia and the central Praça do Comércio square. This bus is often less crowded than the popular tourist trams.

Bus 714 also travels to the district from the Praça da Figueira and Chiado neighborhoods. These buses run frequently and offer a comfortable ride with air conditioning during the hot summer. You can use the same Viva Viagem card that you use for the trams and trains. Digital displays inside the bus will show you the name of the next stop.

If you are staying in the northern part of the city, look for bus 727. This route passes through the upscale Marques de Pombal area before heading down to the river. It provides a unique view of the residential neighborhoods that most tourists never get to see. Buses are a flexible option if you want to avoid the main crowds.

There are also night buses available if you plan to stay in Belém after the sun sets. Check the official Carris website for the most up-to-date schedules for your 2026 trip to Portugal. Most bus stops have electronic signs that show exactly when the next bus will arrive. This technology makes navigating the city transport system very simple for international visitors.

Walking or Cycling to the District

Active travelers might prefer walking or cycling along the flat path that follows the Tagus River. This route starts at the Cais do Sodré station and continues all the way to Belém. The total distance is about six kilometers and takes roughly ninety minutes at a steady pace. It is a wonderful way to enjoy the fresh sea breeze and sunshine.

You can follow the Belém waterfront walk route to see many modern art installations and monuments. The path is completely separated from car traffic which makes it very safe for pedestrians. You will pass under the massive red bridge and see many local fishermen along the way. Bring plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes for this scenic journey.

Cycling is a faster alternative that allows you to cover the distance in about twenty minutes. Many bike-sharing apps operate in Lisbon and offer electric bikes for a small rental fee. You can pick up a bike near the city center and drop it off in Belém. The dedicated bike lane is wide and easy to navigate for all skill levels.

Walking or cycling gives you the freedom to stop whenever you see something interesting or beautiful. There are many free things to see in Belém once you arrive at the end of the path. This approach is environmentally friendly and helps you stay active during your vacation in Lisbon. It is truly the most scenic way to reach the historic district.

Practical Tips for Your 2026 Visit

Planning your trip for 2026 requires a bit of knowledge about the local transportation ticketing system. Always purchase a Viva Viagem card at a metro station before you head toward the Belém district. This card costs fifty cents and can be topped up with credit for multiple journeys. It is much cheaper than buying individual tickets from the drivers on board.

Try to visit Belém on a weekday to avoid the large crowds that arrive on the weekends. Most museums and monuments in the area are closed on Mondays so plan your schedule accordingly. Early morning is the best time to arrive if you want to beat the heat. You will find shorter lines at the famous bakery if you arrive before ten.

The district is very accessible for people with limited mobility as most paths are quite flat. Trams and buses are equipped with ramps but the older vintage trams are not wheelchair friendly. Choose the modern articulated trams or the train if you need easy access for a stroller. The train stations have elevators that make traveling with heavy luggage much easier for everyone.