Lisbon Card: 24, 48, or 72-Hour Pass

Location: Lisbon District, Portugal
Country: Portugal
Rating: 4.4/5 (17,001 reviews)
Supplier: GetYourGuide Tours & Tickets GmbH
Similar Experiences:
Belem & Jeronimos Monastery Admission
Sintra, Pena Palace & Cascais Tour
Belem Tour Including Jeronimos & More
Private Tuk-Tuk City Tour
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus & Tram Tour
Lisbon Food & Wine Walking Tour
Oceanário de Lisboa Entrance
Complete Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

This experience made our article of What Are The Best Tours & Experiences In Lisbon? Our Top 12 Picks.

Contents show

Meta Description

Discover Lisbon effortlessly with the flexible Lisbon Card, offering free access to top sights, unlimited transport, and discounts—ideal for exploring efficiently.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Quick Intro

We haven’t personally taken the Lisbon Card, but after reviewing the options and traveler feedback, it’s clear this pass could be a game-changer for anyone wanting to make the most of their Lisbon trip. The 24, 48, or 72-hour options offer flexibility, which is perfect whether you’re on a short city break or a longer stay.

What we really love about this experience: free access to over 50 attractions, unlimited public transport, and additional discounts at shops and restaurants. Plus, the convenience of picking up your card at the airport or city center makes planning a breeze. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that some museums are closed on certain days, so a little pre-trip planning helps.

This pass suits travelers who want to skip long lines, see a lot without the hassle of buying tickets on the go, and get a taste of Lisbon’s culture without breaking the bank. If you’re a history buff, museum hopper, or just want to maximize sightseeing while saving money, this is worth considering.

Looking for more options in Lisbon? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Key Points

Comprehensive access: Free entry to 52 museums and historic sites.
Unlimited transport: Covers buses, trams, metro, and trains within Lisbon.
Time-flexible: Valid for 24, 48, or 72 hours, depending on your plan.
Extra savings: Discounts at restaurants, shops, and attractions.
Ease of use: Pick up your card at the airport or city center, and go.
Important to note: Museums may close on certain holidays or Mondays, so check opening hours beforehand.

Why the Lisbon Card is a Smart Choice

The Lisbon Card’s biggest plus is eliminating the need to buy individual tickets for transport and attractions. Instead, you just tap your card and enjoy. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a streamlined experience, especially if you’re planning to visit several museums or landmarks during your stay.

Visiting Top Attractions with the Card

The list of included sites is impressive: you’ll gain free entry to iconic landmarks like the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and the National Tile Museum. These are must-see spots that often have long queues, so having your entry covered helps save time and energy. The Mafra National Palace and the Ajuda National Palace also feature, offering a glimpse into royal history and architecture.

The Santa Justa Lift is another highlight, giving visitors a chance to enjoy panoramic views of Lisbon’s skyline. It’s one of those classic, fun ways to see the city from above—plus, it’s included in the pass.

More Great Tours Nearby

Navigating the City’s Transport System

Public transportation in Lisbon can sometimes be a little chaotic, but that’s part of the charm. The Lisbon Card covers Carris metro, buses, trams, and cable railways, making it seamless to hop from historic neighborhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto to modern districts.

Many reviews mention the convenience: “Ease of hopping on and off transport,” as one traveler said. However, a few noted occasional delays or missed buses, which is typical in busy cities. Still, the overall value outweighs these small inconveniences.

There's plenty more to explore in Lisbon

Using the Card for Day Trips and Beyond

One of the best perks is train travel included to Sintra and Cascais from stations like Cais do Sodré and Oriente. This opens the door to exploring beyond Lisbon’s city center, with cheaper, hassle-free trips. Travelers have used the card for multiple trips, often starting their day with a museum visit and ending with a scenic train ride.

The Experience of Picking Up and Using the Card

Getting the card is straightforward, with many reviews praising the quick and friendly staff at airport pickup points. Once activated, the card is valid for 48 hours from the time of first use, giving you plenty of time to explore at your own pace. Some travelers suggest starting the card mid-day for maximum value.

Price vs. Value

While the upfront cost might seem high—around €45 for the 72-hour option—the savings are significant. For example, a few key visits cost over €10 each, not including transport. With the card, all major museums and landmarks are free, plus transport is unlimited. As one user mentioned, “more than covered everything” with the €45 investment.

Limitations and Considerations

Keep in mind that not all museums are open every day, especially on Mondays or specific holidays like Christmas or New Year’s. The Belem Tower, for instance, was closed for refurbishment starting April 22. Also, buses within Sintra aren’t included since they’re operated by different companies. It’s worth planning your route and sites in advance.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many reviews highlight the convenience and value. One traveler noted, “The card was great for a family of four,” enabling multiple trips on trains and visits to key sights without constantly buying tickets. Others praised the knowledgeable guides and friendly staff—some even mentioned specific guides like Andre, who were helpful and engaging.

Some travelers mentioned public transport delays but still found the pass worth it overall. For instance, one pointed out that waiting 40 minutes for a bus was frustrating, but the overall access and convenience made up for it.

Practical Tips

Pick up your card early, ideally at the airport, to maximize its use on your arrival day.
Check the opening days and hours of key attractions, especially on public holidays.
Plan your route around the included sights to avoid missing out on free entries.
Download the Lisboa Card Guide on your mobile for easy instructions.
Consider starting your card in the middle of the day to stretch your 48 or 72 hours better.
Be aware that not all museums are free with the card—some offer discounts rather than free entry.

Who Should Consider the Lisbon Card?

This card is ideal for museum enthusiasts, history lovers, and city explorers. It suits those who want to maximize sightseeing without multiple ticket hassles. It’s especially good if you plan to visit multiple landmarks, enjoy scenic train rides, or explore beyond the city.

If you’re traveling with family or a group, the value increases significantly, as many reviews highlight how convenient and cost-effective it is for groups. However, if you’re just planning to stay in a single neighborhood or prefer a slow pace, a more flexible ticket might suit you better.

The Sum Up

The Lisbon Card offers remarkable value for those eager to see a lot of the city’s highlights efficiently. It simplifies daily planning by combining transport, attractions, and discounts into one convenient package. Travelers who enjoy cultural sites, museums, and scenic journeys will find it particularly worthwhile.

While it’s not perfect—some attractions close on certain days and occasional transport delays occur—the overall experience is hassle-free and cost-effective. Plus, the ability to hop on and off public transport and skip lines at major sites makes sightseeing smoother and more enjoyable.

For anyone prepared to plan a little in advance, this pass could easily save time and money, turning a Lisbon visit into a stress-free adventure packed with memorable sights. Whether you’re in town for a weekend or a week, it’s a smart upgrade to your travel toolkit.

FAQ

Does the Lisbon Card include transportation within Sintra?
No, buses within Sintra are not included since they are operated by different companies. The card covers trains to Sintra from stations like Cais do Sodré and Oriente.

Can I buy the Lisbon Card at the airport?
Yes, many reviews mention that picking up the card at the airport is quick and straightforward, with friendly staff to assist.

How long is the card valid once activated?
The card is valid for 24, 48, or 72 hours from the moment you first use it, giving you flexible options based on your itinerary.

Are all museums and attractions open every day?
No, many museums are closed on Mondays or specific holidays like December 24-25 and January 1. Checking opening hours before your visit is recommended.

What do I do if an attraction is closed during my visit?
You can still enjoy the transport and other open sites. Many travelers use the time to explore neighborhoods, enjoy scenic routes, or relax in local cafes.

Is the Lisboa Card good value for families?
Absolutely. Multiple reviews highlight how practical and economical it is for families, allowing multiple trips and free entries that would otherwise add up quickly.

This Lisbon Card truly combines affordability and convenience, making it an attractive choice for travelers eager to explore the city’s rich sights without the hassle of separate tickets or multiple payments.