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navegante® occasional card

Suitable for non-frequent users, it can be topped up with tickets and money (pay as you go ‘zapping’ credit) and tickets.

The navegante® occasional card can be used in all member operators.

What is the navegante® occasional card?

The navegante® occasional card is an electronic smart card that is validated by approaching the card to the contactless validators.  It is specially designed for non-frequent customers (occasional journeys).

Where can I buy it?

On the Metro network, the navegante occasional card can be purchased and loaded on Ticket Vending Machines and Ticket Offices. Keep the purchase/load receipt with you, as you will need it in case of card malfunction.

How much does the navegante® occasional card cost?

The navegante® occasional card costs €0.50 and can be reloaded unlimitedly during one year after purchase.

What tickets can I top up on my navegante® occasional card?

How is it used.

The navegante occasional card is ready to be used when topped up. Just approach the card to the contactless validator and wait for the gates to open. The navegante occasional card is a personal card, i.e. it cannot be used by more than one person at a time, even if topped up with multiplo tickets.

The navegante occasional cards are valid for one year after purchase.  During this period, they can be topped up unlimitedly.  Expired cards can no longer be reloaded, however, any remaining tickets may still be used.

Check the credit balance of your navegante® occasional card

You can check you card credit balance on ticket vending machines and ticket offices.

After-sales service

If your card does not work, please: First check your credit balance on the reader of a Ticket Vending Machine or Ticket Office; If the card has credit but cannot be read, please show your card and purchase receipt to a Metro staff member; If the card can be read, Metro staff will transfer its credit onto a new card.  If this is not possible, please follow the Metro staff’s instructions. If no staff is visible at the station, use the intercoms in the Help Points located near the access gates and on ticket machines. If case of malfunction with no visible damage, the card will be replaced free of charge, provided it is still valid.  If the card is damaged or has expired, the cost of a new card will be borne by the customer.

Recommendations

– This card is valid for one year. Keep it safe during this period; – Keep the purchase receipt with you; – When validating the card, see that it is not close to other contactless cards; – Keep the card in good condition.

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What is the Viva Viagem Card? Everything you need to know

What is the viva viagem card.

Updated Nov. 6, 2023. You can think of the Viva Viagem Card, or Tarjeta Transporte Viva Viagem, as the Lisbon metro card, but the Viva Viagem card can also be used for passage on the Carris network, which includes all local buses in Lisbon, as well as elevators, streetcars, and funiculars including popular attractions such as:

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• Ascensor do Lavra Ascensor do Lavra – A quick guide
• Elevador da Santa Justa Elevador de Santa Justa | Everything you need to know

It can also be used on ferries and trains to nearby towns. How to use public transportation to get to Lisbon’s beaches

For more information on the Lisbon Subway System, read my Lisbon Metro: A helpful guide to the Lisbon subway

Each person needs their own card.  For example, a family cannot travel on one card.

Don’t confuse the Viva Viagem Card with a Lisboa Card. We will discuss the Lisboa Card at the end of this article.

Where to buy a Viva Viagem Card

You can buy a Viva Viagem card at Humberto Delgado Airport metro station, or any other metro station in the city of Lisbon. 

Look for the blue and green vending machines before entering the metro turnstiles.

How much does the Viva Viagem Card cost?

The initial card costs .50. 

You can then either choose to buy a 24-hour card with different travel options for a set price, or you can add a cash value to your card. 

You can put a value of €3, €5, €10, €15, €20, €25, €30, €35, €40 on your card. 

Each individual ride will then be deducted from your balance.

How to check your balance on the Viva Viagem Card

Your balance is shown when you enter your card at a metro turnstile or scan on a bus or tram. 

You can also check the balance on a blue vending machine at any metro station.

How to recharge the Viva Viagem Card

Insert your card into the blue machines in the metro station to add value if needed.

Can you use the Viva Viagem Card to pay for the train to Sintra?

Yes. You can use the declining balance on your Viva Viagem Card to pay for the train ride to Sintra.

You can catch a train to Sintra at Rossio Train Station or at Oriente Train Station on the northwest side of the city.

How to use the card on metro, bus, Carris , or CP Train

On the metro , swipe your card as you enter. Swipe again as you exit the metro. The cost of a ride is €1.34.

On the bus, tram, elevator, funicular (Carris) , swipe once as you enter. Do not swipe as you exit. The cost of the ride is €1.35.

On the ferry , only swipe as you enter. The cost to go to Cacilhas from Cais do Sodré is €1.27.

On the CP Train to Estoril, Cascais, or Sintra, swipe only as you enter. The cost of the ride is €1.90.

Should I get the green card or the white card?

“The green and white Viva Viagem cards have exactly the same functions but cover different transport operators. The green Viva Viagem card can be used in all member operators. The white Viva Viagem card is not valid on Metro Transportes Do Sul (south of the Tejo River). If you want to use these operators, top of your tickets on the green card.” From the official website https://www.metrolisboa.pt/en/buy/viva-viagem-card/

Is there a 24-hour card?

Yes, if you only plan to be in Lisbon for 24 hours, you can try one of these options:

• Carris / Metro 24 Hour ticket    Valid for 24 hours after the ticket is first validated on the Carris Network or the metro 6.40
• Carris / Metro / Transtejo (Casilhas) 24 Hour ticket This pass is good for unlimited use for 24 hours after first validation on metro, Carris, and the ferry network.  9.55
• Carris / Metro / CP (Comboios de Portugal) 24 Hour ticket This pass is good for unlimited use for 24 hours after first validation on metro, Carris, and the trains going to Cascais, Sintra, Ajambuda, and Sado.  10.60

What is Zapping?

Zapping is paying .50 for a card, and then putting a cash balance on your Lisboa Viva Card (Viva Viagem). 

You then pay a discounted rate as the ride is deducted from your card balance.

A full-price metro ride is €1.50.

With the Viva Viagem Zapping card, you only pay €1.34 per ride.

Plus, it saves you the hassle of having to buy individual ride tickets.

With Zapping, you can also combine different transport services in one trip.

For example, you can take the metro, and then scan your card at the ferry port to go across the river, or take the train.  Each service charges you a discounted rate. The metro charge will be €1.34. The charge for the ferry would be another €1.27 .  

You can purchase credit for €3, €5, €10, €15, €20, €25, €30, €35, €40. 

Can you get a refund for the unused balance?

There are no refunds, but the cards are valid for twelve months, if you happen to pass back through Lisbon again.  If you keep your old card, you may even be able to push the balance to a new card (.50) after twelve months.

The Lisboa Card – an option to consider

The Lisboa Card is sold by Turismo de Lisboa rather than Metro Lisboa or Carris.

Lisboa Card covers all public transportation and free or discounted admission to certain attractions but is only valid for either 24, 48, or 72 hours. For more information, see my article Lisboa Card | Everything you need to know

You can purchase a Lisboa Card (different from the Viva Viagem Card) here. https://www.getyourguide.com/lisbon-l42/lisboa-card-24h-48h-72h-t225711/?partner_id=GJ48TPM&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=content-middle

If you use this link to purchase a Lisboa Card, I will receive a small commission. Using my link does not affect the price you will pay for the Lisboa Card.

Thank you for reading about the Viva Viagem Card.

Navegante Card(Formerly Viva Viagem): The Ultimate Guide

Welcome to the vibrant cityscape of Lisbon , where every cobblestone street whispers tales of ancient history, and every sunset paints the horizon in hues of gold and crimson.

Yes, it is what I see every time I visit Lisbon. As you navigate through its enchanting neighborhoods, from the bustling squares of Baixa to the nostalgic alleys of Alfama, there’s one companion that promises to be your ticket to seamless exploration: the Navegante Card(Formerly Viva Viagem card) .

More than just a piece of plastic, this card is your passport to the heart of Lisbon’s treasures, offering access to the city’s efficient public transportation and a gateway to exclusive discounts and experiences.

So, whether you’re a seasoned traveler looking to delve deeper into Lisbon’s hidden gems or a first-timer eager to discover the city’s iconic landmarks, join me on this journey as I unravel the benefits and secrets of the Navegante Card.

Your adventure begins now!

Decoding the Navegante Card: Lisbon’s Essential Travel Companion

The Navegante Card is far more than mere plastic; it’s the key that unlocks the vibrant tapestry of Lisbon’s cultural, historical, and contemporary wonders.

Designed for locals and visitors alike, this versatile card is an indispensable tool for navigating the city’s extensive public transportation network , including buses, trams, metro, and even the famous Elevador de Santa Justa.

Beyond its primary function as a travel pass, the Navegante Card offers various additional benefits, from discounted entry to museums and attractions to special promotions at selected shops and restaurants.

With its easy-to-use features and widespread acceptance across various modes of transport, the Navegante Card epitomizes convenience, affordability, and accessibility, making it an essential companion for anyone looking to experience the best of what Lisbon offers.

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Where Can You Buy The Lisbon Navegante Card?

The Navegante Card can be conveniently purchased at several locations throughout Lisbon, ensuring easy access for residents and visitors. 

• Metro Stations : Most metro stations in Lisbon have ticket offices or vending machines where you can buy the Navegante Card. This is often the most straightforward option for travelers arriving by metro from the airport or other parts of the city.
• Carris Outlets : Carris is the main bus and tram operato r in Lisbon, and their customer service centers or kiosks at significant transportation hubs usually sell the Navegante Card.
• CP Stations : If you’re arriving in Lisbon by train, the CP (Comboios de Portugal) stations also offer the Navegante Card for sale, making it convenient to purchase your card as soon as you arrive in the city.
• Authorized Retailers : Various shops, newsstands, and convenience stores across the city are authorized to sell the Navegante Card. Look for the “Navegante” logo displayed at the entrance or counter of these establishments.
• Online : While the physical card needs to be purchased in person, some services allow you to top up or add specific passes to your existing Navegante Card online using your credit card, offering convenience for those who prefer digital transactions.

It’s worth noting that the Navegante Card costs a nominal fee, and you’ll need to load it with credit or specific travel passes , depending on your needs.

Once purchased, the card is valid for unlimited trips within your chosen Pass’s designated zones and duration.

It is a cost-effective solution for exploring Lisbon’s rich tapestry of experiences.

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Understanding the Cost Structure of the Navegante Card

The initial cost of the Navegante Card is relatively modest, designed to be accessible for all travelers and residents alike.

The card typically has a nominal fee, which covers the physical card’s issuance and administration.

This one-time cost provides you with a durable, reloadable card that can be used for multiple journeys across Lisbon’s integrated public transportation system.

It will cost you €0.50, and you can reload it unlimitedly for one year after the purchase. 

Yet, it’s essential to understand that the card’s total cost will depend on how you choose to use it:

Credit vs. Passes :

Once you’ve acquired the Navegante Card, you’ll need to load it with either credit for pay-as-you-go fares or specific travel passes that offer unlimited travel for a set duration (e.g., 24 hours, 72 hours).

The cost of these passes varies depending on the zones covered and the type of transportation included (metro, bus, tram, etc.).

If you opt for credit, you can easily top up your Navegante Card at various locations throughout the city, such as metro stations, Carris outlets, and authorized retailers. The cost of each journey will be deducted from your card balance, with discounted rates often applied compared to single-ticket purchases.

Special Discounts :

It’s worth noting that specific categories of travelers, such as seniors, students, and residents, may be eligible for discounted rates on travel passes, further enhancing the card’s affordability.

Hot Tip🔥:  To get the most value out of your Navegante Card, it’s advisable to plan your itinerary and choose the most suitable Pass or credit amount based on your anticipated travel needs.

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Flexible Travel Options: Understanding the Ticketing Choices for the Navegante Card

The Navegante Card offers a versatile platform for accessing Lisbon’s comprehensive public transportation network. Once you have the card, you can load various tickets and passes onto it, catering to travel preferences and durations. 

Single Tickets :

Ideal for occasional travelers or those with specific, limited journeys in mind, single tickets allow you to pay for individual trips on buses, trams, metro, and other modes of transport. When you top up your Navegante Card with credit, the cost of each single journey will be deducted from your balance.

24-Hour Pass :

For travelers looking to explore Lisbon more extensively within a day, the 24-hour Pass offers unlimited travel across all participating modes of transportation. This Pass is perfect for tourists who wish to hop on and off various attractions without worrying about individual ticket costs.

Zonal Passes :

If your itinerary involves traveling to specific zones within Lisbon or surrounding areas, you can load zonal passes onto your Navegante Card. These passes provide unlimited travel within the designated zones for a set duration, such as 48 or 72 hours, offering a cost-effective solution for multi-day exploration.

Integrated Passes :

Lisbon’s integrated transportation system allows you to combine different modes of transport seamlessly. You can top up your Navegante Card with integrated passes that cover metro, bus, tram, and even specific ferry routes, providing comprehensive access to the city’s diverse transport options.

Special Discounts and Promotions :

Special promotions or discounted passes may occasionally be available for events, festivals, or specific attractions. Keep an eye out for these offers, which can provide additional value when topping up your Navegante Card.

Hot Tip🔥: While this is an excellent card for mostly getting on and off at the train station, the Lisboa Card is another option that offers you more.

The Lisboa Card offers you loads of benefits, as seen here: 

• Comprehensive Access : Beyond transportation, the Lisboa Card provides free or discounted entry to a wide array of museums, monuments, and tourist attractions across Lisbon, offering a holistic sightseeing experience.
• Convenience : The Lisboa Card eliminates the need to purchase individual tickets at various attractions, allowing for smoother entry and potentially saving time, especially during peak tourist seasons.
• Value-Added Features : The Lisboa Card often includes additional perks such as free use of the city’s public transport network, airport transfers, or discounts at selected restaurants and shops, enhancing the overall travel experience.
• Duration Options : The Lisboa Card is available in different validity periods (e.g., 24, 48, or 72 hours), catering to short-term visitors and those on extended stays alike.

Mastering the Navegante Card: A Step-by-Step Guide to Usage and Balance Checking

Using the Navegante Card is a straightforward process designed to offer convenience and efficiency to you. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the various aspects of using the card, from initial activation to checking your credit balance:

How to Use the Navegante Card:

• Obtain the Navegante Card from one of the authorized outlets, such as metro stations, Carris outlets, or selected retailers.
• If it’s your first time using the card, you must load it with credit or select a suitable travel pass based on your itinerary.
• When boarding a bus, tram, metro, or any other mode of public transport, tap your Navegante Card on the designated card reader near the entrance.
• Tap the card at the beginning and, if applicable, at the end of your journey to register for the complete trip.
• The Navegante Card allows for transfers between different modes of transport within a specified time frame (e.g., 1 hour for metro to bus transfers).
• Ensure your card has sufficient credit or a valid pass to cover the entire journey, including any transfers.
• For metro stations and specific tram stops, you’ll need to tap your card again when exiting to calculate the fare based on your journey’s distance and the zones traveled.

Checking the Credit Balance:

• Many metro stations and major transport hubs have ticket machines to check your Navegante Card’s balance. Insert your card into the designated slot, and the machine will display the remaining credit.
• Visit a Carris or metro customer service center, where the staff can assist you in checking your card’s balance and addressing any queries.
• While the physical Navegante Card is not directly linked to online services for balance checking, some digital platforms associated with Lisbon’s public transport system may offer insights into your travel history and expenditure, providing indirect indicators of your card’s usage.
• If you’ve registered your Navegante Card or have used it for online top-ups, you may receive receipts or statements that detail your transactions and remaining balance.

Hot Tip🔥:  Check out the affordable accommodation while planning your trip to Lisbon. 

The Advanced Lisbon Quiz

You’re now at the advanced Lisbon quiz with more difficult questions. No one gets every question right, so don’t beat yourself up on it. Good luck.

Wrap-Up: Navigating Lisbon with Ease With The Navegante Card

The Navegante Card transcends its functional role as a travel pass, evolving into an integral part of your Lisbon narrative.

Embrace the convenience, embrace the exploration, and let the Navegante Card illuminate your path through the captivating essence of Lisbon.

History, culture, and modernity converge in this city in a harmonious dance of discovery. Still, I recommend using the Lisboa Card instead if I visit Lisbon for the first time.

For first-time travelers, the Lisboa Card offers you some great features to explore this city.

Lisbon Enthusiast

I first moved to Lisbon back in 2018, while working as a freelancer. It was my lifelong dream to move outside the borders of Denmark to find a warm country with the ability to dream, work and live my life. I lived in Lisbon for a year, and I continue to visit multiple times every year. It's by far my favourite travel destination. Lisbon has so much to offer to anyone.

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Home » Traveller Information » Navegante or Lisboa Card: Which Card to Buy?

Navegante or Lisboa Card: Which Card to Buy?

Unsure about which card to buy: Navegante (formerly Viva Viagem) or Lisboa Card? While both cards can be used to travel around Lisbon, they are actually two distinct types of cards.

A navegante occasional is a contactless transport card designed for non-frequent travellers and visitors. It’s the most flexible way to pay for journeys on metro, bus, tram, funicular, ferry and train services in Lisbon. It can hold pay as you go credit through the Zapping option, one day tickets, or single tickets.

A Lisboa Card is a sightseeing pass that helps visitors see Lisbon’s attractions, saving them both time and money. It includes unlimited use of Lisbon’s public transport for the duration of the card (24, 48 or 72 hours). Lisboa Card holders also enjoy a range of special offers and discounts across the city, and even outside.

Here’s information to make sure you buy the right card for exploring Lisbon.

What are the pros and cons of buying a navegante vs a Lisboa Card?

A navegante occasional card is a quick and easy way to pay for journeys on public transport in Lisbon. You can use a navegante card to get to attractions on public transport but not as a pass to actually visit attractions. For that, you will need a Lisboa Card, which also includes free public transport.

So, deciding which card to buy actually depends on your plans. If you want to visit a lot of monuments and museums each day, then you should definitely buy a Lisboa Card. But if you’re simply keen to explore the historic neighbourhoods and admire from the outside, then buy a navegante card to get around Lisbon easily on public transport.

Navegante occasional : A card costs only €0.50. For the types of tickets it can hold and fares, see our page on navegante card .

Lisboa Card : A card costs from €21 for one day to €44 for three days. It includes a free pass to 39 museums, monuments and places of interest, namely Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, and free public transport. It also offers discounts on a number of museums and activities. Find out more, including how to buy online, in our article about Lisboa Card .

Where can I purchase a navegante and a Lisboa Card?

You can buy a navegante occasional card when you arrive in Lisbon from any automatic ticket machine or ticket office at metro, ferry and train stations. Unlike the Lisboa Card, you cannot buy a navegante occasional card online.

You can buy a Lisboa Card online before you travel to Lisbon. This means that when you arrive in Lisbon you can get the card and start exploring the city. You can also buy a Lisboa Card at Tourist Offices when you arrive.

Can I get a navegante and a Lisboa Card at the airport?

Yes, you can buy both cards at Lisbon Airport.

You can buy a navegante occasional card at the airport’s metro station.

You can buy a Lisboa Card at the Tourist Office desk (Ask Me Lisboa) at Lisbon Airport.

Do I need to buy cards for my children?

If your children are 4 years old or older, you will need to buy them a separate card. This is valid both for navegante and Lisboa Card; the latter has a special price for children aged 4 to 15 years old.

Can any of the cards be used outside Lisbon, say, in Sintra or Cascais?

Both navegante and Lisboa Card card are eligible for travel on public transport within the city and connecting the city to destinations in Greater Lisbon. This means that you can use both cards for travel on the trains to Sintra and Cascais.

Moreover, the Lisboa Card includes free entry to some attractions outside Lisbon, such as Tomar’s Convent of Christ , Mafra National Palace , as well discounts in a number of attractions in Sintra .

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The Viva Viagem card is a rechargeable electronic card that can be used on Lisbon's metro, buses (except the AeroBus to and from Lisbon Airport ), ferries, trams and urban trains to and from Sintra and Cascais .

The Viva Viagem card costs 0.50 cents and is valid for one year from the date of purchase.

The card can be purchased from the automatic ticket vending machines at metro stations and ticket offices at major stations in the Lisbon urban area such as Cais do Sodre , Oriente , Sete Rios (Jardim Zoológico), Entrecampos , Marquês de Pombal, Restauradores and Terreiro do Paço.

The Viva Viagem card can be charged in amounts of 5, 10 or 20 Euros. It is also possible to load other tickets on to the card such as a single metro ticket or a day pass. The ticket machines accept coins, notes and credit cards.

Purchasing a Viva Viagem card allows for cheaper journeys on the Lisbon public transport system.

Simply hold your card over the scanner at the barriers at metro and train stations to pass through. On Lisbon's buses validate your journey on the yellow card reader. The amount left on your card can be read and displayed at the barriers. If the barrier does not open, go to a ticket machine and reload your card.

For further details see Transportes de Lisboa

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Why You Should Get Yourself a Viva Viagem Card in Lisbon

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Flávia is a passionate travel enthusiast hailing from the picturesque city of Lisbon. Her insatiable wanderlust and keen sense of exploration have driven her to become a prolific writer for Lisbon.vip, where she imparts her travel experiences and insights to inspire fellow adventurers.

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Viva Viagem Card – Lisbon’s travel card

We truly believe that Lisbon is best seen on foot.

Despite being the city of the 7 hills and sometimes quite challenging, there’s nothing like walking through the streets, wander from neighbourhood to neighbourhood and reach those places where neither a bus, a tram or the metro can reach.

But if want to take a break from walking all the time or if you wish to go somewhere a bit further from downtown, like Belém or Parque das Nações, all you need to know are these 3 words: Viva Viagem Card.

Viva Viagem Card is Lisbon’s travel card, an electronic ticket that is reloadable and was made especially for non-frequent users.

This little green card costs 0.50€ and can be can be loaded using one of four different systems.

• Single tickets system:

You can choose to load the card with single tickets, such as the bus/metro ticket (cost of each single ticket: 1.40€). Or you can load a 24h network ticket that allows you to travel by bus/metro (6€) or bus/metro/boat (9€). The only rule is: acard can only be loaded with the same type of tickets.

• Zapping system:

This is the most flexible way to load your card. You just load it with a predefined amout of money and spend it wherever you want, on a bus ride, on the metro, tram, train or boat. Each journey costs 1.25€, no matter the mean of transportation, so as long as there’s a minimum amout of 1,25€ in your card you are good to go.

• Traveling all Lisboa:

A ticket that lets you travel by bus, funicular, tram, lift, metro and train during 24h, for 10€. Learn more about Travelling all Lisboa.

• Traveling all Cacilhas:

Besides the bus, funicular, tram, lift and metro, this ticket lets you take boat to cross the river and go to Cacilhas. It is also valid for 24h and it costs 9€. Learn more about Travelling Cacilhas.

No matter the system you choose, you just have to bear in mind that you can’t switch between systems.

Viva Viagem Card can be purchased and loaded in the metro network, directly from all automatic ticket vending machines or at some ticket offices: Colégio Militar, Jardim Zoológico, Marquês de Pombal, Campo Grande, Baixa-Chiado, Cais do Sodré,   Oriente and Aeroporto.

Lear more about Lisbon public transportation network on Transportes de Lisboa website .

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7 Colinas Card / Viva Viagem Card

The 7 Colinas and  Viva Viagem cards are magnetic travel cards you can to up and  the cheapest way to get around Lisbon.

The 7 Colinas and Viva Viagem cards costs €0.50 and is valid for one year, so don’t lose it if you’re planning on going back to Lisbon that same year.

You can buy this travel card in any metro station, newspaper stand or Carris’ points of sale and top it up whenever you need it. You can also check the amount you have left in any of the city’s buses, trams and lifts.

The card can only be used by one person , so if you are travelling with a group of friends or family, each one must have their own card.

Transport prices with the 7 Colinas Card

Lisbon’s ticket system is extremely complicated and thus, hard to explain. You can charge your 7 Colinas card with various types of transport tickets depending on what means of transport you’ll use in Lisbon. We recommend getting the option that is valid for Carris and Metro , which is a 1 day ticket for trams, buses, lifts and the subway.  

Single ticket

If you plan to walk everywhere and don’t want to buy a 1-day travel card, we recommend you simply buy a one-way ticket any time you wish to use Lisbon’s public transport system. A single ticket with the 7 Colinas card for the Carris network ( trams , buses , and funiculars ) and the metro costs € 1.50 ( US$ 1.60) .

1-Day travel card

A one-day travel card is € 6.40 ( US$ 6.90)   You can charge this type of transport ticket on your 7 Colinas card in any metro station or newspaper stand.

Even if you don’t use the public transport system a lot in Lisbon, we recommend you purchase the 7 Colinas travel card and top it up either with single tickets or a daily travel card, as it is the cheapest and easiest option. On your first and last day, we recommend you get single tickets, since it will probably be cheaper.

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Lisbon is famous for numerous products that make great souvenirs and presents, including beautiful ceramics, embroidery and exquisite cheese and wine. We highly recommend getting any hand-made product during your stay in Lisbon.

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Lisboa Card: All You Need To Know

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Planning a trip to Lisbon and looking for a hassle-free way to explore the city’s historical and cultural attractions? Look no further than the Lisboa Card!

This official tourist card is a fantastic time and money saver, giving you free or discounted access to many of Lisbon’s most popular sites and free, unlimited use of public transportation.

In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about the Lisboa Card, so you can make the most of your visit to Portugal’s vibrant capital city.

Table of Contents

What are the Benefits of the Lisboa Card?

• You can use a Lisboa Card for all public transportation in Lisbon. This means that it is valid on all the lines including buses, trains, metro, trams, and funiculars. So, it offers unlimited rides for this transportation. Thus, you won’t need to buy an extra Lisbon transportation card to travel. 
• Trains to Cascais and Sintra are also free. 
• Lisboa card offers a 25 percent discount if you want to take the Aerobus. The bus takes you from the airport to the city center. 
• Discounts and deals are also available for the nighttime.  
• The fast-track entrances are available in certain destinations in Lisbon. National Archaeology Museum, Belém Tower, Ajuda Palace, and Jerónimos Monastery are some of them. You can use your card at machines for fast entrance to these places without waiting in line. 
• You can visit tens of museums, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and other tourist sights.
• Besides, you’ll also get a complimentary booklet about the city.

How Much the Lisboa Card is and the Time Limit?

You have three-period options like 24, 48, and 72 hours. You can choose the one that fits your plan the most. When the period is over, your card will be deactivated. 

Note that Lisbon Travel Card has categories for adults and children. Individuals between the ages of 4 and 15 are within the child category. Individuals 16 years and older are within the adult category. 

Lisboa Card Prices

How to get the lisbon card.

You can both buy a Lisboa card online in advance or when you arrive in Lisbon. If you want to apply online, first enter Lisboa Card’s website on the Internet. Choose the date, type your personal information, and complete the payment.  Then you can get your Lisbon transport card.

You can get a Lisboa Card at;

• Lisbon airport; you can pick up the Lisbon city pass from the tourist office at the airport. It’s open between 7 a.m. – 12 p.m.
• The Lisboa Welcome Centre; It’s at the large Comércio Plaza on the waterfront in Baixa.
• Foz Palace; This is a tourist office next to the train station of Rossio.

Note that ordering the card online before you arrive will save you time as well.

Tips for Using the Lisbon Travel Card

An important point about the card is the time limit. You will activate the card only after using it. So, you can plan your travel according to this arrangement. If it is a 24-hour card and you’ll start traveling the next day, you may not want to use the Lisbon transport card.

Also, you can postpone your Lisbon pass if you need to cancel your trip after your purchase. 

If It is a 24-Hour Card

In this case, visiting Belém can be a good choice to see as many notable places as possible. Belem is an important historical place to visit. Also, you can see many sights there just in one day. Thanks to the Lisbon Card, the train to Belém is also free. Here, you can visit museums like the National Museum of Coaches. Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower are other great destinations. These two sites are on the World Heritage List. 

You can visit the National Museum of Ancient Art and the National Pantheon as another option. Ajuda Palace and The Berardo Collection Museum are also other important destinations. 

Note that visiting each such place is between €6 and €10. However, you can visit all of them for free.

If the Card has More than a 24-Hour Limit

In this case, you can spend the other day in Baixa. You’ll find important places to visit with your Lisboa Tourist Card. (The Lisboa Story Centre, Rua Augusta Arch, the National Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Santa Justa Elevator, etc.).They are not limited to only these places though. When you arrive in Baixa, you can find some other must-visit museums.

If you have more time to travel, you can visit The Royal Palace of Mafra and the Monastery of Batalha on the third day. 

Other Places to Visit for Free with the Lisboa Card

Besides the ones above, other free-entry attractions and the Lisboa card museum list:

• MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology)
• National Archaeology Museum
• National Pantheon
• Edward VII Park Greenhouse
• Anastácio Gonçalves Museum
• 25 de Abril Bridge Museum and Observation Deck

Places to Visit with Discounts  with Lisbon Pass

You can visit the following attractions with certain discounts with your Lisboa Tourist Card.

Places with 50 Percent Discounts

• Arpad Szenes-Vieira da Silva Museum 
• Water Museum 

Places from 30 to 40 Percent Discounts

• São Roque Museum (40 percent)
• Medeiros e Almeida Museum (40 percent)
• Maritime Museum (33 percent)
• Carris Museum (30 percent)
• Berardo Collection Museum (30 percent)

Places from 10 to 20 Percent Discounts

• Calouste Gulbenkian Museum (20 percent)
• Fado Museum (20 percent)
• Carmo Convent (20 percent)
• Discoveries Monument (20 percent)
• Orient Museum (20 percent)
• Marionette Museum (20 percent)
• Amália Rodrigues House-Museum (20 percent)
• Bordalo Pinheiro Museum (20 percent)
• Knowledge Pavilion (15 percent)
• Oceanarium (15 percent)
• Botanical Garden (10 percent)
• Parque das Nações Cable Cars (10 percent)
• Amoreiras 360º Observation Deck (€1)

Is the Lisboa Card Worth It?

The answer depends on your intention in visiting Lisbon. You may believe that you cannot visit so many places in a short time. In this case, you may not need the card, for sure. Or you may decide to visit only a few places. In that case, the total expense may be cheaper than the card’s value. You won’t need to buy a Lisbon metro card as an extra.

Note that many museums in Lisbon may be closed on Mondays. So, choosing the days consideringly will help you enjoy your visit more. 

In short, a Lisboa Card can turn your short trip to Lisbon into a cheaper and more enjoyable one. You can choose to get the card if you plan to visit many places in a short time.

Viva Viagem vs Lisboa Card: Which Card Should I Buy?

If you want to use public transportation in Lisbon, you may be wondering whether to get a Viva Viagem card or a Lisboa Card. Both cards provide unlimited trips on Lisbon’s buses, trams, and metro, but there are several key distinctions to be aware of.

The Viva Viagem card is a pay-as-you-go card, therefore you must put money onto it before each journey. For a modest cost, you may purchase a Viva Viagem card at any metro stop and then refill it with money as required. In contrast, the Lisboa Card is a prepaid card that must be purchased in advance.

It is available in two sizes: a one-day pass and a three-day pass. The one-day pass is €20, while the three-day pass is €40. Both cards provide unlimited trips on the city’s public transit system, in addition to discounts at select museums and attractions.

Which card should you get? If you only want to use public transit for a day or two, the Lisboa Card is definitely the best choice. If you intend on utilizing public transportation regularly or staying for an extended amount of time, the Viva Viagem card may be more convenient and cost-effective.

Enjoy your stay in Lisbon!

What is the Lisboa Card?

The Lisboa Card is a tourist card that gives holders free or discounted admission to a variety of museums, attractions, and public transportation in Lisbon, Portugal. The card is valid for either 24, 48, or 72 hours from the first use, and it can be purchased online or at various locations around the city. Holders can choose to pay for the card upfront or include it as part of their hotel package. The card also includes discounts on restaurants, stores, and other businesses in Lisbon.

How much is the Lisboa Card?

The Lisboa Card is a discount card that offers free or discounted admission to many of the city’s museums and attractions, as well as free public transportation. The card costs €20 for 24 hours, €33 for 48 hours, or €39 for 72 hours. It can be purchased online or at any of the participating attractions. The Lisboa Card is a great way to save money if you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing in Lisbon.

Where do you buy the Lisboa Card?

The Lisboa Card can be purchased online or at any of the participating attractions. The card is available in three different duration options: 24 hours, 48 hours, or 72 hours. Prices start at €22 for the 24-hour card, €33 for the 48-hour card, and €43 for the 72-hour card. With so many benefits, the Lisboa Card is the perfect way to explore everything that the city has to offer.

How to use the Lisboa Card for the best value?

The Lisboa Card is a city pass that offers free or discounted admission to many of Lisbon’s attractions, museums, and public transportation. It can be purchased online or at any of the participating attractions. The card is available in three different duration options: 24 hours, 48 hours, or 72 hours. Prices start at €22 for the 24-hour card, €33 for the 48-hour card, and €43 for the 72-hour card. With so many benefits, the Lisboa Card is the perfect way to explore everything that the city has to offer.

What does Lisboa Card include?

The Lisboa Card includes free or discounted entry to over 60 attractions, including museums, historic sites, and tours. You’ll also enjoy free public transportation, making it easy to get around the city. Plus, with exclusive discounts at restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues, the Lisboa Card is the perfect way to save on your next trip to Lisbon.

Where can I pick up my Lisboa Card?

The Lisboa Card allows you to enjoy free entry to many of the city’s top attractions, as well as unlimited use of public transport. The card can be purchased online or at one of the following locations:

• Lisboa City Hall (Loja do Munícipe)
• Lisboa Tourism Office (Office de Turismo de Lisboa)
• Santa Apolónia Train station
• Lisbon Airport (arrivals hall)
• Selected hotels and hostels
• Azulejo Museum
• Casa-Museu Geirrado s da Fonseca
• Chiado Museum
• Maritime Museum
• National Azulejo Museum
• National Coach Museum
• National Tile Museum

What is the cheapest way to get around Lisbon?

The Lisboa card is the cheapest way to get around Lisbon. It gives you unlimited travel on all public transport in Lisbon, including buses, trams, metro, and trains. It also gives you free entry to over 60 museums and attractions, as well as discounts at restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. The Lisboa card is available for 24, 48, or 72 hours, and costs €19.50, €33.00, or €39.00 respectively. If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing and using public transport extensively, the Lisboa card will save you a lot of money.

Does Lisboa Card include Pena Palace?

Yes, the Lisboa card includes Pena palace.

Does Lisboa Card include Sintra bus?

Yes, Lisboa Card includes Sintra Bus. The card has no annual fee and offers unlimited rides for one month.

How much is a 24-hour Lisboa Card?

A 24-hour Lisboa card costs €30 per day for adults and €15 per day for children under 12. The price includes free access to all public transport, museums, galleries, cultural events, and other attractions. Children aged between 1 and 2 years old do not need a ticket, while those aged between 3 and 11 years old must be accompanied by an adult who pays the full fare.

How do I use my Lisboa Card on public transport?

Using a Lisboa card is easy – simply present it at the ticket office when you board a bus, tram, or train. You can also use the card to purchase tickets for museums and other attractions in advance. With the Lisboa Card, you’ll be able to explore all that Lisbon has to offer without breaking the bank.

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Lisboa Card: the official tourist map of Lisbon

Save time and money with the Lisboa Card! Enjoy free access to over 26 museums and cultural venues, along with unlimited public transportation for 24, 48 or 72 hours, which even includes the train and subway to Lisbon Airport.

Take advantage of more than 70 discounts on tours, shows, entertainment and other services. Get the most out of your visit!

What is the Lisboa Card?

The Lisboa Card represents Lisbon's official tourist pass, a true 3-in-1.

Essentially, it is a transportation pass, a museum admission ticket and a discount card all in one. In addition to that, the Lisboa City Card package also offers a free map and a compact travel guide.

Overall, this Lisbon tourist pass proves to be a valuable ally for visitors to Lisbon, enabling them to optimize their time and save money while in the city.

Choose your Lisboa Card

What is included in the Lisboa Card?

Attractions.

The Lisbon City Pass includes free and discounted access to Lisbon's best museums. Attractions that offer free access include the Belém Tower, the Monastery dos Jerónimos, the National Museum of the Azulejos, the Santa Justa Elevator, and the National Palace of Mafra. At the same time, Lisbon Cathedral, Benfica Stadium, San Jorge Castle, and numerous other attractions offer discounted access.

Transportation

The Lisbon Tourist Card includes free and unlimited transportation throughout Lisbon's public transportation network (metro, bus, streetcar, funicular). In addition to public transportation in the Portuguese capital, with this Lisbon means card you can ride the Cais do Sodré - Cascais trains for free.

Other benefits of the Lisboa Card

Avoid the queue and save time.

Many of Lisbon's major attractions and museums offer "skip the line" service for Lisboa Pass Card holders. This allows you to avoid long and stressful lines at the entrance. In addition to this, you will not have to worry about wasting time on public transportation, as you will not need to buy a ticket each time.

Discounts on premises and shopping centers

In addition to enjoying a discount on attractions, you can also enjoy exclusive offers on clubs, restaurants and shopping centers. In fact, Lisbon card holders will be guaranteed a discounted price in several businesses that display the "Lisboa Card" sticker at the entrance.

Free Lisbon Guide

Included in the price of the Lisboa Card, you will get a free Lisbon city guide with a metro and public transport map, descriptions of the most famous museums and attractions, and tourist information about the areas and discounts offered by the Lisbon city pass.

How much does the Lisboa Card cost?

The Lisbon Card has an initial cost of 22€ for 24 hours.

The price varies according to the duration of the tourist pass, which can be 24, 48 or 72 hours:

• Use for 24 hours
• Access to up to 38 attractions
• Free travel on public transportation
• Free access Tram 28
• Free Access S.Justa Elevator
• ...much more...
• Use for 48 hours
• Use for 72 hours

Lisbon's tourist pass is free for children under 4 and has a reduced cost for children ages 4 to 15.

Important: Each Lisbon Card is personal and cannot be given to another person.

Where can you buy the Lisbon Card?

If you wish to purchase the Lisbon pass, you have two options available to you. You can purchase it directly in Lisbon at the Portela information office or at the Lisboa Welcome Center located in Praça do Comércio.

However, it is important to note that you may often run into very long lines. To avoid the wait, the second option is to make the purchase online. This gives you the flexibility to buy it at any time, and the card will remain active for a full year.

Where do you pick up the card?

Once your purchase is made, you will receive the voucher via email.

You will need to show it in one of the Ask Me Lisboa tourist offices in the city or in the arrivals terminal at Lisbon-Portela Airport, where you will be given the physical card. The confirmation e-mail includes a list of pick-up points, addresses and opening hours.

Does the Lisboa card really pay off?

The Lisboa Card can be convenient depending on your activities and interests. It is ideal if you plan to explore Lisbon in a few days, use public transportation and visit different attractions.

However, if the visits are not consecutive or if you prefer to walk instead of using transportation, the convenience may decrease. The card offers benefits such as priority access and discounts, but should be evaluated according to one's needs and planned itinerary. Students and young Europeans may not benefit much, while the closure of some attractions on Mondays may affect usage.

Overall, this Lisbon pass is a particularly good option for those who want to make the most of the attractions in a short period.

LISBON CARD WORTHWHILE?

How to use the Lisboa Card?

The Lisboa Card represents the ideal solution for those who have a few days to immerse themselves in the city, especially thanks to the free access to the local public transportation system .

So without any problems, you can get on a bus, streetcar or train and head to the majestic Palacio Nacional de Ajuda , the animated Azulejos Museum or the fascinating Roman Theater Museum , all without having to shell out any money. Afterwards, jump back on the transport vehicle and head to the Monument of Discovery , the Sao Jorge Castle or the fascinating Carmo Museum of Archaeology , enjoying significant discounts.

And if you still have energy to spare, treat yourself to an exploration of the city with an adventure via Sidecar Touring or a ride on the Circuit Colinas Tram.

The Lisboa Card proves its practicality no matter how long you stay in the city.

With 24, 48 or 72 consecutive hour options , this travel card adapts flexibly to different types of visitors and programs. In addition, validity extends for one full year from the date of purchase (a useful feature in case of changes in travel plans) and is activated on first use .

Equipped with the Lisboa Card, you'll be ready to enjoy local food and drink, shop, travel, and discover all the sights and sounds of this fascinating riverside city. The knowledge that you will save significantly during this experience will make your trip to Lisbon even more rewarding.

Visit São Jorge Castle with the Lisbon Card

Visit the Lisbon Oceanarium with the Lisboa Card

Visit the Monastery dos Jerónimos with the Lisboa Card

Visit Sintra with the Lisboa Card

Visit MAAT Lisbon with the Lisboa Card

Visit the Belém Tower with the Lisboa Card

Visit Castelo dos Mouros with Lisboa Card

Visit the Monument of Discoveries with Lisbon Card

Frequently asked questions.

The Lisboa Card also includes a "fast track" option at places like the Monastero dos Jerónimos, Belém Tower, National Archaeological Museum, and Ajuda Palace. This allows you to skip the long lines. Just scan your card on one of the special automated machines.

The "Viva Viagem" is a transportation card designed for travelers and casual visitors. It represents a quick and easy way to make payments for subway, bus, streetcar, funicular, ferry and train travel in Lisbon. If you plan to visit numerous monuments and museums on a daily basis, we undoubtedly recommend purchasing a Lisboa Card. However, if you mainly want to explore the historic neighborhoods and enjoy the sights from the outside, the Viva Viagem card might be the ideal option for getting around Lisbon's public transportation with ease. For more information, read the article best Viva Viagem or Lisboa Card ?

No. Many of the attractions included in the Lisboa Card already offer youth and student discounts, and these discounts cannot be combined with those offered by the Lisboa Card. This means that to maximize savings, it is more convenient to opt for individual online tickets with reduced rates for specific attractions, while for transportation you can purchase the Viva Viagem.

The Lisboa Card becomes valid when you first use it, not when you collect it. For example, if you use it for the first time at 8:00 p.m., the first day of use will expire at 8:00 p.m. the next day.

Home > Transportation > Metro

Lisbon Metro

Travelers' guide.

T he four clean, safe, and artful lines of the Lisbon metro (shown on the map above, present at any station) connect downtown's waterfront to the northern districts and the suburbs of Amadora and Odivelas. The first lines opened in 1959 and are still expanding. They do not, however, reach the Belém district or the neighborhoods on the tallest hill around the castle ( Graça and the highest part of Alfama ). Still, the metro is the most efficient way to get to many of the city's attractions and hotels between the hours of 6:30am and 1am .

Campo Grande station, with a decoration imitating baroque tile panels.

Artistic projects decorate most of the stations, including themed tiled walls by contemporary artists. The red line is the most impressive, but other stations of this underground gallery feature works by prominent Portuguese artists: Vieira da Silva in Rato and Cidade Universitária, Júlio Pomar in Alto dos Moinhos, and Maria Keil in most of the stations of the green and yellow lines.

Inside a Lisbon Metro train

The blue line is the one most used by tourists, as it goes down Avenida da Liberdade to Baixa and the train station of Santa Apolónia . The green line is also popular, especially its stops in Rossio Square and Cais do Sodré station . The red line connects the Parque das Nações district and the airport to the other lines. The yellow line is mostly used by locals, as it heads north, away from the main tourist areas.

Saldanha station of the Metro, which connects the yellow and red lines.

The frequency of the trains depends on the time of day and day of the week. They run every 5 to 7 minutes during rush hours , and as much as 10 to 12 minutes at night .

Lisbon Metro ticket machines

Metro Tickets and Fares

Rides are FREE with the Lisboa Card , otherwise you'll need to use a contactless card or mobile device to pay when you access the platforms (touch in and touch out on the card readers), or buy your ticket (a magnetic card) from the machines found at every station (they have instructions in English, French, and Spanish, in addition to Portuguese). Be sure to keep your ticket handy because you'll need to scan it again to exit. There are two fare zones, but all of the tourist areas and the airport are within zone 1 (zone 2 covers the suburbs). A single ride is €1.65 , but there’s a 24-hour ticket for unlimited travel for €6.60 . That 24-ticket includes the city’s buses and trams .

Using a contactless card or mobile phone is the easiest way to pay for a Lisbon Metro ride

"Viva Viagem" Card

If you don't pay with your contactless card or phone, the first time you ride the metro, you need to purchase the magnetic “Viva Viagem” card. It costs €0.50 and can be used to recharge future trips or the 24-hour ticket mentioned above. A Viva Viagem can only be used by one person, so if you’re traveling as a family, every member should get their own. This card is valid for 12 months, and can be used in all of Lisbon’s urban and suburban transportation. Inconveniently, this card only accepts one type of fare at a time, meaning if you charge metro tickets, you can’t then add train tickets. The only way around this is to charge the card with a ticket called “Zapping,” which is a credit with amounts ranging from €3 to €40 (it can be charged at any metro ticket machine). It can then be used to pay all public transportation, deducting €1.47 for every metro, bus or tram ride, and €1.90 for every train journey. With the 24-hour ticket and the free Lisboa Card access, this Zapping may not be very useful for tourists.

Exit of Campo Grande station to the bus terminal

Major Stations

Baixa-chiado.

It’s on the green and blue lines, and one of the busiest stations. One exit leads to the flat streets of Baixa , while another is reached through a steep series of escalators which lead to the Chiado district on the hilltop. The Baixa exit is a short walk from Rua Augusta and the bottom of the Santa Justa Elevator , while the Chiado exit is close to the top of the Santa Justa Elevator, Carmo Convent , and the neighborhood of Bairro Alto .

Marquês de Pombal

It connects the blue and yellow lines, so it’s just as busy as Baixa-Chiado. From this station, you may walk down Avenida da Liberdade , walk up to Edward VII Park , or visit the Medeiros e Almeida Museum .

Cais do Sodré

The last station on the green line links to the trains to Cascais ’ beaches and to the ferries to Cacilhas (where many tourists hop on a bus to the Cristo Rei monument or the beaches of Costa da Caparica ). It’s very busy with commuters during the day, and with the local youth at night, for the bars nearby.

Campo Grande

Connects the green and yellow lines, and to a bus terminal with buses to different destinations in the Lisbon region, like Óbidos and Ericeira . Across the road from one of the two exits is also Pimenta Palace, the main branch of the Lisbon Museum .

São Sebastião

It’s on the blue line and also the first station of the red line. One of its exits leads to the El Corte Inglés department store, and it’s just a few feet from the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum .

The busiest station on the red line is the gateway to the Parque das Nações district (with its famous Oceanarium and the popular Vasco da Gama mall). It connects to long-distance trains and buses.

Access to the platforms at São Sebastião station, which connects the red ("vermelha") and the blue ("azul") lines.

Access to the Disabled and Priority Seating in the Lisbon Metro

Only some stations of the Lisbon Metro are accessible to those on wheelchairs or with mobility issues. That means an elevator to the train platforms. All stations on the red line (from/to the airport and Oriente Station) have them, but many of the ones on the yellow, blue, and green lines (including many of the main ones in the city center) do not. Most do have escalators. You can see which stations have wheelchair access on the map at the top of this page.

All trains of the Lisbon Metro have priority seating for pregnant women, elderly passengers, passengers carrying small children, and passengers with disabilities. If you’re one of those people, don’t hesitate to ask for a seat when the train is full, and remember to offer your seat if you see a passenger who has priority.

The white rabbit from Alice in Wonderland in the metro station of Cais do Sodré

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Complete Lisbon Guide

Insider's guide with the latest travel tips, information and advice from local experts:

Where to Stay

Hotels in Alfama and the Castle

Hotels on Avenida da Liberdade

Hotels in Bairro Alto

Hotels in Baixa

Hotels in Chiado

Hotels in Príncipe Real

Hotels in Avenidas Novas

Neighborhoods

Avenida da Liberdade

Avenidas Novas

Bairro Alto

Campo de Ourique

Parque das Nações

Príncipe Real

What to See & Do

Top 50 Attractions

Top 30 Museums

Top 30 Viewpoints

Best Beaches

Best Day Trips

Itinerary Advice

Family Attractions

On a Rainy Day

1 Day in Lisbon

Tourist Card

Tourist Map

Most Popular Attractions

Jerónimos Monastery

Belém Tower

Castle of St. George

Discoveries Monument

Ajuda Palace

Santa Justa Elevator

Rua Augusta Arch

Lisbon Cathedral

Coaches Museum

Tile Museum

MAC/CCB Museum

Ancient Art Museum

Pena Palace (Sintra)

Most Popular Beaches

Praia da Conceição

Costa da Caparica

Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo

Praia da Ursa

Transportation

Travel Cards

Tram 15 to Belém

Train to Belém

Bica Funicular

Glória Funicular

Bus 101 to Cristo Rei

Hop-On Hop-Off Buses

Airport Guide

Airport Transportation

Rossio Station

Santa Apolónia Station

Oriente Station

Cais do Sodré Station

Sete Rios Bus Station

Cacilhas Bus Station

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New Lisbon transport card launched

By TPN/Lusa, in News , Lisbon · 09 Sep 2021, 19:00 · 0 Comments

The Navegante brand has been launched with the aim of simplification, digitisation, integration and interoperability between various carries in the city, according to a statement from TML.

TML is a public management entity dependent on the inter-municipal entity Lisbon Metropolitan Area (AML) in charge of coordinating and planning all inter-municipal collective public transport of the associated municipalities and the municipal collective public transport of the municipalities that have delegated their municipal powers of Transport Authority in the AML.

Navegante replaces the previous Lisboa Viva card and comes with a new image. The card will now be for “everything and everyone, simplifying the language and communication of those who want to travel”, states TML, which does not add if Lisboa Viva cards remain in force until the expiration date stated on tickets.

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Frequent Travellers

This area is for people who use public transport regularly.

The card to be used for loading your pass is the Lisboa VIVA/ Navegante  card with associated profile.

• » Click here to download PDF document

Find out more about Passes

Monthly passes

Passes with monthly validity are purchased for the following month only from the 26th of the previous month. For example, the purchase of a Navegante Pass for the month of June can only be carried out from May 26th until June 25th.

In the CARRIS sales network you can load the following Navegante Municipal passes: Lisbon, Almada, Amadora, Loures, Odivelas and Oeiras.

30 day passes

They can be purchased at any time of the month.

Exchanging and returning

Navegante passes

Cancellations are accepted before the beginning of the month to which they refer. After that date, exchanges of a Municipal Navigator Pass are only permitted for a Metropolitan Navigator Pass, with a value equal to or greater, until the 25th day of the month for which the pass is respected. These operations are only possible by the operator that made the original sale. At CARRIS it is only possible in the Arco Cego, Saldanha or Santo Amaro stores. Within the scope of VIVA System sales (ATM, VIVA Portal, network of Payshop agents, VIVA kiosk and others that will be implemented later) these exchanges can be made at Carris stores.

There’s no exchange between city passes.

The return/exchange operations can only be carried out after the delivery of the invoice.

Family Navegante passes

Cancellations are accepted if none of the household's cards have yet been loaded.

This annulment is only possible in the CARRIS (Arco Cego, Saldanha or Santo Amaro) store network and by the Operator that made the original sale.

Cancellation operations may only be carried out on delivery of the invoice.

Passes valid for 30 days

Before the start of validity the refund is made with the refund of the entire value of the pass. After the first day of validity, only returns of the pass value are made less of a fee of 12.5% for each day of validity.

Any fees paid at the ATM will not be refunded to the customer.

These exchange/cancellation operations are only possible to be carried out in the network of CARRIS (Arco Cego, Saldanha or Santo Amaro) stores and by the operator that made the original sale, with the exception of the sales made under the VIVA System (ATM, VIVA Portal, network of agents Payshop, Kiosk VIVA and others that will be implemented later).

Return/exchange operations can only be done upon invoice delivery.

Temporal and geographic validity

Click to see the geographical validity of the Navegante passes »»

Municipal Navegante

A fixed monthly pass, valid for the entire month it is purchased for.

Valid on all regular public transport services within the geographic limits of one municipality, selected from the 18 municipalities in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area (AML).

The validity of municipal passes on CARRIS is limited to the municipalities of Lisbon, Amadora, Loures, Odivelas and Oeiras, but this should be checked per route, depending on the journey to be undertaken. 

Metropolitan Navegante

Valid on all regular public transport services in the 18 municipalities in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area. Valid for all stops and routes on the CARRIS network.

Urban Navegante (30 days) - 3rd Age or Retired/Pensioner

Pass for people over 65 or pensioners (with monthly household income equal to or less than the national minimum wage), valid in the urban networks of CARRIS and Metro and in the CP Lisbon urban routes, including Benfica, Belém and Moscavide stations, for 30 consecutive days from the date of loading.

Local Route Pass

Pass valid on CARRIS local routes for 30 consecutive days counting from the date of loading.

Parking Pass

The CARRIS + Metro + Parking pass is an integrated pass that allows you to use the CARRIS network and the Metro network and park in EMEL and EMPARK car parks.

Who it's for:

This pass is for users of car parks and public transport in Lisbon City.

All users must have a Lisboa VIVA/ Navegante card.

To purchase your pass with parking, you must:

• Confirm at the EMEL or EMPARK car park you want to use if there is space available for the month in question (see the car parks that are included in this agreement below);
• Go to the CARRIS or Metro sales network and load your Lisboa VIVA/ Navegante card;
• Go back to the EMEL or EMPARK car park in question and present the receipt for your pass. You will then be given a car park access card (valid for 30 days, equivalent to the period loaded on your pass).

EMEL: Colégio Militar / Sete Rios / Álvaro Pais / Biblioteca / Universidade / Campo Grande / Areeiro 

+info:   https://www.emel.pt/

EMPARK: Docas / Alvalade XXI

+info:   https://www.empark.com/pt/pt/

Find out more about the Lisboa VIVA/ Navegante Card

Lisboa VIVA/ Navegante card profile

The Lisboa VIVA/ Navegante card is a personal and non-transferable electronic card accepted by all Transport Operators in the Lisbon Region. It can only be used by the Cardholder. It allows passes to be loaded, as well as zapping options and pay as you go, with VIVA Go (associated with your bank account). You can load up to 4 different tickets on a single card. These can be passes and/or zapping cards.

The Lisboa VIVA/ Navegante card is always associated with a type, which we call a profile. Normal Profile: with no associated discount, for passengers who don’t fall under the other Lisboa VIVA/ Navegante card types. Profile with Discounts: Young students (between 4 and 23/24 years old), + 65, Retiree/Pensioner and Social+.

How to request or renew

Lisboa VIVA/ Navegante cards can be requested on CARRIS Shops and Kiosks or any Lisbon Region Transport Operator or online, on the VIVA website .

Do you want to fill out the request in advance? Download >>

See here the General Conditions of Issuance and Use of the Navegante Pass >> >>

Note: The requisition of the Cartão Navegante made by Ukrainian refugees must be made simultaneously with the presentation of the Request for Temporary Protection, issued by the SEF, and accompanied by the identification document of the country of origin (with photo identification).

The Lisboa VIVA/ Navegante card is valid until the end of the period indicated on the card itself. The Lisboa VIVA/ Navegante card has different validity periods, varying between 4 and 6.5 years after the issue, according to the type of customer/card profile. In the case of cards associated with mode Under 18+TP and Student under 23+TP the expiry date of the card depends on the age of the Customer.   The validity will be between 4 years (minimum) and the date when the Customer reaches 19 or 24 years, respectively.   If the Customer, at the time of asking for the card, is less than 4 years of the maximum age for the profile, then the card will be valid for less than 4 years. The card must be renewed before the expiry of the validity period and the holder must request the issue of a new card in advance.

The Lisboa VIVA/ Navegante card has a warranty period of 2 years (in the case of cards issued before January 1, 2022) or 3 years (in the case of cards issued after January 1, 2022).

If a card stops working during this period and has no visible damage, it will be exchanged free of charge.

After this period, or if the card has been damaged by the passenger, they will have to pay for the new card.

Aftersales Assistance

If your card stops working:

• If you do not have a balance, you must charge the card.
• If the card is properly loaded but cannot read it, you should go to the CARRIS Shop , presenting the card and the corresponding proof of loading.

These cards are replaced according to the following rules:

• The card shall be replaced only on the operator where the card was loaded.
• If the card has been loaded into an ATM machine the replacement is done in a CARRIS Shop or in a Customer Service Office of any of the operators appearing in the loaded title;
• If the card is damaged, that is, without any visible damage, and within the warranty period, the replacement is free of charge; if the card is damaged, or after the expiration date, the cost is borne by the customer.
• If the damaged card has any valid title loaded, it can be transferred to a replacement tab, and then transferred back to the new card that the customer requests.

During the period during which the card is in production, in order to continue to use the transports, a provisional card called the Replacement Guide shall be delivered upon delivery of the order for duplicate cardboard, valid for the same period as the security loaded on the card which has ceased to function. This process is possible, in CARRIS Stores, whatever the place of purchase of the title or, in the network of CARRIS Kiosks, for securities acquired only in CARRIS.

Loss or theft

They must be communicated as soon as possible to the operator who issued the card, so that it is cancelled, avoiding its use by a third party. In the case of CARRIS, this communication must be made in person in one of our stores, in order to guarantee your identity. You must request a new card, in our Stores and Kiosks, for the current price, and request the transfer of the monthly title that you had loaded. If your card has associated the Viva GO mode, you should also contact the SIBS Customer Service line 808 20 12 51 OR 217 918 780 so that the card is entered on a black list, not allowing the validation of the trip in the VIVA Go payment mode.

Care to be taken with your Card

Your Lisboa VIVA/ Navegante card must be kept in good condition so that it will work properly and the card balance/profile can be read. So, take good care of it:

• Don’t press the chip on your card.
• Don’t twist or bend your card.
• When you validate your card, don’t shake it or push it against the validation machine. The validation machines are contactless so no additional movement is necessary. Just place it near the validation machine for a few seconds until you get a green light or the gates open.
• Always remove the card from your wallet when validating it.
• Don’t have other contactless cards near your Lisboa VIVA card when holding it near the validation machine, as the validation machine could read the wrong card.

Navegante Lisbon Card | Former Viva Viagem | Save money on transit

Learn how to use Navegante travel card to pay for your transportation in Lisbon, where to buy it, which tickets to load on it to save money on transit.

The Navegante Card (formerly Viva Viagem) is a convenient way to pay for Lisbon's extensive and complicated public transportation system. It saves you money and time on your travel in Lisbon.

Once you have the card, you can load it with different types of tickets and passes to suit your travel needs. You can add travel passes, pay-as-you-go credit balance to zap, or you can buy single tickets.

You can top it up whenever you need to and check the balance on buses, trams, and lifts.

Whether your plan is to use public transport in Lisbon frequently or occasionally, the Navegante (Occasional) card will be a very useful tool.

Last updated February 2nd, 2024

Hello, I’m Tatiana. I’m hopelessly in love with old uniquely looking buildings, and cozy urban scenes, and finding best places in Europe to go.

Check out Alonga Travel for my travel tips and reviews of the best European destinations and city breaks. Let's connect on social media !

Table of contents:

  What is Navegante card and Navegante occasional?

  Where can I use Navegante card?

  How Much are the Tickets Options

  Zapping the Navegante card

   How much money should I loa d

   1 day (24 hours) pass

   How to use Navegante card

   Where to buy Navegante card

  Good to Know

Best ways to travel around Portugal

What is Navegante card and Navegante occasional?

Navegante card, former Viva Vaigem, or the 7 Colinas card, is an electronic smart card and a flexible way to pay for your trips on public transport in Lisbon.

Navegante card does not provide you discounts to museums and other attractions.

If you're planning a trip to Lisbon, the Navegante card travel card is a must-have for paying for the city's public transportation system.

Where can I use Navegante card?

The Navegante Card is designed for use within the Lisbon Metropolitan Area (AML). You can use it to travel on metro, bus, tram, funicular, ferry, and suburban train.

The Lisbon Metropolitan Area (AML) includes all 18 municipalities of the AML.

Modes of transport

The Navegante Card can be used on the following modes of transportation:

- Bus, tram, and Lisbon's three funiculars (Ascensor da Bica, Ascensor da Glória, and Ascensor do Lavra).

- Metro, on all lines.

- Suburban trains (CP) for trips to/from Estoril, Cascais, Sintra.

- Ferry services operated by Transtejo and Soflusa for trips to/from Cacilhas, Trafaria/Porto Brandão, Seixal/Barreiro/Montijo.

     It can also be used on the Elevador de Santa Justa.

Southern Lisbon use for:

- Fertagus trains

- Metro Sul do Tejo

- TBC Barreiro buses

Also, in suburban Cascais for MobiCascais buses.

Keep in mind that the Navegante Card is not valid for use on Aerobus and tourist routes such as hop-on hop-off buses. So, don't load extra money on your card to pay for these services. 

Using Navegante card on the famous Lisbon Tram 28 , will save you 1.40 euros. Read on to learn about this and other money saving you can do on your travel needs.

Use the unlimited daily pass to visit Sintra for free. There are many palaces in Sintra, including an amazing National Place in Sintra .

How much is Navegante card?

The Navegante card itself is €0.50. Once you bought it, you can load it with different tickets and passes.

Lisbon public transportation tickets

The Navegante Card offers the convenience of paying for Lisbon's public transportation tickets. 

It can hold up to four different tickets and zapping credit (pay as you go).

You can load the following tickets into your Navegante Occasional card:

– Carris/Metro ticket – Carris/Metro 1 day ticket (24h) – Carris/Metro/Transtejo (Cacilhas) 1 day ticket – Carris/Metro/CP 1 day ticket – Pay as you go ‘zapping’ credit

Single ticket

One option is to load a single ticket onto your Navegante Card. It is called occasional journey in Lisbon. This ticket costs €1.80 and is valid for one hour on the metro and Carris. It's a good choice if you only plan to take just one trip on public transport in Lisbon.

Since you are interested in saving money on tickets, do you know that using 3rd parties websites to save money on air-tickets is not always safe? Though, it can save you money. Read my kiwi.com reviews to learn more.

Zapping as you go

Another option is to top up your Navegante Card with a money credit balance, known as zapping.

What is zapping?

Zapping is a payment method used with travel cards that allows you to pay for individual trips on public transportation by deducting the fare directly from your card's balance. It is a convenient option for occasional trips and provides flexibility as you only pay for the trips (journeys) you actually take.

Zapping is not only convenient, but also saves you money, as you are charged a discounted rate when you use it.

Zapping the Navegante card

If you choose the Zapping option, each individual trip will have a specific discounted price:

- Metro and Carris: €1.61

- Train to Estoril/Cascais/Sintra: €2

To Cacilhas: €1.43 | Trafaria/Porto Brandão: €1.40 | Seixal/Barreiro: €2.75 | Montijo: €3.10

Zapping is can be used on various operators. The cost of each trip is deducted from your card balance. Each zapping journey is limited to one operator only, and if you change transport operators, an additional fare will be deducted from your card.

Zapping participating members

Here is the list of all members operators you can use zapping on:

Metro Sul do Tejo

Rodoviária de Lisboa

Zapping allows you to pay as you go, saves your money on tickets, and offers flexibility in your travel.

How much money should I load on the Navegante card to use it for zapping?

Do a rough estimate of the number of rides (including funiculars, elevators, metro, buses, trams) you will take while in Lisbon. Multiply it by 1.8 €. Load this amount on the card after you have bought it.

You can always load more later, but you won’t get your unused money back if you have loaded too much.

Keep in mind, the card can only be used by one person, so each person in a group will need their own card. Don’t load the double amount on one card if there are 2 people in your traveling group.

You can top up your card in these amounts: 3€, 5€ +5, +5, etc.

Navegante Passes

There are different ticket options you can charge on your Navigante card, depending on the means of transport you plan to use in Lisbon.

1 day (24 hours) pass

Tickets on all  1-day passes are valid for unlimited trips for 24 hours from the time of first validation. Here are the options to buy:

Carris/Metro networks €6.80

Carris/Metro/Transtejo (Cacilhas) €9.80

Carris/Metro/CP €10.80

The ticket is valid for unlimited trips on Carris, Metro, and CP (Sintra, Cascais, Azambuja, and Sado lines). So, load this useful pass on the days you visit Sintra or Cascais.

When does it make sense to buy 1 day ticket?

How many trips were you planning to take today? If two round tripe on metro (2x€3.60), you’ll be ven, but it will be more convenient for you. But if you were planning to use it on a tram (€3), funicular or perhaps, even Santa Justa Elevator (€5), then definitely buy the pass.

Read my ‘Things to know’ section below for an even better money saving advice!

There are also different passes for the locals, which I will describe very briefly, as this post mostly aims to help travelers.

Navegante passes for Lisbon citizens

The Navegante Passes are also available for those who want unlimited travel within a certain area. There are different types of Navegante passes, such as Navegante Municipal for travel within a single municipality, and Navegante Metropolitano for travel within all 18 municipalities of the Lisbon Metropolitan Area.

To learn more about Municipal or Metropolitan Navigator Pass and a card to pay for parking the bicycle (BiciParks and BICIbox), read the official Lisbon’s public transportation page description . The card costs 12 euros and is valid for 5 years.

How to use Navegante card

On Carris, tap your card near the driver when getting on the bus, tram, or funicular. No need to tap when getting off. Look for the green light to confirm validation. Make sure you have enough your card with tickets or Zapping money before boarding as you can't load your Navegante card there.

On the Metro, tap your card at the beginning and end of your journey to open the gates. If you're using Zapping, you'll be charged for one journey. If you forgot to validate your card at the end of your Metro journey trip, the correct fare will be deducted once the 90 minutes time limit expires.

On ferries and suburban trains, tap your card at the entrance hall or access gate when starting your trip. Tap only when leaving if necessary to open a gate. ( Many people search for the exit tap machine, but it’s not always necessary.)

Where to buy Navegante card

You can purchase the Navegante Card at any automatic machine (Ticket Vending Machines) and Ticket Offices operated by Metro de Lisboa, CP, Fertagus, MTS, TTSL.

You can use cash or major debit/credit cards (like Visa or MasterCard) to pay.

Your Navegante occasional card is valid for one year from the date of purchase.

How to get lisbon travel card

There are usually 2 different type of automatic ticket machines at the metro entrance. Often, you can only buy the Navegante (former Viva Viagem) card itself in one automatic ticket machine at the metro, but you need to load it with money in another machine next to it. This often creates confusion.

Luckily, there is usually an officer at every major metro station who will help you with this. Inform the officer if you're paying with cash or a card, as this operation is often possible on separate machines as well.

If there is no officer, just read the sign on the machine, it lists what you can buy there. Or, see if there is in-person ticket office to help you out.

Good to know

Once you choose a fare type for your card, you cannot switch to another one until you've used up the previous fare. For example, if you choose the Zapping option, you have to use up all the credit on your card before you can buy a one-day ticket.

Therefore, to avoid this, just buy another card to load it with the second ticket option you want. Use one for occasional zapping and another card for a one-day ticket on the day you want to do a lot of traveling. You will only lose 50 cents (the cost of the 2nd card) this way, but will save on ticket prices.

Be careful not to lose your card during your trip, you might be charged a penalty.

Are there any other cards to save money on public transport?

Yes, there is also Lisboa card, that once bought provides you with free public transport and reduced fare to Sintra and Cascais on the days it’s valid. It also gives you free and reduced admission to many Lisbon’s attractions.

I hope this post was helpful for you. Here is a link to my other posts about Portugal.

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