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Tram 28 is often treated as a must-do in Lisbon, but after spending time in the city, I’ve found that it isn’t always the best experience for everyone. Crowds, timing, and expectations play a big role in whether it’s enjoyable or frustrating. This guide looks at why you might want to skip Tram 28—and what you can do instead to see the city in a way that feels more relaxed and rewarding.
If you’re planning a trip to Lisbon, you’ve probably already seen countless travel photos of Tram 28 — that charming yellow icon snaking its way up Lisbon’s steep cobbled hills. It’s featured in guidebooks, postcards, and Instagram reels alike.
And sure, it looks magical. The tram clatters past colorful tiled houses, hanging laundry, and breathtaking viewpoints. But here’s the truth few travelers tell you: while Tram 28 looks charming, it’s often overcrowded, slow, and stressful — not the serene sightseeing experience you might imagine.
After spending months exploring Lisbon, I can confidently say: you can see the same sights in far better ways — ways that let you actually enjoy the city instead of sweating on a packed tram.
Let’s dive into why you might want to avoid Tram 28, and explore the best alternatives (with links to book trusted experiences).
🗺️ The Route: Beautiful, But Overhyped
The Tram 28 route begins in Martim Moniz and winds through Lisbon’s most historic neighborhoods — Graça, Alfama, Baixa, and Estrela. Along the way, you’ll pass the Sé Cathedral, the Castelo de São Jorge, and some of Lisbon’s most iconic miradouros (viewpoints).
It’s undeniably scenic. But what travel photos don’t show is the crammed interior, the constant stop-and-go traffic, and the hour-long waits just to board.
If you want to explore the same route comfortably, you can actually book a guided Tuk-Tuk tour through Alfama and Graça that covers nearly the same route but lets you stop for photos and stories.
🚫 5 Reasons To Avoid Tram 28 in Lisbon
1. It’s Always Overcrowded
The Tram 28 is one of the most touristy attractions in Lisbon. Even in the off-season, it’s rare to find a seat. Locals hardly use it anymore — it’s almost entirely filled with visitors. You’ll often stand shoulder-to-shoulder, sometimes for over an hour, in Lisbon’s warm weather.
Long waits. Depends on timing and expectations. Often different from how it’s imagined.
Want a better option? Try a Lisbon small-group tour that includes Alfama, Graça, and Baixa with a local guide. You’ll have space to breathe, hear real stories, and actually enjoy the city.
👉 See Lisbon’s top highlights on a half-day tour with Viator.
2. Pickpockets Are a Real Problem
Tram 28 is notorious for petty theft. The crowded, cramped conditions make it easy for pickpockets to blend in. Many travelers (myself included!) have seen tourists panic after realizing their phone or wallet is gone.
If you absolutely must take the tram, wear a crossbody anti-theft bag and stay alert. But honestly, it’s much safer to explore the same neighborhoods on a guided walking tour where you’re part of a small group and your guide keeps an eye out.
3. It’s Slow, Hot, and Often Delayed
While the tram looks vintage and cute, it’s actually a slow-moving, creaky old machine that stops constantly and struggles on Lisbon’s steep hills. In summer, the cabins can get unbearably hot, especially if you’re standing.
More about the route than the ride.
If you want an easy, breezy way to see Lisbon’s main sights — without the sweat — get a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Pass. You’ll visit the same neighborhoods (and more) while staying cool and relaxed.
4. There Are Much Better Ways To Explore Lisbon
Lisbon is incredibly walkable and full of fun ways to get around. I found other options more rewarding. Here are some better alternatives to Tram 28 that still let you experience the magic of the city:
👣 Guided Walking Tours – Discover Alfama’s alleys, hidden viewpoints, and local bakeries with an expert guide.
👉 Book a walking tour through Alfama and Mouraria here.
🚴 E-Bike Tours – Lisbon’s hills are no match for electric bikes. You can cruise effortlessly from Baixa to Belém, stopping for photos along the way.
👉 Try a Lisbon electric bike tour with Viator.
🚗 Tuk-Tuk Rides – A fun, flexible way to see everything from the Sé Cathedral to the Miradouro de Santa Luzia in style.
👉 Book a private Tuk-Tuk tour here on Viator.
🚇 Public Transport – Lisbon’s metro, trams (other than 28!), and buses are cheap, modern, and efficient.
🛏️ Stay Near the Tram Route – Want those Alfama views without the tram chaos? Book accommodation near Graça or Alfama instead.
5. The Experience Feels More “Tourist Trap” Than Authentic
One of the saddest parts about Tram 28 is that it’s become a checklist attraction, not a real Lisbon experience. Locals avoid it, and many say it no longer reflects the city’s soul.
If you want a more authentic connection with Lisbon’s people and culture, try experiences that locals actually recommend — like a Fado night in Alfama or a Portuguese cooking class.
👉 Book a traditional Fado dinner and live music evening on Viator
👉 Join a Portuguese cooking class in central Lisbon with Viator
🌇 Explore the Tram 28 Neighborhoods (Without the Tram!)
Even if you skip the tram, the areas it passes through are absolutely worth exploring. You can walk, bike, or take a Tuk-Tuk through them. Here are a few unmissable stops:
Martim Moniz – The multicultural heart of Lisbon with food stalls and local flavor.
Graça – Home to one of Lisbon’s best viewpoints, the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte.
Alfama – The city’s oldest district, full of winding streets, Fado bars, and tile-covered houses.
Baixa & Chiado – Elegant, open boulevards and great cafés for people-watching.
Estrela – Leafy parks, charming cafés, and the impressive Basilica da Estrela.
If you’d like to explore all of these in one day without the stress of navigation, consider a Lisbon full-day private tour — your guide will handle transport and timing for you.
🌞 Insider Tips If You Still Want To Ride Tram 28
If you’re determined to experience it once for the novelty, here are a few tips to make it as smooth as possible:
🕗 Go Early Morning (before 8:00 AM) or late evening (after 7:00 PM) to avoid the crowds.
🎟️ Buy a Viva Viagem card in advance — you can top it up for multiple tram or metro rides.
💼 Keep belongings in front of you at all times.
🚋 Sit on the right-hand side for the best views as you go uphill through Alfama.
Afterward, reward yourself with a pastel de nata and coffee at Manteigaria or Pastelaria Santo António — two of Lisbon’s best spots for the famous custard tart.
Final Thoughts: See the Real Lisbon, Not Just the Postcards
Tram 28 is beautiful to look at — but not always beautiful to ride. Between the overcrowded cabins, risk of theft, and long waits, many travelers finish the journey feeling frustrated instead of inspired.
Skipping Tram 28 doesn’t mean missing out—it often means experiencing Lisbon in a way that’s calmer, more flexible, and better suited to how you want to explore the city.
Lisbon is so much more than its most photographed tram. Walk its hilly streets, sip ginginha at a local bar, watch the sunset from Miradouro da Graça, or hop on a Tuk-Tuk tour with a local guide who’ll show you the real Lisbon behind the postcards.
👉 Book your Lisbon Tuk-Tuk adventure here or see all top-rated Lisbon tours on GetYourGuide.
You’ll discover that the best of Lisbon isn’t on the tram — it’s in its people, flavors, and stories.
About the author
I’m Duncan, a Lisbon-based guide and writer who’s lived here for 11 years and taken hundreds of visitors around the city. I created Lisbon Listicles to share everything you need to know about Lisbon in clear, practical lists — from iconic sights to hidden gems — so you can plan your trip easily and make the most of your time here.
All recommendations are based on personal experience and the questions I hear most often from visitors.
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