The Via Viagem Card
The Via Viagem card is one of the most useful travel tools for tourists and locals in Lisbon, Portugal. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or staying long-term, this card offers convenience, savings, and flexibility for getting around the city. Below, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about the Via Viagem card, including how to use it, where to get it, and the best ways to make the most of it during your trip.
Everything You Need to Know About the Via Viagem Card in Lisbon
1. What is the Via Viagem Card?
The Via Viagem card is a rechargeable smart card that allows travelers to use all forms of public transportation in Lisbon, including metro, buses, trams, and urban trains. It acts as a prepaid travel pass that can be loaded with travel credits or used to purchase specific passes for unlimited travel.
2. Where Can You Use the Via Viagem Card in Lisbon?
The Via Viagem card provides access to several types of public transport in Lisbon:
- Metro: The Lisbon Metro is one of the fastest ways to navigate the city, and the Via Viagem card gives you unlimited access to all metro lines.
- Trams: Whether you’re riding the iconic tram 28 or other tram lines, the Via Viagem card can be used for all tram services in the city.
- Buses: The card works for all Lisbon city buses, making it easy to travel throughout the city.
- Urban Trains: The Via Viagem card is also valid for travel on urban train lines, which connect Lisbon with neighboring cities like Cascais and Sintra.
3. How to Get the Via Viagem Card in Lisbon
Getting your own Via Viagem card is simple and convenient. You can purchase it at various locations throughout the city:
- Metro Stations: Via Viagem cards are available at vending machines and customer service counters in all Lisbon Metro stations.
- Tram and Bus Stops: Some tram and bus stops also sell the cards, making it easy to pick one up as soon as you arrive.
- Retailers: You can buy the card at some supermarkets and newsstands across the city.
The card itself costs a small fee (approximately €0.50) for the plastic card, which can be loaded with different travel credits or passes, depending on your needs.
4. How to Recharge Your Via Viagem Card
One of the best features of the Via Viagem card is that it’s rechargeable. You can easily add credits or load a specific travel pass onto the card. Here’s how to do it:
- Metro Stations: Use the ticket vending machines or customer service counters to add credits to your card. You can pay by cash or card.
- Online: Some websites and apps allow you to recharge your Via Viagem card remotely, though availability may depend on your location and payment methods.
- Retail Locations: Many retailers and kiosks also allow you to top up your card.
5. Types of Travel Passes You Can Load onto the Via Viagem Card
Depending on your travel needs, you can choose between different types of passes to load onto your Via Viagem card. Some of the most popular options include:
- Pay-As-You-Go: Load a set amount of credit onto your Via Viagem card and use it for individual journeys. Each journey will deduct the cost from your balance.
- 24-Hour Pass: Ideal for tourists, this pass allows unlimited travel on all public transport in Lisbon for 24 hours. It’s perfect for those who plan to explore the city intensively.
- Zapping (Pay-as-You-Go): This option is best for those who need flexible payment. The Zapping system allows you to pay as you go, but at a discounted rate compared to the regular cash fare.
6. How Much Does the Via Viagem Card Cost?
- Card Fee: The initial cost of the Via Viagem card itself is approximately €0.50.
- Metro, Bus, and Tram Fares: A single journey on the metro, bus, or tram typically costs €1.50 to €2.00, depending on the journey and distance.
- Zapping System: If you choose the Zapping system, the cost per journey is usually €1.30, offering a discount compared to standard tickets.
Example Pricing:
- 24-Hour Unlimited Pass: €6.40 (ideal for tourists planning to see the city in a day).
- 7-Day Pass: €30.00, providing unlimited travel for a week.
7. Benefits of Using the Via Viagem Card
There are many benefits to using the Via Viagem card in Lisbon:
- Convenience: One card works for all public transport, so you don’t need to carry multiple tickets or worry about exact change.
- Flexibility: The card can be recharged with credits or specific travel passes, allowing you to choose the best option based on your needs.
- Savings: By using the Zapping system, you’ll save money compared to buying individual tickets.
- Eco-Friendly: Using the card reduces the need for paper tickets, helping to reduce waste and make your trip more sustainable.
- Wide Accessibility: Available at many locations across the city, it’s easy to get and top up your Via Viagem card.
8. Is the Via Viagem Card Worth It for Tourists?
Absolutely! The Via Viagem card is highly recommended for tourists in Lisbon. With unlimited travel options for 24 hours or even a whole week, it allows you to explore Lisbon’s major attractions—such as Belém, Alfama, and Baixa—with ease and at a discounted price. Plus, it’s a simple and affordable way to use the metro, trams, buses, and urban trains without worrying about purchasing tickets for each ride.
9. How to Use the Via Viagem Card
Using the Via Viagem card is simple:
- Tap in at the entry gates when you enter the metro, tram, bus, or train station.
- Tap out at the exit to complete the journey (metro and train only).
- If you have the Zapping system or a travel pass loaded, the system will automatically deduct the appropriate fare.
Tip: Always ensure your card is loaded with enough balance, especially if you plan to make multiple trips.
10. Where to Find More Information About the Via Viagem Card
For up-to-date information about the Via Viagem card, including current fares, available passes, and special offers, you can visit the official Carris (the public transport operator in Lisbon) website or stop by any customer service counter at metro or train stations in Lisbon.
Final Thoughts
The Via Viagem card is an essential tool for anyone traveling to Lisbon. With its ease of use, flexibility, and savings on public transport, it’s the best way to explore the city without the hassle of individual tickets. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, the Via Viagem card ensures that getting around Lisbon is as smooth as possible.
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