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Is the Lisboa Card worth it? Discover how to save money!
I often receive this question, so I decided to shine some light on them in this blog article. The reason is that there is no short yes or no answer; it depends. I know… annoying.
As a rule of thumb, I would say the Lisbon Card is worth its money when you see a minimum of two to three places of interest and use the public transport system in the city.
The card is available for 24, 48, and 72 hours and the prices are €31.00, €51.00, and €62.00, respectively. You will receive free public transport, free entry to certain monuments and museums, and discounts on many popular attractions. The clock will only start ticking when you first use it.
I’m going to share how we used the Lisbon travel card and how we clustered attractions to make the most out of it. That way you can see if buying the card makes sense for you too!
What is the Lisboa Card?
The Lisboa Card is a tourist pass offering free public transport (bus, metro, tram, and certain trains) and free access to over 50 attractions in Lisbon, including the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower.
It also provides discounts on tours, museums, and restaurants. Available for 24, 48, or 72 hours, the card helps visitors save money while exploring the city. The Lisbon Card is perfect for a hassle-free Lisbon experience while seeing multiple sights.
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Pros and cons of the Lisbon Card
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Free Public Transport – on buses, trams (including Tram 28), metro, and trains to Sintra and Cascais. | Not All Attractions Are Free — some, like Pena Palace, offer a discount instead of full entry. |
| Free Admission to Top Attractions – Includes Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, São Jorge Castle, and Santa Justa Lift, saving money on entrance fees. | May Not Be Worth It for Slow Travelers – If you see only a few attractions per day, you might not get the full value. |
| Discounts on Popular Sights and Monuments – Get 10% off Pena Palace in Sintra and discounts at other museums and attractions. | Time-Limited – Available for 24, 48, or 72 hours, so it’s best for those with a packed itinerary. |
| Sometimes, there is Fast Track Access – Avoid long queues at select attractions. | |
| Valid for Sintra & Cascais – Includes free train rides to both destinations, making day trips easier. | |
| Convenient & Easy to Use – Just tap and go without needing separate tickets for each ride or attraction. |
How we used the Lisboa Card
What we did is, we made a list of places we wanted to see and then clustered them together.
What I mean by clustering is that I see as many attractions as I want in one location. For example, we took the train to Belém and visited the Jerónimos Monastery, the Belém Tower, the National Coach Museum, MAAT, and the Pilar 7 Bridge Experience!
Buying these tickets separately would have costed us €67.50 per person + public transport. Times 2 that equals €149.50, and we saved €87.50 that day alone!
On day two we used it for the Lisbon Story Centre, the Rua Augusta Arch, the Santa Justa Elevator, and the Chiado Museum in downtown Lisbon. This was our downtown cluster, and we combined this with sights in Alfama.
In Alfama, you can ride Tram 28, see São Jorge Castle, Lisbon Cathedral, the Lisbon Pantheon, and the Fado Museum, and you can easily reach the National Tile Museum from Santa Apolónia Station.
Other ways you could cluster sights is by interest, like adding all your must-see museums in one place and visit them all.
When enjoying a day trip from Lisbon, cluster the museums and monuments per area, like Sintra, south of Lisbon and north of Lisbon.
Map of all free/discounted sights with the Lisbon Card
Free sights are marked as purple. The red markings are for discounted attractions.
Verdict: Is the Lisbon Card worth it?
You will have to do some maths and decide which places you’d like to see in the city. For reference, a day ticket for public transport costs €7.25. For a one-day pass, you’ll need to spend more than €24.00 on entrance tickets to make it worthwhile. This is easily achieved when you visit the top 10 attractions in Lisbon, as most have an entrance fee between €8.00 and €18.00.
What attractions are included in the Lisbon City Card?
So, what does the Lisboa Card include? I will highlight 10 of the most visited attractions, but there are many more!
The Lisbon card offers free unlimited travel in the city and beyond, including the sights and museums mentioned below. It allows you to use all Carris buses and trams and the Lisbon metro and includes free day trips to Cascais, Sintra, and Azambuja.
Both Fertagus (trains to Setúbal and the south margin of the Tagus River) and Comboios de Portugal trains (CP) to Sintra are included.
Free public transport compared to buying a day ticket is €7.25 per day. I included the price per sight below (2025 prices) so you can easily calculate whether purchasing the Lisboa Card would save you money. Prices are per person (adults).
1. Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos) €18.00
The Jerónimos Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Belém. This stunning monastery is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture and is the resting place of Vasco da Gama.
Please note that you cannot fast-track with the Lisbon Card. In summer, the queue can be up to two hours long before entering. For more monastery visitor tips, check out this dedicated post.
2. Belém Tower (Torre de Belém) €15.00 (currently closed, will reopen in spring 2026)
The Belém Tower is one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. This 16th-century fortress once guarded the city’s harbour and symbolises Portugal’s Age of Discovery. Similar to the Jerónimos Monastery, the Lisbon Card does not include skip-the-line access, and the lines can be long in the high season.
3. São Jorge Castle (Castelo de São Jorge) €17.00
São Jorge Castle is a historic hilltop fortress offering the best views of Lisbon. You can climb the ancient walls, visit archaeological ruins, and see many peacocks roaming the grounds. It’s perfect for sunset! There is a dedicated line for Lisboa cardholders.
4. Santa Justa Lift (Elevador de Santa Justa) €6.20 (currently closed)
The Santa Justa Elevator is a historic iron elevator that offers panoramic views over downtown Lisbon. It connects the Baixa and Chiado districts and is part of the public transportation system, so it is included. Arrive early to ride the Santa Justa Elevator to avoid long queues.
5. Lisbon Story Centre €7.50
If you want to learn more about the history of the Portuguese capital, the Lisbon Story Centre is worth a visit. It’s an interactive museum that explores Lisbon’s rich history, from its early settlements to the devastating 1755 earthquake and beyond.
6. National Pantheon (Panteão Nacional) €10.00
The National Pantheon is a baroque monument near Alfama. It is the final resting place of many well-known Portuguese figures, such as Fado singer Amália Rodrigues. You can climb the dome and visit the terrace, which offers fantastic city views.
7. National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo) €8.00 (currently closed)
This national museum is a must if you’d like to learn more about the history of Portugal’s famous azulejos (painted ceramic tiles). Located in a former convent, the National Tile Museum houses tiles from the 15th century to modern designs.
8. National Coach Museum (Museu Nacional dos Coches) €15.00
The National Coach Museum is home to one of the world’s largest collections of royal coaches and carriages, offering a glimpse into Portugal’s aristocratic past. It consists of two parts, including the Old Royal Riding School.
9. Pilar 7 Bridge Experience €5.50
During the Pilar 7 Bridge Experience, you’ll enjoy a unique experience inside the 25 de Abril Bridge. You can explore its structure and enjoy panoramic views from a glass-floored viewpoint.
10. Ajuda Palace (Palácio da Ajuda) €15.00
This is one of our favourite palaces and is often much quieter than the famous ones in Sintra! Ajuda Palace was once the royal residence, and you can see many stunning rooms filled with chandeliers and decorative art. The level of detail in the furniture is incredible!
Lisboa Card price
Now you might wonder, how much is a Lisbon pass? The 24-hour Lisbon Card costs €31.00. For 48 hours, you’re looking at €51.00, and 72 hours will set you back €62.00.
Children have a discounted price of €21.00, €28.00, and €35.00, respectively. Children under 4 years old don’t need a voucher. These prices are valid until March 31st, 2027.
How does the Lisboa card work?
- Choose the length of the pass: 24h, 48h or 72 hours
- The easiest way to purchase the Lisboa Card is online. You will receive a booking confirmation by email.
- Exchange your reservation for a physical ticket: You can already do this at Lisbon Airport in the arrivals’ hall, or any Ask Me Lisboa hotspot in the city.
- Start exploring: The clock only starts ticking once you first use the card, not when you buy or exchange it. For example, if you arrive on a Tuesday and pick up the card at the airport and want to discover a site on Thursday, the time starts at that moment only, say, Thursday at 11.30 AM. It will then be valid for 24, 48, or 72 hours.
When the Lisboa Card might not be right for you
Personally, I would not use the Lisboa Card to travel to Cascais and Sintra. Some Sintra palaces offer a discount, but I feel it’s not worth the price difference. A single train ticket costs €2.55.
The palaces usually offer a 10% (Pena Palace, Biester Palace, Sintra National Palace) or 15% discount (Queluz Palace, the Moorish Castle, Convent of the Capuchos, Monserrate Palace).
You can see a maximum of two to three palaces per day. Places like Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira require a time slot, so you might turn up to find out there are no places left on that day or that you need to return later.
Also, check when your favourite monuments of interest are open. Many attractions are closed on Mondays, so be sure to do some research. Some museums and churches are closed on Sundays.
Lastly, it also depends on when you travel and what you want to see. July and August are the busiest months in Lisbon. If you want to see both the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower, you’ll be waiting for hours already (I am still hoping for a better system…). You would still save money, but you could visit less busy sights in the city and see a lot more.
Lisboa Card: where to buy
You can purchase the Lisboa Card in person at any Ask Me Lisboa office, which are located throughout the city.
However, due to long lines at the ticket office, I recommend purchasing the card online so you only have to exchange the voucher for a physical ticket. The card is valid for one year after the purchase date.
Lisboa Card Collection Points
📌 Don’t forget to bring the voucher you received via email and a valid ID.
Lisbon Locations
- Lisbon Airport – Arrival Hall
📍 Alameda das Comunidades Portuguesas, 1700-008 Lisboa
🕒 Daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM - Ask Me Lisboa | Terreiro do Paço
📍 Praça do Comércio, 78-81, Lisboa
🕒 Daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM - Lisboa Story Centre (Terreiro do Paço)
🕒 Daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM - Interpretative Centre of the History of Codfish (Terreiro do Paço)
🕒 Daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM - Ask Me Lisboa | Rossio
📍 Praça D. Pedro IV, Rossio, Lisboa
🕒 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM
❌ Closed on Sundays and Mondays - Ask Me Lisboa | Regedor
📍 Rua Jardim do Regedor 50, Lisboa
🕒 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 6:30 PM
❌ Closed on Fridays and Saturdays - Ask Me Lisboa | Cais do Sodré
📍 Praça do Duque de Terceira, Lisboa
🕒 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM - Ask Me Lisboa | Torre de Belém
🕒 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM - Ask Me Lisboa | Mosteiro dos Jerónimos
🕒 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
❌ Closed on Mondays, and the 1st and 3rd Sunday of each month
Sintra Locations
- Ask Me Sintra | Mitos e Lendas
📍 Praça da República, 23, 2710-616 Sintra
🕒 Daily from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM - Ask Me Sintra | CP Train Station
📍 Av. Dr. Miguel Bombarda, 2710-590 Sintra
🕒 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM
Not sure where to go in Portugal?
Take the free Portugal travel quiz and find the destination that best matches your travel style. You’ll get your result plus practical tips to help you start planning your trip.
FAQ
Does the Lisboa Card include a train to Sintra?
Yes, it does. The Lisbon travel card offers unlimited access to all Carris lines and Comboios de Portugal trains. The buses that travel within Sintra and Cascais are not included. This includes the hop-on hop-off bus in Sintra, which requires a separate ticket.
Can I buy a Lisboa Card at the airport?
Yes, you can. The Ask Me Lisboa desk at the arrivals terminal allows you to exchange and buy your tickets. Depending on your arrival time, there might be long lines. It’s therefore recommended that you purchase Lisboa city cards online.
Is Cascais included in Lisboa Card?
Yes, you can travel to Cascais with the Lisbon travel card for free.
Does the Lisboa Card skip the line?
Not everywhere. But you don’t have to wait in line to buy tickets.
What if I lose the Lisboa Card?
Unfortunately, you’ll need to purchase a new card. Even if you have the original invoice or the voucher used to redeem your Lisboa Card, a replacement cannot be issued for the same code.
Conclusion
Whether the Lisboa Card is worth it depends on how much sightseeing you plan to do. If you visit multiple attractions and use public transport daily, the savings add up quickly.
It’s especially convenient for first-time visitors who want to see Lisbon’s highlights while skipping the hassle of buying individual tickets. However, the card may not be the best value for you if you prefer a slower pace or plan to explore mainly on foot.
Ultimately, a little planning goes a long way. Consider the attractions you want to see, compare costs, and decide if the Lisboa Card fits your itinerary. If you’re ready to explore Lisbon efficiently and enjoy some savings along the way, it’s a great option to consider!
More Lisbon Travel Tips!
- Lisbon Airport and how to get to the city centre
- How to navigate and walk the seven hills in Lisbon without exhaustion
- 10 Things to know before booking a fun Tuk-Tuk Tour in Lisbon
- Complete Guide about the hop-on-hop-off Lisbon bus
- Is the Lisboa Card worth it? Discover how to save money!
- Lisbon Public Transport explained – 5 tips to help you get around the city
- Sintra day trips from Lisbon; discover the best excursions
- Lisbon Sintra by train Travel Guide + 8 top sights to visit
- How to book Lisbon Airport rental cars + best deals
- 33 incredible and easy day trips from Lisbon
- An adventurous journey on the Santa Justa Lift in Lisbon
- Discover Lisbon by bicycle, a fun guided bike tour with Baja Bikes
- Book your sunset cruise in Lisbon today; an unforgettable experience!
- 17 Best tours in Lisbon Portugal: The ultimate Lisbon Experience
- Renting a car in Portugal: Start your adventure by renting a (cheap) car
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