Tram 28 vs Bus Tours: Which Is Better for Lisbon?

If youre visiting Portugals capital, theres no doubt youve heard about Tram 28 the legendary yellow trolley that winds through Lisbons narrow, historic streets. But how does it compare to modern Lisbon bus tours?

Should you line up for the tram or hop aboard a Lisbon sightseeing bus instead?

Lets break it down and help you choose the best way to explore Lisbon.

What Is Tram 28?

Tram 28 is Lisbons most famous public transport route. Running from Martim Moniz to Campo Ourique, it snakes through popular neighborhoods like Alfama, Graca, and Baixa.

Its not just a ride its a tourist attraction in itself.

But popularity comes at a price. Expect long queues, packed cabins, and no guarantee of a seat especially during peak season.

What Are Lisbon Bus Tours?

Lisbon city tour buses are modern, open-top double-decker buses designed for sightseeing. These bus tours in Lisbon cover major tourist spots with hop on hop off flexibility.

Youll pass landmarks like:

• Belm Tower
  

• Jernimos Monastery
  

• Praa do Comrcio
  

• Parque das Naes
  

• So Jorge Castle (nearby stop)
  
  

Each bus is equipped with multilingual audio guides, panoramic seating, and runs on curated routes that loop through the city's best zones.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Lets compare the two side-by-side to help you decide:

Tram 28: What to Watch Out For

While Tram 28 has its nostalgic charm, there are a few things to be aware of:

• Overcrowding is common especially during midday hours.
  

• Pickpockets often target the packed tram.
  

• Long wait times at major stops like Martim Moniz.
  

• Standing only hard on seniors or kids.
  

• No commentary you may miss the history behind the sights.
  
  

Tram 28 is more of a ride it once experience than a practical sightseeing option.

Why Bus Tours in Lisbon Are a Better Choice for Most Visitors

If you want to explore Lisbon comfortably and efficiently, and learn about what youre seeing, a Lisbon sightseeing bus is hard to beat.

Heres what you get:

1. Freedom to Explore

Get off at Belm to try pastis de nata, then hop back on and head to Chiado no extra tickets, no extra cost.

2. No Rush, No Stress

Unlike Tram 28, you dont have to worry about missing your stop or standing in a cramped space.

3. Learn as You Go

Enjoy narrated stories in your language about each monument, street, or district.

4. Great for Groups & Families

Traveling with kids or older travelers? A bus tour Lisbon Portugal option is far more family-friendly.

Best for Photos? The Bus Wins Again

The windows of Tram 28 provide a glimpse of what is out there on the streets, but the windows only allow a little view and are usually hindered by other passengers.

The Lisbon city tour buses and particularly the upper deck are shown in conjunction with the skyline and the waterfront of Lisbon, in addition to the architecture being completely open and with a clear view of the city from an elevated platform.

Looking to score that epic shot of the 25 de Abril Bridge or of the Monastery of Jeronimos? You will get it on the upper deck.

When to Ride Tram 28 (If You Still Want To)

If youre curious about the tram experience, we get it. Heres how to make it worthwhile:

• Ride early (before 8:00 AM) or late (after 8:00 PM) to avoid crowds.
  

• Board at less popular stops like Estrela or Prazeres.
  

• Keep your valuables close avoid flashiness.
  

• Skip it during weekends and holidays if you dont like waiting.
  
  

Combine Both for the Full Lisbon Experience

Why not use both? Heres a smart combo strategy:

• Start with a bus tour Lisbon to get your bearings and visit the major attractions.
  

• Later, ride Tram 28 once, early morning, for a short historic ride through Alfama.
  

• Use the bus again the next day to cover neighborhoods missed on day one.
  
  

Some Lisbon bus tours even offer combo tickets that include tram rides, boat cruises, or museum entry all with skip-the-line access.

What Tourists Say

I waited 45 minutes for Tram 28 and ended up standing the whole way. The bus tour? No lines, great views, comfy ride. James, Australia

Tram 28 was nice but chaotic. The hop on hop off bus was much easier and showed us way more. Louise, Canada

With our toddler, the Lisbon sightseeing bus was a lifesaver. Clean, easy, and safe. Elvira, Germany

Local Tip: Save More with a Bus Tour Package

Many travelers dont know this: Lisbon bus tours often include perks like:

• Entry to museums
  

• Fast-track passes
  

• 4872 hour access
  

• Discount vouchers at restaurants and shops
  

• Optional river cruises or night tours
  
  

Check before booking the right ticket could cover your full itinerary.

Final Verdict: Bus Tour or Tram?

Ready to Skip the Crowds and Explore Lisbon?

Join a Lisbon bus tour and do more, worry less, and avoid the queues. Between Belen and Alfama and beyond, it is the most intelligent way of experiencing the capital of Portugal.

? [Book your Lisbon sightseeing bus adventure now flexible tickets, instant access]