The number 28 is the old yellow tram that grinds up and down Lisbon’s steepest hills, from Martim Moniz through Graça, Alfama, the Baixa, Chiado and Estrela to Campo de Ourique. It is thoroughly touristy, and for a first visit still worth doing.
The route
It is not a tourist line — it is ordinary public transport that happens to pass most of the old-town sights: the cathedral, the Portas do Sol viewpoint, the Estrela basilica. The 1930s Remodelado cars are small, wooden and loud, and they lean into the turns.
Making it work
Board at Martim Moniz, the start of the line, for a seat, or ride a short hop rather than end to end. Go early or late; at midday it is packed and slow. Watch your pockets — it is a known spot for pickpockets. The number 12 does a shorter loop of the same area with fewer people.
Good to know
- Uses a normal transport card; a single ticket bought on board costs more
- For the views without the crush, walk the Alfama stretch and pick up the tram elsewhere
- Trams 24 and 25 cover other parts of the city in the same old cars
- From our side: ferry to Cais do Sodré or Terreiro do Paço, then a short walk to the line