Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a city where history and modernity blend together, attracting countless travelers from around the world. Upon landing at Lisbon Airport (Humberto Delgado Airport, also known as Lisbon International Airport), you might find the immigration process and city transportation a bit overwhelming. To help you navigate your arrival smoothly and quickly immerse yourself in this vibrant city, I’ve put together a detailed guide on immigration procedures, airport buses, and city transportation.
1. Overview of Lisbon Airport
Lisbon Airport, officially named “Aeroporto Humberto Delgado,” is the largest international aviation hub in Portugal, located about 7 kilometers from the city center. As an important transportation node connecting Europe, America, and Africa, the airport is equipped with modern facilities and comprehensive services. Whether you’re here for business, vacation, or to visit family, the airport is your first step into this dynamic city.
Lisbon Airport is divided into two terminals: Terminal 1, which mainly handles international flights, and Terminal 2, which is dedicated to low-cost airlines. Most international flights land at Terminal 1, but if you’re flying with a budget airline, you may land at Terminal 2. Once you arrive, signage and staff will help you quickly navigate to your designated area.
2. Immigration Procedures
- Disembarking the Plane:
After your plane lands at Lisbon Airport, flight attendants will usually provide instructions for disembarking and remind passengers to prepare their travel documents. It’s advisable to have your passport, visa (if applicable), and any other supporting documents (like hotel bookings or return tickets) easily accessible. Follow the clearly marked signs leading you to the immigration checkpoint. Lisbon Airport is generally well-organized, with multilingual signage, including English, Portuguese, and often Spanish. During peak seasons like July-August and major holidays, queues may be longer, so patience is essential. Try to use the restroom before joining the immigration line, as the wait could take 20–40 minutes depending on arrival volume. - Immigration Check: At the immigration counter, present your passport and visa to the border control officer. Travelers from within the Schengen Area typically go through a fast-track process with minimal checks. However, if you are from outside the Schengen Zone, the officer might ask a few standard questions, such as your reason for visiting Portugal, how long you intend to stay, and where you will be staying. Be honest and concise in your answers. Having proof of accommodation, return flight confirmation, and travel insurance can speed up the process and provide reassurance to the officer. The entire procedure is usually professional and straightforward, especially for tourists.
- Baggage Claim: Once your passport has been stamped, follow the signs to the baggage claim area. Digital screens will indicate which carousel is assigned to your flight. Lisbon Airport’s baggage area is clean, organized, and features several trolleys for free use. Wait times for luggage can vary, typically between 10 to 30 minutes. If your baggage is delayed or missing, you should report it immediately to the lost luggage counter operated by Groundforce or the relevant airline. It’s helpful to keep a photo or description of your bag, as well as your baggage tag, for faster identification and processing.
- Customs Check: After retrieving your luggage, you will proceed to customs. Here, you’ll choose between the green channel (for nothing to declare) and the red channel (for goods that must be declared). While checks are usually relaxed, customs officers may randomly inspect luggage. Portugal enforces EU customs rules, so limits apply to the quantity of alcohol, tobacco, and cash (more than €10,000 must be declared). Prohibited items include certain foods, plants, and animal products. If you’re carrying gifts or electronics of high value, you may need to provide receipts. When in doubt, opt for the red channel to avoid penalties.
- Leaving the Airport: Once you’ve cleared customs, you’ll enter the arrivals hall of the airport. This area is well-equipped with ATMs, currency exchange kiosks, tourist information desks, SIM card vendors, and signage pointing toward transportation services. You can easily find public transport options such as the metro, Aerobus, regular city buses, taxis, and rideshare pickup zones. Some travelers prefer to take a moment to rest or grab a coffee before heading into the city. If you’ve arranged a hotel shuttle or private transfer, this is also the area where your driver will typically wait with a sign bearing your name.
3. Transportation from Lisbon Airport to the City Center
Lisbon Airport is only about 7 kilometers from the city center, and there are several convenient transportation options available. Whether you prefer taking a bus, taxi, or metro, getting to the city center is quick and easy. Here are the most common transportation options and their features:
- Airport Bus: The Airport Bus (Aerobus) is a convenient option that connects Lisbon Airport to the city center. It is designed specifically for tourists, offering regular service with multiple stops around the city. For most visitors, the airport bus is a cost-effective and convenient choice.
Operating Times and Fares: Aerobus operates from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM with buses running approximately every 20 minutes. The fare for a one-way ticket is €4, and a return ticket is €6, valid for 24 hours. Tickets can be purchased on board, or you can buy them at the airport ticket machines or counters.
Main Routes and Stops:
- Line A: Connects the airport to major city areas, including Praça do Rossio, Avenida da Liberdade, and other important landmarks.
- Line B: Connects the airport to the Alfama district, the Lisbon Museum, and other historical sites.
The buses are spacious, air-conditioned, and comfortable, making them ideal for travelers with large luggage.
- Metro (Subway): Lisbon’s metro system is highly efficient, and the metro from the airport to the city center is a very convenient option. The metro station is located on the underground level of the airport, and signs will direct you there.
Route and Fares: The Red Line (Linha Vermelha) connects Lisbon Airport directly to the city’s main metro lines. The trip to the city center takes about 25 minutes. The fare is €1.90 (for adults), and tickets can be purchased at automated ticket machines. You can also buy a 10-trip ticket (10 viagens), which is more economical for longer stays.
Metro Features: Metro trains run frequently, usually every 5 to 10 minutes. The metro is a great option for those who prefer not to wait or need a faster way to get to the city. The trains are clean, spacious, and air-conditioned, making them suitable for longer journeys.
- Taxi: If you’ve just landed at Lisbon Airport, have heavy luggage, or prefer a more comfortable and direct way to get to your destination, taking a taxi is one of the most convenient options. The taxi stand is located outside the arrivals hall, and the signage is very clear.
Cost and Duration: A taxi ride from Lisbon Airport to the city center typically costs between €10 and €15, depending on traffic and your destination. The journey usually takes 15 to 20 minutes, but during peak hours, it may take longer.
Advantages: Taxis are ideal for travelers with a lot of luggage or those who prefer a direct route to their hotel or specific destination. Taxis are available 24 hours a day, and no prior reservation is needed, making them a flexible choice.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Some hotels offer shuttle services from the airport, especially for high-end hotels or resorts. These services typically need to be booked in advance, and the cost varies depending on the hotel’s location and the distance from the airport.
How to Book: You can inquire at the hotel’s official website or contact the hotel reception to see if they offer shuttle services. If you booked your hotel through a platform like Booking.com or Expedia, you may also be able to arrange for shuttle service during the booking process.
- Car Rental: If you plan to drive around Lisbon and the surrounding areas, renting a car is a good option. Several car rental companies operate at Lisbon Airport, offering a wide range of vehicles and convenient pick-up processes.
Car Rental Companies: These include international rental agencies like Hertz, Europcar, and Avis, as well as local companies. You can book your rental car in advance on their websites or through car rental platforms like Rentalcars.com.
Car Rental Costs: Rental prices vary based on the type of car, rental duration, and insurance options. Renting a car at the airport is convenient, but be aware of Lisbon’s traffic conditions and parking issues in the city center.
Lisbon Airport offers a variety of convenient transportation options to help you reach the city center quickly. Whether you choose the airport bus, metro, taxi, or car rental, getting to the heart of Lisbon is a breeze. Familiarizing yourself with these transportation choices will ensure your trip to Lisbon starts smoothly.