If you are planning a trip to Lisbon in 2026, or even if you are a returning visitor who thinks they know the ropes, we have some news: the rules of getting around Lisbon just changed.
Lisbon remains one of Europe’s most stunning cities, but those famous seven hills mean you will need public transport. Until recently, the system was fairly static. But as of January 2026, a significant rebranding, price adjustments, and service cuts have taken effect.
Don’t get caught at the ticket machine looking for options that no longer exist. Here is the essential briefing on what changed in Lisbon’s public transport for 2026.
(Note: This is a summary of recent changes. For the complete guide and hacks, visit our main Ultimate Guide to Public Transport in Lisbon.
1. The “Viva Viagem” Card is Officially Dead (Long Live “Navegante”)
If you have been reading old guidebooks or blogs from 2024, you are probably looking for information on the “Viva Viagem” card—the reusable green paper ticket that unlocked the city.
Stop looking. It’s gone.
As part of a major system unification, the old “Viva Viagem” and “7 Colinas” brands have been retired.
The New Reality: The reusable card is now officially called the Navegante Occasional card.
- What it means for you: Don’t panic. It looks almost identical to the old card, costs the same (€0.50), and works the same way. You still buy it at machines and load it with credit. The only change is the name on the screen and the branding on the card.
2. January 2026 Price Hikes Are Here
Like everything else in Europe, getting around Lisbon has gotten slightly more expensive for the 2026 season. While still affordable compared to London or Paris, you need to budget for the new rates.
The most popular “pay-as-you-go” method, known as Zapping (loaded onto your Navegante card), has seen a significant bump.
The Key 2026 Price Changes:
| Ticket Type | Old Price (approx.) | New Jan 2026 Price |
| Zapping (Per Trip) | ~€1.47 | €1.72 |
| Metro Single (Contactless) | ~€1.65 | €1.92 |
| 24h Urban Ticket | ~€6.60 | €7.25 |
| Tram 28 On-board | €3.00 | €3.30 |
💡 Insider Tip: Not only has the Tram 28 fare increased to €3.30, but the queues are longer than ever. If you want the scenic route without standing in line for an hour, we recommend booking a seat on the Hills Tram Tour (Viator) instead—it follows the exact same route but guarantees you a seat.
3. The Aerobus is Permanently Gone
For years, the yellow “Aerobus” was a staple for tourists getting from the airport to downtown hotels.
It has been permanently discontinued. Do not stand outside the arrivals terminal waiting for it—it is not coming.
Your 2026 Airport Alternatives:
- The Metro (Red Line): The cheapest option (€1.90 + card fee), taking you right from Terminal 1 to the city center in about 25 minutes.
- Ride-Hailing: Uber and Bolt are active, though pickup points can be crowded.
- Private Transfer: With the cheap bus gone, taxi queues at arrivals have gotten much longer. We highly recommend [booking a Welcome Pickups transfer in advance]. The driver meets you in the arrivals hall with a sign, and it often costs about the same as a regular taxi—minus the stress.
4. Contactless Payment Exists, But There’s a Catch
Lisbon has finally rolled out contactless bank card readers on metro turnstiles and some buses. You can now just tap your Visa or Mastercard to enter. Convenient, right?
Yes, but it costs you more.
The Catch: Tapping your bank card charges you the full single-ride rate (€1.92 on the Metro). Using the reusable Navegante card loaded with Zapping credit only charges you €1.72.
If you are only taking one trip, use your bank card. If you are staying for a few days, buy the Navegante card—the savings add up quickly.
5. The Lisboa Card Prices Have Updated
The famous Lisboa Card—which combines unlimited free transport (including trains to Sintra) with free entry to major museums like the Jerónimos Monastery—remains the best deal for heavy sightseers.
However, the prices have updated for the 2026 season:
- 24h: €31.00
- 48h: €51.00
- 72h: €62.00
Considering the individual transport price hikes, the card actually offers better value now than before if you plan to do a lot of sightseeing. [Buy the official Lisboa Card online here] to skip the ticket office lines at the airport and start using the transport immediately upon arrival.
Get the Full Picture
Knowing these changes will save you confusion at the ticket machine, but it’s only half the battle. You still need to know which Metro line gets you to Baixa, how to handle luggage limits on the bus, and how to get to Sintra.
For the complete, up-to-date breakdown of every mode of transport, check out our newly updated master guide:
Read The Ultimate Guide to Public Transport in Lisbon (Updated Jan 2026)