Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) LIS: Departure times and transfers

Flying from/to Lisbon Portela Airport

Plan your journey from/to Lisbon Portela Airport by finding out which transport links are available upon arrival—whether its an airport transfer by bus or a local train which gets you to where you need to be. We recommend booking your ticket with Omio.

Travel from Lisbon to Lisbon Airport

Lisbon is fast becoming one of the must-see destinations in Europe, thanks to its vibrant nightlife, abundance of excellent seafood and gorgeous architecture. But, one of the most iconic things about Lisbon is its system of beautiful yellow trams, which take tourists and travelers up and down the hilly streets of Portugal's capital. Lisbon Portela airport is the most important in Lisbon, and indeed the whole of Portugal. It is also HQ for national carrier TAP Portugal. 

What's the best way to get to the airport from Lisbon to Lisbon airport

Getting to and from Lisbon Portela airport is extremely easy, and travelers have many choices. The most popular option is the Aerobús, a kind of shuttle which connects Lisbon Portela with Lisbon proper via two routes. One heads through the city center to Cais do Sodré, and the second through Lisbon's ever-growing financial district to Av. José Malhoa. A one-way ticket costs just a few Euros and children's tickets are also available for kids between four and ten years old (kids under four ride free). This option is available for passengers from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., and buses depart every 20 minutes.  Lisbon also has a subway system which, although limited when traveling around Lisbon, can take travelers to and from the airport at speed. Tickets are cheap, and services run from early morning to around 1:00 a.m., though this option might not be suitable for those with kids or heavy baggage.  Local buses Carris offer five routes to and from the airport, which can be cheaper (especially with a transport card such as Viva Viagem or 7 Colinas). These can be relatively speedy, however they do get packed, so travelers with small children or large, bulky bags should consider using another option during peak times. Taxis and private transfers are also available, as are ridesharing services. 

How far is it from the city center to the airport?

Lisbon Portela Airport is approximately 4.5 miles (seven kilometers) from Lisbon city center, so don't expect a long journey. Private transfers will obviously be the fastest method of transit, with a journey time of roughly 15 minutes, depending on the location of the passengers' hotel. However, public transit will also do the trick, and will be significantly cheaper. Travel to Lisbon from Lisbon Portela via the Aerobús takes roughly half an hour on all routes to reach the final destination. Those who choose to take the brand new subway line to Lisbon's Igreja Anjos terminal will find their journey time taking between 35 minutes and an hour depending on the time of day. Only one line is required, however this may require a walk of around 25 minutes to get to the Pç. Aeroporto from some terminals. ​

What facilities are there at the airport?

Facilities at Lisbon Portela Airport are modern and plentiful. For those departing or arriving at Lisbon, a small but excellent collection of eateries await, including cafes, snack bars and fast food outlets, as well as sit-down meal options. Bureau de change​ services are available in both arrivals and departures terminals, as well as duty-free shops selling the usual host of jewelry, make-up, perfume, and travel essentials, as well as souvenirs and reading material. Information points, a lost and found and even meeting and conference venues are also on offer at Lisbon Portela Airport​. 

How accessible is the route for those with limited mobility?

Lisbon Portela Airport has disabled bathrooms throughout its terminals, and a comprehensive MyWay assistance service​ which aims to aid and serve those with limited mobility, departing, transiting or arriving at the airport.​ This must be booked via the airline or travel agent​ used for the flight booking no later than 48 hours before arriving at the airport, to ensure staff can be kept free. Inside the airport, passengers will find clear signage pointing to MyWay contact points, and reserved spaces for disabled passengers in the parking lots. 

Local tips: how to travel to the airport like a local

Lisbonites are spoiled for choice when it comes to transport options in and around their beautiful city. While rideshare apps such as Uber and DriveNow are gaining popularity, locals know that taking public transit to Lisbon Portela Airport is a dream. Whilst tourists scramble for a chance to use the iconic yellow trams, locals know that their metro has just been updated to include a line to the airport, meaning that holders of transport cards (which are strongly advised even for short stays) can travel very inexpensively almost anywhere in the city. These cards can be topped up at any station, and also work on most bus routes.