A Ride Through Lisbon’s Soul

Lisbon’s cable cars and trams are more than just a way to get around; they’re a symbol of the city’s history, personality, and charm. These old-school vehicles with their yellow paint and wooden interiors have been climbing Lisbon’s hills and winding streets for over a century. They’re like a part of the city’s fabric and a favorite spot for tourists from around the world.

Hopping on one of Lisbon’s trams or cable cars is like stepping into the city’s heart and soul. The clacking of the wheels and the screeching of the brakes are like the city’s daily tune, and as you pass by historic landmarks like the Sé Cathedral, the Basilica da Estrela, and the Castle of São Jorge, you feel like you’re part of the past. Inside the tram, the polished wooden benches, the brass fittings, and the old ads make you feel like you’ve gone back in time.

Lisbon’s trams and cable cars have a long history. They started in the late 19th century when the city was trying to figure out how to get around its hilly terrain. These new ways of moving people made neighborhoods more accessible and helped the city grow. Over the years, the trams and cable cars have seen Lisbon change from the fancy days of the Belle Époque to the tough times of the 20th century and the bustling city we know today. They’ve survived wars, revolutions, and modernization, and they still look the same. Today, Lisbon’s trams and cable cars aren’t just a way to get around; they’re a trip through time, showing you the city’s past and giving you a unique view of the present.

Unlike modern transit systems that prioritize speed and efficiency, Lisbon’s trams embrace the journey itself, offering passengers sweeping views of terracotta rooftops, pastel-colored buildings, and the shimmering expanse of the Tagus River as they meander through neighborhoods rich with character.

Among them, the iconic Remodelado trams, particularly the legendary Tram 28, have become emblematic of Lisbon’s identity. Introduced in the 1930s, these bright yellow, vintage trams with polished wooden interiors and brass fittings evoke a sense of nostalgia, effortlessly blending the old with the new. They wind their way through Lisbon’s labyrinthine streets, from the bustling squares of Baixa to the steep, narrow alleys of Alfama, climbing hills with gradients that would challenge most modern vehicles.