One of the most talked-about things to do in Lisbon is taking a ride on the historic Tram 28, the iconic yellow tram that winds its way through the city’s narrow streets and steep hills. It’s often described as a must-do experience for first-time visitors, offering a nostalgic glimpse into Lisbon’s old neighborhoods like Graça, Alfama, and Baixa. Curious to see what all the fuss was about, I decided to hop on for a short ride — and while it’s definitely part of Lisbon’s charm, for me, it turned out to be a rather ordinary experience.

What to Expect on a Tram 28

The Tram 28 route passes through many of Lisbon’s top attractions, making it popular with tourists and locals alike. However, during my short ride of just a few stops, the tram was completely packed, leaving little space to enjoy the views. The wooden interior and vintage feel are charming, but the crowds can make it hard to appreciate the journey itself. If you’re hoping for a relaxed sightseeing experience, it might be better to catch the tram early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s less busy.

Why You Should Take This Tram Tour

While Tram 28 is an undeniable Lisbon icon, I’d say it’s an experience you can easily skip if you’re short on time or not a fan of crowded spaces. It’s fun for a quick ride just to say you’ve done it, but beyond that, there’s not much to it – especially if you don’t manage to get a seat. For me, it was a short and slightly uncomfortable journey, nothing particularly special. Still, it remains one of those quintessential Lisbon attractions that captures the spirit of the city’s daily life, even if only for a few fleeting minutes. What I would definitely recommend is taking a photo next to one of the trams, which are very colorful and will make for a lovely keepsake.

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