Index:

  1. Introduction
  2. History of Trams in Portugal
  3. The Career of 28 Over the Years
  4. The Current Route of Tram 28
  5. Tram 28 in the Culture and Memory of Lisbon
  6. Riding on Tram 28: A Journey Through Time

1. Introduction

Everyone who knows Lisbon, almost certainly has heard of the emblematic Tram 28 from the Carris company. It is one of the most famous and sought-after tourist attractions in the Portuguese capital, almost making it a must to take a ride on this legendary means of transport. It is a journey through time that introduces us to the narrow streets of some of the most well-known historic areas of the city. Going back in time, trams were a mode of transport imported from the United States of America in the early 20th century, to replace the old horse-drawn carriages, which were at that time the main mode of transport in Portugal.

2. History of Trams in Portugal

Regarding the route 28, it was inaugurated in 1914, having undergone various changes. Initially, its route linked Praça Camões to Estrela. Currently, its route starts at Largo do Martim Moniz and ends at Largo dos Prazeres, in the Campo de Ourique area, passing through various historic places, such as Graça, Largo das Portas do Sol, Sé, Chiado, Estrela, or the São Bento palace.

3. The Career of 28 Over the Years

It is easy to distinguish the “yellow” tram running on electric rails on the road, passing through the typical Lisbon neighborhoods, full of history. During the so-called tourist seasons, the Tram fills up with smiles, laughter, words in various languages, and genuine Portuguese. We see cameras and mobile phones capturing memorable images of our beautiful and radiant capital. Through the windows, we observe tourists and locals, some strolling on either side of the street, others in a hurry to reach their destination. We see historic buildings and also the tuk-tuks that we are accustomed to.

4. The Current Route of Tram 28

The route of Tram 28 crosses typically Lisbon neighborhoods that are the soul of Lisbon. It can also take us to some of the city’s most beautiful viewpoints. We can catch it in front of the Estrela Basilica and get off at Bica to visit the Adamastor Viewpoint in Santa Catarina. We can also visit the Graça Viewpoint and go down to the Portas do Sol and Santa Luzia Viewpoints.

5. Tram 28 in the Culture and Memory of Lisbon

It is impossible to forget the mythical Tram that is found everywhere: on postcards, in miniatures in shops, on the tourist route, and in the memory of the Portuguese. If you want to enjoy this journey through time, you will have to face long lines at the first stop, but it will be worth it. And if you want to know more about the route, there is a new edition in bookstores – 28 Chronicle of a Route, by José-Augusto França.

6. Riding on Tram 28: A Journey Through Time

Riding on Tram 28 is a journey through time through hills and narrow streets, a trip that takes about 1 hour. To get an idea of the popularity of this means of transport in Lisbon, the average number of passengers in the last four years was 4.6 million, according to Carris. Without a doubt, this is one of the biggest symbols of our capital. The metro/ tram passes are valid on Tram 28. You can also use pre-loaded cards (7 Colinas or Viva Viagem) with metro/tram trips.

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