
Lisbon's cruise port is a great starting point for exploring the city center and beyond. The port is located in the heart of Lisbon, near the famous Belém Tower.
You can easily walk to the city center from the cruise port, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling streets. The historic neighborhood of Alfama is just a short stroll away, with its narrow streets and picturesque alleys.
The Lisbon tram system is also a convenient option for getting around the city, with several tram lines connecting the port to other popular areas. Just hop on tram number 15 or 18 to reach the city center.
Be sure to take a ride on the historic tram number 28, which passes through many of Lisbon's most famous landmarks, including the Castle of São Jorge and the National Pantheon.
Getting Around
You can get to the city center from the cruise port using the metro, which is a convenient and affordable option. Metro rides cost €1.80 one-way and can be paid for with a contactless card by tapping in.

The metro stations "Terreiro do Paço" and "Santa Apolónia" are located near the cruise terminals. From there, you can easily get to the Baixa district.
If you prefer to walk, the city center is just a 10-minute stroll from the cruise port. The walking distance is less than a mile, making it a great option for those who enjoy a leisurely pace.
Accommodation and Tours
When you're in Lisbon, you'll want to explore the city's rich history and culture. The Jeronimos Monastery, a World Heritage Site, dates back to the 1500s and is the final resting place of Vasco da Gama.
You can easily get around Lisbon with the help of a guided tour or shore excursion. The Belem Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage monument, is a must-visit and dates from the early 16th century.
For art lovers, the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is a treasure trove of private collections featuring works by Rubens, Rembrandt, René Lalique, and Monet.
Santa Apolonia
If you're planning to visit Santa Apolonia, you'll want to know about the cruise terminal. The Santa Apolonia cruise terminal B is located at GPS coordinates latitude 38.71317477, longitude -9.12196487.
The terminal has a pretty standard set of amenities. You'll find X-Rays for security checks, a gifts shop with local crafts, and a tourist information center to help you plan your stay.
The terminal complex also has a shuttle bus line that takes you to the city centre, public phones to stay in touch with loved ones, and a taxi rank to get a ride to your accommodation. There's even a dedicated parking area for cars and buses.
If you're arriving by ship, you'll be happy to know that the quay's length is 360 meters, with a max draught of 12 meters. This means that most ships can dock comfortably, and there's room for two ships at a time.
Hotels
If you're looking for a great place to stay in Lisbon, consider booking a hotel that's close to popular attractions like the Berardo Museum, which features an impressive collection of modern art by Portuguese millionaire José Berardo, including works by Dali, Picasso, and Andy Warhol.

The Berardo Museum is a must-visit for art lovers, and staying in a nearby hotel makes it easy to pop in and out throughout the day.
For a convenient and comfortable stay in Lisbon, look for hotels that offer amenities like easy access to public transportation and proximity to popular restaurants.
Some of the best hotels in Lisbon offer stunning views of the city, making it a great way to experience the local culture and architecture.
If you're looking for a unique experience, consider staying in a hotel that's located near the Berardo Museum, where you can enjoy the city's vibrant art scene and modern architecture.
City Tours & Excursions
If you're looking for a DIY excursion, Lisbon Cruise Port is a great place to start. The historic Alfama District is within walking distance, giving you a feel for the city in a day. You can easily access public transport, with trams, buses, and metro lines connecting you to other attractions.

The area around the cruise port is home to several World Heritage Sites, including the Jeronimos Monastery and the Belem Tower. These landmarks date back to the 1500s and 16th century, respectively, and are a must-see for history buffs.
If you're interested in art, the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is a short distance away. This private collection features works by Rubens, Rembrandt, and Monet, among others. You can also visit the Madre de Deus Convent to see a unique collection of decorative ceramic tiles.
For a glimpse into Lisbon's golden age, head to the São Roque Church, also known as the Most Expensive Chapel in the World. This stunning church is made from gold found in colonial Brazil and features amazing mosaics and golden art.
Here are some of the top attractions near Lisbon Cruise Port:
- Jeronimos Monastery: World Heritage Site listed
- Belem Tower: UNESCO World Heritage monument
- Calouste Gulbenkian Museum: private collection of fine art
- Madre de Deus Convent: unique collection of decorative ceramic tiles
- São Roque Church: the Most Expensive Chapel in the World
Your Options
So you're wondering about your options for getting from Lisbon Cruise Port to the city centre? Well, the good news is that it's relatively straightforward. The walking distance to the city centre, or Terreiro do Paco Square, is around 10 minutes or a little less than a mile.

You can easily walk to the city centre from the new cruise terminal. If you'd rather not walk, you can use public transport, which Lisbon has a great network of. Trams, buses, and metro are all readily available to take you to other attractions.
If you're looking for a more leisurely experience, you can take a bus or metro ride to get to other parts of the city. The beaches, on the other hand, are around 15 miles from the city centre, so you'll need to plan ahead if you want to visit them.
Here are your transport options from Lisbon Cruise Port to Lisbon City Centre:
- Walking: around 10 minutes or a little less than a mile
- Public transport (trams, buses, metro): readily available
Practical Information
Lisbon Cruise Port is a popular destination for travelers, and here are some practical facts to keep in mind.
The Lisbon Cruise Port is located on the north bank of the Tagus River, near the city center.
To get to the city center from the cruise port, you can take a taxi or a bus. The journey takes about 10-15 minutes.
The Lisbon Cruise Port has a range of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and a tourist information office.
If you're planning to explore the city, consider purchasing a Lisbon Card, which grants you free entry to many attractions and public transportation.
The cruise port is also a great spot to take in the views of the city and the river.
10 Things to Do When Visiting
Lisbon is a city that will leave you in awe, and as a cruise traveler, you're in for a treat. The city's unique food scene is a must-experience, and one of the must-try items is the sweet Pasteis de Nata, a centuries-old recipe that's a well-kept secret.
You can find the original birthplace of the Pasties de Nata in Belem, at Pasteis de Belem, which has been serving this delicious treat since 1837. The bridge you'll pass under when sailing into or out of the port of Lisbon is a great spot to take in the city's scenery.
Take a ride on the old wooden Trams, which are a great way to see the city's beautiful scenery. Two popular routes are the number 15 tram from the center of Belem and the number 28 yellow tram from Praca do Martim Moniz to Alfama.
The 28E Tram is a 45-minute journey that offers stunning views of the city. The Miradouro das Portas do Sol is a great spot to take in the view of the river from Alfama, which is Lisbon's oldest neighborhood and only a 10-15 minute walk from the city center.
The Jeronimos Monastery is a must-see, with its stunning Gothic architecture and beautiful location near the Tagus river. Rossio Square is one of the busiest areas in Lisbon, with two fountains on either side and a monument in the center.
Eduardo VII park is Lisbon's largest park, occupying 65 acres near the city center and offering a wonderful city and river view. The park has neatly clipped box hedges laid out in a mosaic pattern, making it a must-visit for the view alone.
The harbor-facing plaza in Lisbon is one of the largest in Portugal, with a statue of King Joseph I and his horse symbolically crushing snakes with its hoofs. The plaza is surrounded by bright yellow buildings and was originally constructed as a symbolic entrance into Lisbon.
The Tower of Belem is a must-see while you're in Lisbon, as it's a UNESCO World Heritage site and was once used to defend the city against foreign ships. The Sao Jorge Castle is another top attraction, with its stunning location on a hill that has played a big role in Lisbon's history since the 12th century.
Alcântara Terminal: Modernity
The Alcântara Cruise Terminal is situated in the bustling Alcântara neighborhood, offering a contemporary and welcoming environment for cruise ship passengers.
This modern terminal provides excellent facilities and services, ensuring a seamless arrival and departure experience for all visitors.
Alcântara itself offers a unique blend of old and new, with trendy bars, stylish restaurants, and modern art galleries nestled among remnants of its industrial past.
The Alcântara Cruise Terminal is conveniently located near the LX Factory, a creative hub where visitors can discover local craftsmanship, unique boutiques, and innovative gastronomic offerings.
This trendy destination provides a perfect opportunity to indulge in nautical shopping and find exquisite maritime-themed jewelry and clothing.
Cruising the Tagus River
Cruising the Tagus River is an experience like no other. You'll get to see Lisbon's most iconic landmarks from a different angle, offering picturesque views and unforgettable moments.
From the comfort of a cruise ship, you can marvel at the majestic architecture of the Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The grandeur of the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge, reminiscent of San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge, is also a sight to behold.
Catching a glimpse of the impressive Christ the King monument standing proudly on the southern bank is a bonus. As the ship glides through the river, you'll discover Lisbon's nautical charm from a fresh perspective.
Cruising the Tagus River: Unique Perspectives
Cruising the Tagus River offers a unique perspective on Lisbon's iconic landmarks.
You can marvel at the majestic architecture of the Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, from the comfort of a cruise ship.
The Ponte 25 de Abril bridge is a notable sight, reminiscent of San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge.
It's a grand and impressive structure that's hard to miss.
As you cruise along the river, you can catch a glimpse of the Christ the King monument standing proudly on the southern bank.
This impressive monument is a beautiful addition to the river's scenery.
Exploring Lisbon from the Tagus River is an experience like no other.
You can discover the city's nautical charm from a fresh perspective, immersing yourself in its history and modernity.
Cruising the Tagus River allows you to see Lisbon's historic streets and modern areas, such as Parque das Nações, in a new light.
Nautical Magic Awaits
Cruising the Tagus River is a must-do experience for passionate sea lovers. Lisbon's unique perspective from the river is an experience like no other.
The city's iconic landmarks, such as the Belém Tower and the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge, are breathtakingly beautiful from the river. This grand bridge is reminiscent of San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge.

As you cruise along the river, you'll catch a glimpse of the impressive Christ the King monument standing proudly on the southern bank. The majestic architecture of the Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a sight to behold.
The Lisbon Port Authority's Terreiro do Paço and Alcântara Cruise Terminals provide seamless access to this captivating city. Whether you're looking to explore historic neighborhoods or modern districts, the charms of Lisbon's nautical traditions are ever-present.
Most cruise ships now dock at the newer Santa Apolonia terminal, but you can also dock at the older Alcantara terminal. If you have the chance, be outside when the ship comes in or goes out of port to pass under the 25 de Abril Bridge.
From nautical-themed jewelry and clothing to maritime decorations for the home, the enchantment of the sea carries through every aspect of the city.
Visiting Lisbon
Visiting Lisbon is a treat, especially if your cruise itinerary includes a stop in this beautiful city. Lisbon is the capital of Portugal and the second-oldest capital in Europe, after Athens.

From the cruise port, you can walk to the city center in around 10 minutes, which is a great way to get a feel for the city. The new cruise terminal is conveniently located near the city center.
Lisbon has a lot to offer, from its cobbled streets and ornate tiled buildings to its scenic hilltop vistas and waterfront promenades. You'll want to take in as much as you can during your port stop, and a city tour is a great way to do this.
City Centre
Lisbon's city centre is easily accessible by metro from the cruise port, with the "new" Lisbon Cruise Terminals sandwiched between two metro stations, "Terreiro do Paço" and "Santa Apolónia".
The metro ride costs €1.80 one-way, and you can pay with a contactless card by tapping in at the metro station. Alternatively, you can walk to the city centre from the cruise port in around 10 minutes.
If you prefer to walk, you'll arrive at Terreiro do Paco Square, which is close to the famous Elevador de Santa Justa. You can also ride the trams from Praça Luís de Camões, located just a few minutes away from Baixa-Chicado metro station.
The Baixa district is also easily accessible from the metro, and you can ride the trams from Praça Luís de Camões to get there. The #28 and #12 tram routes are popular options.
Once you arrive in the city centre, you can explore the many historical and cultural landmarks, such as the Jeronimos Monastery, Belem Tower, and Calouste Gulbenkian Museum. These sites showcase Lisbon's rich history and cultural heritage.
The city centre is also close to excellent shopping and restaurants, making it a great place to explore and discover the local culture.
What to Do on Visiting
Lisbon is a city that delivers an unforgettable experience for cruise travelers. As the capital of Portugal and the second-oldest capital in Europe, Lisbon is rich in history, culture, and breathtaking views.

You can explore Lisbon's iconic landmarks, winding alleys, and picturesque viewpoints on a city tour. This will give you a fantastic overview of the city's must-see spots.
The original birthplace of the Pasties de Nata is in Belem, at Pasteis de Belem, since 1837. This is a unique and yummy food item you shouldn't miss trying.
Riding on the old wooden Trams is a great way to see Lisbon's scenery. Two popular routes are the number 15 tram from the center of Belem and the number 28 yellow tram from Praca do Martim Moniz to Alfama.
The 28E Tram is a 45-minute journey that offers some of the best views of the city. You can see the scenic hilltop vistas and waterfront promenades from the tram.
The Jeronimos Monastery is a former monastery of the Order of Saint Jerome, built in 1502 using Gothic architecture. It's one of the most visited sites in Lisbon and a must-see.
Rossio Square is one of the busiest areas in Lisbon, where people come to sit, relax, or eat at the wonderful cafes located around the square. There are two fountains on either side and a monument in the center.

Eduardo VII park is Lisbon's largest park, occupying 65 acres near the city center. It's a public park with a wonderful city and river view, featuring neatly clipped box hedges laid out in a mosaic pattern.
The Tower of Belem is a Unesco World Heritage site and a must-see while you're in Lisbon. This tower was once used to defend the city against foreign ships.
Sao Jorge Castle is one of the best attractions in Lisbon, and you can see it from almost anywhere in old town. The location or hill of the castle has played a big role in Lisbon's history since the 12th century.
Conclusion
Lisbon is a city that will amaze and delight you, whether you're visiting from a cruise ship or exploring on your own.
You'll have plenty of opportunities to experience the city and see its many sites, as shore excursions from the ship can take you to places like the Belem Tower and the Jeronimos Monastery.

Visiting Lisbon from a cruise ship gives you the chance to discover its rich history and culture, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
By taking a shore excursion or venturing out on your own, you'll be able to explore Lisbon's charming neighborhoods and scenic views, such as the one from the Miradouro de Santa Luzia.
Lisbon's cruise port offers a convenient and hassle-free way to experience the city, allowing you to make the most of your time ashore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lisbon walkable from the cruise port?
Yes, Lisbon is walkable from the cruise port, with a flat route available along the waterfront. However, be prepared for some hills and cobbled streets as you explore the city.
How many cruise terminals are there in Lisbon?
There are 2 cruise terminals in Lisbon, all located on the North bank of River Tagus.
What is the main port in Lisbon?
The Port of Lisbon is the main port in Lisbon, located on the north side of the Tagus River's harbour. It's the third-largest port in Portugal, offering access to the Atlantic Ocean.
How far is Lisbon port from the town?
Lisbon Port is approximately 2 miles east of the city centre. The transfer time is around 20 minutes, depending on traffic.
Where do cruise ships go from Lisbon?
Cruise ships from Lisbon sail to destinations along the western Mediterranean, including Spain, France, the Azores, and Canaries. Explore the rich cultures and breathtaking coastlines of these regions on a Lisbon cruise.
Sources
- https://www.cruisemapper.com/ports/lisbon-port-65
- https://diycruiseports.com/diy-port-guides/lisbon-cruise-port-guide
- https://allcruisehotels.com/port/mediterranean/lisbon/
- https://www.madeinsea.co/blogs/explore-the-sea/where-do-cruise-ships-dock-in-lisbon
- https://travelmustdos.com/lisbon-portugal-from-a-cruise-ship/
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