Accessible Lisbon: Tips and tricks for getting around the city safely

Whether you’re wondering about transportation, restaurants or our key events, discover some of the ways you can enjoy the city of Lisbon accessibly.

Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, is one of the oldest cities in Europe, and boasts beautiful architecture that, in some instances, dates as far back as the 11th century.

Unfortunately, in earlier periods of Lisbon’s history, physical accessibility of buildings and infrastructure was not necessarily prioritised in the way that it is now.

That need not be a barrier, though.

We’ve gathered information on some of the city’s restaurants, venues and modes of transport that are accessible for those with limited mobility, those with children, or those simply looking to get around the city safely.

Transportation

Despite there being multiple modes of transportation in Lisbon, many are not fully accessible. Therefore, getting around the city can be difficult for those with reduced mobility or those with children and strollers in tow. Check out some of our recommended ways to get around the city.

Metro

Lisbon’s underground metro system is a great way to get around the city, but is only partially accessible, as elevators are often out of order. This forces people to disembark at stops still some distance from their intended destination.

Stops on the Red Line (São Sebastião to the airport), however, are all fully accessible.

Visit Lisbon’s metro website or Willeasy to get the most up-to-date information on working elevators at stations around the city.

Buses

Carris buses are accessible via the rear door. There is a button to open the door, and you can manually pull down the ramp to board the bus.

In order to ensure an accessible exit, make sure to notify the bus driver of your intended destination so you’re dropped off in an accessible spot.

Trams

While Lisbon’s older trams – which require passengers to step up to embark – are not fully accessible, the newer trams are.

Similar to on the buses, passengers can click a button to open the doors where a ramp is located.

Private transport

Private accessible transportation is also available via Adapted and Senior Tours Portugal. Whether you’re arriving from the airport or looking to explore more of Lisbon, there are vehicles available to suit your needs.

Accessible taxi services

The following companies offer adapted vehicles for travellers with low or reduced mobility:

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• Auto Táxis Serra D’Arga: +351 213 970 900
• Táxis Belchior: +351 962 702 272
• Vital Táxis: +351 966 227 786
• Táxis Manuel João Almeida: +351 964 092 989

Restaurants

The following restaurants are all wheelchair accessible and located in close proximity to Lisbon’s city centre:

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• Infame
• Mediterrâneo Restaurant & Terrace
• Oshi Sushi
• Up to Tapas
• Il Gattopardo

Looking for restaurants with child-friendly menus? Check out our picks below:

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• Seventh Brunch Liberdade
• 3 Amigos
• La Matta

Venues

Web Summit doesn’t end with the final talk of the day. Every night, our attendees take to the streets of Lisbon to explore the city and to create connections along the way.

This year’s Night Summit will take place in three incredible venues.

Hub Criativo do Beato

Located on the riverfront, this spot is currently undergoing massive cultural regeneration.

While the venue is wheelchair accessible, it is important to note that there is a dirt road surrounding the area, which may prove difficult to manoeuvre along.

Pátio da Galé and Praça do Comércio

Praça do Comércio boasts stunning neoclassical architecture and a fantastic view of the Tagus.

Located just off the plaza is Pátio da Galé, a venue renowned for hosting popular events, including the chic Lisbon Fashion Week.

Both locations are fully wheelchair accessible and located in the heart of Lisbon’s city centre.

Pavilhão Carlos Lopes

Located in downtown Lisbon, this venue hosts events and temporary exhibitions, and displays the trophies and equipment of Portuguese Olympic gold medallist Carlos Lopes.

Unfortunately, this venue has stairs leading up to each of its entrances, making the event inaccessible for wheelchair users.

If you have any accessibility requirements, would like to reach out about additional support, or would like information about our key events, please contact us via info@websummit.com or fill out this form. You can also read our accessibility policy.

Alternatively, check out Willeasy, a website – created by a previous Web Summit attendee – that gathers information on how to get around Lisbon accessibly.

Main image of a vintage tram on a Lisbon street: Web Summit