Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport, the primary gateway to Portugal’s capital, offers a practical and efficient experience for travellers passing through its terminals. Situated just 7 kilometres from Lisbon’s city centre, the airport handles over 35 million passengers annually, making it one of Europe’s busier hubs. Its proximity to the city and well-organised facilities ensure a smooth journey for most, with a focus on convenience and accessibility.
Accessing the airport is straightforward, thanks to its close location to central Lisbon. Travellers can reach the city in as little as 15 to 20 minutes by taxi or rideshare services like Uber or Bolt, with fares typically around €12 to €20 depending on traffic. The metro’s red line provides a cost-effective option, connecting the airport to key city points like Saldanha in under 20 minutes, with clear signage guiding passengers to the station. Regular bus services, such as those operated by Terravision, run from 8 am to 9 pm, offering another affordable link to the city centre. For those driving, the A1 motorway provides direct access, and the airport offers multiple parking options, including a free 10-minute “Kiss & Fly” zone for quick drop-offs and premium lots like P1 and P2 within walking distance of Terminal 1.
The airport comprises two terminals, with Terminal 1 serving as the main hub for most international and domestic flights, including those operated by TAP Air Portugal, Star Alliance members, and major carriers like Lufthansa and Air France. Terminal 2, a smaller facility located 1 kilometre away, handles low-cost airlines such as Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air. Terminal 1 is spread across two levels, with arrivals on the ground floor and departures upstairs, featuring 100 check-in counters and 47 gates, 21 of which cater to non-Schengen destinations. Its layout is intuitive, with security and customs centrally located, though bus boarding is common for many flights. Terminal 2, primarily for departures, is more basic, with 22 check-in desks and 15 gates, often relying on bus transfers to aircraft. A free shuttle connects the two terminals in just three minutes, but passengers transferring from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2 must pass through immigration and security, which can slow the process. Peak times, particularly summer or early mornings, may lead to longer queues at security or check-in, especially in Terminal 2, where limited staffing and high passenger volumes can cause delays. Travellers are advised to arrive two hours early for domestic flights and three hours for international ones to account for potential congestion.
Dining and retail options are plentiful in Terminal 1, catering to a range of preferences. Passengers can enjoy quick bites at Starbucks, McDonald’s, or Pizza Hut, or opt for Portuguese specialties like pastel de nata at Delta Café Central or Confeitaria Nacional. La Pausa offers a sit-down dining experience with hot meals, while Terminal 2 provides fewer choices, with basic fast-food outlets and vending machines. Retail in Terminal 1 includes duty-free shops selling cosmetics, alcohol, and Portuguese liqueurs like Ginja, alongside fashion brands like Lacoste, Hugo Boss, and Parfois. Ale-Hop provides quirky souvenirs, and FNAC stocks electronics. Terminal 2’s shopping is limited to a small duty-free area and basic convenience stores like Relay. Prices in both terminals can be higher than city alternatives, so budget-conscious travellers may prefer to eat or shop before arriving.
Facilities at Lisbon Airport are modern and traveller-focused. Free high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout, with charging stations and private booths equipped with sofas for comfort. Terminal 1 offers family-friendly amenities, including a children’s playground, baby-changing rooms, and breastfeeding areas. Accessibility services include wheelchair assistance, accessible toilets, and dedicated support through the MyWay service for passengers with reduced mobility. The ANA Lounge in Terminal 1, open from 5 am to 11 pm, provides a quiet space with snacks, drinks, and showers for a fee of €32.50, while the TAP Premium Lounge includes a children’s play area. Luggage storage is available near the P2 car park, with rates starting at €3.36 per day for items under 10kg. Terminal 2’s facilities are more limited, with fewer seating options and basic amenities, which can feel cramped during busy periods.
On-time performance is generally solid, with real-time flight updates accessible via in-terminal displays or airline apps. Delays, when they occur, are often due to weather conditions, given Lisbon’s coastal location, or air traffic control constraints, as the airport operates as a single-runway hub. Terminal 2’s low-cost carriers, with their tight turnaround schedules, may experience cascading delays, particularly in the evening. Passengers should monitor flight statuses closely, especially during peak travel seasons.
Connections at Lisbon Airport are facilitated by its role as a hub for TAP Air Portugal, which offers extensive routes to Europe, Africa, and South America, particularly Brazil. The single-terminal setup of Terminal 1 makes most transfers seamless, with short walking distances between gates. However, transfers involving Terminal 2 require a shuttle and additional security checks, which can take up to an hour during busy periods. Travellers with tight connections, especially on low-cost carriers, should ensure ample layover time to avoid missing flights, as budget airlines may not rebook missed connections without additional costs.
Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport balances efficiency with practicality, offering a well-connected and accessible hub for travellers exploring Portugal or beyond. With ongoing expansions set to increase capacity by 2027, the airport continues to refine its offerings, ensuring a reliable and pleasant journey for all who pass through.
