Navigating Lisbon Airport Security Wait Time: What You Need To Know 2024
Are you wondering what Lisbon Airport security wait time is like? You’ve come to the right place!
Since I live in Lisbon, every time I leave Portugal to wherever my travels may take me, Lisbon International Airport serves as the gateway. I have to say it’s not always a pleasant experience… I have a Canadian passport, and don’t have the facilities that my son Luca has with his European passport.
Getting through passport control in Lisbon can definitely be a daunting task to say the least! Always make sure you give yourself about 3 hours to jump through all the hoops before boarding in Lisbon. On arrival things are faster, and you should be out of the airport in about 1 hour.
I’ve written up a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the ins and outs of this bustling European airport and hopefully reduce your stress levels on the day you travel!
Read on for tips concerning your departure from Lisbon Airport and how to reduce your Lisbon airport wait time, as well as how to get to Lisbon city center on arrival.
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Tips for your departure from Lisbon Airport
Here is a short list of tips that will take the stress out of traveling to or from Lisbon International Airport.
1. Understand the Layout
Lisbon Airport, also known as Humberto Delgado Airport, is less of a maze and more of a bustling city that never sleeps. Familiarizing yourself with its layout before your trip can save you precious time. The airport has two main terminals – Terminal 1 for most international flights and Terminal 2 for low cost flights throughout Europe.
Although there is no metro to Terminal 2, a free shuttle connects both terminals every 10-15 minutes. It is not possible to walk from one terminal to another. Make sure to check your terminal when checking in online and allow for an extra half hour for the transfer to Terminal 2, especially during high season.
Remember that passport control is after the duty free shops, restaurants and the main lounge. If you are leaving the Schengen Area, then you’ll need to go through immigration before getting to your gate. Don’t make the mistake of spending too long in the shops and restaurants and then missing your flight due to the hundreds of people lined up to see the agents.
2. Early Arrival is Key
Arriving early might seem like an age-old travel tip, but at Lisbon Airport, it’s your golden ticket. During peak season, the airport experiences a surge in passenger traffic, making every process from check-in to boarding longer than usual.
Aim to arrive at least 3 hours before your international flight. This extra time is not just for security checks, but also for navigating through the airport and enjoying a more relaxed start to your journey.
3. Immigration Over Security
A common misconception among travelers is that security is the main bottleneck. However, at Lisbon Airport, the real test of patience is immigration, which comes after the main lounge area and the duty free shops.
Non-Europeans need to be aware of this as non-EU passports usually mean longer wait times at this airport. The crowds can really be overwhelming and the lack of capacity for the 14 million passengers that pass through here every year is glaringly obvious at passport control.
Keep all your travel documents handy and be prepared for possible questions about your stay in Portugal. Patience and politeness go a long way here. You might also want to check out the Lisbon Airport Fast Track option, which cuts down on your wait time at the XRay security check.
4. Leverage Technology
In today’s digital age, technology can significantly streamline your airport experience. Before heading to the airport, check-in online and download your boarding pass. If you find that this isn’t possible, for whatever reason, most companies have an electronic check in booth at the check in gate, which also helps to reduce wait times.
The Lisbon Airport website offer real-time updates on flight status, so make sure to use this tool to stay informed about departure times and one step ahead.
You can also access the free wifi network at both terminals, although it is quite slow. It is called ‘VINCI Airports Wifi’ and requires an email to log in.
5. Pack Smart
Packing smart can not only save you time at security checks but also keep your journey stress-free. Remember the liquid restrictions in your carry-on and pack any electronics in an easily accessible part of your bag.
If you’re traveling with gifts or souvenirs, keep in mind that customs officials might want to inspect these, so pack them at the top of your luggage. Unless food is vacuum packed, you will most probably lose it to an agent, so keep this in mind when leaving Europe.
You’ll also want to watch out for belts, heavy jewlery, or even boots, since the agents in Lisbon generally ask travellers to remove these items when going through security. Plan to dress without these elements for less hassle and a smoother security check.
6. Don’t Linger in the Lounges and Shops
The main lounge area of Lisbon Airport is a vibrant hub of shops, restaurants, and lounges. While it might be tempting to dive into last-minute shopping or enjoy a leisurely meal, keep an eye on the clock. Remember, passport control and boarding gates are a significant walk away from the main lounge area.
All gates in the S part of the terminal are for flights within Europe, whereas gates in the N part of the terminal are for flights leaving Europe. All flights leaving the Schengen region go through the time consuming passport control queues AFTER the shops, so keep your eyes on your watch!
Unfortunately, Terminal 2 has much less in terms of shops and restaurants and you’ll find that there’s only a McDonald’s and a few coffee shops past the check in counters.
7. Stay Informed About Your Gate
Gate changes are not uncommon, especially during the high season. Stay alert to announcements and regularly check flight information screens around the airport. If you’re unsure about your gate or how to get there, don’t hesitate to ask airport staff for directions.
They where blue shirts and you’ll find them directing traffic, especially when several flights are due in or out of the airport. They’re there to help make your journey smoother and all speak English.
8. Know How to Get From Lisbon Airport to city center
Since Lisbon is only 6 km from the city center, you’ll definitely want to check out the old center if you have time between flights. This also means that getting to your hotel or flat is quick and easy, especially if you know how you’re getting there.
Lisbon Airport Lockers
If you’ll only be in Lisbon on a layover, you might want to leave your luggage in lockers until your return for your next flight. There are self serve lockers right outside, in front of departures in Terminal 1. They cost 9€ for 3 hours or 16€ for 24 hours. This is a great way to visit Lisbon’s center without needing to drag suitcases around with you.
From there, you can take 5 different modes of transportation to the center: a car rental, the metro/bus, a ride hailing service like Uber/Bolt, a taxi, or a shuttle.
✔ Lisbon Airport Car rental
Renting a car at Lisbon Airport might seem like a great way to explore at your own pace, but if you’re planning to stay mainly in Lisbon, think twice. The city’s narrow streets, heavy traffic, and scarce parking can turn driving into a real headache.
Car rental agencies are located at arrivals at the airport, and just by following the signs, you can pick up a car right after you land. For visiting the heart of Lisbon though, other transportation options are a lot better and will spare you the stress of managing a car in the city.
If you’re renting a car to reach a location outside of Lisbon, calculate an extra 1.5 to 2 hours to pick up your car. Rentals go for between 5 and 50 Euros per day, depending on the season and the duration. For more information on this read up on car rentals in Portugal.
✅ Check out the cost of a rental car for your dates here
✔ Lisbon Airport Metro/Bus
The metro and bus services from Lisbon Airport are excellent choices for getting to the city center quickly and economically. The Red Line airport metro station is conveniently accessed from right inside the airport, and it takes about 20 minutes to reach the heart of Lisbon.
A single metro ticket costs around 1.80 euros, but make sure to purchase a reloadable Viva Viagem card for multiple trips. You can find a map of the metro here.
Although buses are also available to various parts of Lisbon, they are generally less reliable and not worth your trouble. If you’re looking for a smoother ride without the wait, the metro is your best bet.
✔ Uber Lisbon Airport
Using Uber to get from Lisbon Airport to downtown is usually my go to since the low price of an Uber is really worth the convenience. There are 2 really popular ride hailing apps in Lisbon, Uber and Bolt. Make sure to download both before you fly, and always check the price on both apps to see which is the cheapest.
You can order an Uber right after you land using the app on your smartphone. Fares to the city center are typically about 8-10 Euros, but prices can vary depending on the time of day and traffic. The pickup area for Uber is in the short stay parking area, clearly marked as P2, out the exit just past the Starbucks at arrivals.
Unfortunately, the traffic around the airport can make it difficult for drivers to get to the pick up point, and you’ll find that confirming a car sometimes can take a long time. If you arrive during peak traffic hours you may find drivers constantly rejecting your ride or wait time to be over the top. In this case you may want to resort to a taxi.
✔ Lisbon Airport Taxi
Taxis are readily available at Lisbon Airport, but caution is advised as taxis here are known for frequently overcharging tourists. Always ensure the meter is running or agree on a fare before you start your journey to avoid surprises. The ride to the city center should cost between 15 to 20 euros, but it’s wise to ask the driver about the expected cost beforehand.
Note that they do charge extra for luggage (!!!) and that fares are more expensive after 9 pm. For a stress-free start to your visit, you might consider pre-booking a transfer through a reputable company or booking a shuttle with your hotel if possible.
✔ Lisbon Airport Hotels with Free Shuttle
Many of Lisbon’s hotels have shuttles to the airport which will pick visitors up at predetermined times based on previous bookings. Shuttle rides are typically charged, and rates are around 10-15€ per ride.
Shuttles can be a convenient option if you’re carrying a lot of luggage or traveling in a group, and can be booked in advance with your hotel. There is a shuttle stop, right in front of the arrivals, out the door where the Vodaphone booth is located.
There are actually 3 Lisbon Airport hotels with free shuttle! Make sure to check them out to get the most bang for your buck!
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Where to Stay near Lisbon International Airport
💲Budget Stay:
Simply Yellow Apartment – Flats in Lisbon are a little cheaper than hotels, but this will still put you back about 150 €/night. This flat is beautifully decorated and offers an airport shuttle as well as 2 bedrooms, which means the price is right for a family or two couples.
💲💲Mid-range Stay:
Melia Lisboa Oriente Hotel – This is the best value for your money since it’s a four star hotel and is just a little more than the budget options you can get in town. It’s got comfort, convenience, a view of the river, a fabulous breakfast buffet… what more could you ask for?
💲💲💲Luxury Stay:
MYRIAD by SANA Hotels – This is a gorgeous 5 star hotel right on the water front in one of the chiquest parts of town. The view, the amenities, the service… Need I say more…
Lisbon International Airport: The Wrap-Up
Navigating Lisbon Airport during the peak season might seem overwhelming, but with these tips, you’re well on your way to a stress-free start to your Portuguese adventure. Keep this guide handy, and you’ll not only beat the crowds but also soak in every moment of your journey to and from this beautiful country. Welcome to Portugal!
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