Travel Information

Lisbon Travel

Getting In

Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) is the main international airport serving the city and is well-connected to major destinations worldwide.

From the airport to the city centre:

  • Metro: Red Line to the city centre (around 20 to 25 minutes)
  • Uber / Bolt: Approximately €15 to €20 (15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic)

Getting Around Lisbon

Lisbon is compact and easy to explore.

  • Metro: Efficient and affordable, covering most tourist areas. You can pay directly with your debit or credit card.
  • Trams: The historic Tram 28 is a must-do experience and a lovely way to see the city.
  • Uber / Bolt: Widely available and very affordable.
  • Taxis: Easy to find throughout the city.
  • Walking: The best way to experience Lisbon at its fullest. Wander through the most beautiful streets and discover the charm of the city at your own pace. Just remember to bring comfortable footwear, Lisbon is very hilly!

Where to Stay

We recommend booking accommodation in central Lisbon for easy access to the ceremony location. There are many excellent and affordable options available through Booking.com and Airbnb.

The reception venue (Casa dos Lobos, Belas) is approximately 30 minutes from central Lisbon. We recommend travelling to the reception by Uber, Bolt or private transfer (see "The Day Of" below).

Recommended Neighbourhoods

  • Baixa / Chiado: Very central, within walking distance of many attractions, with excellent restaurants and nightlife. Around 15 minutes' walk from the church.
  • Alfama: Lisbon's oldest neighbourhood, full of character, narrow streets and traditional Fado music. Around 35 minutes' walk from the church.
  • Bairro Alto: Trendy and lively area with vibrant nightlife and dining. Around 12 minutes' walk from the church.
  • Príncipe Real: Elegant neighbourhood with boutique shops, cafés and gardens. Around 12 minutes' walk from the church.

The Day Of

  • Ceremony: 3:30 PM at Igreja de Nossa Senhora das Mercês (Largo de Jesus, Lisbon)
  • Reception: 6:00 PM at Casa dos Lobos (Belas, approximately 20-25 minutes from the church)

Transportation

The church is centrally located and easily accessible by metro, tram, Uber, Bolt or on foot.

For transportation to the reception venue in Belas, we recommend:

  • Uber / Bolt: Approximately €15 to €30 from the church. As many guests will choose this option, we recommend coordinating rides with other guests where possible.
  • Private transfer: For your convenience, we have spoken with a private transfer company who can arrange transportation from your hotel to the ceremony, then to the reception venue, and back to your hotel. If you would like to use this service, please contact them directly at (CONTACT DETAILS), mention that you are attending Mariana & Miguel's wedding, and they will arrange transportation at an agreed cost.
  • Car rental: If you prefer to drive, private parking is available at both the ceremony and reception venues.

What to Expect

  • Weather: June in Lisbon is typically warm and sunny, with temperatures between 20 and 28°C. Sunglasses and sunscreen are recommended.
  • Duration: Please plan for a full evening of celebration following the reception, approximately until 4:00 AM.

Santos Populares

June is one of the most exciting months to visit Lisbon thanks to the Santos Populares festivities, and one of the reasons we chose to get married at this time of year :)

Throughout the city, especially in neighbourhoods such as Alfama, Graça and Bairro Alto, you will find lively street parties with music, dancing, grilled sardines, colourful decorations and a joyful atmosphere that lasts well into the night. It is a very local celebration and a wonderful way to experience Lisbon at its most authentic.

Exactly one week after the wedding, on 13 June, Lisbon celebrates Saint Anthony, the city's patron saint. One of the biggest parties takes place on the night of 12 June, and we highly recommend sticking around if your schedule allows.

Travel Tips

  • Language: Portuguese is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Currency: Euro (€). Credit cards are accepted in most places.
  • Best time to arrive: Consider arriving one or two days early to explore Lisbon and recover from jet lag.
  • Must-see: Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, Baixa-Chiado, São Jorge Castle, Alfama district, and Lisbon's beautiful viewpoints. Our favourite is Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, where we shared our first kiss back in 2013 ;)
  • Must eat & drink: Pastéis de Nata, Pastéis de Belém, bacalhau in its many variations, fresh seafood, and great Portuguese wine!

If You Have Extra Time

If your schedule allows, we highly recommend extending your stay and exploring more of Portugal. The country is compact, easy to drive, and full of beautiful contrasts.

  • Sintra: Just 30 minutes from Lisbon, this fairytale town is famous for its palaces, lush gardens and dramatic landscapes. Perfect for a day trip or overnight stay.
  • Beaches & Coastline: Portugal is known for its stunning beaches. From Cascais and Guincho near Lisbon, to the golden sands of Comporta and the Vicentina coast, or the dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters of the Algarve, there are wonderful options for every style.
  • Road trip: Renting a car is an excellent way to experience Portugal at your own pace. Scenic drives, charming villages, incredible food and wine, and breathtaking landscapes are never far apart.

Whether you choose culture, nature or a few relaxed days by the sea, Portugal is a beautiful country to explore and we hope you enjoy it as much as we do!