Lisbon: signal, data and getting around
Portugal, covered by 17 Portugal plans from $1.14.
Talisim editorial team · Updated
Quick answer
A Talisim Portugal eSIM works in Lisbon: 17 plans from $1.14, 1GB–50GB, up to 3G, 4G, 5G, on Vodafone, NOS. Top-ups: yes, on most plans. Data only: no phone number, calls or texts. WhatsApp, FaceTime, Signal and iMessage work over data. Hotspot and tethering work, as far as your phone allows, and use the same data.
Where the signal goes
Good throughout, including the metro. The hills matter more than the network: you'll lose a fix briefly in the steep alleys of Alfama where the sky narrows to a strip.
Getting around
Trams and funiculars for the hills, metro for distance. Tram 28 is a tourist ride, not transport.
Neighbourhoods
Alfama
The oldest quarter, and the one that survived the 1755 earthquake.
Príncipe Real
Up the hill, with the antique shops and better restaurants.
Cais do Sodré
Riverside, and the nightlife has taken over the old red-light street.
What's on
Festas de Lisboa
June
Alfama and Graça
Alfama and Graça grill sardines in the street and stay out until dawn.
Elsewhere in Portugal
Installing for the first time? The FAQ has the four steps and the phones that support eSIM.