The Ultimate Guide to Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS)

Overview of Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS)

Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS), commonly known as Aeroporto de Lisboa, is Portugal’s largest and busiest airport. Located just 7 kilometers (4 miles) northeast of Lisbon's city center, LIS serves as a critical gateway to Portugal and a major hub for flights connecting Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Known for its convenient location and modern facilities, Lisbon Airport is a hub for TAP Air Portugal and a key base for low-cost carriers such as Ryanair and easyJet.

• Location: Portela, Lisbon, Portugal

• IATA Code: LIS

• ICAO Code: LPPT

• Opened: 1942

• Annual Passenger Traffic: Over 30 million (pre-pandemic levels)

• Terminals: 2 (Terminal 1 and Terminal 2)

History of Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport

Opened in 1942, Lisbon Airport has played a vital role in European aviation for decades. Originally a small military and civilian airfield, it quickly became a key hub for transatlantic flights during World War II. Over the years, the airport has undergone significant expansions and upgrades to handle the increasing demand for air travel, culminating in its renaming in 2016 to honor Humberto Delgado, a Portuguese Air Force general and political figure.

Terminal Layout at Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport

Lisbon Airport operates two terminals, with a free shuttle bus connecting them:

1. Terminal 1 (T1)

• Overview:

  • The main terminal, handling both Schengen and non-Schengen international flights.

• Key Features:

  • Modern facilities, spacious check-in areas, and premium lounges.

  • A wide range of dining and shopping options.

• Airlines Operating:

  • TAP Air Portugal, Emirates, Lufthansa, and others.

2. Terminal 2 (T2)

• Overview:

  • Dedicated to low-cost carriers and domestic flights.

• Key Features:

  • More basic facilities with a focus on quick and efficient services.

  • Primarily used for departures (no arrivals are processed here).

• Airlines Operating:

  • Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air.

Transportation Options to and from LIS

1. Metro (Linha Vermelha/Red Line)

• Details:

  • The Lisbon Metro connects the airport to the city center and major districts.

  • The station is located in Terminal 1.

• Travel Time: ~20 minutes to Saldanha station.

• Cost: €1.65 (single ticket).

2. Aerobus Shuttle

• Details:

  • A dedicated airport bus service with multiple routes to key destinations in Lisbon.

• Travel Time: ~30 minutes to downtown Lisbon.

• Cost: Starting at €4 (one-way).

3. Public Buses (Carris)

• Details:

  • Routes 744 and 783 connect the airport to central Lisbon.

• Travel Time: ~30-45 minutes.

• Cost: €2 (single ticket).

4. Taxi and Rideshare

• Taxi:

  • Travel Time: ~15-20 minutes to the city center.

  • Cost: €10-20, depending on traffic.

• Rideshare:

  • Uber, Bolt, and Free Now operate at designated pickup zones.

5. Car Rentals

• Providers:

  • Avis, Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, and others.

• Pickup/Drop-off: Located in Terminal 1.

Parking at Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport

1. Short-Term Parking (P1 and P2)

• Details:

  • Located close to Terminal 1, ideal for drop-offs and pickups.

• Cost: Starting at €3/hour.

2. Long-Term Parking (P3 and P6)

• Details:

  • Budget-friendly options with shuttle services to the terminals.

• Cost: Starting at €9/day.

3. Premium Parking

• Details:

  • Reserved spaces close to the terminal entrances.

• Cost: Starting at €15/day.

4. Electric Vehicle Parking

• Details:

  • Charging stations available in designated parking areas.

  • Fees apply in addition to parking rates.

Dining and Shopping Options

Dining at LIS

• Terminal 1:

  • Pizza Hut: Quick Italian-inspired meals.

  • Go Natural: Healthy salads, wraps, and fresh juices.

• Terminal 2:

  • Paul: French bakery offering sandwiches and pastries.

  • Starbucks: Perfect for coffee and light bites.

Shopping at LIS

• Duty-Free:

  • Extensive selection of perfumes, cosmetics, alcohol, and tobacco.

• Luxury Brands:

  • Michael Kors, Montblanc, and Furla.

• Local Specialties:

  • Shops like "Taste Portugal" offer regional wines, olive oils, and gourmet items.

• Essentials:

  • Relay and WHSmith for books, magazines, and travel accessories.

Lounges at Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport

1. ANA Lounge (Terminal 1)

• Access: Available to Business Class passengers, Priority Pass members, or pay-per-use.

• Features:

  • Complimentary snacks, beverages, and Wi-Fi.

  • Comfortable seating and workspaces.

2. Blue Lounge (Terminal 1)

• Access: Open to premium passengers and Priority Pass holders.

• Features:

  • Hot meals, premium drinks, and relaxation areas.

3. TAP Premium Lounge (Terminal 1)

• Access: Available to TAP Air Portugal Business Class passengers and Star Alliance Gold members.

• Features:

  • Buffet dining, shower facilities, and panoramic runway views.

Nearby Hotels

1. Meliá Lisboa Aeroporto

• Distance: 2 minutes by car or a short walk from the terminal.

• Features:

  • Modern rooms, a rooftop pool, and an on-site restaurant.

2. Star Inn Lisbon Airport

• Distance: 5-minute walk from the terminals.

• Features:

  • Affordable accommodations with complimentary breakfast.

3. Radisson Blu Hotel Lisbon

• Distance: 10 minutes by car.

• Features:

  • Spacious rooms, fitness center, and conference facilities.

Top Tips for Travelers at Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport

1. Arrive Early: Allow at least 2 hours for European flights and 3 hours for long-haul flights.

2. Use the Metro: The Red Line is the fastest way to reach central Lisbon.

3. Explore Portuguese Cuisine: Try pasteis de nata (custard tarts) or local wines at airport restaurants.

4. Free Wi-Fi: Available throughout the airport, with no time restrictions.

5. Shop Local: Pick up authentic Portuguese items like port wine or ceramics.

Future Developments at LIS

• Expansion Plans: Construction of a new terminal and upgrades to existing facilities to handle increasing passenger volumes.

• Sustainability Initiatives: Investments in renewable energy and eco-friendly infrastructure.

• Improved Transportation Links: Enhancements to public transport connections and road access.

Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport combines efficiency, convenience, and a touch of Portuguese charm, making it a top choice for travelers. Whether you're visiting Lisbon or connecting to another destination, LIS ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey.