Lisbon’s pivot from best-kept secret to urban benchmark is only accelerating. Bikes and trains rule: new protected lanes and a bigger Gira bike share bolster a top-five global standing for biking, while Metro’s Circular Line targets 2026 service via the Estrela and Santos stations, tightening everyday commutes and weekend family trips.
The planet’s Top 5 transit network turned tragic when the city’s funicular accident claimed 16 lives and shattered the city’ s well-earned sense of safety. But Lisboetas marched on, buoyed by daring new openings like the MACAM modern art museum in a reimagined palace, as well as Hyatt’s Andaz Lisbon upcoming debut on Praça do Comércio.
Good thing tourism is booming, with Portugal posting record travel-service exports in 2024 and likely again in 2025. The city’s gateways are expanding to meet the demand as well. After choosing Alcochete for the region’s next international airport, officials this year asked ANA to accelerate capacity at Humberto Delgado while the new field is completed. More visitors and new residents will keep flying in – for the family-friendly waterfront parks and attractions, for the Top 20 global Health ranking, and some of the most epic sunsets on the planet.