Lavra was Lisbon's first funicular
Lavra was Lisbon’s first funicular. It was inaugurated in 1884, but today it’s the city’s least popular. That’s because, unlike the other two funiculars in town, it doesn’t go to major tourist attractions. It climbs the hill from Largo da Anunciada, by Avenida da Liberdade, to Rua Câmara Pestana, which is a short walk from the garden and viewpoint of Torel. It takes just 3 minutes to complete its journey, and departs every 10 or 15 minutes, depending on the hour of the day. The first departure is at 7:50am on weekdays and 9am on weekends. The last one is at 7:55pm throughout the week.
Inside the Lavra Funicular
At first, it used a water counterweight but was later powered by steam. It was finally electrified in 1915. It takes 42 passengers at a time, usually as may locals as tourists.
The Lavra Funicular at the top of the hill
Elevador do Lavra Tickets and Fares
Tickets to ride the Lavra funicular are bought onboard, from the driver. They’re €3.80, and allow two trips -- up the hill and back down, or down and then back up, on the same day. It’s free with the 24-hour public transportation card, the “Viva Viagem,” that’s purchased at the metro stations for €6.45. Tourists with the Lisboa Card also may ride this and the other funiculars (as well as all public transportation in the city) for free. The Lisboa Card is a better deal than the Viva Viagem, since it can be purchased for 24-, 48-, or 72-hour periods and includes free or reduced admission to many of the tourist attractions.
