The "best" pass for Lisbon depends entirely on your travel style, but the Lisboa Card is the most comprehensive option for tourists in 2026. This all-in-one pass provides unlimited free travel on the Metro, buses, trams (including the iconic 28), and the elevators like Santa Justa. Additionally, it offers free entry to 39 museums and historic sites, including the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower. If you are more focused on budget transit rather than sightseeing, the Viva Viagem card is the better choice; it is a "pay-as-you-go" green card that you can top up with "Zapping" credit, which significantly reduces the cost of individual fares compared to buying paper tickets from the driver. For those visiting the surrounding areas, the Lisboa Card also includes free train travel to Sintra and Cascais. In 2026, the digital version of the Lisboa Card allows for seamless entry via smartphone, making it the "gold standard" for convenience, while the Viva Viagem remains the essential tool for locals and long-term visitors navigating the city's hills.