Lisbon’s public transport system, operated by Carris, has introduced a new contactless payment option for passengers, making it easier than ever to travel on the city’s buses, trams, and elevators. From today, travelers can pay their fares directly at the validators using a physical or virtual bank card, streamlining the process and eliminating the need for physical tickets.
In a statement, Carris emphasized that this new payment method is available on all company vehicles, marking a significant leap towards modernizing the city’s public transport services. This move is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the travel experience and providing greater convenience to users across Lisbon.
“This is a historic day for Carris and for mobility in the city of Lisbon. With the introduction of payment by bank card, we reinforce our commitment to improving the travel experience of our customers, thus ensuring greater convenience and better accessibility when using our service,” said Pedro Bogas, President of Carris.
The new system allows passengers to use contactless payment options on the spot at any validator, a step that aligns with the global trend of embracing digital transactions for everyday services. It is available for both physical cards and virtual ones, such as those from mobile wallets, making it possible to travel without the need for pre-purchased tickets or a special transport card.
One of the standout features of this new system is the ability for families or small groups to purchase multiple tickets at once. The validators now allow passengers to select up to 10 tickets in one transaction, streamlining travel for groups. This option is available directly on the vehicle’s validator, offering a simple and quick way to pay for group travel, ideal for tourists or families navigating the city.
However, Carris has noted an important clarification regarding the payment system. The option to pay with a bank card is valid only for the specific trip being undertaken, meaning each purchase applies to that journey alone. This ensures that the payment is tied to the individual ride and cannot be used for multiple trips or days of travel.
The company’s decision to introduce contactless payment comes at a time when cities around the world are embracing digital and cashless solutions to improve public transport accessibility and reduce the reliance on physical tickets. Carris aims to make public transport more user-friendly, offering both residents and tourists a seamless, efficient way to get around Lisbon.
The new payment method also addresses the growing demand for faster and more flexible travel options. With Lisbon’s public transport system seeing an increase in passengers in recent years, the introduction of contactless payments is expected to enhance the overall efficiency and appeal of the city’s transit network.
As Carris continues to innovate and modernize its services, the company remains committed to adapting to the changing needs of the city’s growing population, and this new payment option is just one step towards a more accessible and user-centric transport system in Lisbon.