🅿️ Parking Rules and Fines in Lisbon
❓ Is Parking in Lisbon Difficult?
Lisbon is a vibrant, compact city with:
- Narrow streets
- Steep hills
- Limited free parking
Tourists often find themselves confused by signs in Portuguese, colored curb markings, and automated meters. But with the right info, parking here can be stress-free.
Parking rules are just one part of planning a rental. See our Rent a Car in Lisbon guide for the full picture.
🚦 Parking Zones in Lisbon – Color Codes Explained
Lisbon is divided into colored parking zones managed by EMEL, the city’s parking authority.
| Color Zone | Fee (per hour) | Max Duration | When Enforced |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red (Zona Vermelha) | €2.40 | 2 hours | Mon–Fri 9am–7pm, Sat 9am–1pm |
| Yellow (Zona Amarela) | €1.80 | 4 hours | Same as above |
| Green (Zona Verde) | €1.20 | Unlimited | Same as above |
🧠 Tip: Outside of these hours (evenings, Sundays, holidays), street parking is usually free.
📱 How to Pay for Parking
- At a Meter (Parquímetro):
- Coins or card (some machines only accept coins)
- Place ticket behind windshield
- Via App (Recommended):
- Download ePark (official app by EMEL)
- Link debit/credit card
- Pay remotely & extend time if needed
- App available in English
- Via SMS (Portuguese phones only)
❌ Where NOT to Park in Lisbon
🚫 Common Illegal Parking Areas:
- On sidewalks (Passeios)
- In bus or taxi zones (BUS, Táxi)
- Too close to intersections or crossings
- In spaces marked “Residentes” (for residents only)
🚫 Red curb = strictly prohibited
🚫 Blue/white cross sign = no stopping/parking
💸 Don’t Overpay at the Airport
Compare real-time rental deals with no hidden fees or credit card needed.
🧠 Tip: If unsure, park in a paid garage instead of risking a fine or tow.
🅿️ Recommended Parking Garages in Central Lisbon
| Name | Area | Hourly | Max/Day | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parque Restauradores | Baixa / Avenida | €1.50 | €15 | Near Rossio, good access |
| Chão do Loureiro | Alfama | €1.50 | €13 | Great for old town visits |
| Praça do Município | Chiado | €1.80 | €18 | Near shops, restaurants |
| Sete Rios Station | Near Zoo, metro | €0.80 | €6 | Budget-friendly option |
🛑 Parking Fines in Lisbon – How Much?
| Violation Type | Fine (€) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| No payment ticket | €30–90 | May increase over time |
| Overstaying meter | €30–60 | Based on duration |
| Illegal sidewalk stop | €60–150 | Often includes tow + fine |
| Resident-only zone | €60–100 | Especially enforced in Alfama |
🧠 EMEL inspectors patrol actively. They issue fines via handheld devices or leave a printed slip.
🚗 What If Your Rental Car Gets Towed?
- Call EMEL 218 170 100
- Or check: emel.pt/reboques
- Tow yard: Parque de Remoções – Chelas
Be prepared to pay:
- Towing: ~€90
- Fine: €60–150
- Daily storage: ~€10/day
💳 You can pay by card.
✅ Smart Parking Tips for Tourists in Lisbon
| Tip | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| ✅ Use ePark app | No need for coins, extend time remotely |
| ✅ Choose green/yellow zones | Longer time + cheaper |
| ✅ Prefer underground garages in Alfama | Avoid towing risk in narrow areas |
| ✅ Take a photo of your meter ticket | Protect against mistaken fines |
| ✅ Check Google Maps reviews | Many garages are ranked by safety + rates |
❓ FAQ – Parking in Lisbon for Visitors
Q: Is it safe to park on the street overnight?
A: In most areas, yes — but prefer well-lit zones or garages.
Q: Can I park in residential streets?
A: Only if there are no “Residentes” markings.
Q: Are fines enforced for tourists?
A: Yes. If unpaid, they may be charged via your rental company (plus fees).
🟢 Summary – How to Park in Lisbon Without Trouble
| Situation | Best Move |
|---|---|
| Short city visit | ✅ Park in a garage (Chiado, Baixa) |
| Evening/Sunday driving | ✅ Look for free street spots |
| Planning ahead | ✅ Use EMEL app + check zones |
| Avoiding fines/tow | ✅ Never park on sidewalk or corners |
🚘 Coming to Lisbon With a Rental Car?
Compare debit-friendly rentals with:
- ✅ Free cancellation
- ✅ Lisbon pickup/drop-off
- ✅ No credit card required
- ✅ Full coverage (to avoid deposit)
