Have you got a flight to catch from Lisbon Airport Terminal 2? Are you curious about the terminal’s amenities, restaurants, ease of access, and a myriad of other things?
I’ve only been there twice when I was flying with Norwegian. If you’re flying with TAP Air Portugal, you’ll find yourself in Terminal 1. For those using airlines like Ryanair or Wizz Air, Terminal 2 will be your starting point.
It’s a rather boring place. Don’t expect a bunch of stores to help you pass the time. But, the McDonalds is decent, although quite expensive. Let’s look at Lisbon Airport Terminal 2 in more detail.
The Role of Lisbon Airport Terminal 2
Lisbon Airport, also known as Lisbon International Airport, Lisbon Portela Airport, and Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport, is a vital hub connecting Portugal to the rest of the world.
The airport complex is located fairly close to Lisbon’s city center, with plenty of public transport leading to it, and it acts as both a domestic and international airport.
While Terminal 1 is often bustling with activity, with 100 check-in counters, and offers a wide range of amenities, Terminal 2 serves a different yet equally important role.
It’s primarily used by low-cost airlines for short-haul flights within Europe.
Terminal 2 is more compact and straightforward than Terminal 1, with only 22 check-in desks and 15 gates.
The terminal building has two main rooms: the arrivals hall, also sometimes called the check-in hall, and a waiting room.
It was originally constructed to handle domestic flights, not international departures. This limitation and the simplified service aimed to speed up the boarding process.
It doesn’t boast an extensive array of shops or dining options.
I have found that this has happened successfully. You need to be prepared. Boarding gates are limited, and things move quickly when it’s time to board. So, stay alert and be ready to get in line.
Lisbon Airport is considered one of the busiest airports in Europe, handling millions of passengers annually.
Terminal 2 significantly accommodates the high volume of travelers, especially those flying with budget airlines.
Airlines and Destinations
First, look at when you will probably have to use Terminal 2. Only certain airlines use this terminal, usually going to only a handful of locations.
Which Airlines Depart from Terminal 2?
Airlines List
Terminal 2 is the base for several low-cost carriers, making it a key departure point for travelers using budget airlines. The airlines operating from Terminal 2 include:
- Ryanair
- Eurowings
- Norwegian Air
- Wizz Air
- Transavia
- Vueling
All other air carriers, except for these budget carriers, use Terminal 1. However, sometimes charter holiday companies also use Terminal 2
Destinations Covered by Terminal 2
From Terminal 2, you can catch flights to various destinations across Europe. Some of the popular routes include:
- Barcelona
- Paris
- London
- Amsterdam
- Berlin
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Onward Flights and Connections to Terminal 2
Connecting through Lisbon Airport requires some planning, especially if you need to switch between terminals.
Terminal 2 is strictly for departures, so you will likely land at Terminal 1 and have to go through immigration and security before using the shuttle to transfer to Terminal 2 and go through security and immigration again.
If you need to collect your luggage before your Terminal 2 flight, you must do so before catching the shuttle between terminal buildings.
Getting to Terminal 2
Getting to Terminal 2 can be quite complicated if you aren’t prepared.
Although the process shouldn’t take too long, try to give yourself some additional time to account for any difficulties, especially if this is your first time using the terminal.
Public Transportation Options
Lisbon’s public transportation network provides several options for reaching the airport.
The metro’s red line brings you directly to the airport, but it stops at Terminal 1.
From there, a shuttle bus is necessary to get to Terminal 2.
If you are taking a taxi or Uber, you can be dropped off right before Terminal 2.
Shuttle Services
A complimentary shuttle service operates between Terminals 1 and 2 every 12 minutes. The airport shuttle bus runs constantly, except between 03:30 AM and 03:30 AM.
The shuttle transfer takes about 3 minutes.ย However, make sure to allocate a little extra time to account for delays that might affect your arrival at your departure terminal.
This extra time ensures a smooth connection, though it’s wise to factor in a bit extra for transfer time, particularly during peak hours and busy times, to ensure you get to the arrivals hall on time.
Parking at Terminal 2
Parking at airports is always an issue, and Lisbon Airport is no different. If you can, I highly recommend using public transport so you don’t have to worry about it.
However, if you can’t avoid parking, there are some options you can consider.
Short-Term Parking
Short-term parking options near Terminal 1 are suitable for quick drop-offs and pick-ups. Keep in mind that there is separate parking for departures and arrivals, P1 and P2, respectively.
Prices are generally reasonable, though availability can vary.
Long-Term Parking
Long-term parking facilities are offered for extended stays. You can book these online.
These are a bit further from Terminal 2, but shuttle services are available to transport passengers to and from the terminal.
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Facilities at Terminal 2
Facilities can make or break the airport experience. Unfortunately, this is one thing many people dislike about the small, budget terminal.
Check-In and Security Procedures
Baggage Handling
Terminal 2 offers basic baggage handling services. Online check-in is recommended to save time, as the counters can get busy.
Security Screening Tips
Security screening at Terminal 2 is efficient but can get crowded. Arrive early to avoid any last-minute rush at passport control, especially during busy travel periods.
The gates are often only manned by one or two officials.
Don’t be surprised when immigration and security checks are done separately. This seems to be the airport protocol.
Passenger Services
Essential Services
Terminal 2 offers essential services and basic facilities, including restrooms, ATMs, and a few snack bars and cafes.
Seating is available once you are through security, but during peak hours, there may not be quite enough for everyone.
Premium Services
Premium services are limited, reflecting the terminal’s focus on low-cost travel. However, some airlines offer premium ticket holders priority boarding and fast-track security.
Shops and Restaurants
Dining Options
Dining options in Terminal 2 are limited. Besides McDonald’s, there are a few snack bars and cafes. Expect higher prices typical of airport dining.
These include SOHO Coffee, Nespresso, and Heineken.
There are also plenty of vending machines.
If you are going to be in the airport for quite some time, such as when you are catching a connecting flight, I recommend that you explore Terminal 1’s dining options instead.
Depending on which side of security you find yourself, Terminal 1 has Pizza Hut, KFC, Starbucks, and many other options.
If it’s your first time in Portugal, I would recommend trying Portuguese bread or little egg tarts that you can easily find in the dining center.
Retail Stores
Retail options in Terminal 2 are minimal, with a few duty-free shops and kiosks offering travel essentials.
If you are landing in Terminal 1 and transferring to Terminal 2, consider making any purchases in the duty-free areas before moving to your departure terminal.
Terminal 2 Amenities
Like the facilities, this terminal has forgone most amenities. But if you come prepared and are strategic when catching connecting flights, this should not be too much of an issue.
Comfort Services
Lounges
Terminal 2 does not have lounges, which aligns with its role as a hub for budget airlines. If you have a particularly long wait, consider going to Terminal 1.
There, you will find airport lounges, better shopping options, and even shower facilities.
Wi-Fi and Charging Stations
Wi-Fi is available throughout Terminal 2, and charging stations are available, though they can be limited in number.
Keep in mind that the number of people present might affect the speed of the Wi-Fi.
Accessibility Services
Wheelchair Availability
Wheelchairs are available on request. It’s best to arrange this service in advance through your airline.
Special Assistance Services
Special assistance services are offered for passengers with reduced mobility. Contact your airline ahead of time to ensure a smooth experience.
Noise Management Policies
While Terminal 2 is generally quieter than Terminal 1, it can still become busy. The airport has implemented noise management policies to maintain a comfortable environment.
Try to be considerate of those around you, and you should be fine.
Travel Tips for Terminal 2
Arrive Early: Given the limited amenities, it’s best to get through check-in and security as soon as possible.
Bring Snacks: Food options are limited and expensive.
Stay Alert: Keep an eye on gate information, as boarding can happen quickly.
Use the Shuttle: If transferring from Terminal 1, use the free shuttle service.
Wrap-Up
Navigating Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport’s Terminal 2 is straightforward but requires the right preparation to ensure you arrive in plenty of time for your flight.
While it lacks the amenities of Terminal 1 and isn’t considered an overly passenger-friendly terminal, it serves its purpose well for low-cost and short-haul flights.
Keep these tips in mind to ensure a smooth experience.
It might not be the most comfortable, but it gets the job done and is no worse than any other European airport.
Just make sure that you allow plenty of time to navigate the busy city center and get through the check-in counters well before your flight leaves.
