The 10 Best Airlines to Fly to Lisbon This Year

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Flying to Lisbon? I’ve taken this route so many times, I practically know every cloud formation along the way. After years of jetting back and forth to Portugal’s stunning capital (and dealing with my fair share of flight dramas), I’ve figured out which airlines actually make the journey enjoyable and which ones… well, let’s just say I have some stories.

I keep coming back to Lisbon because it’s honestly one of the best places in Europe right now. I analyzed over 100 popular flight routes to Lisbon from around the world, considering factors like the amenities, pricing, seat comfort/legroom, and on-time performance. I’ve tested these airlines myself and ranked them based on real experiences, not marketing fluff. Let’s find you the perfect flight to Lisbon.

#1 tip to find cheap flights to Lisbon

Looking for the cheapest flights to Lisbon? This is a game-changer: Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights).

Here’s the deal: Sign up for free email alerts, set your departure and destination, and boom – you’ll get alerts for insanely cheap flights. Mistake fares? Deep discounts? They’ve got it all.

I’ve saved thousands using Going. Recently, I even found a $376 roundtrip fare from Boston to Lisbon during the late spring. Not bad!

Want even more deals? Their $49/year premium version is well worth it- just one discounted flight pays the whole thing. Here’s my exclusive 20% off discount code: JON20 – which brings the price down to $39!

And if you’re into business/first class, you’ll definitely want to sign up for their Elite version, which saved me over $5,000 in 2024 alone. Trust me, it’s a small price for massive savings.

Now, let’s discuss the best way to fly to Lisbon in 2025.

Top Airlines for Flights to Lisbon This Year

Looking for the best airlines for flights to Lisbon this year? Fly with TAP Air Portugal for a seamless local experience, enjoy premium service with British Airways, travel comfortably with Lufthansa, or opt for Delta Airlines for great transatlantic connections. Whether you prioritize affordability, luxury, or convenience, these airlines offer top options for your trip to Lisbon.

1. 🇵🇹 TAP Air Portugal

• 🏠 Hub: Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Economy Plus, Executive (Business)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: TAP Miles&Go (Star Alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Portuguese wine and cuisine, free stopover program, direct US routes
• 🧠 Pro Tip: TAP’s Portugal Stopover lets you explore Lisbon, Porto, Madeira, or the Azores for up to 10 days at no extra airfare. Just cover your hotel and enjoy a bonus destination on the way to your final stop.

TAP Air Portugal is your direct ticket to Lisbon without the European connection shuffle, and honestly, they’ve been quietly improving while everyone was distracted by flashier carriers. Flying TAP means landing right in the heart of Portugal’s capital, skipping layovers in London or Paris that add hours to your journey.

Economy on TAP isn’t luxurious, but it’s comfortable enough for the transatlantic haul, with Portuguese meals that actually taste like Portugal (think codfish cakes and proper pastéis de nata). Economy Plus gives you extra legroom that makes a real difference, while Executive Class features lie-flat seats and access to decent lounges in Lisbon.

TAP’s Miles&Go program connects you to Star Alliance partners like United and Lufthansa, but the real value is in TAP’s own network throughout Portugal, Brazil, and Africa. Award availability can be hit-or-miss, but when it works, you’re getting great value for European destinations.

What TAP really offers is a dose of personality. Crews are friendly in that unpolished, genuinely warm way, and the wine list includes Portuguese varieties you’ll actually want to remember. The Airbus A330neo fleet on U.S. routes feels fresh and quiet, and even if the airline isn’t the most polished in the world, it’s an easy, flavorful way to get to one of Europe’s most underrated capitals.

• Read next: Flight Hacks to Europe

2. 🇬🇧 British Airways

• 🏠 Hub: London Heathrow (LHR)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy (World Traveller Plus), Business (Club World), First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Executive Club (Oneworld alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Afternoon tea service, extensive Heathrow lounges, seamless London connections
• 🧠 Pro Tip: When booking your Lisbon trip, check out BA’s “Visit Europe” option. It lets you add up to 4 other European cities to your itinerary for just $150–200 more, valid for travel within 12 months.

British Airways treats Lisbon like an easy weekend getaway, which works in your favor. With multiple daily flights between London and Lisbon, it’s a smooth jump that often feels more like a continuation of your European vacation than a second leg of travel.

The Lisbon route usually features A320 or A321 aircraft, so don’t expect full transatlantic bells and whistles. That said, Club Europe (their short-haul business class) includes blocked middle seats, priority boarding, and hot meals that put most European airlines to shame. Even in Economy, service is consistent and flights tend to run on time.

Executive Club is powered by the Avios system, which is great for short-haul redemptions. The London-Lisbon route often costs fewer points than comparable programs. Through Oneworld, you can also tap into benefits and flight options with Iberia, American, and other partners.

BA’s strength is in its infrastructure. Heathrow Terminal 5 is one of the better major hubs in Europe, with solid lounges, decent food, and helpful signage. If you’re flying onward to Lisbon, there’s a good chance you’ll breeze through without much fuss. It may not be the flashiest way to reach Portugal, but it’s reliable, well-connected, and lets you start your Lisbon trip with a bit of British polish.

3. 🇩🇪 Lufthansa

• 🏠 Hub: Frankfurt (FRA), Munich (MUC)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More (Star Alliance)
• ☕ Perks: German efficiency, extensive European network, reliable connections
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Lufthansa’s City Break deals on their website bundle flights and hotels in Lisbon, often with 30-40% off plus free airport transfers. It’s an easy way to save and simplify your trip.

Lufthansa handles Lisbon the same way it handles everything—efficiently. Whether you’re connecting through Frankfurt or Munich, their schedule offers flexibility, and their punctuality record helps take the stress out of getting to Portugal.

You’ll typically fly on an Airbus A320 series jet, which won’t wow you, but it’s perfectly comfortable for a short hop. Business Class on these routes means a blocked middle seat, upgraded meal service, and access to Lufthansa’s Senator Lounges, which definitely take the edge off longer layovers.

The Miles & More program is one of the stronger ones for European flyers, especially if you’re building toward Elite status. With Star Alliance partners like SWISS, TAP, and United, redemptions to Lisbon are usually straightforward, and availability tends to be solid year-round.

Frankfurt and Munich hubs handle Lisbon connections efficiently, though both airports can feel tamed compared to more charming European alternatives. What Lufthansa lacks in personality, they make up for in reliability. Here, flights leave on time, connections work smoothly, and you’ll reach Lisbon without drama. Sometimes that German “no surprises” approach is exactly what European travel needs, especially when Portuguese adventures await on the other end.

4. 🇺🇸 Delta Air Lines

• 🏠 Hub: Atlanta (ATL), New York JFK, Boston (BOS), Paris CDG (partnership)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Main Cabin, Comfort+, Premium Select, Delta One
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SkyMiles (SkyTeam alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Reliable US connections, Air France partnership, solid premium economy
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use Delta’s Multi-City booking tool to build in a stopover in Paris for no extra airfare.

Delta doesn’t fly directly to Lisbon, but their Air France partnership creates seamless connections through Paris that often beat other routing options. SkyTeam alliance benefits mean you can earn Delta miles while flying Air France metal, making this combo surprisingly attractive for US travelers.

Premium Select on Delta’s transatlantic routes to Paris offers excellent value before that short hop to Lisbon on Air France. We’re talking lie-flat adjacent seats, enhanced dining, and priority everything without full business class pricing. The connection in Charles de Gaulle typically runs 2-3 hours, which is actually perfect for European transfers.

SkyMiles redemptions work smoothly across both carriers, and Delta’s award availability to Europe has improved significantly. Elite status benefits transfer to Air France flights, meaning priority boarding and lounge access carry through your entire journey.

What makes this partnership work is operational reliability from both sides. Delta gets you across the Atlantic efficiently, Air France handles the European leg with French sophistication, and CDG connections are more straightforward than the airport’s reputation suggests. Sure, it’s not the most direct routing to Lisbon, but when the service quality is this consistent and pricing often beats direct alternatives, that Paris connection becomes part of the European adventure rather than an inconvenience.

INSIDER TIP: Again, I highly recommend signing up for Going.com (Scott’s Cheap Flights) to find the best deals. Last year, I got an email alert on a $378 roundtrip fare from Boston to Lisbon with TAP Air Portugal. The premium version is 100% worth the money, but I would at least sign up for the free version to save big on airfare this year.

5. 🇹🇷 Turkish Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Istanbul Airport (IST)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Comfort Class, Business Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles&Smiles (Star Alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Outstanding cuisine, generous baggage policy, Istanbul Airport facilities
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Take advantage of Turkish’s “TourIstanbul” free hotel service for layovers over 10 hours – they cover accommodation, meals, and city transfers, turning your Lisbon connection into a mini Turkish getaway

Turkish Airlines turns your Lisbon journey into a culinary adventure before you even reach Portugal. Istanbul connections might seem out of the way geographically, but Turkish’s food game is so strong that you’ll actually look forward to meal service. We’re talking proper Turkish cuisine with regional specialties that put most airline food to shame.

Cabins are comfortable and well-designed. Economy feels more like the Premium Economy of other carriers, with generous seat pitch and meals that rival some business class offerings. Comfort Class provides extra legroom and priority boarding, while Business Class features excellent lie-flat seats and access to Turkish’s impressive Istanbul lounges with Turkish bath facilities (yes, seriously).

The Miles&Smiles program is tied to Star Alliance, which means you can earn or redeem miles across dozens of partner airlines. If you fly Turkish regularly, there are added benefits like lounge access and priority perks that become easier to reach than on many US-based programs.

Istanbul Airport itself is clean, modern, and designed to make long layovers more enjoyable. You’ll find everything from global fashion brands to quiet rest areas. If you decide to leave the airport, that free city tour gives you a quick taste of Istanbul, turning your Lisbon connection into a mini cultural escape.

6. 🇳🇱 KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Comfort, World Business Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Flying Blue (SkyTeam alliance, shared with Air France)
• ☕ Perks: Efficient Amsterdam connections, Dutch hospitality, bike rentals at destination
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use KLM’s “Amsterdam Quick Connect” for layovers under 75 minutes. They guarantee your connection with dedicated staff escorts and priority rebooking if you miss it, no extra charge required.

KLM makes Amsterdam to Lisbon feel like a quick European hop rather than an international journey. Schiphol Airport is basically designed for smooth connections, and KLM’s operation there runs with that famous Dutch efficiency. You’ll be through security and at your gate faster than you expected.

Flights to Lisbon usually use Boeing 737s or Embraer jets, which offer decent comfort for short-haul travel. Premium Comfort adds more breathing room and faster boarding, while World Business Class on long-haul routes features lie-flat seats and well-curated meals that make a real difference when you’re crossing the Atlantic.

Flying Blue works well whether you’re earning or redeeming miles. Monthly promo awards can bring down the number of points needed, and elite perks like lounge access and extra baggage apply across both KLM and Air France. If you’re traveling frequently in Europe, it’s one of the more user-friendly loyalty programs around.

KLM’s charm lies in the details. Crews are warm without being scripted, Schiphol has extras like a mini art museum and quiet zones, and the airline is refreshingly consistent. Flights to Lisbon run often and on time, giving you flexibility and peace of mind whether you’re on vacation or traveling for work.

7. 🇫🇷 Air France

• 🏠 Hub: Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, La Première
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Flying Blue (SkyTeam alliance, shared with KLM)
• ☕ Perks: French cuisine and wines, stylish cabin design, Paris cultural layovers
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Air France’s “Paris Stopover” program is a hidden gem. If you have a layover between 5 and 24 hours, you can book discounted hotels, hop on a free Seine cruise, and even score skip-the-line access to top museums while waiting for your Lisbon flight.

Air France brings a bit of Parisian charm to your Lisbon trip, turning what could feel like a layover into a bonus destination. Charles de Gaulle Airport has a reputation for chaos, but Air France keeps their part of the operation running surprisingly well, especially for Lisbon-bound flights which depart several times daily.

Onboard, even short routes like Paris to Lisbon get a French twist. Economy comes with actual meals, not just packaged snacks, and Business Class offers blocked middle seats, elevated service, and wines you’ll actually want to remember. It’s not just about getting fed, it’s about doing it with style.

The real magic is in the details. Flight attendants strike that balance between polished and personable, CDG offers surprisingly good food and retail if you’re in the right terminal, and the vibe feels distinctly French in the best way.

When it comes to loyalty program, Flying Blue gives you access to great deals throughout the year, especially with their monthly promos. Since the program is shared with KLM, you’ve got more flexibility to route through Amsterdam if needed, and elite perks like priority boarding and lounge access kick in across SkyTeam partners too.

8. 🇺🇸 JetBlue Airways

• 🏠 Hub: New York JFK, Boston Logan (BOS)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Core (Economy), Even More Space, Mint (Business)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: TrueBlue (no major alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Free WiFi, complimentary snacks, spacious seats, live TV
• 🧠 Pro Tip: JetBlue often partners with local tour companies during promo periods in Lisbon. After booking your flight, check your confirmation email or JetBlue’s destination deals page for discounted hop-on hop-off bus tours, wine tastings, or day trips to Sintra. These offers usually pop up for Boston–Lisbon passengers during spring and fall.

JetBlue‘s direct Boston to Lisbon route is a game-changer for New England travelers who were tired of connecting through European hubs just to reach Portugal. No more schlepping through London or Paris. You can board in Boston and wake up in Lisbon about seven hours later, which beats any connecting option time-wise.

The seats are surprisingly roomy even in Core, and the free WiFi and live TV actually make the hours fly by. If you’re looking for extra comfort, Even More Space gives you enough legroom to stretch out, while Mint offers lie-flat seats and meals that feel more boutique hotel than airplane tray.

TrueBlue points are refreshingly simple since JetBlue isn’t tangled up in some complicated alliance web. No blackout dates, straightforward pricing, and Boston-Lisbon awards won’t drain your entire points balance.

Here’s what’s cool about JetBlue’s Lisbon flights: they brought their whole “we’re not jerks” vibe to international travel. WiFi that works, flight attendants who seem happy to be there, and A321XLR planes that feel brand new. Boston departures are smooth, prices don’t make you cry, and suddenly Lisbon feels accessible instead of intimidating. It’s like they took everything annoying about flying overseas and just… didn’t do that.

9. 🇨🇭 Swiss International Air Lines

• 🏠 Hub: Zurich (ZUR), Geneva (GVA)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More (Star Alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Swiss chocolate service, Alpine wine selection, punctual operations
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for Swiss’ seasonal upgrade offers during online check-in. You can often move up to Premium Economy for less than $400 roundtrip, especially on Zurich departures to Lisbon.

Swiss treats Lisbon like a sophisticated city break destination, which makes sense given both cities’ reputation for excellent food and wine. Zurich connections are buttery smooth, and you’ll often find yourself with just enough time to grab Swiss chocolate at the airport before boarding your Lisbon flight.

The Airbus A220s and A320s on the Zurich-Lisbon route feel meticulously maintained, with comfortable seats and that Swiss attention to detail showing even on shorter flights. In Economy, you’ll get good meals, decent legroom, and a small chocolate bar. Premium Economy adds wider seating, footrests, and a better dining experience that makes long-haul connections far more pleasant. Meanwhile, Business Class delivers full lie-flat beds, aisle access, and regional wine selections that feel thoughtful rather than generic.

Miles & More is best for those who fly often within Europe. Award availability to Lisbon is decent, especially if you plan ahead or are flexible with timing. Elite benefits carry over across Star Alliance partners like United and Lufthansa, making it easier to earn perks even if you don’t fly Swiss exclusively.

What makes Swiss stand out is how calm and well-orchestrated the whole journey feels. From the boarding process to in-flight service, everything is designed to run smoothly and without fuss.

10. 🇺🇸 United Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Newark (EWR), Chicago O’Hare (ORD), San Francisco (SFO)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Plus, Polaris Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: MileagePlus (Star Alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Extensive US network, Star Alliance partnerships, improved food quality
• 🧠 Pro Tip: When booking a Lisbon trip with United miles, look for mixed-cabin redemptions that pair United’s Premium Plus with TAP Portugal’s Executive Class. These combos can offer great comfort at fewer miles than full business class awards.

United Airlines might not take you directly to Lisbon, but they’ve figured out a smart workaround. The airline’s partnership with TAP Air Portugal opens up great one-stop options through Newark or Chicago, letting you earn United miles while flying with a carrier that knows Portugal inside and out.

On the long-haul leg, Premium Plus is worth the upgrade. You’ll get more legroom, better meals, and early boarding. Polaris Business ups the ante with lie-flat seats, high-quality bedding, and exclusive lounge access. These perks can make the transatlantic stretch feel more relaxed, especially before a daytime arrival in Europe.

MileagePlus redemptions work smoothly with TAP, and United’s improved award availability means Lisbon trips don’t have to drain your entire points balance. Elite status benefits transfer to TAP flights, including priority boarding and lounge access in Lisbon.

What makes this partnership work is complementary strengths. United handles the heavy lifting across the Atlantic with reliable operations and modern aircraft, while TAP brings Portuguese authenticity to the final leg. Newark and Chicago connections typically allow 2-3 hours for the TAP transfer, which is plenty of time without feeling rushed. Sure, it’s not the most direct routing, but when the service quality is consistent and pricing competitive, that connection becomes part of the European adventure rather than a hassle.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Airlines to Fly to Lisbon

Got questions on the best airlines to Lisbon? Our FAQ section has all the answers to make your flight choice a breeze.

What are the main Lisbon airlines for international travel?

Lisbon is served by several international airlines. TAP Air Portugal, the country’s flag carrier, is the main airline operating in Lisbon. Other major airlines flying to Lisbon include British Airways, Lufthansa, Delta Airlines, Qatar Airways, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Air France, Emirates, Swiss, and United Airlines. These airlines offer various services, from economy to first-class, catering to different traveler needs.

Which airlines fly from the US to Portugal?

Several airlines offer flights from the US to Portugal, connecting various American cities to Lisbon. Major airlines include TAP Air Portugal, United Airlines, Delta Airlines, and American Airlines. These flights might be direct or have layovers in European hubs. The availability of flights can vary based on departure city and season.

What is the best airline to fly to Lisbon?

The best airline to fly to Lisbon depends on your preferences for comfort, budget, and service. TAP Air Portugal is often recommended for direct flights and local expertise. For luxury and high-end services, airlines like Emirates and Swiss are excellent choices. United Airlines and Delta provide reliable and frequent services from various US cities.

What is the main airline in Lisbon?

The main airline in Lisbon is TAP Air Portugal. As the national carrier of Portugal, it offers extensive connectivity to and from Lisbon, covering destinations across Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Asia. TAP Air Portugal is known for its quality service and offers a range of travel classes.

What is the cheapest month to fly to Portugal?

The cheapest month to fly to Portugal is typically during the off-peak season, which is November to March. During these months, you can find lower airfares and less crowded tourist spots. The weather is cooler compared to the summer months, but it’s still pleasant for sightseeing.

How far in advance should I book a flight to Portugal?

It’s generally recommended to book a flight to Portugal at least three to four months in advance, especially if you’re planning to travel during the peak season (June to August). Booking early can help you secure better rates and more choices in terms of flight schedules and seating preferences.

What are the best airlines from the US to Lisbon?

The best airlines from the US to Lisbon include TAP Air Portugal for direct flights and local expertise, United Airlines and Delta Airlines for their extensive network and reliable service, and Swiss or Emirates for a more luxurious experience. These airlines offer a range of services and amenities to cater to different preferences.

Are there budget airlines that fly to Lisbon?

Yes, there are budget airlines that fly to Lisbon, although they may not have direct flights from the US. Airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet offer budget-friendly options, especially for travelers coming from other European countries. These airlines are a good choice for those looking to save on airfare while exploring Lisbon.

Can I find direct flights from major US cities to Lisbon?

Yes, direct flights from major US cities to Lisbon are available, particularly from cities like New York, Boston, Miami, and Newark. Airlines like TAP Air Portugal, United Airlines, and Delta Airlines frequently offer non-stop services. These direct flights are convenient, saving time and hassle compared to routes with layovers.

What amenities can I expect on flights to Lisbon?

On flights to Lisbon, amenities vary based on the airline and ticket class. Most airlines offer in-flight entertainment, meals, and beverages. Higher classes like business or first class provide additional luxuries like lie-flat seats, premium dining, and lounge access. Budget airlines might offer fewer amenities but at a lower cost. Wi-Fi and power outlets are increasingly common across various airlines.

Lisbon Airlines in 2025: A Recap

In conclusion, there are many top-rated airlines that fly to Lisbon, each with its own unique strengths and offerings. From the well-known giants like Delta and Amerian Airlines to the luxurious charm of SWISS International Airlines, there is an airline out there to suit every traveler’s needs and budget.

Whether you’re looking for exceptional customer service, state-of-the-art technology, or an extensive network of routes, Lisbon has it all. So, whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime adventure or a quick weekend getaway, be sure to consider these top airlines for your journey to Lisbon. And don’t forget to sign up for Scott’s Cheap Flights to get the best possible deal on airfare this year!

Happy Travels! – Jon

Read next: Scott’s Cheap Flights Review