VERDICT: We gave 4 out of 5 tickets and here’s why!
👉 Lisbon Done Right: First-Time Experience + Smart Travel Strategy
From a 5.45 a.m. departure at Lisbon Airport to a long journey home via Paris, this final episode reflects on our Lisbon adventures; sharing real travel experiences, airport insights, and one final question: was it all worth it?
Lisbon Airport to Vancouver: The Final Chapter of Our Experience in Lisbon
Travel stories always have a beginning… but it’s the ending that stays with you. After weeks across Europe, it all comes down to this, a 2am airport run, a flight through Paris… and the journey home to Canada.
Our final day in Lisbon started early… very early. We were up at 1am, with an Uber scheduled for 2am. Fifteen minutes later, we arrived at Humberto Delgado Airport. We had heard plenty of horror stories, long delays, crowded terminals, missed flights. With a tight connection in Paris, we were hoping for the best.
And honestly? It couldn’t have gone smoother. Check-in with Air France was quick, and security took less than five minutes.
Now, one important thing to note, at the time of our trip, April 20th, 2026, the new Entry Exit System, or EES, was not yet in effect in Portugal. This system will apply to non-EU travellers; including Canadians and Americans visiting the Schengen Area for short stays of up to 90 days. Once implemented, it will collect biometric data, specifically a facial image and four fingerprints, on both entry and exit. It’s not a visa, but it will likely add time at the airport, so something to be aware of going forward.
As we waited to board, we reflected on everything Lisbon had delivered. From the fairytale Pena Palace in Sintra… to standing at the westernmost point of Europe… the Yellow Bus through Belém… navigating the narrow tram streets to St. George’s Castle… and Chiado, with its historic World Oldest bookstore, Carmo Convent ruins, (roofless Church) and unforgettable Fado.
Then it was time. We boarded, arrived in Paris on schedule, and made a quick 25-minute connection, just enough time to reach our gate. Once onboard, we settled into our upgraded premium economy seats, definitely worth it for a 9+ hour flight.
The service was excellent, the seats comfortable… the food? Not so much. But we still raised a glass of champagne, celebrating the end of our biggest trip ever.
Countless moments. And now, home to Vancouver.
If you’re planning a similar journey, here are a few quick tips for long-haul travel:
- Always check baggage weight and size fees can add up fast.
- Get to the airport early, you never know what security will be like.
- Be ready to remove electronics, rules vary by airport.
- Carry wipes for your seat area.
- Bring earplugs for comfort.
- Know your terminal connections ahead of time.
- Consider lounge access if available.
- And always carry water and snacks for longer flights.
We’ve shared much of this journey on YouTube and at myreturnticket.ca…and if you’ve been following along—thank you.
Was it worth it?
Absolutely yes, We can’t wait to do it all over again.
⭐ Don’t forget to check out the entire 9-part series on Lisbon including day trips, tram rides, bus rides and more.
With every trip, we offer feedback to travel companies along with honest views for you, the reader. We rate adventures on a scale of one to five tickets, judged on quality, service, memorability, and price. A perfect ‘Ticket Rating’ of a five-ticket score means the experience was flawless and we’d eagerly return. Your desire to go back is the ultimate measure of a trip’s worth. Exclusive to My Return Ticket.
