All journeys eventually come to an end, often accompanied by a mix of nostalgia and the rush of departure. After a memorable stay in the beautiful city of Lisbon, Portugal, it was time to head to my next destination: London. For this leg of the trip, I chose to fly British Airways Business Class, also known as “Club Europe.”
You might be wondering, “Is it really worth paying extra for business class on a flight that only lasts two and a half hours?”
It’s a valid question, especially for seasoned travelers who know that low-cost carriers can get you across Europe for a fraction of the price. However, the answer—spoiler alert—is a resounding yes. This is particularly true for early morning departures or business trips where comfort and efficiency are paramount.
In this article, I’ll share my complete experience, from leaving my hotel in Lisbon to arriving at London Heathrow. I’ll include real-life anecdotes, including a taxi mishap you’ll want to avoid, and essential tips for using Uber at Lisbon Airport. Let’s explore why Club Europe is more than just a seat—it’s an experience that elevates your travel.
1. Pre-Dawn in Lisbon: Hotel Departure and a Taxi Lesson
My journey began at 4:00 AM, long before the city woke up. I was staying at the Ikonik Lisboa, a modern hotel conveniently located near the Web Summit venue.
Smooth Early Morning Check-out
One of the biggest anxieties with early flights is the hotel check-out process. Will there be anyone at the desk? At Ikonik Lisboa, I had nothing to worry about.
Even at 4 AM, the front desk was staffed and operational. The check-out was instantaneous, and I was sent off with a warm “Did you sleep well?” It’s clear this hotel is accustomed to business travelers and Web Summit attendees, ensuring smooth operations around the clock.
If you are looking for a smart place to stay in Lisbon, check out my detailed review of the hotel below.
Related Article: Best Hotels in Lisbon for Web Summit: Why Ikonik Lisboa is the Smartest Choice
My Mistake: Hotel Taxi vs. Uber
Here is where I made a rookie mistake. I had planned to use Uber to get to the airport, as it is reliable and affordable in Lisbon. However, just as I finished checking out, the helpful staff offered, “We have a hotel taxi waiting right outside. Shall I call it for you?”
Still groggy from sleep, I thought, “If they are recommending it, maybe it’s a flat rate or a convenient shuttle. Why not?” I agreed, thinking it would be hassle-free.
The result? While the ride was comfortable, the fare was nearly double (around €25-30) what I would have paid for an Uber (typically €10-15, even early in the morning). It wasn’t a scam, just a standard private hire rate, but for budget-conscious luxury travelers, the lesson is clear: Stick to Uber in Lisbon, no matter how sleepy you are.
Reference article: Best Hotels in Lisbon for Web Summit: Why Ikonik Lisboa is the Smartest Choice
2. Lisbon Portela Airport: The Business Class Advantage
Despite the slight dent in my wallet from the taxi ride, my mood improved instantly upon arriving at Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS). This is where the benefits of British Airways Club Europe truly shine.
The terminal features a striking geometric metal ceiling and an open, airy atmosphere. Even at this early hour, the airport was bustling, and long lines were already forming at the economy check-in counters.
Buying Time with Priority Check-in
Fortunately, Club Europe passengers can bypass the chaos. I headed straight to the dedicated priority counters in Zone D.
As you can see in the photo, the area was calm and empty. I checked my bags and grabbed my boarding pass in under a minute. In the stressful environment of an airport, this feeling of “buying time” is one of the greatest luxuries of flying business class.
The time I saved allowed me to relax and grab a coffee, a significant benefit for business travelers needing to maximize every minute.
Essential Tip: Uber Pickup at “Parking P2”
Here is a crucial tip for anyone traveling to or from Lisbon Airport. If you plan to use Uber, you need to know exactly where to go.
Inside the terminal, you will see large banners like this one: “Uber – Meet your driver at Parking P2.” You cannot catch an Uber directly curbside at the arrivals hall. instead, you must proceed to Parking P2, located on the upper level near departures.
It can be a bit confusing for first-timers, but just remember “P2.” The signage in the airport is clear, and if you follow the arrows, you will find it easily. It is also conveniently close to the BA check-in area on the second floor.
Reference article:The Ultimate Guide: How to Find the Uber Pickup Point at Lisbon Airport (P2 Parking)
3. Onboard Experience: The Reality of European Business Class
After breezing through Fast Track security and a quick lounge visit, it was time to board.
The Airbus A320 and the “Middle Seat Block”
Our aircraft for this short hop was the Airbus A320, the workhorse of European skies.
If you are expecting lie-flat beds, you might be surprised. In Europe, short-haul business class seats are physically identical to economy seats, arranged in a 3-3 configuration. So, what is the difference?
The key difference is the blocked middle seat. In Club Europe, the middle seat is kept empty and often features a small tray table. This ensures you never have to fight for an armrest or rub shoulders with a stranger. This extra personal space allows you to work on a laptop or simply relax in privacy, making a world of difference in comfort.
A Private View of the Sunrise
As we pushed back and took to the skies, the early morning departure offered a spectacular reward.
The view of Lisbon’s city lights twinkling through the clouds before dawn was magical. The contrast between the dark sky and the warm, glowing streets created a serene atmosphere. Watching this scenery from a quiet window seat is a therapeutic experience that sets the tone for a pleasant trip.
4. Dining in the Sky: A Proper British Breakfast
Once the seatbelt sign was turned off, the cabin crew began their service. This is the highlight of the Club Europe experience: the meal.
No Compromise on Short Flights
British Airways has significantly stepped up its catering game on short-haul flights. While many airlines have reduced service, BA continues to offer substantial meals.
The menu card offered two attractive main course options:
- The Original Full British: A classic with scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, and mushrooms.
- Tomato Basil Omelette: A vegetarian option served with potato rösti and spinach.
Getting a hot, multi-course meal on a two-and-a-half-hour flight is a luxury these days. Compared to low-cost carriers where even water costs extra, this is a significant upgrade.
Champagne Breakfast
The drink selection is equally impressive.
The “THE BAR” menu features Castelnau Champagne, a selection of wines, and premium spirits. Beer lovers should note the exclusive BrewDog Speedbird OG IPA. I opted for a glass of Champagne. Sipping bubbly above the clouds while watching the sunrise is a guilty pleasure that defines the business class experience.
The Meal: The Original Full British
Here is the breakfast as served.
Served on real white china with metal cutlery, the Full English Breakfast was delicious. The scrambled eggs were fluffy, the back bacon was thick and savory, and the Cumberland sausage was juicy. Accompanied by a warm croissant, fresh fruit, and yoghurt, it felt like a proper hotel breakfast served at 30,000 feet.
Since I had left the hotel too early for breakfast, this meal was a lifesaver. It allowed me to arrive in London fueled and ready to go.
5. Arrival in London: Why I’d Do It Again
As we descended, the landscape shifted to the lush, patchwork green of the English countryside.
Looking down at Heathrow, I reflected on the journey. The comfort, the food, and the smooth airport experience made the extra cost worth it.
Verdict: Is Club Europe Worth the Price?
So, should you book British Airways Club Europe? Let’s compare it to Economy (Euro Traveller).
- Check-in: Priority counters vs. Long queues.
- Baggage: Two free checked bags vs. Strict weight limits/fees.
- Lounge: Access included vs. No access.
- Seat: Middle seat blocked vs. Full 3-3 seating.
- Food: Hot course meal & free drinks vs. Buy-on-board snacks.
Recommended For:
I confidently recommend Business Class for:
- Business Travelers: Who need to save time and work onboard.
- Mileage Runners: Collecting Tier Points for OneWorld status.
- Breakfast Lovers: Who want a guaranteed hot meal on early flights.
- Heavy Packers: Who need the generous baggage allowance.
If you just want the cheapest way to get from A to B, Economy is fine. But if you want to turn the travel time into a comfortable part of your vacation, Club Europe delivers excellent value.
