How to Get Around Porto: Ultimate Guide for 2025

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Traveling around any new city can be daunting, am I right? But if you’re trying to figure out how to get around Porto, we’re here to make it simple!

After living here for a year, we’ve explored every transportation option. From the modern metro to the nostalgic trams, we’ve done it all. And now we can help you find the perfect transportation method to suit your needs!

A woman holding a baby stands in front of an ornate historical church, with stairs leading up to its entrance on a sunny day.

Table of Contents

Explore Porto on Foot

Walking is the best way to experience Porto’s charm up close, especially if you visit during amazing weather! For short distances and sightseeing, nothing beats the convenience and joy of exploring on foot.

But be warned that some parts of the city can be quite hilly. And these hills can become quite slippery when you’re exploring Porto in the rain, so be careful!

Best for Short Distances and Sightseeing

Porto’s compact city center makes it perfect for walking and what makes Porto worth visiting. You’ll find narrow cobblestone streets, vibrant markets, and historical landmarks just a few steps away from each other.

Top Walking Routes and Areas

Ribeira District: Wander through this UNESCO World Heritage site with its colorful buildings and riverside views.
Avenida dos Aliados: Stroll along this grand avenue lined with impressive architecture and the iconic Porto City Hall. You can also find the fancy McDonald’s on this street.
Rua Santa Catarina: This bustling street is perfect for shopping and people-watching, with plenty of cafes to take a break.

You can even explore Porto in one day on foot!

Insider Tip:

If you’re in the Riberia District, put away your Google Maps! Gett lost on purpose, taking turns down streets that interest you and discovering hidden cafes, shops, and architecture.

A modern yellow metro train travels down a street lined with traditional buildings under a clear blue sky.

Take the Porto Metro

The metro system in Porto is a fantastic way to get around the city quickly and efficiently. Since we live just outside of the city, the metro is how we usually get to the city center.

Extensive Coverage of the City

The Porto metro network covers a wide area of the city. It connects key neighborhoods, tourist attractions, and even the Porto airport. With six lines, you can reach almost any part of Porto easily.

If you’re visiting Porto with children, kids under the age of 4 do not need a ticket to ride the metro.

Historical and Modern Travel Experience

Riding the metro offers a unique blend of history and modernity. Some stations are beautifully designed, reflecting Porto’s rich history and contemporary flair. It’s a comfortable and quick way to see the city.

A child wearing a light pink helmet and a dress flags a bus down from the sidewalk beside a multi-lane road.

Get Around By Bus

Porto’s bus system is another way to explore the city, especially if you want to reach areas not covered by the metro. Since we don’t have a car, the bus is how we primarily get around for our day-to-day. We find that the Porto buses are generally clean, not too crowded, and even have wi-fi and charging outlets!

Comprehensive Bus Routes

With an extensive network of routes, buses can take you almost anywhere in Porto. Whether you’re heading to the city center or exploring the outskirts, like Matosinhos, there’s a bus that will get you there.

Key Bus Lines for Tourists

Line 500: This scenic route runs along the Douro River, offering beautiful views of the water and historic buildings.
Line 1M: Perfect for late-night travel, this line runs from the city center to various neighborhoods, ensuring you can get back to your accommodation safely.
Line 207: This line is ideal for cultural explorations, connecting the central area to important sites like Casa da Música and the Serralves Museum.

Yellow tram marked "Infante" on Line 1 moves along a cobblestone street near a modern bridge and a tree on a clear day.

Ride Porto’s Historic Trams

Porto’s historic trams offer a charming and nostalgic way to explore the city.

Popular Tram Lines

The Number 1 tram is a popular one (read: crowded!), running along the picturesque route from Infante to Passeio Alegre. This line takes you through some of Porto’s most scenic areas, including the Ribeira district and the waterfront.

Highlights of the Tram Routes

Ribeira to Foz: Enjoy stunning views of the Douro River as you travel from the city center to the coastal area of Foz.
Clérigos Tower: Pass by this iconic landmark on the Number 22 tram, offering a great way to see one of Porto’s most famous sights.
Carmo to Batalha: The Number 18 tram departs from the Porto Tram Museum and takes you through the heart of Porto, showcasing historic buildings and lively neighborhoods.

A family of four rides a cable car with a scenic view of a riverside city in the background. The children are smiling and holding onto a railing, while the parents are smiling and wearing casual clothes.

Funicular and Cable Car: Scenic Views

For breathtaking views and a unique travel experience, try Porto’s funicular and cable car.

Funicular dos Guindais: Connects Ribeira and Batalha

The Funicular dos Guindais is a quick and convenient way to travel between the Ribeira district and Batalha, the upper part of the city center. This short ride on the mountain cable car offers stunning views of the Douro River and the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, making it a scenic and practical option. Plus, it saves you a hard and steep climb through the Ribeira alleyways!

Gaia Cable Car: Offers Panoramic City Views

The Gaia Cable Car (Teleférico de Gaia) is perfect for those who want to take in panoramic views of Porto and the Douro River. Starting from the Gaia riverside, this cable car transports you up to the Jardim do Morro. It provides a unique perspective of the city’s landscape and landmarks. If you’re visiting Vila Nova de Gaia, you can get a one-way ticket (in either direction) or a round-trip ticket.

I can’t tell you how many times we’ve ridden the Gaia Cable Car at the kid’s request – it is definitely a thing to do in Porto with kids!

A line of black taxis parked on a cobblestone street shaded by tall green trees.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Flexible and Easy

When you need a quick and convenient way to get around Porto, taxis and ride-sharing services are your best bet.

When to Use Taxis or Ride-Sharing Services

Late Nights: Ideal for getting back to your hotel safely after a night out.
Luggage: Convenient when you have heavy bags or shopping.
Remote Areas: Useful for reaching destinations not easily accessible by public transport.

Reputable Taxi and Ride-Sharing Companies

Taxis: Porto’s taxis are reliable and can be hailed on the street or booked by phone. Some busy tourist areas have taxi stands and you will take the first one in line. However, note, that taxis are not as cheap as Uber or Bolt.
Uber: Widely available and often more affordable than traditional taxis. Easy to use with the Uber app.
Bolt: Another popular ride-sharing option with competitive prices and quick service.

Insider Tip:

Check both your Uber and Bolt app before booking to see which one is more cost-effective as their rates do vary.

A man in sunglasses rides an electric cargo bike with two young children seated in the rear. They are in a sunny urban area with buildings and trees in the background.

Biking and Scooters: Eco-Friendly Options

For a fun and eco-friendly way to explore Porto, consider renting an electric bike or scooter. These methods provide a green alternative to traditional transport and you can enjoy Porto’s beauty at your own pace!

In our experience, drivers are generally friendly with bikers. However, most of the city itself is not bike-friendly as there are very little bike lanes.

Renting Electric Bikes and Scooters

Several rental companies offer electric bikes and scooters, making it easy to zip around the city. You can find rentals through apps like Lime and Bird, or visit local bike shops for daily or hourly rates.

Popular Biking Routes in Porto

Ribeira to Foz: This scenic route along the Douro River is perfect for a leisurely ride, offering beautiful views and plenty of spots to stop and relax.
Parque da Cidade: Porto’s largest urban park provides a peaceful setting for cycling, with well-maintained paths and lush greenery.
Gaia Waterfront: Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge to explore the Gaia side of the river, with its wide paths and stunning views back towards Porto.

Two blue cars parked at a gas station next to fuel pumps, with buildings in the background under a clear sky.

Rental Cars: Freedom to Explore

Renting a car in Porto gives you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace.

Best Rental Car Companies

Avis: Offers convenient locations and a variety of options, from economy cars to luxury vehicles.
Centauro: Known for competitive prices and a wide range of vehicles, with good customer service.
RecordGo: Provides budget-friendly options and has a free shuttle from the Porto airport, making pick-up and drop-off easy. Whenever we rent a car to visit nearby areas, we use RecordGo and have ever had a problem!

Tips for Driving in Porto

Navigation: Use GPS or a navigation app to help you navigate the narrow, winding streets of Porto.
Parking: Be aware that parking can be challenging in the city center. Look for designated parking areas or opt for a parking garage.
Tolls: Some highways in Portugal have tolls. Make sure your rental car is equipped with an electronic toll device for easy payment.
Traffic Rules: Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws, including speed limits and right-of-way rules, to ensure a smooth driving experience.

A white tuk tuk drives along a street lined with colorful apartment buildings and parked cars on a sunny day.

Tuk Tuks: A Fun Way to Get Around Porto

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Porto, consider hopping on a tuk tuk!

What Are Tuk Tuks?

Tuk tuks are small, three-wheeled vehicles that offer a fun and flexible way to navigate the city’s narrow streets and steep hills. They provide an open-air experience, perfect for sightseeing.

Benefits of Using Tuk Tuks

Flexible Routes: Tuk tuk drivers can take you to places where larger vehicles can’t go, allowing for a more intimate exploration of Porto’s narrow streets.
Guided Tours: Many tuk tuk rides come with knowledgeable drivers who act as guides, sharing interesting facts and stories about Porto’s history and landmarks.
Convenience: Tuk tuks can be hailed on the street or booked in advance, offering door-to-door service.
Scenic Rides: Enjoy panoramic views of the city while comfortably seated in the open-air vehicle.

Popular Tuk Tuk Routes

Historic Center: Travel through Porto’s UNESCO-listed historic center, including stops at major landmarks like the Clérigos Tower and São Bento Station.
Ribeira and Gaia: Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge and explore both the Ribeira district and the Gaia side of the river, known for its wine cellars.
Custom Tours: Many tuk tuk services offer customizable tours based on your interests, whether it’s food, culture, or history.

How to Book a Tuk Tuk

On the Street: Easily find tuk tuks in popular tourist areas and hail one for an impromptu tour.
Online Booking: Use services like Living Tuk Tuk or Tuktour Porto to book a ride in advance.

A hand holds an "andante" card against a backdrop of a cityscape with buildings and a partly cloudy sky.

Andante Card: Convenient Travel Pass for Metro and Buses

If you’ve decided to use public transportation in Porto, the Andante Card is an essential tool. It simplifies travel across the city’s extensive metro and bus networks.

What is the Andante Card?

The Andante Card is a rechargeable travel card that allows you to use Porto’s metro, buses, and some trains with ease. It’s designed to make your journeys more convenient and cost-effective.

Benefits of the Andante Card

Unlimited Travel: Depending on the type of card you choose, you can enjoy unlimited travel within selected zones.
Easy Top-Up: Reload your card at metro stations, authorized shops, and even online.
Cost-Effective: Save money compared to buying individual tickets for each trip.
Flexibility: Choose between occasional and monthly cards based on your stay and travel needs.

How to Use the Andante Card

Purchase: Get your Andante Card at metro station ticket machines, Andante shops, or select retailers.
Load: Add travel credits or passes suitable for your travel plans.
Validate: Before boarding, validate your card at the yellow machines found at metro station entrances or on buses.
Travel: Enjoy seamless travel across Porto’s public transport network.

Types of Andante Cards

Andante Tour Card: Specifically designed for tourists, this card offers unlimited travel for 24 or 72 hours across all zones. It’s perfect for those who plan to explore the city intensively in a short period. Note that these cards are rechargeable.
Occasional Cards (Andante Azul): Perfect for short visits, these cards can be loaded with single journeys or daily passes.
Monthly Cards (Andante Gold): Ideal for longer stays, offering unlimited travel within chosen zones for a month.

Using the Andante Card makes getting around Porto simple and efficient, allowing you to focus on enjoying the city’s sights and attractions.

A small blue and white three-wheeled tuk tuk is parked on a paved street next to a large iron fence. Two people are walking on the sidewalk nearby, bundled in coats.

Accessible Transportation in Porto

Porto is committed to making travel easy and comfortable for everyone, including those with disabilities.

Accessibility Features in Public Transport

Metro: Most metro stations are equipped with elevators, ramps, and tactile paving for the visually impaired. Trains have designated spaces for wheelchairs.
Buses: Many buses are low-floor models with ramps, making it easy for wheelchair users to board. Priority seating is available for passengers with disabilities.
Trams and Funiculars: Some historic trams and the funicular may not be fully accessible, but there are options for those with limited mobility. Always check accessibility before planning your trip.
Teleférico de Gaia: This cable car offers accessibility features, including step-free access and space for wheelchairs, ensuring everyone can enjoy the stunning views.

Services Available for People with Disabilities

Accessible Taxis: Companies like Porto Taxi and Uber offer accessible vehicles. Booking in advance ensures availability.
Support Services: The city provides services such as personal assistance at major transport hubs. Informing staff ahead of time can help ensure you get the support you need.
Information and Assistance: Many transport services have dedicated helplines and websites with information on accessibility. Utilize these resources to plan your journey effectively.

People sit on the upper deck of an open-top bus, passing by a historic building with "Museum" signage on a sunny day.

Guided Tours: Hassle-Free Exploration

Taking a guided tour in Porto is an excellent way to explore the city without the stress of navigating on your own.

Recommended Guided Tours That Include Transportation

Porto City Tour with River Cruise and Wine Tasting: This comprehensive tour covers major attractions, includes a scenic river cruise, and a visit to a famous wine cellar. Transportation is provided, making it a seamless experience.
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: These tours allow you to explore Porto at your own pace with the flexibility to hop on and off at various attractions. The buses are equipped with audio guides in multiple languages.
Porto Walking Tour: For those who prefer exploring on foot, a guided walking tour covers key historical sites and hidden gems. These tours can include public transport tickets if needed.

Benefits of Taking Guided Tours

Convenience: Guided tours handle all the logistics, from transportation to entrance fees, so you can relax and enjoy the sights.
Expert Knowledge: Tour guides offer insights and stories about Porto’s history, culture, and landmarks that you might miss on your own.
Efficient Itinerary: Tours are designed to cover the best attractions in a time-efficient manner, ensuring you see more in less time.
Social Experience: Joining a guided tour can be a great way to meet other travelers and share the experience.

A smiling family with two children, one being carried in a front backpack and another on an adult's shoulders, poses on a street with old buildings and a church in the background.

Additional Tips on Getting Around Porto

Porto Card: Discounts and Free Access to Attractions and Transport

The Porto Card is a valuable tool for any visitor. It offers:

Free Access: Enjoy free entry to many museums and attractions.
Discounts: Get discounts at restaurants, shops, and cultural sites.
Free Public Transport: Unlimited travel on the metro, buses, and trains within Porto.

Purchasing a Porto Card can save you money and make your trip more convenient.

Using Public Transport Apps for Real-Time Information

Make your travels smoother with these apps:

Moovit: Provides real-time bus, metro, and tram schedules, along with the best routes to your destination.
Andante App: Helps manage your Andante Card, showing balance and allowing you to top up on the go.
Google Maps: Offers detailed public transport routes and schedules, along with walking and driving directions.

A street scene with people walking and dining, bordered by colorful buildings and a cobblestone path. A cable car travels overhead against a clear blue sky.

Ready to Explore Porto?

Navigating Porto is easy once you know your options. Whether you prefer walking through historic streets, riding the modern metro, or taking a scenic tram, there’s a convenient way for everyone to get around. Public transport, bikes, scooters, taxis, and guided tours all offer unique benefits to make your travels enjoyable and stress-free.

Now that you know how to get around Porto, you’re ready to start planning your adventures. To make the most of your visit, check out our guide to The Ultimate 2 Days in Porto for a perfect itinerary. Enjoy your journey through this beautiful city!