Getting Around Porto: 7 Fun Ways To Explore

Have you ever imagined strolling down cobbled lanes, soaking in the old-world charm while sipping on the city’s famous Port wine? Porto makes that fantasy a reality! So, how to get around Porto?

Navigating this vibrant city might seem intimidating at first, but it’s actually a breeze when you know the ins and outs. In this Porto transportation guide, I’ll share useful information about getting around Porto, and tips to plan your trip.

Catch the Porto Metro

If you’re looking for a comfortable, efficient way to explore Porto, then the Metro do Porto should be your choice.

The best part? Unlike the underground metros in many other cities, most of the metro lines in Porto run above ground, offering you a scenic ride through the city’s lively neighborhoods.

How to find metro stations

To find a metro station, just look for signs with a big “M” on them.

There are more than 80 stations on six different lines. If you’re not sure where to go, you can get a map at any station to help you out.

Ticket prices

To use the metro, you’ll need an Andante card, which you can buy at the airport, metro stations, Pay Shop Agents, and automatic machines.

Each trip costs €1.20, but buying ten in advance gets you an extra journey for free.

Instructions

Once you’re at the station, it’s easy to figure out where to go.

There are electronic boards that tell you where the next train is going and when it will arrive.

The lines are color-coded, and each has a letter to identify them. For example, the blue “A” line goes from Senhor de Matosinhos to Estádio do Dragão, and the purple “E” line goes from the Airport to Estádio do Dragão.

Don’t forget to stamp your card on the yellow machines before you get on the train. The stamped ticket is good for one hour, even if you change lines.

Sometimes, ticket checkers might ask to see your stamped ticket, so keep it handy.

Rent a car

Renting a car in Porto brings a new sense of adventure and freedom, but it’s also sprinkled with a few challenges.

With your own set of wheels, you can easily zip around the city and venture out into the stunning landscapes surrounding Porto.

Portugal’s Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a scenic drive away from Porto. Famous for its wine production, it offers stunning landscapes and exquisite tastings.

Similarly, the historic cities of Guimarães and Braga, boasting ancient architecture and rich history, are easily accessible by car. Here are some of the best day trips from Porto to add to your list.

However, Porto’s city center is an intricate labyrinth of narrow, winding streets. So, be prepared for a few tight squeezes. Also, parking can be tricky, as spots are limited in the city center.

Zip around in Tuk tuk

For an unconventional, fun-filled experience in Porto, nothing quite matches the thrill of a tuk-tuk ride.

These charming three-wheeled vehicles, reminiscent of those seen on the streets of Southeast Asia, have found a home in Porto and offer a fantastic way to explore the city.

Navigating Porto’s narrow, winding lanes is a breeze in these compact vehicles. They’re especially handy for accessing areas that larger vehicles can’t reach, making them perfect for a detailed tour of the city’s hidden gems.

Whether it’s the steep inclines of the Ribeira district or the crowded streets of Bolhão Market, tuk-tuks maneuver with surprising ease, all while offering panoramic views of the city.

Go for a walk

Porto’s compact size makes it a walker’s paradise, with its iconic landmarks often just a short stroll away from each other.

From the vibrant Ribeira district to the lofty Clérigos Tower and the spellbinding Lello Bookshop, Porto is brimming with treasures that are best discovered on foot.

Each step on Porto’s cobblestone streets is a step through history. As you wind your way through the city, you’ll stumble upon vibrant graffiti, quaint cafes, and breathtakingly beautiful Azulejo-tiled buildings.

To make the most of your walking experience, start by exploring the historic center, where you’ll find iconic landmarks like the Ribeira district, São Bento Station, and the Dom Luís I Bridge.

Wander through the vibrant neighborhoods of Miragaia and Cedofeita, where you can stumble upon delightful cafes, local boutiques, and stunning architecture.

Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some uphill strolls.

Tips: For the best experience, I suggest joining a walking tour.

Travel by boat

Cruising the Douro River is a fun way to get around Porto. Aboard a traditional Rabelo boat, the city unfolds before you from a whole new perspective.

It’s like stepping into a painting where Porto’s historic riverside buildings rise dramatically from the water’s edge.

On my first cruise tour, I was mesmerized by the beautiful interplay of sunlight and water, turning the Douro into a river of gold.

The Six Bridges Cruise was another highlight of my trip. As the name suggests, it takes you under all six of Porto’s bridges.

I remember the feeling of awe as we passed beneath each structure, marveling at their engineering brilliance.

An insider tip – book your boat tour during the off-peak season, and you’ll enjoy a quieter, more intimate experience.

Hop on a tram

If the metro is your key to the city, then the tram is your time machine, teleporting you back to the city’s golden age.

Line 1, in particular, offers a dreamlike journey from the city center to Foz, serving up a moving canvas of Porto’s exquisitely picturesque riverside vistas.

As the tram slowly meanders along the tracks, each turn reveals another layer of Porto’s rich history and architectural charm.

Explore Porto by bus

Navigating the sprawling city of Porto via bus is an adventure in itself.

It’s an excellent way to absorb the city’s vibrant atmosphere, enjoys scenic routes, and reach areas less frequented by the metro and tram lines.

Three specific bus lines – #900, #901, and #906 – act as a shuttle service between São Bento station and the famous port wine lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia. Situated across the river, these lodges house the city’s iconic Port wine.

If you’d like a refreshing seaside escape, bus #500 is your chariot. Starting from the Ribeira, the city’s historic district, it makes its way to the idyllic Foz, following a route that offers some of the city’s most breathtaking riverside views.

Bus #203, on the other hand, is your key to unlocking the world of contemporary art. It connects the beach at Foz with the Serralves Museum, making it convenient for culture and art lovers to explore the museum after a relaxing time at the beach.

The bus service in Porto is generally speedy and efficient, but like in any bustling city, rush hour can bring traffic to a snail’s pace. It’s best to plan your travel during off-peak hours to enjoy a smoother journey.

Payment on these buses is also straightforward. An Andante card can be used for hassle-free, unlimited travel. But even without it, one can simply pay the driver €1.95 for a ticket.

FAQs about getting around Porto