We always prefer to explore new destinations on foot since it’s the best way to discover hidden gems. Porto is relatively small though it has a few very steep streets. If you are fit, there’s no better way than walking to most of the attractions if your accommodation is located in the city center. However, there are also great other transportation options if you prefer, the most convenient ones are the metro and the trams.
Metro: you can use the metro system, for which you’ll need to buy a rechargeable Andante card. The tickets’ prices are according to a zone system and there are also day passes. Don’t forget to validate your ticket at the scanners before each trip or when changing lines. If you’ve purchased the Porto Card that includes public transportation, you can use this one as well.
Trams: There are three tram lines you can choose from and it is actually quite a fun experience to ride one of these since we are talking about old refurbished wooden trams. Some of these can be included in your Andante ticket, but you can also buy a single ticket (3 euros) or a 2-day pass (10 euros) for unlimited rides on any of the three trams.
Tram No. 1 is the most scenic route since it rides along the banks of the Douro river (till Foz district) but it’s probably the most popular ride so try and come early or later in the afternoon. This is the only tram line that requires buying two separate tickets (unless you have the 2-day pass) since it is not a circular route. Hours: Every 20 minutes from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm.
Tram No. 22 is the most recommended route for first-time visitors since it actually goes through most of Porto’s main tourist attractions and is very convenient for getting around the city. Hours: Every 30 minutes from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm.
Tram No. 18 is not used much by tourists since it doesn’t go through many tourist attractions and therefore it’s less crowded.
Hours: Every 30 minutes from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm.
Here is some more information on all the routes of the three Porto trams.
I absolutely fell in love with Porto when I visited last year! Thank you for bringing it all back to me with your amazing photos – the beautiful and cheap Port Wine, the stairs (which I happened upon quite by chance), the gorgeous blue tiles and the views from the bridge. Oh to go back this Summer!
Thank you Sarah! Yes, Porto is lovely and I wouldn’t mind coming back there soon. If you happen to be there this summer you can check our recommendations in the Portugal Foodie post.
My dad is a huge fan of Portugal in general and Porto in particular. While I have only been to Lisbon I never quite got the whole appeal but your post has me rethink that – stunning pictures. I love a cityscape that is a little derelict and crumbling yet somehow so very charming.
Thank you Annika. I think you might like Porto then with its special vibe and also there are some great restaurants and coffee shops which is always a good thing…
I visited Porto during 2019 as I was living in Lisbon. Porto is completely different and super interesting. I would love to go back to discover more about Port Wine productions! I already visited Ramos Pinto Cellar and it was one of the best cellar visit I’ve ever had!
Thanks for your comment Antione. We have just returned from a 3-week road trip through Portugal, including Porto and the Douto valley. We had a blast and will share more about our adventures in the coming weeks. Porto has such a great wine scene and this time around we managed to visit many vinyards in the Douro valley, Central Portugal and Alentejo!