Getting around

Getting Around Porto: Transportation Options for North American Travelers

Updated Jul 16, 2025

Porto's metro, trams, and buses connect key areas efficiently. Walking suits the compact historic center best, while bikes work along the river.

Getting Around Porto: Transportation Options for North American Travelers

Overview

Ease of getting around

Porto offers excellent transportation options for visitors from the US and Canada. The city's efficient metro, tram, and bus network connects major attractions and neighborhoods. Walking remains the best way to explore the historic center's narrow cobblestone streets and riverside areas. The compact downtown core makes most attractions accessible on foot within 20-30 minutes. Rental cars work for day trips outside the city but aren't necessary for central Porto. Biking has improved with new bike lanes along the Douro River, though steep hills challenge casual cyclists. Taxis and ride-sharing apps provide convenient alternatives for longer distances or late-night travel.

Public transit

Porto's STCP network includes metro lines, vintage trams, and buses covering the entire metropolitan area. The Andante card works across all public transport modes. Metro Line D connects the airport to downtown in 30 minutes. Tram 1 runs along the scenic riverfront. Day passes cost around €7. Check STCP.pt for routes, schedules, and real-time updates.

Driving

Major rental companies operate at Porto Airport and downtown locations including Hertz, Avis, and Europcar. Daily rates start around €25-40. Parking costs €1-2 per hour in the city center. Cars suit day trips to Douro Valley or coastal towns but aren't needed for Porto itself. Book through comparison sites like Kayak or directly with rental agencies for best rates.

Walking

Porto's historic center spans about 2 square kilometers, making walking the ideal transportation method. Most major attractions lie within a 30-minute walk of each other. Cobblestone streets and steep hills require comfortable shoes. The riverfront promenade offers flat, scenic walking routes. Pedestrian areas around Rua Santa Catarina provide car-free shopping and dining.

Biking

Porto has expanded its cycling infrastructure with dedicated bike lanes along the Douro River and through Cidade Park. Bike-sharing stations operate citywide through the Bicas system. Steep terrain in the historic center challenges casual cyclists. The coastal route to Matosinhos offers flat, scenic cycling. Electric bikes help navigate Porto's hills more easily.

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