Getting Around Porto: From the Airport to the City & Beyond

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Planning a visit to Porto and wondering how to get around? With a well-developed public transport system and a very walkable historic centre, Porto is an easy city to navigate.

Getting around Porto is straightforward, with options to suit every preference. Whether you’re moving around the city, heading to the airport, or venturing further afield, there’s a transport solution for you. However, keep these two points in mind:

Luckily the metro, trams and trains help you bypass the worst of the traffic, and driving outside the city is much easier. Plus, the hills do reward you with stunning views.

We’ve visited Porto many times; flying, bussing, walking and driving and this guide shares everything we’ve learned from nearly a decade of exploring this remarkable destination.

Getting Around Porto City Centre : 15 Ways to Move Around Downtown

Porto’s historic centre is world-famous for its cobblestone streets, iconic landmarks, and lively riverfront. The Douro River flows between Porto and Gaia, linking the Douro Valley vineyards with the Atlantic beaches.

Whether you’re a pilgrim preparing for your Portuguese Camino or visiting for a city break, understanding how to navigate Porto will help make the most of your time.

Top Tip: In October 2024, Porto City Council introduced traffic restrictions in the historic centre to reduce congestion, preserve landmarks and accommodate major construction. They affect tourist transport including tuk-tuks, vintage electric vehicles, and some buses. Before booking, check that your tour won’t be impacted.

1. Bikes, Scooters and E-Bikes

I’m not a cyclist, but my gut tells me that biking around Porto’s city centre might not be the most practical option. The streets are busy, with one-way systems, steep hills, parking restrictions, and plenty of pedestrians and tourists stepping out unexpectedly.

That said, if you love being on two wheels, there are several highly rated guided e-bike tours that guide you through the most bike-friendly parts of the city. And exploring further afield, like Foz do Douro, on an e-bike sounds like a lot of fun; and much more manageable as the tour’s e-bikes help take the sting out of the hills.

2. Bus

The Sociedade de Transportes Colectivos do Porto (STCP) operates the local bus network, including routes connecting the airport to the city and other parts of Portugal. There are regular buses into the city centre; simply ask for assistance at the airport and you’ll be pointed in the right direction.

Buses in Porto are generally reliable and cover areas not served by the metro, making them a great option for exploring beyond the main tourist zones. Their app is great to check real time scheduling and the website is in English if needed.  

3. Cable Car: Teleférico de Gaia

While it might not count as practical transport, the Teleférico de Gaia offers an incredible way to take view Porto’s iconic riverside and the Douro River.

The short journey lasts just 5 minutes but provides stunning views from the upper deck at Vila Nova de Gaia as you descend to the riverside.

4. Cruise The Douro River

While more of a tour than a practical mode of transport, cruising the Douro River is a fantastic way to experience Porto. The river is central to Porto’s history, and the views from the water are fabulous.

You can choose from a variety of tours from the classic 6 Bridges cruise to longer private tours like a sunset cruise or even multi day tours.

5. Funicular dos Guindais

The Funicular dos Guindais offers stunning views and is a practical way to navigate Porto’s steep hills. This small funicular connects the Ribeira (lower riverside area) to the Batalha district (upper city), saving you a challenging climb.

Top Tip : As you approach the Funicular the entrance door is just a few metres further down.

6. Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

We used to love this mode of transport when visiting cities, though it has become a bit pricey in recent years. That said, in Porto (and even Cape Town), these buses can be a great way to cover longer distances beyond the city centre, making them good value in specific cases.

Hop-On Hop-Off buses are also perfect for sightseeing from your seat, which is especially helpful for those with limited mobility. In Porto, two companies operate within the city, and the Red Bus consistently receives better reviews.

Top Tip: Some packages include extras like river cruises or Fado shows. While convenient, they may not offer the best options. Compare prices and quality before booking; you might find it cheaper and better to arrange them separately.

7. Metro

The Metro do Porto is one of the easiest and most efficient ways to get around the city and for travel out to areas like Matosinhos, Foz do Douro and of course the airport. With six lines (A–F), it provides excellent coverage of Porto and its surrounding areas.

The Violet Line (Line E) connects Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) directly to the city centre. The journey takes about 30 minutes and costs just a few euros (see more details in the airport section below).

For visitors, the recently introduced Andante Tour passes offer unlimited travel for 24 or 72 hours at a fixed price (€7.50 for the inner zone or €16.00 for all zones). This is great value if you plan to explore more widely during your stay.

You can purchase an Andante Card at the airport or any metro station. Don’t forget to validate your ticket before boarding, as fines for unvalidated tickets are steep.

8. Renting a Car in Porto

Renting a car can be a great option for exploring beyond Porto, especially if you’re planning day trips to the Douro Valley, the Atlantic beaches or other nearby destinations. On a longer stay having a car did give us the freedom to explore at our own pace and picking one up from the airport was straightforward.

That said, public transport in Porto is so efficient, with limited parking and heavy traffic making driving a challenge, car hire is simply not necessary in the city. We wouldn’t recommend using a car to get around Porto itself.

9. Segway Around Porto

I’ll admit it; I’ve never tried a Segway tour because I’m a bit nervous about falling off! But our kids have done it and absolutely loved the experience. For a more adventurous way to explore Porto, a Segway tour could be the perfect option, especially for conquering the city’s hills. This can also be a great choice for families with teenagers.

Before you start, you’ll get a quick tutorial, so even beginners can feel confident. Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing for the ride.

10. Taxis and Uber

Taxis, Uber, and Bolt are widely available in Porto and are convenient options for getting around, especially at night or if you’re carrying luggage.

Taxis: You’ll find taxi ranks at the airport, train stations, and major tourist areas. Taxis in Porto are safe and reliable, but always ensure the meter is used, and don’t hesitate to ask for a receipt. During busy times, such as at the airport or train stations, there may be queues, so keep this in mind.

Top Tip : Registered city Porto taxis are black with a green roof or light beige

Uber and Bolt: We used Uber extensively during our visits and loved how easy it was to use. The upfront pricing gives you peace of mind, and payments can be secured online with virtual bank cards. We took an Uber from the city centre to Matosinhos one evening for €10; a 30-minute trip.

11. Trains

Porto’s train network isn’t designed for local travel, so it’s not particularly useful for getting around the city centre. However, it’s an excellent option for traveling further afield and offers some of Portugal’s most scenic routes.

We’ve used the trains to head to the Spanish border at Valença and taken the stunning journey from Porto to Pinhão in the Douro Valley; considered one of Portugal’s most beautiful train rides.

São Bento Train Station, with its incredible azulejo tiles, is both a transport hub and a must-see attraction in its own right.

Top Tip: Due to changes in tourist transport regulations, the license for the Historic Centre Tourist Train will expire in March 2026 and is not currently set to be renewed.

12. Trams

Porto’s tram system dates back to 1872, making it one of the city’s most historic modes of transport. While only remnants of the original network remain, two routes are still in operation and offer a charming way to explore Porto.

There was a third route (Line 22), but it’s currently not listed on the official website.

Top Tip: If you’re a fan of vintage transport, don’t miss the Tram Museum in the city centre. Learn about the history of trams in Porto and see beautifully restored vehicles up close.

13. Tuk Tuk Tour

For a more quirky way to explore Porto, a tuk-tuk is a fantastic choice. You can even opt for a vintage electric car tour for a bit of extra fun! These small motorized vehicles can navigate Porto’s narrow streets and steep hills, allowing you to cover a lot of ground without much effort.

However, due to recent restrictions, tuk-tuks are no longer allowed in the historic centre. We recently booked a Historic Centre tour, but only learned about this limitation once in the car; not ideal!

Most tuk-tuk tours now focus on Gaia and areas outside the historic centre, so be sure to confirm the route before booking. That said, a tour of Gaia is a really great option if you haven’t yet explored that part of the city.  And it moves you from the Porto side which is convenient if you’re heading to a Port wine tasting.

14. Walking Tours

Porto is a wonderfully walkable city and we love a walking tour. Yes, there are hills, but the compact old centre allows you to meander leisurely from one highlight to another. And your efforts are rewarded with stunning views and something new to discover around every corner.

Walking is one of the best ways to soak up Porto’s atmosphere, from the Ribeira waterfront and the iconic Luís I Bridge to the cathedral and bustling Santa Catarina Street. On one of our wanderings, we stumbled upon the glorious Market Bolhão; proof that following your nose can lead to some excellent surprises!

If you’re new to the city or you have just one or two days in Porto, a guided walking tour is an excellent way to explore. These tours are usually slow-paced and accessible to most, but be sure to wear comfortable shoes; the cobblestones and hills can be challenging!

15. Water taxi

A water taxi may not be the most common mode of transport in Porto, but it’s a fun and quirky way to cross the river to explore Gaia. While you could walk across the Luis I Bridge, a water taxi offers a different perspective of the city and a more leisurely experience.

Much like in Valetta, Porto Water Taxis run every 15 minutes from 9 am to 5 pm and are inspired by the traditional Rabelo boats. They carry up to 28 passengers, with two boats adapted for passengers with reduced mobility.

Getting From Porto Airport to the City Centre

Porto’s Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) is located about 11 km (7 miles) from the city centre, and there are several ways to make the journey depending on your budget and schedule.

After a long flight, most people just want to get to their hotel. In this case, a private transfer is likely your best option. However, if you’re travelling on a budget or prefer independent travel, the Metro and bus networks are both reliable and easy to navigate.

a. Bus

Several buses connect the airport to the city centre, including the 601, 602, and 604 routes. While they are an excellent budget-friendly choice, they may take longer than the metro. Unless one of these routes is specific to your destination, the metro is generally a quicker option for getting into Porto’s centre.

b. Metro

The Metro do Porto is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to travel from the airport to the city. The Violet Line (Line E) connects Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport directly to Porto’s city centre. Trains run every 20–30 minutes, and the journey takes about 25–30 minutes.

You have the option to buy individual tickets for a single journey or purchase an Andante card for multiple trips. Individual tickets are convenient if you’re only planning a one-way trip into the city; we did this when walking the Camino as we knew we only needed one journey.

If you opt for an Andante card, it’s widely available; look for red flags or machines at metro stations, including the airport. You can load the card with multiple journeys or purchase an Andante pass for unlimited travel.

Top Tip : The Andante Tour pass is a great option, offering unlimited travel for a fixed price (€7.50 for 24 hours or €16.00 for 72 hours, valid for all zones).

Many metro stations in Porto are at street level, so the metro doesn’t always run underground, and there are often no barriers. Regardless of the ticket type, you must validate your ticket/card before boarding. Simply tap your card or ticket against the validation machines when entering or leaving a platform (watch the locals and ask for help if it’s not working).

The metro operates from around 6:00 am to 1:00 am, depending on the line. While São Bento is the main city station, ask your accommodation for the nearest metro stop.

c. Private Transfer

A private transfer is the most convenient and stress-free option for getting from the airport to your accommodation; especially after a long flight or if you have a lot of luggage. Drivers meet you in the arrivals hall and take you straight to your destination.

I’ve used private transfers several times and have always been happy. It’s quick, simple, and a hassle-free way to get in and out of the airport.

d. Taxis and Uber

Both taxis and Uber are readily available at the airport; taxis are outside the arrivals hall at Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport.

If you’re traveling solo, there’s little price difference between hailing a cab at the airport and booking one in advance. However, if you’re unsure of your arrival time or your flight is delayed, grabbing a taxi once you arrive is a simple and reliable choice.

Travel Cards And Are They Worth It?

Porto offers several transport card options, each suited to different types of travellers. The Andante Tour pass is ideal if you plan to use public transport frequently, providing unlimited travel for a set period. However, if you’re mostly walking or only making one or two journeys, a rechargeable Andante card or a single use ticket may be more cost-effective.

The Porto Card goes beyond just transport and again might be a better option depending on the type of visit.  The Porto Card website offers a great comparison of the two cards.

Porto Card

The Porto Card is more of a tourist pass than a dedicated transport card. However, it includes free public transport and discounts at attractions, restaurants, and shops, making it a good all-around option for visitors.

The Porto Card with transport includes unlimited metro and bus travel and discounts for the Funicular, making it the good choice for visitors who want to explore the city thoroughly.

Andante Card

The Andante Card is Porto’s rechargeable transport card, valid for metro, bus, and tram rides. It’s perfect for short-term visitors.

For unlimited travel, consider the Andante Tour 24H (€7) or 72H (€15) for all-zone access, which offers excellent value for tourists moving around.

• Cost: €0.60 for the card + €1.20–€2 per journey (depending on zones)
• Pros: Cheaper than single tickets, easy to top up
• Cons: Limited to public transport only and doesn’t include discounts for attractions and it is not valid on Funicular dos Guindais, STCP Tramway and Private Operators.

FAQs: Getting Around Porto

Is Porto walkable?

Yes! Porto’s compact city centre makes it easy to explore on foot. While there are some steep hills, walking allows you to fully enjoy the city’s charm, including cobblestone streets, historic landmarks, and incredible views.

What is Bolt

It’s a ridesharing app that is often used as an alternative to UBER

Are public transport options in Porto tourist-friendly?

Absolutely. Porto’s public transport network, including the metro, buses, and trams, is extensive and easy to navigate. There are often staff at hand to help and english is widely spoken.

How do I get from Santiago de Compostela back to Porto?

We’ve found ALSA buses to be the easiest option tp travel back from Santiago de Compostela. The bus station is easily reached in Santiago and ALSA operate direct routes between the both cities. Do check whether your bus will stop at Porto Airport or the Porto city centre, as not all buses serve both locations.

How do I get from Porto to Lisbon?

There are two great options for travel between these two amazing cities.

What’s the best way to travel for late night or early morning for flights?

For late-night or early-morning flights either a taxi, Uber or private transfers are your best options. They operate 24/7 and offer door-to-door service.

Are there hotels at Porto Airport?

Yes, Porto Airport has a few convenient hotel options. One of the highest rated is Next to the Airport; a simple homestay, very comfortable, fabulous hosts and within walking distance of the airport.

So What is The Best Way To Get Around Porto?

The best way to get around Porto depends on how long you’ll be in the city and what you plan to do during your visit.

If you’re walking the Camino Portuguese and only have one day in Porto before starting your journey, a single metro ticket from the airport (or a private transfer if you have luggage) is likely your best option. Once in the city, walking or using tourist transport should be more than sufficient, since you’ll likely stay within the historic centre.

If you’re spending more time in Porto and plan to explore beyond the city centre, as well as visit museums, galleries and other attractions, the Porto Card might be the ideal choice.

When we spent several weeks in Matosinhos, we found having a car useful. For getting around locally, however, we relied on the Metro and Uber, which were both convenient. If you’re planning a similar trip, an Andante Card might be a practical option.

The great thing about Porto is that there’s a transport solution for everyone:

Porto truly is a fabulous destination, whether for just one day, a week or a month; it deserves a spot on your bucket list. Getting around is straightforward and there’s plenty of useful information online in English. And transport apps make navigation even easier.

Whatever your plans, rest assured; getting around Porto will be the least of your worries!

Discover Even More About Porto

I’ve been visiting Porto for almost a decade and have learned so much over the years.  Whether you’re planning a visit, looking for the best day trips, or starting your Camino from Porto, I’m creating detailed guides packed full of tips and insights about this ancient and incredible city.

Check out these posts and start planning your own perfect Porto adventure: