Porto City Guide
How to Get Around
Public Transportation
- Metro: The fastest way to move around. Connects the center with tourist spots and the airport
- Buses: Useful for areas without metro coverage
- Historic Trams: Ideal for tourist routes, especially lines 18 and 1
- Funicular dos Guindais: Connects Ribeira with Batalha, saving a steep climb
Andante Card
- Rechargeable card for metro, buses, and trams
- Price: €0.60 for the card, €1.20 for Z2 trip (two zones), €1.60 for Z3 trip (three zones)
- Andante 24: Unlimited trips for 24 hours in chosen zones
Porto Card
Tourist card with optional included transportation, economical if you plan to use public transport frequently
Additional Tips
- Comfortable footwear: The city is full of hills and stairs
- Plan your visits: In high season, book main attractions in advance
- Explore local neighborhoods: Visit areas like Balhao and its traditional shops
- Best time: Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and fewer tourists
- Airport transportation: The metro is the most convenient option
Approximate Prices (2025)
- Food:
o Daily menu: €8-12
o Dinner at a mid-range restaurant: €15-25 per person - Transportation:
o Single metro/bus ticket: €1.20-1.60
o Andante 24-hour card: €7-15 (depending on zones) - Accommodation:
o Hostel: €20-30/night
o 3-star hotel: €50-80/night - Attractions:
o Entry to monuments: €5-10
o Wine cellar tour: €15-25
Remember that Porto is generally more economical than other European cities, making it an attractive destination for various budgets.
Must-See Sites
- Clérigos Tower: Offers an impressive panoramic view of the city from its height of 76 meters
- Lello Bookstore: Considered one of the most beautiful in the world, inspiration for J.K. Rowling
- Ribeira: A vibrant neighborhood along the Douro River, ideal for enjoying local gastronomy
- São Bento Station: Impressive for its more than 20,000 tiles narrating Portugal’s history
- Bolhão Market: An authentic place to discover fresh and local products
- Stock Exchange Palace: Notable for its Arab Room and is a National Monument
- Casa da Música: An architectural icon and cultural center
- Crystal Palace Gardens: A calm refuge with views of the Douro
Recommended Activities
- Douro River Cruise: Enjoy the urban landscape and wine cellars at sunset
- Visit to wine cellars: Learn about Port wine and taste it
- Free Tour: Explore iconic corners with local guides
