Porto

Public Transportation Guide to Porto, Portugal

Types of Transportation

1. Metro: The Porto Metro consists of six lines (A to E) connecting the city and surrounding areas.
2. Buses: Operated by STCP, buses cover the entire city and suburbs.
3. Trams: Historic trams operate mainly on the Line 1, which runs along the riverfront.
4. Funicular: The Funicular dos Guindais connects the lower and upper parts of the city.
5. Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are available throughout the city, and ride-sharing services like Uber operate as well.

Ticketing Options

1. Andante Card: A rechargeable card valid for all public transport (metro, buses, trams).
2. Single Tickets: Available for individual journeys on metro and buses.
3. Day Passes: Unlimited travel for one day on all public transport.
4. Zapping: A pay-as-you-go system that allows you to load credit onto your Andante Card for flexible travel.

Costs

• Single Metro Ticket: €1.20 to €2.00 (depending on the distance).
• Bus Ticket: €1.20 (purchased on board).
• Tram Ticket: €3.00 for a single ride on the historic tram.
• Day Pass: €7.00 for unlimited travel on all public transport.
• Andante Card: €0.60 (one-time purchase, reloadable).

How to Purchase Tickets

• Metro: Tickets can be purchased at ticket machines in metro stations (available in multiple languages) or at ticket counters.
• Buses/Trams: Tickets can be bought on board (cash only) or at designated kiosks.
• Andante Card: Available at metro stations and some kiosks. Reload at machines or counters.

Schedules

• Metro: Generally operates from 6:00 AM to 1:00 AM. Frequency varies from 5 to 15 minutes depending on the line and time of day.
• Buses: Schedules vary; most routes run from 6:00 AM to midnight. Check the STCP website for specific routes and times.
• Trams: Operate from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with limited service in winter.
• Funicular: Runs from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Accessibility

• Metro: Most stations are equipped with elevators and escalators, but some older stations may have limited access.
• Buses: Many buses are wheelchair accessible. Look for the accessibility symbol on the bus.
• Trams: Historic trams may not be fully accessible; check the specific line for details.

Local Tips

• Validate Your Ticket: Always validate your ticket before boarding the metro or bus to avoid fines.
• Peak Hours: Avoid traveling during rush hours (8:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM) for a more comfortable experience.
• Language: While many signs are in English, learning a few basic Portuguese phrases can enhance your experience.
• Safety: Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas and on public transport.

Conclusion

Porto's public transportation system is efficient and user-friendly, making it easy to explore the city. Familiarize yourself with the ticketing options and schedules to make the most of your travels.