Walking and guided tours
Many historic areas are pedestrian only. Walking allows travellers to appreciate azulejo‑covered façades and the atmosphere of districts like Ribeira, Miragaia and Vitória. However, steep inclines and uneven pavements can be strenuous. BL Heritage walking tours incorporate elevators, funiculars and vehicle assistance for accessible exploration. Guides enrich the journey with legends, architectural details and local anecdotes, ensuring that visitors do not miss hidden courtyards or historical markers.
Public transport
- Metro do Porto: Six lines (A–F) connect major points. Line E links the airport to the centre; Line D crosses the Dom Luís I Bridge to Gaia. Line A reaches coastal suburbs like Matosinhos and Leça da Palmeira, giving access to beaches and Piscina das Marés.
- Bus network: Operated by STCP, buses supplement the metro, reaching neighbourhoods without rail service. Popular routes include 500 (Ribeira–Matosinhos) and 901/906 (Foz–Boavista).
- Trams: Vintage tram line 1 runs along the river from Infante to Passeio Alegre; line 18 climbs from Massarelos to Carmo; line 22 circles through the city centre.
- Funicular dos Guindais: Connects Ribeira with Batalha, providing a convenient solution for steep climbs and scenic views.
- Cable car (Teleférico de Gaia): Carries passengers from the riverfront to Jardim do Morro, offering aerial views of the Douro and the rooftops of Porto.
- "Bicicleta e trotinete" Bicycle and e-scooter: Bike-sharing schemes (e.g., Bird, Bolt) and e‑scooters are available, though caution is advised on cobbled streets.
- Taxis and ride‑sharing: Widely available; official taxis are beige with a green stripe.
Water transport in Douro River
Crossing the Douro by boat is both practical and romantic. Rabelo boat tours replicate the journeys once made to transport wine barrels. Modern ferries connect Porto (Ribeira) to Afurada, a fishing village with excellent seafood restaurants.
Driving in Porto
The city’s narrow streets and limited parking can be daunting; BL Heritage’s professional drivers use a fleet of Mercedes vehicles to transport guests comfortably. For those renting cars, note that many bridges and motorways require electronic toll devices.
