Ah, the charming city of Porto! With its stunning architecture, warm atmosphere, and mouth-watering cuisine, there’s no shortage of experiences to be had in this picturesque Portuguese city. But have you ever considered exploring Porto via its iconic trams? During my recent trip to Porto, I discovered the magic of the city’s trams, and I’m here to share all you need to know about using them for the ultimate Porto experience.
There’s something truly special about gliding through the historic streets of Porto aboard one of its vintage trams. The trams are a delightful way to explore the city, offering unparalleled views of its stunning landscapes, historic buildings, and vibrant culture. Not to mention, the trams provide an easy and convenient way to travel between Porto’s various districts.
Porto’s tram network consists of two main routes, which stop at numerous locations throughout the city. The first route, known as Line 1 (or the “Infante-Passeio Alegre” line), starts at the Infante stop near the Ribeira district and meanders along the banks of the Douro River towards the Foz district. The second route, Line 18 (or the “Massarelos-Carmo” line), connects the riverside district of Massarelos with the bustling Carmo area in the city centre.
One of the unique aspects of Porto’s trams is their reversible seating. The seats in these historic vehicles can be flipped to face the direction of travel, ensuring that you can fully appreciate the stunning views as you journey through the city. However, keep in mind that you’ll need to disembark and board again at the end of each route, as the trams don’t loop back to their starting points.
Purchasing tickets for the trams is simple and hassle-free. You have the option to buy a single journey, a return ticket, or even a 2-day pass for unlimited transport on the tram network. The 2-day pass is especially great if you’re looking to explore Porto at a leisurely pace, as it offers exceptional value for money and the freedom to hop on and off the trams as you please.
What’s more, the 2-day pass comes with an added bonus – a discount on entry to the Tram Museum! The museum, which is also a stop on the Line 1 tram route, is an absolute must-visit for anyone interested in the history and evolution of Porto’s trams. Here, you’ll find a fascinating collection of vintage trams, as well as interactive exhibits detailing the history of Porto’s public transportation system.
In conclusion, Porto’s trams are not only a charming and nostalgic mode of transportation, but they also offer a unique and memorable way to explore the city’s diverse districts and attractions. With convenient ticket options, reversible seating, and a fantastic museum to boot, there’s no better way to experience the magic of Porto than aboard one of its iconic trams. So, next time you find yourself in this enchanting city, make sure to hop on a tram and discover the beauty of Porto for yourself.