Lots of cities have tram lines that take you from A to B. Porto's tram (or 'eléctrico', as we call it) is a vintage affair. It's slow, the routes are limited and the tramcars probably date back to my grandparents' youth.
I have very fond memories of my first tram ride. My school took the students on a guided tour to Museu do Carro Eléctrico (a museum dedicated to trams and other public transportation vehicles - it's also worth checking out, by the way). We saw the old tramcars and what not, then rode on one of the vintage trams. At the time, there were no active lines except that one, which was part of the museum visit.
I clearly remember the tour guide telling us about how, in the early 20th century, the ladies used to hate the seats in the trams because they were all made of straw, which meant holes and runs in their delicate stockings. I was wearing a skirt and wool tights and while seated on one of the dreaded straw benches, I worried the whole time and kept pulling my skirt down. Still, it was an amazing experience. I remember feeling like a busy 40's woman, so dainty and chic!
Today, there are four active lines, including a touristic one. To experience the 'eléctrico' like a local take the lines 1, 18 or 22 – all of those will take you on a nice (slow) tour around Porto. It's sightseeing done right, if you ask me!
Find your way with 136 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Chocolataria Equador" Porto is more than a shop - it's an experience. Whenever I enter the shop, the smell of chocolate is so dense I can almost taste it...
by
Il Pizzaiolo in Porto is one of the best Italian pizzerias around. I heartily recommend their Margherita. It's a classic and one of their best!
by
Venham mais 5 in Porto is definitely not about a fancy atmosphere. It is all about experiencing the 'prego'. This is a place, where you'll want to return!
by
"Gelados Neveiros" is probably the oldest and one of most well known ice cream shops in Porto. REAL traditional recipes, homemade with fresh ingredients..."
by
"Mercado do Bom Sucesso" used to be a decaying market for fresh goods in Porto, but now it's got new life: so many restaurants to choose from!
by
"Two:su.shi" is a Japanese restaurant serving delicious sushi with great service and a cosy yet small atmosphere. Excellent place to satisfy your crave!
by
"Conga" Porto is where you can find world-class bifanas, ones that taste the way they should; moist, spicy pieces of pork meat in a bread; delicious!
by
"Castiço da Sé" in Porto is the perfect place to get some 'panados' -- the Portuguese version of Wiener Schnitzel! And the owners are a delight to talk to.
by
"The Happy Nest" in central Porto is a coffee shop that makes breakfast, lunch or brunch enjoyable. Everything's amazing, but definitely try the croissants
by
"The Portuguese Centre of Photography" in Porto is located in an ex-prison in the centre. Protip: go all the way down the street at the building's left side.
by
"CC Bombard" in Porto is a small "shopping mall" that will surprise you with its originality, concept and products. My favourite shop there is Vertigo.
by
Foz and Porto's seafront is definitely for me my favourite part of the city! In summer it can get crowded, but that's because it's Porto at its best!
by
136 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 136 Insider Tips