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Oporto - Travel Information
Getting around (and to) Oporto |
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Getting around in Portugal is an easy and interesting
with transport system being the best and the cheapest. Compared
with other cities’ transportation system, traveling in Lisbon
is least expensive in the entire Western Europe. Most places of
interest are within easy walking distance while rest can be reached
by various modes of transportations.
By Car
Driving is extremely difficult in the busy Oporto city. However,
visitors wishing to travel by car can hire one from one of the many
Car-hire companies providing service in all major towns, and at
the international airports.
For hiring a car, travelers must show their proof of identity (Identity
Card for EC citizens and passport for other nationals) and a valid
driving license. A green card is essential and it is wise to take
out insurance coverage and collision insurance. Companies do not
give their on hire to people under 21.
By Taxi
Taxis are plentiful and cheap mode of transportation around the
city. Visitors must note that all the taxis are usually painted
green and black, though these colours are being gradually changed
to beige. They have an illuminated taxi sign at the top.
Taxis charge a standard meter fare inside the city while they charge
by kilometers outside the city's limits and are entitled to charge
for the return fare. Luggage traveling in the booth adds a surcharge
of about 20% between 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
By Train
There are several Express trains from Lisbon through Coimbra to
Oporto (Alfa trains) and regional trains (Inter-cidades and Inter-regionais)
connecting the different areas of Portugal.
Travelers can board both the first and second-class seats except
in local and suburban trains. There are special tickets for tourists
valid for 7, 14, or 21 days. In addition, there are special rates
on "Blue Days" offering return tickets with discount for
trips over 100 km. People over 65 are entitled to have special discounts.
For international, long, and medium distance express services, it
is advisable to make reservations.
Train timetables are available from information desks at stations
and tourism offices.
By Bus & Tram
These are the cheapest mode of transportation in Europe. While traveling
by these within cities, passengers are to pay the driver a flat
fare. In Lisbon and Oporto there are special tourist tickets at
Carris (Lisbon) and the Lisbon Underground or STCP (Oporto) information
kiosks is open form 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Travelers can get information from here for time table and other
information.
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