Phoenix 24
A major step toward universal urban mobility.
PORTO, PORTUGAL | JULY 2026 — Porto will become the first Portuguese city to offer free public transport to all registered residents. Access will be provided through the Porto municipal card and will extend across the Andante metropolitan network.
The program will include the Porto Metro, STCP and Unir buses, urban trains, trams and the planned river connection between Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. Municipal authorities estimate that the initiative will cost between €20 million and €25 million annually.
Mayor Pedro Duarte said the city could increase its tourist tax to €4 to help finance the measure. The initiative aims to reduce traffic congestion in a city where 56% of residents reportedly prefer private vehicles over public transport.
Porto also plans to expand its dedicated bus lanes from 16 to 22 kilometers by the end of 2026. Local authorities expect the policy to improve accessibility, strengthen sustainable mobility and gradually reduce car use.
Porto is placing public transport at the center of urban life.