Championing sustainable tourism
The city’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its ambitious Vision for the Sustainable Future of the Destination of Porto strategy, which balances tourism growth with environmental conservation. As part of this vision, the city aligns its efforts with international standards like ISO 37120 and the Porto Climate Pact, working towards carbon neutrality by 2030. Porto is also leading the charge in renewable energy, with innovative projects such as the Asprela+Sustainable energy community, which supports the city’s goal of reducing its carbon footprint.
Green mobility solutions play a significant role in Porto’s sustainability framework. The city’s public transport network, which includes hybrid, electric, and compressed natural gas-powered vehicles, has greatly reduced the number of cars on the road, preventing 55,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually. Complementing this, the cycling network spans 55 km and offers over 200 bicycle and scooter sharing points, providing eco-friendly alternatives to car travel.
Inclusive by design
Porto is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for all visitors, incorporating advanced accessibility features into its urban planning. The city’s transport system is fully accessible, with all metro stations equipped for wheelchair users and tactile paving and audible traffic signals installed throughout the city centre. Two beaches in Porto are also accessible, offering adapted facilities, including amphibious chairs for easy access to the water.
Inclusivity extends beyond physical infrastructure. Projects like Tour4all, in collaboration with Accessible Portugal, aim to improve the accessibility of over 50 cultural sites across the city, including museums, gardens, and monuments. The ‘Porto for Everyone’ guide highlights these accessible sites, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy Porto’s cultural offerings.
Fostering digital innovation
Being at the forefront of smart tourism, Porto is integrating technology into the visitor experience. Initiatives like Explore Porto and Terminais Porto offer real-time public transport updates, while the city’s tourism offerings are enhanced by platforms that provide information on accessible accommodation and points of interest. These digital tools streamline visitor engagement and ensure that Porto remains connected to the latest advancements in smart tourism.
Porto's digital transformation is not just about technology, but also about empowering local businesses. Programmes like Shop in Porto and Digital Commerce Neighbourhoods help local enterprises thrive in the digital age, enhancing the overall visitor experience by promoting local consumption and circular economy practices.
Preserving cultural heritage and enhancing the visitor experience
Known for its UNESCO World Heritage status, the city offers visitors the experience of walking through an ‘open-air museum’. Porto ensures that this heritage is preserved while adapting to modern tourism demands. The city's tourism strategies focus on dispersing visitor flows to less crowded areas, fostering community involvement, and ensuring that local traditions and neighbourhoods are at the heart of the visitor experience. Projects like Curated Porto – Creative Itineraries showcase the city’s vibrant creative scene through promoting local businesses that embody creativity, innovation, and sustainability. In this way, Porto continues to offer a diverse range of cultural and natural experiences, ensuring a balance between celebrating its past and looking towards the future.