Public transport in Porto, Portugal, becomes free for residents

Residents of Porto, Portugal, can now use public transport for free, a significant move implemented on Friday, July 10. This new policy, which requires a municipal 'Cartão Porto' card for access, is expected to cost the local government between 20 and 25 million euros annually. The initiative aims to encourage a reduction in the use of private vehicles, citing environmental, economic, and social benefits.

Mayor Pedro Duarte celebrated the launch, emphasizing the disruptive and innovative nature of the measure within both national and international contexts. While not the first city globally to offer such a service, Porto's implementation is notable. This expansion builds upon existing free transport provisions for young people under 23 in the city.

Porto follows in the footsteps of other Portuguese municipalities. Cascais, near Lisbon, introduced free public transport for its residents in 2020. In the capital city of Lisbon, free transport is already available for individuals under 18, students up to 23, and seniors over 65.