To get around in Portland, you can use a combination of public transportation, ride-hailing services, and walking or biking, as the city offers a range of options to suit different needs and preferences.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Portland International Airport (PDX) is the main gateway to the city, located about 6 miles northeast of downtown Portland. The airport offers direct flights to numerous domestic and international destinations, including major hubs like Los Angeles, New York, and Amsterdam. If you're traveling from within the United States, you can also consider flying into nearby airports like Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) or Eugene Airport (EUG) and then taking a bus or train to Portland. Overland entry points include several major highways, such as Interstate 5 and Interstate 84, which connect Portland to other cities in the Pacific Northwest and beyond.
The city is also accessible by bus, with several companies like Greyhound and FlixBus offering routes to and from Portland. Additionally, you can take the train, with Amtrak's Cascades and Coast Starlight routes connecting Portland to other cities in the region. The city's proximity to the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean also makes it a popular destination for those arriving by boat or cruise ship.
Domestic Flights
If you're traveling within the United States, you can fly into Portland International Airport (PDX) from many domestic destinations. Major airlines like Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta Air Lines offer frequent flights to Portland, with approximate costs ranging from $200 to $500 or more, depending on the route and time of year. You can book flights through the airlines' websites or through online travel agencies like Expedia or Kayak. It's a good idea to compare prices and book in advance to get the best deals.
Trains & Rail
Portland has a moderate rail network, with Amtrak's Cascades and Coast Starlight routes connecting the city to other destinations in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. The Cascades route runs between Portland and Seattle, with multiple daily departures, while the Coast Starlight route runs between Portland and Los Angeles, with one daily departure. You can book tickets through Amtrak's website or at the train station, with approximate costs ranging from $50 to $200 or more, depending on the route and class of service. While there are no high-speed rail options in Portland, the city's rail network is convenient and relatively affordable.
Buses & Coaches
Several intercity bus companies operate in Portland, including Greyhound, FlixBus, and BoltBus. These companies offer routes to and from Portland, with approximate costs ranging from $20 to $100 or more, depending on the route and time of year. You can book tickets through the companies' websites or at the bus station, and many buses offer amenities like free Wi-Fi and power outlets. The quality of the buses and coaches varies, but many are modern and comfortable, making bus travel a good option for those on a budget.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/Subway | Portland | $2.50 | The MAX Light Rail system has five lines and 97 stations |
| City Bus | Portland | $2.50 | The Tri-County Metropolitan Transportation District of Oregon (TriMet) operates an extensive network of buses |
| Taxi | Everywhere | $2.50 + $2.60/km | Taxis are widely available, but can be more expensive than other options |
| Ride-Hailing | Portland | $5-$10 | Uber and Lyft operate in Portland, with prices varying depending on demand |
| Tuk-tuk/Rickshaw | Not available | - | Portland does not have a tuk-tuk or rickshaw service |
Driving
- To drive in Portland, you'll need a valid driver's license from your home country or state, and car insurance is required.
- The road conditions in Portland are generally good, with well-maintained highways and city streets.
- Fuel costs in Portland are relatively high, with gas prices averaging around $3.50 per gallon.
- If you plan to rent a car, be sure to book in advance and compare prices among different companies to get the best deal.
- Be aware of the city's many bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly streets, and always follow traffic laws and regulations.
- Parking in Portland can be challenging, especially in the downtown area, so be prepared to pay for parking or look for alternative options like street parking or parking garages.
Transport Tips
- Be sure to download the TriMet app to plan your trip and track your bus or train in real-time.
- Consider purchasing a Hop Fastpass, which allows you to ride public transportation for a fixed period of time.
- Always follow traffic laws and regulations, and be aware of the city's many bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly streets.
- Be prepared for rain, and consider bringing an umbrella or waterproof jacket.
- If you're using a ride-hailing service, always check the driver's ID and license plate before getting in the car.
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and avoid walking alone in dimly lit or isolated areas.
- Consider visiting the city's transportation website to plan your trip and get the latest information on traffic and construction.