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Portland is easy to navigate with MAX light rail, the streetcar, and TriMet buses, and the airport is a quick 30-minute train ride from downtown. Here are the practical Portland travel tips covering arrival, transit, tipping, and the questions travelers ask most. For best time to visit Portland, see our best time to visit Portland.
Portland Travel Tips: Arrival, Airport, and Transit
Portland International Airport (PDX) sits about 13km (8 miles) northeast of downtown. The MAX Red Line runs directly from the airport to downtown every 15 minutes for US$2.50 (flat fare, valid two hours), taking about 40 minutes. A taxi or rideshare costs US$35 to US$45 and takes 20 to 25 minutes. TriMet’s Hop Fastpass fare system charges US$2.50 per two-hour ride, or US$5.60 for an all-day pass, and day passes cap at US$5.60. For things to do in Portland, see our things to do in Portland.
Portland Travel Tips: Costs and Tipping
Oregon has no state sales tax, so the price on the tag is the price you pay, a big plus for shoppers. Tipping is standard and expected: 18 to 20 percent at restaurants and bars, US$1 to US$2 per drink, and 15 percent for taxis and rideshares. A mid-range dinner for two with drinks runs US$80 to US$120. Coffee is everywhere; a 12-ounce drip is US$3 to US$4.50, and Stumptown Coffee is the local standard. For Portland events and festivals, see our Portland events and festivals.
Portland Travel Tips: FAQ
Is tap water safe to drink in Portland?
Yes. Portland tap water comes from the Bull Run watershed on Mount Hood and is consistently rated among the best-tasting in the US. There’s no need to buy bottled water. For best neighborhoods in Portland, see our best neighborhoods in Portland.
Do I need a car in Portland?
No. Downtown, the Pearl, and most east-side neighborhoods are walkable, and MAX, streetcar, and buses cover the rest. Rent a car only for day trips to the Columbia River Gorge, Mount Hood, or the coast. Freeways and parking downtown are congested and expensive (US$15 to US$30 a day in garages). For where to stay in Portland, see our where to stay in Portland.
Is Portland safe?
Portland is generally safe for visitors. Violent crime is concentrated and rarely affects tourists. The main nuisance is property theft, especially bike theft and car break-ins, so don’t leave bags visible in a car. Old Town and parts of downtown have visible street homelessness; use normal caution there after dark.
What’s the weather really like?
Gray and drizzly from October to May, warm and dry June through September. Bring a waterproof layer any month other than summer. See our Portland weather by month guide for exact figures.
Suggested Hotels in Portland
The Nines, a Luxury Collection Hotel
A five-star tower on Pioneer Courthouse Square with a rooftop restaurant and indoor pool. Best for couples who want a central, full-service stay. Check rates and availability
The Mark Spencer Hotel
An independent arts hotel two minutes from Powell’s Books with free evening wine and a streetcar stop outside. Best for book lovers and mid-range budgets. Check rates and availability
Jupiter Hotel
A 1960s motor lodge turned music hotel with the Doug Fir Lounge attached, on the affordable east side. Best for budget travelers and music fans. Check rates and availability
