Flights to Porto: Airport Guide, Airlines, and How to Find Cheap Flights

Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, is a must-visit destination, renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and famous port wine. Whether you’re here for leisure, business, or culture, Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (Porto Airport) is the gateway to your adventure. As one of Portugal’s busiest airports, it offers a wide range of both international and domestic connections.

Porto is a city filled with charm, offering historic landmarks, vibrant nightlife, and delicious local cuisine. From wandering the picturesque streets of Ribeira to savoring traditional Portuguese dishes, there’s something for everyone. To help plan your visit, check out our guide to the Best Things to Do in Porto: Top Attractions, Food & Local Experiences.

In this guide, you’ll find all the essential information you need for a smooth journey, including details on flights, airlines, routes, travel tips, and airport facilities.

1. Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport Guide: Everything You Need to Know About Porto’s Main Airport

Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport, also known as Porto Airport, ranks as the second-busiest airport in Portugal after Lisbon Airport. It’s located just 11 km (6.8 miles) north of Porto’s city center, making it an ideal gateway for travelers exploring northern Portugal and the Douro Valley’s famous wine region.

As a major hub, Porto Airport is home to top airlines such as TAP Air Portugal, Ryanair, easyJet, and Transavia, offering direct flights to a wide range of European and international destinations. Whether you’re flying from the UK, the US, or other European cities, Porto offers plenty of convenient flight options. For an easy transition from the airport to the city, Porto’s well-connected metro system is an excellent choice. You can find helpful information about the metro and public transport options in Porto to make your journey smoother in this guide- Porto Metro Map and Porto’s Public Transportation System

2. Location & Accessibility

Porto Airport is situated to the northwest of the city, providing easy access from various nearby municipalities:

• Maia (to the east)
• Matosinhos (to the south and west)
• Vila do Conde (to the north)
  

Getting to and from the airport is simple thanks to the excellent transportation links, including public transport, taxis, ride-sharing services, and highways.

How to Get to Porto Airport

• By Metro: Take the Metro do Porto (Line E – Purple Line), which connects the airport to the city center in approximately 25 minutes. This is one of the most cost-effective and frequent options.
• By Bus: STCP (Sociedade de Transportes Colectivos do Porto) and private shuttle services connect the airport to various parts of Porto and nearby towns.
• Ride-Sharing: Uber and Bolt are readily available at the arrivals terminal, with a trip to the city center costing around €20-30, depending on traffic.
• By Car: The airport is easily accessible from the A41 and A28 highways, and there is ample parking available for both short- and long-term stays.

3. A Brief History of Porto Airport

Early Years

 Porto Airport was first opened in 1945 as Pedras Rubras Airport, named after the area’s distinctive red rocks. The land surrounding the airport was originally used for agriculture, mainly cereal cultivation.

Renaming and Growth
In 1990, the airport was renamed Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport in honor of the former Portuguese Prime Minister, who tragically died in a plane crash while en route to Porto in 1980.

Over the years, Porto Airport has undergone significant expansion:

• 1998: ANA – Aeroportos de Portugal took over the airport’s operations, initiating a period of modernization.
• 2003-2006: A major expansion project led to the creation of a new terminal, dramatically increasing the airport’s passenger capacity.
• 2017: Porto Airport hit a new milestone by welcoming a record 10 million passengers in one year.
  

Today, Porto Airport stands as a modern, efficient hub, serving millions of passengers each year.

4. Airlines and Direct Flight Routes to Porto

Porto Airport is well-served by a variety of airlines, including both full-service carriers and budget options, offering direct flights to domestic, European, and international destinations.

Major Airlines Operating at Porto Airport

Several top airlines provide regular flights to Porto, including:

• TAP Air Portugal (Portugal’s national airline)
• Ryanair (Europe’s leading low-cost carrier)
• easyJet
• Lufthansa
• British Airways
• Air France
• KLM
• Turkish Airlines
• United Airlines (seasonal flights from the US)
• Azul Brazilian Airlines (flights from Brazil)
  

Key Direct Flight Routes to Porto

Flights from the UK & Ireland
Porto is well-connected to the United Kingdom and Ireland, with daily flights from major cities:

• London (Gatwick, Luton, Stansted) – British Airways, TAP Air Portugal, easyJet, Ryanair
• Manchester – Ryanair, Jet2.com
• Birmingham – Jet2.com (seasonal)
• Liverpool – Ryanair
• Dublin – Ryanair, TAP Air Portugal
• Belfast – Ryanair (seasonal)

Flights from Europe
Porto offers direct flights to several key European cities, including:

• Paris – Air France, Vueling, easyJet, Transavia, TAP Air Portugal
• Madrid – Iberia, Air Europa, Ryanair
• Frankfurt – Lufthansa
• Amsterdam – KLM, Transavia
• Brussels – Brussels Airlines, Ryanair
• Berlin – Ryanair, easyJet
• Vienna – Austrian Airlines
• Milan – Ryanair, easyJet
• Zurich – SWISS, TAP Air Portugal
  

Flights from North America

For travelers coming from North America, Porto Airport offers seasonal flights from:

• Newark (USA) – United Airlines, TAP Air Portugal
• Boston (USA) – TAP Air Portugal (starting May 2025)
• Toronto (Canada) – Air Transat, Air Canada (seasonal)
• Montreal (Canada) – Air Transat, Air Canada (seasonal)
  

Flights from Brazil

Porto has strong connections to Brazil, serving the Portuguese-speaking community with regular flights from:

• São Paulo – TAP Air Portugal
• Rio de Janeiro – TAP Air Portugal
• Recife – Azul Brazilian Airlines (starting June 2025)
  

Flights from Africa & the Middle East
Porto also welcomes flights from several destinations in Africa and the Middle East:

• Casablanca (Morocco) – Royal Air Maroc
• Luanda (Angola) – TAP Air Portugal
• Tel Aviv (Israel) – Sundor (seasonal flights)
• Marrakech (Morocco) – Ryanair, easyJet

5. Porto Airport Facilities & Services

Porto Airport is a modern and spacious facility spread across three levels, offering a wide range of services for a comfortable travel experience.

Level 0 – Arrivals

• Baggage Claim Area
• Car Rental Counters
• ATMs & Currency Exchange (Nova Câmbios)
• Post Office & Police Station
• Luggage Storage & Lost Property Section
• Dining & Retail: Starbucks, various restaurants, and Relay bookstore & newsstand
• Taxi & Transfer Pickup Area
  

Level 1 – Departures (Before Security)

• Check-in Counters & Airline Customer Support
• Waiting Areas with Charging Stations
• Pharmacy & Full-Service Bank
• Relay Bookstore & Brewery

After Security

• Duty-Free Shops & Local Portuguese Products (Portfolio Store)
• ATMs, Phone Charging Stations & Piano Area ????
• Shops: Victoria’s Secret, Parfois, Lacoste, FC Porto Store
• Restaurants: Burger King, Wine Bar, Sushi Station, Traditional Portuguese Cuisine
  

6. Traveling with Disabilities at Porto Airport

Porto Airport is fully accessible, adhering to all EU accessibility standards to ensure a smooth experience for travelers with disabilities:

• Wheelchair-Accessible Lifts & Ramps
• Adapted Restrooms
• Easy-to-Operate Telephones

For assistance, contact Porto Airport’s information desk at +351 229 432 400 before your trip.

7. Transportation: Getting to and from Porto Airport

How Far Is Porto Airport from the City Center?
Porto Airport is approximately a 20-minute drive from Boavista (central Porto) and 30 minutes from Avenida dos Aliados (downtown Porto). Since the airport is not located in the city center, transportation options are essential for reaching your final destination.

Best Transport Options from Porto Airport

a) Airport Transfers
For a stress-free and cost-effective journey to your accommodation, airport transfers are a great choice.

Why Choose an Airport Transfer?

• Fixed prices, no hidden fees
• More affordable than taxis or Ubers, especially for groups
• The driver meets you at arrivals, avoiding confusion or delays
  

Costs

• Shared Transfer: €12 per person
• Private Transfer: €24 for a group of four
  

b) Car Rental at Porto Airport
Renting a car is ideal for exploring Portugal at your own pace. Porto Airport hosts several car rental agencies, including:

• Hertz
• Europcar
• Sixt
• Avis
  

???? Tip: Renting a car is not recommended for staying in Porto’s city center due to traffic and ongoing subway construction. However, for trips to places like the Douro Valley, Braga, or Guimarães, renting a car is a great option.

To get the best deals, book in advance via a price aggregator like AutoEurope, which compares rental prices from different companies.

c) Metro – The Most Affordable Option
The Metro do Porto is the most cost-effective and eco-friendly option for reaching the city center from the airport.

• Metro Line: E (Purple Line)
• Frequency: Every 20 minutes
• Duration: 35–40 minutes to downtown Porto
• Cost: €1.60 (Z3 ticket required)
  

???? Tip: You will need an Andante Card to use the metro, which can be purchased at the airport’s metro station.

d) Buses from Porto Airport
Public buses are another option, though they are slower and less comfortable than other modes of transportation.

The following STCP buses serve the airport:

• 601: Cordoaria – Airport
• 602: Cordoaria – Airport (via Padrão de Moreira)
• 604: São João Hospital – Airport (via Crestins)
  

???? Bus Frequency: Every 25 minutes (delays may occur)

e) Ride-Sharing
For quick, direct transfers, taxis and ride-sharing apps are convenient choices.

Estimated Costs

• Uber: €16 (prices vary with demand)

Be mindful that ride-sharing apps may have price surges during peak hours, so booking a transfer in advance may be a better option.

Best Hotel Near Porto Airport

For an easy and comfortable stay near Porto Airport, Canto do Luz offers convenient access just 15 minutes away from the airport. The hotel provides a peaceful atmosphere, shuttle services, early breakfast options, and flexible check-in times to ensure a restful stay before or after your flight.

 Canto do Luz (Best for Unique Experiences)

Canto do Luz offers a blend of comfort and authenticity, perfect for travelers seeking both relaxation and easy access to Porto’s attractions. The hotel combines traditional Portuguese design with modern amenities, offering cozy rooms with a serene environment. The property is known for exceptional customer service and delicious local cuisine, reflecting Porto’s rich culinary heritage.

Why Choose Canto do Luz?

• Authentic Portuguese Design: A mix of traditional architecture and modern comforts.
• Serene Environment: Located just outside the city center for a peaceful stay.
• Cozy, Comfortable Rooms: Ideal for both business and leisure travelers.
• Exceptional Customer Service: Warm and friendly hospitality.
• Delicious Local Cuisine: Regional dishes and wines showcase Porto’s culinary richness.
• Ideal Location: Close to city attractions while offering a tranquil atmosphere.
• Personalized Experience: Focus on guest comfort and creating a memorable stay.

Book Cantodeluz Botique Hotel Porto 

Culinary Activities to Experience in Porto

Porto is a city known for its rich culinary traditions, and there are two exceptional experiences you shouldn’t miss when you arrive:

1. Porto Wine Tasting with Portuguese Cheese & Ham Plate

Indulge in the finest wines from the Douro Valley in the heart of Porto. This wine-tasting experience in porto takes place in the charming Orangerie or, on sunny days, in the beautiful garden of Boutique Maison Canto De Luz. Enjoy a curated selection of wines, paired with a delectable platter of local cheeses, cured hams, crackers, and homemade jams.

You’ll be introduced to two white wines from the Douro Valley, a refreshing rosé, two distinct reds, and a choice of White or Tawny Port from a premium vineyard. The knowledgeable staff will guide you through the wine-tasting process, sharing the history and techniques behind each bottle. Afterward, feel free to stay and enjoy more wine or tapas at an additional cost.

Sample Menu

• Tapas Plate: Local cheeses, Portuguese cured ham, crackers, and homemade jams
• Wines: Douro White, Douro Reserva White, Rose, Douro Red, Organic/Reserva Red (5 x 50ml tasting glasses)
• Port: Douro White Porto (1 x 30ml tasting glass)
  

What’s Included

• Tapas plate
• 5 x 50ml tasting glasses of wine
• 1 x 30ml tasting glass of Port
• Insights into wine origins and the winemaking process
  

What’s Not Included

• Transport (optional add-on available)
• Gratuities
  

Meeting Point
Orangerie @ Boutique Maison Canto De Luz, Rua do Almada 539, Porto

Book Now: Visit Canto Cooking

2. Chef-Led Market Tour & Portuguese Tapas Class with Wine

Dive into Porto’s culinary world with a market tour at the iconic Mercado de Bolhao, one of the oldest and most famous markets in the city. The adventure begins with a gastronomic tour of the market, followed by a short walk to Boutique Maison Canto De Luz for a hands-on cooking class.

Learn how to prepare traditional Portuguese tapas (known as Tapiscos) under the guidance of an expert chef. After the demonstration, you’ll get to try your hand at cooking classic dishes, including flame-grilled chorizo and clams in white wine. Enjoy the fruits of your labor with a glass of Douro Valley wine, followed by a traditional Portuguese coffee and dessert. You’ll also receive a goodie bag with recipes and a bottle of Aguardente to recreate the magic at home.

Sample Menu

• Starter: Fresh ingredients from Mercado de Bolhao
• Main Course: Flame-grilled chorizo, clams in white wine, codfish pancakes, with vegan/vegetarian options
• Dessert: Traditional Portuguese coffee and leche de dulce dessert
  

What’s Included

• Hands-on cooking workshop
• Market tour
• Barista coffee
• Lunch with a glass of Douro wine
  

What’s Not Included

• Menu changes
• Gratuities
• Pick-up and drop-off (optional add-on available)
  

Meeting Point
Corner between Manteigaria and Leitaria Quinta do Paço, Porto (Look for the Chef’s Hat)

Book Chef-Led Market Tour & Portuguese Tapas Class with Wine

Both of these experiences provide an unforgettable taste of Porto’s culinary culture, whether you’re savoring wines or getting hands-on in the kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Villa Almada?

Villa Almada is my luxury family villa in Porto, in the garden of the Canto de Luz Boutique Maison. It has a private swimming pool, private terrace, fully equipped kitchen, daily breakfast, and daily cleaning. It sleeps up to 6 guests plus 2 infants.

How much does Villa Almada cost per night?

Villa Almada is from €269 per night. Price varies by season and length of stay. Daily breakfast and daily cleaning are included.

Where in Porto is Villa Almada?

Villa Almada is in the garden of the Canto de Luz Maison, a short walk from Porto’s historic centre, Ribeira, and the Dom Luís I Bridge. It’s a more private, villa-style extension of the Boutique Maison experience.

Does Villa Almada have a swimming pool?

Yes, Villa Almada has a private swimming pool in its own private garden. There is also a private terrace for outdoor dining and a spacious open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area.

Is Villa Almada suitable for families?

Yes, Villa Almada is specifically designed for families and friends. It sleeps up to 6 plus 2 infants across 2 suites with super king beds (each can be configured as twins), with en-suite bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and entertainment options including a Smart TV, free Netflix, popcorn machine, and Amazon Alexa.

What is included in a Villa Almada stay?

Daily breakfast (served at the villa or in La Cuisine at the Maison), daily cleaning, Wi-Fi, washer/dryer, private parking nearby, and Porto recommendations and concierge-style support from Susan and the Maison team.