Porto Airport to City Center: All Options Compared (2025)

Porto Airport is one of those places where getting into the city looks complicated on paper – metro lines, Andante cards, buses, taxis, rideshares – but in reality it’s fairly straightforward once you know what to expect.

Over a few trips I’ve tried the main options: metro, airport bus, regular taxi, Uber/Bolt, and a pre-booked transfer. Some were smooth, one was a bit of a headache, and a couple only really make sense in specific situations (late-night arrivals, travelling as a group, or staying far from the metro).

This guide breaks down every way to get from Porto Airport to the city centre in 2025 – how each option works, what it actually costs, how long it takes, and when I’d choose one over the others.

My Experience Getting from Porto Airport

I have arrived at Porto Airport three times now, and each time I took the metro into the city center. The first time I was nervous about navigating public transport in a new city with luggage, but it turned out to be completely straightforward.

The metro station is inside the airport terminal. You walk out of arrivals, follow signs for “Metro,” and within 3 minutes you are on the platform. No outdoor walking, no confusing transfers, no stress.

I also tried the bus once (more on that disaster below), but after that experience, I stuck with the metro for every arrival and departure.

Option 1: Metro (Best for Most Travelers)

The Metro do Porto is hands down the best way to get from the airport to the city center if you are traveling solo or as a couple.

How It Works

Porto Airport has its own metro station on Line E (Purple Line). This line runs directly from the airport to the city center, stopping at major areas like Trindade, Bolhão, and São Bento.

Here is the step-by-step process:

1. Exit arrivals and follow metro signs inside the terminal (you cannot miss them)
2. Buy an Andante Card at the ticket machines (1.50 euros for the reusable card itself)
3. Load a Z4 ticket onto the card (2 euros for a single journey from airport to city center)
4. Validate your card at the yellow validators before entering the platform
5. Board Line E (Purple Line) toward Estádio do Dragão
6. Transfer at Trindade if your accommodation is not on Line E (most people will transfer here to Line D for Baixa/Aliados or other neighborhoods)

Cost Breakdown

• Andante Card: 1.50 euros (one-time purchase, reusable for your entire trip)
• Z4 Single Ticket: 2 euros per journey
• Total first-time cost: 3.50 euros

If you are staying longer and plan to use public transport frequently, you can load a 24-hour unlimited ticket (7 euros) or a 3-day unlimited ticket (15 euros) onto your Andante Card.

Journey Time

• Direct to Trindade Station: 20-22 minutes
• With transfer to Line D (Aliados/São Bento): 25-30 minutes total

Trains run every 15-20 minutes from around 6:00 AM to 1:00 AM. Check the official metro timetable if arriving very early or very late.

My Metro Experience with Suitcases

I was worried about managing a large suitcase and backpack on the metro, but it was completely fine. The metro trains have plenty of space near the doors for luggage, and I never felt cramped even during busier times.

The platforms have elevators (though sometimes you need to hunt for them), and most stations in the city center are accessible. Baixa and Trindade both have elevators.

One tip: if you are staying in one of Porto’s hillier neighborhoods like Bonfim or near Clérigos Tower, be prepared for steep uphill walks after exiting the metro. The metro itself is easy. The hills afterward are the real workout.

When to Avoid the Metro

Skip the metro if you are:

• Arriving between midnight and 6:00 AM (metro is not running)
• Traveling with 3+ people (a taxi or transfer becomes more cost-effective)
• Carrying oversized luggage (surfboards, bikes, etc.)
• Staying somewhere far from a metro station (Vila Nova de Gaia, for example, requires walking or a bus connection)

Option 2: Airport Bus (Skip This One)

Porto has an airport express bus service called Line 601 and Line 602, but honestly, I do not recommend it.

Why I Do Not Recommend the Bus

I tried the airport bus once because I was curious. The experience was frustrating:

1. The card reader was broken. When I boarded, the contactless payment system was not working, and I had no idea how to pay otherwise. The driver just waved me on, but it was stressful.
2. It took way longer than the metro. The bus makes multiple stops and sits in traffic. What should have been a 30-minute journey turned into 50+ minutes.
3. Less frequent service. Buses run every 30-40 minutes, compared to metro trains every 15-20 minutes.

If the metro did not exist, the bus would be fine. But since the metro is faster, cheaper, and more reliable, there is no reason to take the bus unless you specifically need a stop that the metro does not serve.

Bus Details (If You Insist)

• Line 601: Runs from the airport to Cordoaria (near the university and Clérigos Tower)
• Line 602: Runs from the airport to Matosinhos and Castelo do Queijo (beach areas)
• Cost: 2 euros (same as the metro)
• Journey time: 30-40 minutes to Cordoaria (without traffic)

You can pay with contactless credit/debit card or an Andante Card (same card used for the metro).

Option 3: Taxi (Good for Groups or Late Arrivals)

Taxis from Porto Airport to the city center cost around 20-25 euros depending on your exact destination and time of day. The journey takes 15-20 minutes without traffic.

When a Taxi Makes Sense

• You are traveling with 3-4 people. Split four ways, a 24-euro taxi costs just 6 euros per person (cheaper than the metro if you factor in the Andante Card cost).
• You are arriving late at night (after 1:00 AM when the metro stops running).
• You have a lot of luggage or oversized items.
• Your accommodation is not near a metro station (parts of Vila Nova de Gaia, for example).

How to Get a Taxi

The official taxi rank is directly outside the arrivals terminal. Look for the clearly marked taxi queue (you cannot miss it).

Do not accept rides from unofficial drivers who approach you inside the terminal or just outside. These are not licensed taxis and often charge inflated prices. Stick to the official rank.

Porto taxis are metered, so make sure the driver turns on the meter at the start of your journey. The rate should start around 3.50 euros, and the fare to Baixa or Ribeira typically lands between 20-25 euros.

Uber and Bolt in Porto

Uber and Bolt both operate in Porto and can pick up from the airport. Pricing is similar to taxis (18-23 euros to the city center), though surge pricing can make them more expensive during peak times.

I prefer Uber or Bolt over traditional taxis because you know the price upfront and do not have to worry about metered surprises.

One downside: the pickup point for rideshare services is slightly less convenient than the taxi rank. You need to walk to the designated rideshare zone (follow signs for “TVDE” or ask airport staff). It is a 2-3 minute walk from arrivals.

Option 4: Private Transfer Service (Best for Families)

If you are traveling with kids, elderly family members, or a group of 4+ people, I highly recommend booking a private transfer service in advance.

Why I Recommend Private Transfers for Groups

• Fixed pricing: You know exactly what you will pay before you land (no metered surprises).
• Meet and greet: Your driver meets you at arrivals holding a sign with your name. No hunting for taxis or figuring out rideshare pickup zones.
• Direct to your accommodation: No metro transfers, no navigating with luggage, no stress.
• Cost-effective for groups: A private car costs around 30-35 euros for up to 3 passengers. Split three ways, that is just 10-12 euros per person (barely more expensive than the metro once you factor in the Andante Card).

The two most reliable transfer services I recommend are Welcome Pickups (from 29 euros) and GetYourGuide private transfers (from 30 euros). Both offer English-speaking drivers, fixed pricing, and meet-and-greet service.

Which Transport Option Should You Choose?

Here is my recommendation based on different traveler types:

Solo Travelers or Couples

Take the metro. It costs just 2 euros, takes 25-30 minutes, and is completely hassle-free even with suitcases. Save your money for amazing meals in Porto.

Groups of 3-4 People

Book a private transfer or split a taxi. A 30-euro private car split four ways is just 7.50 euros per person, which is barely more expensive than the metro (3.50 euros) and saves you the hassle of navigating public transport with multiple suitcases.

Families with Young Kids

Book a private transfer. The stress saved is worth the extra cost. You can request child seats when booking, and your driver will help with luggage.

Late-Night Arrivals (After 1:00 AM)

Take a taxi, Uber, or pre-booked transfer. The metro stops running around 1:00 AM, so you will need private transport. Book a transfer in advance to avoid inflated taxi prices late at night.

Budget Backpackers

Metro all the way. It is the cheapest option and works perfectly fine with backpacks. Load a multi-day pass onto your Andante Card if you plan to use public transport during your stay.

Digital Nomads Staying Long-Term

Metro to your accommodation, then figure out your long-term transport strategy. If you are staying in Porto for weeks or months, consider buying a monthly Andante pass (40 euros for unlimited metro/bus within Porto zones).

How Long Does Each Option Take?

Here is a realistic time comparison from Porto Airport to Baixa (city center) including all waiting, walking, and transfer time:

• Metro: 25-30 minutes (including a transfer at Trindade)
• Taxi/Uber/Bolt: 15-20 minutes (without traffic)
• Private Transfer: 15-20 minutes (without traffic)
• Bus: 35-50 minutes (including stops and potential traffic)

Keep in mind that Porto traffic can be heavy during morning rush hour (8:00-9:30 AM) and evening rush hour (5:30-7:00 PM). If you are arriving during these times, the metro will likely be faster than a taxi.

Cost Comparison: Metro vs Taxi vs Transfer

Here is what each option costs for different group sizes:

Solo Traveler

• Metro: 3.50 euros (including Andante Card)
• Taxi: 20-25 euros
• Private Transfer: 29-30 euros
• Uber/Bolt: 18-23 euros

Winner: Metro (saves you 15-20 euros)

Couple (2 People)

• Metro: 5.50 euros total (one Andante Card to share, two Z4 tickets)
• Taxi: 20-25 euros (split: 10-12.50 euros per person)
• Private Transfer: 29-30 euros (split: 14.50-15 euros per person)

Winner: Metro (saves you 15-20 euros as a couple)

Group of 3 People

• Metro: 8.50 euros total
• Taxi: 20-25 euros (split: 6.60-8.30 euros per person)
• Private Transfer: 29-30 euros (split: 9.60-10 euros per person)

Winner: Taxi or private transfer (more convenient for roughly the same per-person cost)

Group of 4 People

• Metro: 11.50 euros total
• Taxi: 20-25 euros (split: 5-6.25 euros per person)
• Private Transfer: 35-40 euros for larger vehicle (split: 8.75-10 euros per person)

Winner: Taxi (most cost-effective for 4 people)

Pro Tips for Porto Airport Arrivals

1. Buy Your Andante Card at the Airport

If you plan to use the metro during your trip, buy your Andante Card at the airport when you arrive. The card costs 1.50 euros and is reusable for your entire stay. You can reload it at any metro station.

You will use this card for all public transport in Porto (metro, buses, and some regional trains), so it is worth getting it immediately.

2. Have a Mobile Data Plan Ready

Porto Airport has free Wi-Fi, but it is slow and unreliable. If you are relying on Google Maps to navigate to your accommodation, make sure you have mobile data before you land.

I always use Airalo eSIM when traveling in Europe. You can install the eSIM before your flight, and it activates as soon as you land. No hunting for SIM card shops, no waiting in line. Portugal eSIMs start at just 6 euros for 1GB.

3. Know Your Accommodation’s Nearest Metro Station

Before you land, look up which metro station is closest to your accommodation. This will save you time and stress when transferring at Trindade.

For example:

• Staying in Baixa near Clérigos? Get off at Aliados or São Bento (Line D, transfer at Trindade).
• Staying in Bonfim? Get off at Heroísmo or Campanhã (Line E or transfer to Line A at Trindade).
• Staying in Ribeira? Get off at São Bento and walk 10 minutes downhill.

Check my full guide to Porto neighborhoods to figure out which metro station is closest to your area.

4. Arrive with Small Bills for Taxis

If you are taking a taxi, try to have small bills (20-euro notes or smaller). Some drivers claim they cannot make change for large notes, which can be frustrating after a long flight.

5. Factor in Porto’s Hills

Porto is built on steep hills. Even if you take the metro to a station near your accommodation, you might have a 5-10 minute uphill walk with luggage.

When I stayed in Bonfim, the metro station was just 8 minutes from my Airbnb, but it was a brutally steep uphill climb. I considered myself fairly fit, but I had to stop twice to catch my breath while dragging my suitcase.

If you have heavy luggage and are staying in a hilly area, a taxi or private transfer might be worth the extra cost.

What to Do After You Arrive in Porto

Once you have checked into your accommodation and dropped off your luggage, here is what I recommend doing on your first day:

Option 1: Explore Your Neighborhood on Foot

Porto is incredibly walkable, and the best way to get your bearings is to wander around your neighborhood. Grab a pastel de nata from a local bakery, find a café with outdoor seating, and just observe Porto life.

If you are staying near Baixa, check out my guide to the best neighborhoods in Porto to understand what makes each area unique.

Option 2: Take a River Cruise

If you arrive in the morning or early afternoon and have energy, book a 6 Bridges Douro River Cruise (15 euros, 50 minutes). It is one of the best ways to see Porto from the water and get oriented with the city layout.

The boats depart from Ribeira every 30 minutes, and you do not need to book in advance unless you are visiting in peak summer (July-August).

Option 3: Book Your Day Trips Early

If you are visiting Porto in August, popular day trips like the Douro Valley tour (89 euros) sell out 2-3 weeks in advance. Use your first evening in Porto to finalize your bookings so you do not miss out.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Porto Airport from the city center?

Porto Airport is about 11 kilometers (7 miles) from the city center. By metro it takes 25-30 minutes. By taxi or private transfer it takes 15-20 minutes without traffic.

Is the metro from Porto Airport easy to use?

Yes. The metro station is inside the airport terminal, clearly signposted, and Line E runs directly to the city center. You will likely need to transfer at Trindade Station to reach your final destination, but the transfer is simple (just follow signs for your line).

Can I use a contactless credit card on Porto metro?

No. Porto metro does not accept contactless credit/debit cards directly. You must buy an Andante Card (1.50 euros) and load tickets onto it. The Andante Card is reusable for your entire trip.

What is the best way to get from Porto Airport to Ribeira?

Take the metro to São Bento Station (Line E to Trindade, transfer to Line D to São Bento), then walk 10 minutes downhill to Ribeira. Total journey time is about 35 minutes. Alternatively, take a taxi (20 euros, 15 minutes).

Does Porto Airport have luggage storage?

Yes. Porto Airport has a left luggage service in Terminal 1 near Check-in Area 3. It costs around 5-7 euros per bag per day. Useful if you have a late flight and want to explore Porto without your suitcase.

Is Uber available at Porto Airport?

Yes. Uber and Bolt both operate at Porto Airport. The pickup point is in the designated TVDE zone (about a 2-3 minute walk from arrivals). Expect to pay 18-23 euros to the city center.

Can I walk from Porto Airport to the city center?

Technically yes, but I do not recommend it. It is an 11-kilometer walk along highways with no pedestrian-friendly paths. Save your energy for exploring Porto’s beautiful (but steep) hills.

What time does the metro start running from Porto Airport?

The first metro train from Porto Airport departs around 6:00 AM. The last train departs around 1:00 AM. Check the official metro timetable for exact times, as they vary slightly by day of the week.

How much does a taxi from Porto Airport cost?

A taxi from Porto Airport to the city center (Baixa, Ribeira, Bonfim) costs 20-25 euros. The journey takes 15-20 minutes without traffic. Always use the official taxi rank outside arrivals and make sure the meter is running.

Should I book a private transfer in advance?

If you are traveling with a group of 3+ people, arriving late at night, or traveling with young kids, yes. Private transfers start at 29 euros and offer fixed pricing, meet-and-greet service, and direct door-to-door transport.

For solo travelers or couples, the metro is cheaper and just as convenient.

Final Thoughts

Getting from Porto Airport to the city center is straightforward no matter which option you choose. For most travelers, the metro is the best combination of price, speed, and convenience. It worked perfectly for me three times with suitcases, and I never felt stressed or confused.

If you are traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage, a taxi or private transfer makes more sense financially and logistically.

Once you arrive in Porto, check out my 3-day Porto itinerary for recommendations on what to do, where to eat, and how to make the most of your time in this incredible city. And if you are planning to stay longer, read my Porto budget breakdown to understand what things actually cost.

Related Porto Guides

Planning your Porto trip? These guides will help:

• Porto Travel Guide: 5 Weeks Living in Portugal – Complete hub post
• Where to Stay in Porto: 5 Best Neighborhoods – Find your ideal area
• Porto on a Budget: What 5 Weeks Actually Cost – Transport costs included
• 3 Days in Porto Itinerary – Day-by-day guide
• Porto in August: Weather & Costs – Peak season guide