Car rental at Porto airport: Discover the service that will make your trip easier
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Updated on July 30, 2025
According to ANA – Aeroportos de Portugal, in 2023 Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto welcomed 15 million passengers, surpassing its previous record of 12.6 million in 2022.
Speaking of airports — have you booked your flight yet? Then complete your experience with a car rental at Porto Airport.
In this article, you’ll learn about the benefits of this service and how to choose a reliable car rental company. Plus, we’ll highlight the must-see tourist attractions in the city of Porto.
Arriving in Porto by plane: What are the advantages of renting a car at Porto airport?
Imagine arriving at Porto Airport after a long flight, check-ins and check-outs, bags in hand — and still having to wait for a taxi or, worse, for public transport.
Renting a car at the airport is by far the most convenient option.
Having a vehicle at your disposal from the very start of your trip allows you to make the most of every second of your stay in the magnificent city of Porto — with total freedom.
Here are the main advantages of renting a car at Porto Airport:
- Convenience of having the vehicle right after landing.
- Flexibility to plan your own itinerary.
- Easy access to explore the surrounding areas and other cities.
- Freedom to personalise your trip.
- Autonomy to enjoy every moment to the fullest.
Car rental at Porto airport: how to choose the best car hire company
You’ll find plenty of car rental options at Porto Airport and nearby, so focus on what really matters: price and service quality.
To choose the best option, consider the following factors:
- Company reputation
- Quality and variety of the fleet
- Transparent pricing
- Customer service quality
- Client reviews and testimonials
TIP: Car rental located near the airport — within the so-called airport service ecosystem (hotels, transport, etc.) — often offer more competitive prices and provide a free shuttle to the terminal.
What type of car should you rent at Porto Airport?
Porto has many narrow and steep streets, so a compact car might be the ideal choice. However, also consider the type of trip you’re planning, the number of passengers, and whether you’ll be visiting other regions in northern Portugal.
When renting a car in Porto, choose a model that is comfortable, safe, and equipped with the features you need for your stay.
Renting a Low-Cost Car in Porto: A Smart Choice for City Driving
Rent a Family Car in Porto — The Ideal Choice for Safe and Comfortable Travel in the North
Minivan Rental in Porto: The Top Choice for Groups and Big Families
From car rental to sightseeing: what to visit in Porto with your rental car
Now that you’ve chosen your vehicle — whether for a business trip or a sightseeing getaway — it’s time to start planning your visit to Porto.
"Porto is not a place. It’s a feeling," said Agustina Bessa-Luís, one of Portugal’s most influential writers.
With so many landmarks to discover, we’ve selected eight iconic places you can’t miss on your city itinerary:
- Clérigos Tower
- Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto)
- Lello Bookshop
- Majestic Café
- Dom Luís I Bridge
- Stock Exchange Palace (Palácio da Bolsa)
- São Bento Station
- Crystal Palace Gardens (Palácio de Cristal)
Take a stroll along the banks of the Douro River and enjoy the panoramic views of the famous Port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia. And of course, don’t miss the chance to savour the local cuisine and wines of the region.
With a car rental from Porto Airport, you can also visit other cities like Braga, Guimarães, or Viana do Castelo.
Rent your car at Porto airport with Drivalia
For a hassle-free car rental experience at Porto Airport, you can count on Drivalia.
We offer a diverse fleet of new and modern cars to suit every need — whether it’s for business trips, tourism, or weekend getaways.
- Book online in just a few steps
- Free shuttle service, even in case of flight delays
- Personalised service to ensure peace of mind throughout your experience
Renting a car at Porto airport: frequently asked questions and useful answers
1. How can I pick up my rental car at Porto Airport?
The Drivalia team will meet you at the arrivals terminal of Porto Airport and take you to our store, located in Prior Velho, near the airport. This way, you can collect your car quickly, comfortably, and hassle-free.
2. What happens if my flight is delayed?
No worries — Drivalia offers a free shuttle service even if your flight is delayed. Just provide your flight details when booking, and our team will be ready to assist you upon arrival.
3. Can I return my car at Lisbon Airport if I rented it in Porto?
Yes, with Drivalia you can rent a car at Porto Airport and return it at Lisbon Airport. This one-way service should be requested when booking to ensure availability.
