Rent a Car at Porto Airport: 7 Quick Questions and Answers to Clear Up Your Doubts
Do you need to rent a car at Porto Airport but are unsure how the process works, how much you may have to pay, or which documents are required?
In this article, you will find clear answers to the most frequently asked questions from travellers who plan to collect a car directly at the airport—whether to start a family trip around Northern Portugal, for business travel, or simply to get around Porto with greater freedom and independence.
Why Is It Worth Renting a Car at Porto Airport?
Renting a car at Porto Airport allows you to leave the airport quickly and head straight to the city or surrounding areas, without relying on public transport, limited timetables or time-consuming connections.
With Drivalia, vehicle collection takes place outside the terminal, with a free shuttle transfer. This means you start driving from a quieter location around the airport facilities, away from the heavy traffic at the airport exits — a clear advantage for those unfamiliar with the city.
The 7 Most Frequently Asked Questions About Renting a Car at Porto Airport
Arriving at Porto Airport and figuring out the best way to continue your journey can be challenging: limited public transport options, taxis not always readily available, and long trips into the city centre.
For this reason, renting a car at Porto Airport is one of the most popular solutions for both business and leisure travel.
1. Is it more expensive to rent a car at Porto Airport?
Not necessarily. The final price mainly depends on the season, the vehicle category you choose and how far in advance you book. Although demand is higher at the airport, availability is also greater, which often helps keep prices balanced.
If you book a few days ahead, it’s common to find rates that are virtually the same as at other Mobility Stores in Porto—especially in the low season or for economy categories.
2. Do I need a credit card to rent a car at Porto Airport?
Yes. A credit card is required to block the security deposit (temporary guarantee), which is released at the end of the rental if the vehicle is returned without damage. Some vehicle categories may allow alternatives, but you should always check this at the time of booking. With Drivalia, the conditions are clearly presented from the outset.
3. Which documents do I need to collect the car?
Just three: your driving licence, a valid ID document and a credit card.
When you pick up the vehicle, your driving licence must have been valid for at least one year. The minimum age requirement varies between 20 and 25, depending on the vehicle category (a young driver fee may apply). For luxury vehicles, the minimum age can be as high as 30. If you add an additional driver, they will also need to present the same documents at the counter.
4. Can I return the car to a different location?
Yes. You can rent a car at Porto Airport with Drivalia and return it at a Mobility Store in another city (please confirm this option at the time of booking or when collecting the vehicle).
Depending on the location, returning the car to a different station is generally allowed, subject to a one-way fee. Drivalia has several Mobility Stores across the country, making it easier to return the vehicle in different cities without having to go back to the airport.
5. How much does it cost to rent a car at Porto Airport?
The price depends on the season, the rental duration and the vehicle model (car group). Seven-day rentals usually come with lower daily rates. SUVs, vans and premium vehicles are more expensive, but booking online and in advance is always the best way to save money.
Low-season booking example:
- 8–14 January
- Vehicle: Group C / EDMR (example: Volkswagen Polo)
- Estimated total rental price: €30.77 (with excess) or €163.07 (zero excess)
6. Are basic insurance coverages included in the car rental?
Yes—and this adds peace of mind to your trip. All rentals include the mandatory basic insurance coverage.
This coverage protects against third-party damage and includes an excess, which is the maximum amount you may have to pay in the event of a covered, non-negligent claim. You can also add extra coverages to reduce or eliminate this liability and travel with greater peace of mind.
7. Is it worth renting a car at Porto Airport to explore Northern Portugal?
If you want full freedom to explore the region, the answer is yes. It is the most practical, flexible and comfortable way to travel around Northern Portugal.
Renting a car at Porto Airport makes it easy to reach several northern cities. Places such as Braga, Guimarães, Viana do Castelo or the entire Douro region are far more accessible by car, allowing you to avoid multiple transport connections and limited timetables.
With a car, you can create your own route, visit several locations in a single day, and carry your luggage without having to move it from place to place between connections and transport changes.
Do you need to rent a car at Porto Airport? Book with Drivalia
If you are looking for comfort and speed, this is the ideal way to start your trip.
Drivalia offers a fast, digital and 100% transparent service, with a wide range of vehicle categories and competitive prices all year round. Collect your car near Porto Airport and start your journey with complete freedom: no queues, no complications, no surprises.
