Private car transfer from Lisbon Airport to Porto

For instance, consider a stop at Óbidos, a charming medieval walled town that will transport you back in time with its narrow cobblestone streets and traditional whitewashed houses. Or visit the magnificent Monastery of Batalha, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing stunning Gothic architecture that took over a century to build.

Those who appreciate the ocean can add a visit to Nazaré, famous for its record-breaking waves and traditional fishing culture. Daytrip's door-to-door service ensures your travel day becomes part of your vacation experience rather than just a means to get from point A to point B.

Porto's architectural heritage showcases an impressive variety of styles, from Romanesque to Baroque and contemporary. The imposing Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto), dating back to the 12th century, offers panoramic views of the city's red-tiled rooftops. The Clérigos Tower, designed by Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni, stands as one of Porto's most recognizable landmarks at 249 feet (76 meters) tall.

The city's relationship with the Douro River is central to its identity. Six bridges span the river, connecting Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia, with the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge being the most famous. Designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, this double-deck metal arch bridge provides breathtaking views of both banks of the river.

In recent years, Porto has experienced a renaissance as a travel destination, with its authentic atmosphere, exceptional cuisine, and vibrant cultural scene attracting visitors from around the world. The city strikes a balance between its industrial heritage and a creative spirit, as evident in its thriving arts scene, innovative restaurants, and boutique shops.

Book your transfer in advance

During high season (June to September), transportation options between Lisbon and Porto can fill up quickly. Booking your private transfer in advance ensures availability on your preferred travel date and gives you time to plan any sightseeing stops you'd like to include. This is especially important if you're traveling directly from Lisbon Airport after an international flight, as you'll have peace of mind knowing your transportation is secured.

Trains from Lisbon Airport to Porto

Taking the train is another popular option, but requires first getting from Lisbon Airport to a train station. The high-speed Alfa Pendular trains operated by Comboios de Portugal (CP) connect Lisbon's Oriente Station to Porto's Campanhã Station in about 2 hours and 40 minutes. To reach Oriente Station from the airport, you'll need to take the metro (about 5-10 minutes), adding to your overall travel time.

Train tickets typically range from $25 to $50 (€23 to €46) depending on the class and how far in advance you book. The train timetable offers multiple departures throughout the day, with the first train usually leaving around 6:00 AM and the last one around 9:30 PM. Remember that you'll also need local transportation at both ends to get from/to your accommodations.

Bus from Lisbon Airport to Porto

The bus is the most budget-friendly option, with companies like Rede Expressos offering direct services from Lisbon's Oriente Bus Station to Porto for around $15-25 (€14-23). However, like with trains, you'll first need to get from the airport to the bus station. The journey by bus takes approximately 3.5 hours, not including the time needed to travel between the airport and the bus station.

Buses offer a comfortable ride with amenities like Wi-Fi and air conditioning, but they don't provide the flexibility to stop at points of interest along the way. The bus timetable typically includes multiple daily departures, with reduced frequency on weekends and holidays.

Car rental for the Lisbon Airport to Porto drive

Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, but comes with the responsibilities of navigating, parking, and dealing with traffic in unfamiliar cities. Rental cars typically start at around $30-50 per day plus fuel costs and toll fees, which can be significant on Portuguese highways.

While a rental car offers maximum flexibility for day trips from Porto, it can be a burden once you reach the city, where parking is limited and often expensive. For many travelers, combining a private transfer for the journey with public transportation or short-term rentals for local exploration provides the best of both worlds.

Visit the impressive Livraria Lello

Often cited as one of the world's most beautiful bookstores, Livraria Lello is a neo-Gothic gem that reportedly inspired J.K. Rowling during her time living in Porto. The ornate wooden staircase, stained glass ceiling, and carved bookshelves create an enchanting atmosphere for book lovers. Due to its popularity, it's best to purchase tickets in advance online to avoid long lines. Your entrance fee can be applied as credit toward a book purchase. It is the perfect opportunity to pick up a Portuguese author's work as a souvenir.

Take a Douro River cruise

Seeing Porto from the water offers a unique perspective of the city's six bridges and riverside districts. River cruises range from one-hour city tours to full-day excursions into the Douro Valley wine region. The shorter cruises typically pass under all six bridges, with commentary about their history and design. For a special experience, consider a sunset cruise when the city lights begin to twinkle across the water. Many cruise operators depart from the Ribeira docks, and advance booking is recommended during high season.

Sample port wine in Vila Nova de Gaia

Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia, home to dozens of historic port wine cellars where this fortified wine has been aged for centuries. World-famous producers like Taylor's, Graham's, and Sandeman offer guided tours explaining the production process, followed by tastings of different varieties. Most cellars require advance reservations, especially during busy travel periods. For the best experience, visit at least two different cellars to compare styles and atmospheres. Many also offer spectacular views of Porto from their terraces—perfect for that Instagram-worthy photo.

Summer (July-August) brings warmer temperatures averaging around 80°F (27°C) and more visitors, particularly in August when many Europeans take their annual vacation. While this period offers virtually guaranteed sunshine for your visit, you'll contend with higher prices and busier attractions. If you travel during this time, plan your sightseeing early in the day and make restaurant reservations in advance.

Winter in Porto (November-March) sees fewer tourists and lower prices, with temperatures rarely dropping below 45°F (7°C). While you might encounter some rainy days that make the city's steep streets slippery, this can be an atmospheric time to visit, especially around Christmas when decorative lights transform the historic center. Many restaurants offer special winter menus featuring heartier dishes perfect for the season, and you'll have a more authentic experience of local life during this quieter travel period.