Porto Airport Layover? Guide & Tips

Top 5 Layover Ideas for Porto Airport

Stuck with a long layover at Porto Airport (OPO)? Don't worry! There are plenty of ways to turn your layover into an exciting mini vacation. Here are the top 5 layover ideas for Porto Airport that you can enjoy within 12 hours.

1. Explore the City of Porto

Porto, the second largest city in Portugal, is just a short metro ride away from the airport. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history by visiting the Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or the iconic Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Don't forget to taste the famous Port wine at one of the city's many wine cellars.

2. Relax at the Airport Lounges

For those who prefer to stay within the airport, Porto Airport offers several lounges where you can relax, work, or enjoy a meal. The ANA Lounge, for instance, provides a peaceful environment with comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and a variety of food and drink options.

3. Indulge in Retail Therapy

Shopping can be a great way to pass the time during a layover. Porto Airport boasts a wide range of stores, from high-end fashion brands to local Portuguese products. Whether you're looking for a new outfit or a souvenir to take home, you're sure to find something that catches your eye.

4. Savor Portuguese Cuisine

Portugal is known for its delicious cuisine, and Porto Airport is no exception. From traditional Portuguese dishes to international favorites, the airport's restaurants and cafes offer something for every palate. Be sure to try a pastel de nata, a classic Portuguese custard tart, before you leave.

5. Visit the Serralves Museum

If you're an art lover, take a taxi to the Serralves Museum, Portugal's most visited museum. The museum showcases contemporary art and also features a beautiful park where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll. Keep in mind that the museum is around 20 minutes away from the airport, so plan your visit accordingly.

Helpful Tips & Resources

Need help navigating your way through an unfamiliar airport? Look no further than iFly.com for expert tips and advice. Here are some helpful tips to help you travel stress-free through OPO Airport:

Don't let heavy bags slow you down! Make use of our airport's complimentary baggage carts, available for all travelers in the baggage claim area.
If you have some time before your departure, relax, grab a bite at one of OPO's restaurants, peruse the shops, or jump on the free internet and surf galore!
If you are flying in business or first class (or are a member), check out where the airline club lounges are located.
Once you have passed through security, you can use the airport map to find your gate, as well as the various restaurants and shops that are available on your route.
Surf to your heart's content. Jump on Porto airport's internet (free!)
For those (dreaded) early-morning flights, consider one of the airport hotels on or near OPO to spend the night prior to your flight. In many cases your parking for the trip's duration is free!
Have a flight arriving and want a fast way to get to your destination? Here are a few taxi and limo airport service providers that service the airport.

Nearby Attractions for an Extended Layover

If your layover extends beyond 12 hours and you have up to 48 hours to spare, why not venture a bit further from Porto Airport? There are several attractions within reasonable proximity that you can explore to get a deeper understanding of Portugal's culture and history.

1. Discover the Douro Valley

Take a day trip to the Douro Valley, one of the oldest wine regions in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's just a couple of hours away from the airport. Here, you can tour the vineyards, enjoy a wine tasting session, and soak in the stunning views of terraced vineyards along the Douro River.

2. Visit the Historic City of Guimarães

Known as the birthplace of Portugal, Guimarães is a historic city filled with medieval buildings, a charming old town, and a majestic castle. It's about an hour's drive from Porto Airport. Spend a day wandering its cobblestone streets and immersing yourself in its rich history.

3. Explore the Natural Beauty of Peneda-Gerês National Park

If you're a nature lover, don't miss the opportunity to visit Peneda-Gerês National Park. It's Portugal's only national park and offers breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and several hiking trails. The park is about a two-hour drive from the airport.

4. Take a Cruise on the Douro River

For a relaxing day out, consider a cruise on the Douro River. Many companies offer day cruises from Porto that take you through the heart of the Douro Valley, offering spectacular views of the vineyards and quintas (wine estates) that line the riverbanks.

5. Visit the City of Braga

Braga, one of Portugal's oldest cities and the third-largest, is less than an hour's drive from Porto Airport. It's home to numerous historic sites, including the Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary, with its famous Baroque stairway. A visit to Braga offers a fascinating glimpse into Portugal's past.

Updated on: November 22, 2023

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