Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Porto gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from OPO to the city takes roughly 60 minutes by Metro Line E, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Before heading into Porto, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Portugal vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Porto is roughly 60 minutes from OPO via Metro Line E. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Get Into Porto
From OPO, the Metro Line E gets you to Porto in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Metro Line E offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Porto might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Porto, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Luggage Storage Options
You can store your luggage at Safe Bag service on Level 0 (Arrivals area) provides luggage storage, wrapping, and other services.. Rates typically depend on bag size and duration.
If the airport lockers are full or inconveniently located, services like Bounce and Stasher list verified storage spots in and around Porto as well.
Exploring Porto on a Layover
For a layover visit to Porto, we’d suggest Ribeira District & Douro Riverfront and Clérigos Tower. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace. The views are worth the trip if you have time.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at OPO, check out ANA Lounge or Airport Shopping (Duty Free & Local Shops) to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
For food in Porto, local travelers recommend Brasão Cervejaria Coliseu. If you have time for a second stop, Taberna dos Mercadores is another popular pick.
Back at OPO, Tasquinha do Aeroporto is the go-to. Nata Lisboa rounds out your in-terminal options.
Taking a Break at OPO
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at OPO, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Staying Connected
WiFi at OPO should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Portugal and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Porto is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Porto.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.