10 Best Beach Resorts Near Porto Airport

Updated 4 March 2020 | by Lara McComish

Flying into Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto? You'll land straight into a great region for beautiful seaside towns, so here are some of the best near Porto Airport. 

1. Lavra

10 minute drive from Porto Airport

Lavra, Portugal

Head straight from the terminal to the tempting sands in Lavra. This small resort has a lovely and quiet golden stretch, yours to claim in just 10 minutes from neighbouring Porto Airport. 

 

2. Matosinhos

15 minute drive from Porto Airport 

Matosinhos, Portugal

Matosinhos is a little seaside resort approximately a 15 minute drive from Porto Airport. Enjoy sardines and wine, as you look out over one of the Porto region's main ports. Get down to the main sandy beach, which offers a wide, white expanse for sunbathers.

 

3. Porto 

20 minute drive from Porto Airport

Porto, Portugal

Porto is a coastal city, known for architecture and world-class port. Glug down some culture in town, then head to the nearby golden sands of Foz do Douro. Or switch up the order and decide en route from Porto Airport.

 

4. Vila Nova de Gaia

20 minute drive from Porto Airport 

Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal

Positioned opposite Porto, Vila Nova de Gaia spans the scenic south bank of the River Douro. It carries on down towards the coast making beaches very accessible south side. With great connections to and from Porto Airport, there's little reason to pass it up.

 

5. Mindelo

21 minute drive from Porto Airport

Mindelo, Portugal

Mindelo is a picturesque choice a short drive from Porto Airport. Holidaymakers here will enjoy the lovely beaches, characterised by its imposing boulders. Visit the Mindelo Ornithological Reserve for a spot of bird watching, before an evening dining near the harbour in town. 

 

6. Vila do Conde

23 minute drive from Porto Airport

Vila do Conde, Portugal

Vila do Conde is loaded with Portuguese charm, offering glorious beaches, good food and a laidback lifestyle. Favoured by the Portuguese, you can always trust a local for an authentic holiday pick - this one based 23 minutes away from Porto Airport. 

 

7. Povoa de Varzim

25 minute drive from Porto Airport

Povoa de Varzim

Povoa de Varzim is a beach resort situated in a breathtaking coastal plain. This would make a great holiday for visitors who like to stray off the beaten track  Though not too far from the convenience that comes with staying 25 minutes away from the airport. 

8. Apúlia

25 minute drive from Porto Airport 

Apulia, Portugal

A must for beach lovers, Apúlia offers azure beaches that lap onto white sands. With plenty of amenities and facilities located nearby, you'll be fully equipped for a great holiday when you arrive from Porto Airport. 

 

9. Espinho

30 minute drive from Porto Airport 

Espinho, Portugal

Espinho was originally a fishing village that's grown into a full-on resort. In a nod to its past, you can still see fishing boats on the golden sand but we'd say that adds to its charm. Visit before you head back to Porto Airport, just half an hour away.

 

10.  Făo

34 minute drive from Porto Airport

Fao, Portugal

To finish, we've lined up fabulous Făo. Still exceptionally close to Porto Airport, Făo boasts a top location for exploring regional beaches including Ofir Beach, Esposende Beach and more. 

 

Resort near Porto Airport  Journey time by car

Lavra

10 minutes

Matosinhos

15 minutes

Porto 

20 minutes

Vila Nova de Gaia

20 minutes

Mindelo 

21 minutes

Vila do Conde

23 minutes

Povoa de Varzim

25 minutes

Apúlia

25 minutes

Espinho

30 minutes

Făo

34 minutes

 

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