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Driving Tips - Guerin
Parking in Porto: how to avoid traffic, queues and fines
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Parking in Porto isn’t always easy, but Guerin is here to help
Porto is a vibrant city filled with history, culture and stunning places to explore. But let’s be honest: finding parking in Porto can be a real headache, especially on sunny days, public holidays or long weekends. Whether you're a visitor or a local, this guide is for you. We’ll show you where to park safely (and avoid driving in circles for 40 minutes), highlight the most useful Apps, and share tips for anyone renting a car with Guerin.
Free vs paid parking: what’s worth it?
Is there free parking in Porto? Yes — but it’s limited. You’ll usually find it in residential neighbourhoods further from the city centre, like Campanhã, Ramalde or Antas. In these areas, you can still park without paying, but be prepared to walk or take public transport to get downtown.
Paid parking, on the other hand, is widely available in central areas such as Baixa, Ribeira, Boavista and Cedofeita. It works via parking meters, with paid hours generally from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., depending on the area. If you're planning to leave your car for more than two hours, an underground car park might be a better option.
Underground car parks and silos: Porto’s best spots
Porto offers several well-located underground car parks and silos, with 24-hour security and affordable daily rates. Here are some of the best:
- Saba Palácio de Cristal – perfect for visiting the gardens, the Romantic Museum and the Cordoaria area.
- Saba Praça de Lisboa – ideal for dinner in the Galerias de Paris or sunset views near the Clérigos Tower.
- Cardosas Car Park (Interparking) – right next to São Bento Station and Avenida dos Aliados.
- Silo Auto Trindade – spacious, affordable and next to the metro (line D, direct to downtown and Ribeira).
These are great options for both visitors and locals who want to avoid the stress of finding street parking.
3 Parking Apps to save time (and avoid fines)
Still using coins at the meter? It’s time for an upgrade. These parking Apps let you pay, manage and renew your parking without leaving the car. The most popular in Porto are:
- Telpark – works in public and private car parks across the city. Lets you pay via App, store receipts and set reminders.
- EasyPark – an international App with growing coverage in Porto. Perfect for multi-city travellers.
- Via Verde – ideal for managing street parking, with added features for private garages.
If you're using Saba car parks, such as Palácio de Cristal or Praça de Lisboa, you can also use the official Saba App to manage your session.
All of these Apps are available on Android and iOS, with payment options including credit card, MB Way and PayPal.
Renting a car in Porto? Here’s what to know
If you're visiting Porto and planning to rent a car, knowing where to park will make a huge difference. Here are a few practical tips:
- Avoid areas with limited parking during peak hours (e.g. Ribeira or Clérigos at lunchtime).
- Choose covered car parks if you’re carrying luggage or planning to explore the city.
- Always check parking signs: some areas have 2-hour limits or special pricing.
- Travelling with someone? Add a Guerin Additional Driver so you can take turns behind the wheel.
Guerin 100% Digital: book online and hit the road with ease
Another way to make your trip easier? 100% digital rental process. With Guerin, a pioneer in digital car rental in Portugal, you can book and pick up your car in just a few minutes, with total autonomy and speed. Whether you arrive in Lisbon, Porto or elsewhere, the process is fast, intuitive and perfect for making the most of your journey. Flying into Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport? Pick up your vehicle directly at the Guerin Porto Airport station. Staying downtown? But if you prefer to rent closer to the center of Invicta, then the Guerin Gaia Station is perfect.
Final tip from Guerin: play it safe with Roadside Assistance
Driving in Porto can be an adventure (think traffic, roadworks and pedestrian-only zones). That’s why we recommend adding Guerin Roadside Assistance to your booking so you have support 24/7, no matter what the road throws at you.
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