Cruise port Leixões
Info for port Leixões on 5 Sept 2028
Port information & tips for Leixões
Leixões serves as the maritime gateway to the fascinating city of Porto and is one of Portugal's most significant cruise ports. Located in charming Matosinhos, the surrounding area impresses with its combination of modern architecture, extensive sandy beaches, and a vibrant culinary scene. Right at the port, highlights such as the impressive Sea Life Porto and the historic Castelo do Queijo fortress invite discovery, while the golden beach of Matosinhos provides relaxation. Ships dock at the award-winning Porto Cruise Terminal, which is considered an architectural landmark thanks to its striking design. From here, the historic center of Porto can be reached comfortably in about 20 minutes by shuttle or metro.
The port of Leixões in Matosinhos is the maritime gateway to the wine metropolis of Porto and welcomes guests at the architecturally impressive new cruise terminal. Thanks to its close proximity to the airport and excellent connections to the Portuguese transport network, arrival for cruise passengers from the DACH region is particularly straightforward.
Airplane
Porto International Airport (OPO) is located only about 10 kilometers from the port and is served directly from many cities in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. The journey to the terminal takes only about 15 minutes by taxi or private transfer; additionally, Metro line E, with a transfer at Senhora da Hora station to line A, provides an affordable connection to Matosinhos Sul station near the port.
Auto
The port of Leixões is directly accessible via the A28 and A4 motorways and is well signposted for drivers from all directions. Guarded parking areas and multi-storey car parks for long-term parkers are available directly at the South Cruise Terminal as well as in the immediate vicinity in Matosinhos, and the modern infrastructure at the terminal also allows for quick drop-offs and direct luggage handover.
Train & Public Transport
Travelers by train reach Porto via the central Porto-Campanhã long-distance station, which is connected to the Alfa Pendular high-speed network. From there, you can easily reach Matosinhos Sul station without changing trains using Metro line A, or use a taxi for the last mile, which will take you directly to check-in at the quay in about 20 minutes. In addition, bus line 500 connects the port directly with the historic center and São Bento station.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents usually include a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times may change at short notice.
The port of Leixões in Matosinhos is the maritime gateway to the wine metropolis of Porto and welcomes guests at the architecturally impressive new cruise terminal. Thanks to its close proximity to the airport and excellent connections to the Portuguese transport network, arrival for cruise passengers from the DACH region is particularly straightforward.
Airplane
Porto International Airport (OPO) is located only about 10 kilometers from the port and is served directly from many cities in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. The journey to the terminal takes only about 15 minutes by taxi or private transfer; additionally, Metro line E, with a transfer at Senhora da Hora station to line A, provides an affordable connection to Matosinhos Sul station near the port.
Auto
The port of Leixões is directly accessible via the A28 and A4 motorways and is well signposted for drivers from all directions. Guarded parking areas and multi-storey car parks for long-term parkers are available directly at the South Cruise Terminal as well as in the immediate vicinity in Matosinhos, and the modern infrastructure at the terminal also allows for quick drop-offs and direct luggage handover.
Train & Public Transport
Travelers by train reach Porto via the central Porto-Campanhã long-distance station, which is connected to the Alfa Pendular high-speed network. From there, you can easily reach Matosinhos Sul station without changing trains using Metro line A, or use a taxi for the last mile, which will take you directly to check-in at the quay in about 20 minutes. In addition, bus line 500 connects the port directly with the historic center and São Bento station.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents usually include a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times may change at short notice.
From the cruise terminal in Leixões, you can easily reach the nearby city center of Matosinhos on foot and also gain uncomplicated access to historic Porto.
Metro do Porto
The Metro Line A (Blue) connects the port directly with the heart of Porto. You can reach the Matosinhos Sul station from the terminal in about 10 to 15 minutes on foot and enjoy a relaxed ride of around 30 minutes from there to the old town.
STCP Buses (Line 500)
Line 500 buses stop not far from the port exit and offer a particularly scenic journey into the center thanks to their route along the Atlantic and the Douro River. This connection is ideal for simultaneously admiring the picturesque coastal landscape and the famous riverbanks of Porto.
Taxi and Ride-Sharing Services
Official taxis are available directly at the exit of the modern terminal and will take you directly to Porto in about 15 to 20 minutes. Additionally, local ride-sharing services such as Uber or Bolt can be used for flexible and time-saving onward travel to individual destinations.
To make the most of your limited time, we recommend a combination of the maritime flair right at the harbor and an excursion to the historic center of Porto.
Matosinhos & Praia de Matosinhos
Located directly at the cruise port, this district delights with its extensive sandy beach and first-class fish restaurants that serve fresh specialties thanks to their proximity to the sea. The beach also invites you to take a relaxing stroll and is perfect for guests who want to start the day quietly by the water.
Ribeira & Historic Center of Porto
The heart of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and fascinates visitors with its colorful house facades, winding alleys, and the lively riverbank promenade right on the Douro. A stroll through this district offers fascinating insights into Portuguese history and, thanks to the impressive architecture, is ideal for unforgettable photo moments.
Vila Nova de Gaia & Port Wine Cellars
On the opposite side of the river from Porto are the world-famous port wine cellars, where visitors can immerse themselves in the region's winemaking tradition during a tasting. From here, you can also enjoy what is arguably the most beautiful panoramic view of historic Porto and the iconic Ponte Dom Luís I bridge.
Praia de Matosinhos
The expansive sandy beach Praia de Matosinhos is located right at the gates of the harbor and is easily accessible in a few minutes on foot or via a short taxi ride thanks to its excellent location. This place is perfect for a combination of maritime flair and authentic indulgence, as the adjacent Rua Heróis de França is known for its first-class fish restaurants featuring fresh-caught specialties straight from the outdoor grill. The extensive promenade and well-maintained infrastructure with inviting cafes and modern beach bars also offer ideal conditions for a thoroughly relaxed stay by the Atlantic. It is best to visit the beach in the morning for a long walk and plan for an early lunch in one of the traditional restaurants, in order to return to the ship in the afternoon full of new impressions and perfectly on time.
The return journey from Porto's historic Old Town or the beaches of Matosinhos to the modern cruise terminal is straightforward and very safe thanks to the short distances.
Metro and Bus Connections
The blue Metro Line A takes you comfortably to the Matosinhos Sul or Mercado stop in the immediate vicinity of the port area. In addition, the panoramic bus line 500 runs directly from the Ribeira along the coast and offers an easy return option with magnificent views of the Atlantic and the port gate.
Taxi and Ride-Sharing Services
Taxi stands can be found at central points such as São Bento Station, Praça da Liberdade, or directly in front of the beach restaurants in Matosinhos. The journey to the terminal takes about 20 minutes depending on traffic and, thanks to the clear signage, brings you directly to the security entrance of the South Cruise Terminal.
Shuttle Service of the Cruise Lines
Many ships provide their own buses that shuttle regularly between Porto city center and the harbor basin. These buses are a particularly relaxed option and guarantee a punctual arrival directly at the pier, as the departure points are usually marked centrally at well-known squares in the upper town.
In port on 05 Sept 2028
