Vila Real Airport

Vila Real Airport (VRL), also known as Vila Real Aerodrome, is not merely an air gateway, but the starting point for a journey into the heart of the historic vineyard region of the Douro in Portugal. Located on a picturesque plateau near the city of Vila Real, this small airfield offers a unique opportunity to quickly access the famous landscapes and historic estates. Its compactness and exclusive atmosphere create the feeling of a private start to your Portuguese adventure, far from the hustle and bustle of major international hubs.

The main advantage of Vila Real Airport is its strategic location. It serves as the ideal launchpad for exploring the Douro River Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Alvão Natural Park (Parque Natural do Alvão). Thanks to its modest size, all procedures here are incredibly fast: the time from check-in to boarding is minimal.

The airport focuses primarily on domestic flights connecting the north of Portugal with other regions of the country, as well as private and training aviation. For travelers who value time and comfort and wish to avoid long car journeys from major cities, flights to Vila Real are a true discovery. It is a compact, convenient, and welcoming airfield that makes traveling through the north of the country even more pleasant.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Vila Real Airport (VRL). We recommend clarifying details directly with airport representatives or the airline, especially if your question concerns flight schedules or transport regulations.

• Official Website: Regular flights from the airport are operated by Sevenair. On their official website www.sevenair.com, you can find the current schedule, book tickets, and get information about services.
• Inquiry Service Phone: For general questions regarding airport operations, you can call: +351 259 324 075.
• Airport Address: Aeródromo Municipal de Vila Real, 5000-081 Lordelo, Vila Real, Portugal.
• Email: For written inquiries to the airport administration, use the address: vilareal.aerodromo@cm-vilareal.pt.
• Social Media: The airport does not have its own official accounts. To follow news and flight updates, subscribe to the pages of the operating airline, Sevenair.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you should immediately contact the baggage tracing service of the airline you flew with.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For all questions related to booking, ticket changes, check-in, or the need for special assistance, please contact your airline's support service directly.

For most international travelers heading to Vila Real, the main arrival point in Portugal will be Porto Airport (OPO), the largest transport hub in the north of the country. From there, Vila Real can be easily reached by bus or rental car. The drive along scenic roads will take approximately 1.5–2 hours, allowing you to immediately immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Douro region.

Vila Real Airport (VRL) itself is a small regional airfield serving mainly domestic and private flights. It is located in close proximity to the city, so getting to it from the center or back is effortless. Travelers can choose one of several methods, depending on their preferences and budget.

Public Transport is the most economical option. Although there may not be a direct express service to the airport, it is worth checking the routes of local city buses (Urbanos de Vila Real). Some of them may pass near the airport, from where a short walk will be required. This is a good choice for travelers with light luggage wishing to save money. There is no direct train or metro connection to the airport.

Taxi or Private Transfer is the fastest and most convenient way to reach the terminal. A trip from the city center will take just 10–15 minutes. Taxis can be easily found at stands in the city or called by phone. For greater convenience and a fixed cost, you can book a private transfer in advance. This option is ideal if you have a lot of luggage or are traveling with family.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those planning to explore the picturesque Douro region. By renting a car in the city, you will not only easily reach the airport but also gain complete freedom of movement for the duration of your trip. The road to the airport is well-signposted, and the route is straightforward. This option combines the convenience of a transfer with independence.

For those arriving in their own or rented vehicle, parking is provided at the airport. Usually, both short-term parking for dropping off/picking up and long-term options for those leaving their car during their trip are available. Given the small size of the airport, finding a space is generally not a problem.

Vila Real Airport (VRL) is a small regional airfield in Portugal, serving mainly private aviation and a limited number of domestic flights. Its structure is maximally simple and clear, making your stay here comfortable and eliminating the stress typical of large aviation hubs.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves both departing and arriving passengers. The terminal building is very compact, so it is impossible to get lost here. All key areas—check-in counters, security screening, the waiting lounge, and the baggage claim area—are located in one small space within walking distance of each other. There are no transfers between terminals, as there is only one.

The airport layout is intuitive. Immediately upon entry, you find yourself in the general area where the check-in counters are located. After completing pre-flight formalities, passengers proceed to a small security screening area, and then to the waiting lounge. The arrival area is equally compact and consists of a hall with a baggage claim belt, located next to the exit to the city.

Thanks to the small size and low passenger flow, all procedures at Vila Real Airport are completed very quickly. Check-in and security control usually take no more than 15-20 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately one hour before departure to complete all formalities without rushing.

The history of Vila Real Airport (VRL), also known as Aeródromo Municipal de Vila Real, is closely linked to the desire to connect the secluded Trás-os-Montes region with the rest of Portugal. The airfield was officially opened in 1930 and became one of the first in the country's interior. For decades, it served primarily for general aviation needs, pilot training, as well as sports and agricultural flights.

A key moment in the airport's development was a major modernization in 2007. During the works, the runway was paved and extended, the terminal was updated, and modern navigation equipment was installed. These improvements allowed for the reception of commercial flights and significantly increased flight safety levels.

The true revival of commercial air service began in 2015, when the airline Sevenair (formerly known as Aero VIP) launched scheduled flights connecting Vila Real with Bragança, Viseu, Cascais (near Lisbon), and Portimão. This air link, supported by the state, plays an important role in ensuring transport accessibility for the region. In addition to passenger transport, the airport is actively used for medical evacuations and as a base for aerial firefighting during the summer season.

Although Vila Real Airport cannot boast passenger traffic records comparable to major international hubs, its main achievement is the consistent fulfillment of its mission to provide connectivity for the local population. Located in hilly terrain, it also represents an interesting site from a piloting perspective, requiring special skill from crews during takeoff and landing.

Vila Real Airport (VRL) is a small regional airport, so the range of services here is focused on the basic needs of passengers. Before departure, you can have a snack in a small café, which serves light bites, sandwiches, and beverages. There are no full-service restaurants or a wide selection of shops, including Duty Free, at the airport, so it is better to make all necessary purchases in the city beforehand.

Passengers have access to free Wi-Fi within the terminal, allowing you to stay connected while waiting for your flight. The number of charging stations for electronic devices may be limited. The airport usually has an ATM for cash withdrawals, but currency exchange points are absent. All financial transactions involving currency exchange are recommended to be conducted in banks in the city of Vila Real.

For travelers with children, there are no designated play areas or nursing rooms, but the terminal has everything necessary for a comfortable wait. The airport provides services for passengers with reduced mobility in accordance with European standards. To receive assistance, it is recommended to notify your airline in advance. Separate VIP lounges or business lounges are not offered at Vila Real Airport.

There are no hotels within the airport grounds, but many accommodation options—from cozy guest houses to comfortable hotels—can be found in the immediate vicinity, in the city of Vila Real. Specialized conference rooms or business centers are also absent at the airport, which should be taken into account when planning business trips to this region of Portugal.

Vila Real Airport (VRL) is a small regional airfield, so dining options here are quite modest. Passengers departing from this airport are advised to plan their itinerary and timing considering the limited choice of establishments.

A small café operates in the airport's single terminal. This is the main place where you can have a snack while waiting for your flight. The assortment usually includes standard offerings: coffee, tea, soft drinks, juices, sandwiches, chips, and fresh pastries. Although the selection is not vast, it is a great place to quickly drink a cup of espresso or eat something from traditional Portugal pastries, such as a pastel de nata.

Specialized dietary options, such as Halal, vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free meals, are unlikely to be found here. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is better to bring food with you. Prices in the café can be described as moderate. It is important to note that the establishment does not operate 24/7; its opening hours are tied to the flight schedule—it opens to serve passengers of specific departures and may be closed at other times.

For a full lunch or dinner, it is highly recommended to visit one of the establishments in the city of Vila Real itself before traveling to the airport. The proximity of the city allows you to enjoy a variety of local dishes in one of the numerous restaurants without haste, and then proceed to check-in.

Traveling through Vila Real Airport (VRL) is an experience distinct from the hustle of large international hubs. It is a small regional airfield serving mainly private aviation and a limited number of commercial flights. To ensure your trip goes smoothly, use these tips adapted for the specifics of this airport in Portugal.

Arrival, Check-in, and Security. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5 hours before departure. This time will be more than sufficient. The check-in and security screening processes here are significantly faster than in large airports due to the smaller flow of passengers. Nevertheless, it is always useful to complete online check-in if your airline provides this option, to save time.

Hand Luggage and Seat Selection. Rules for carrying hand luggage are standard for the EU: liquids in containers up to 100 ml must be packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp objects and other dangerous items are prohibited. Given the picturesque landscapes of the Douro region, when choosing a seat on the plane, give preference to a window seat to enjoy the views during takeoff and landing.

Transfers and Customs Control. Vila Real Airport is not a transit hub for international transfers. If you have a complex itinerary, you will likely fly to a larger airport, such as Porto, from where you will continue your journey. Customs control is conducted only for passengers arriving from countries outside the Schengen area and follows standard EU rules. For most passengers flying on domestic flights, this procedure is not applicable.

Savings and Unforeseen Situations. To save money, book a taxi or transfer from the airport in advance. Infrastructure in the small airport is limited, so bring a book or download movies in case of a flight delay. In the event of a delay or cancellation, immediately contact your airline representative for instructions and information about your rights as a passenger, including possible compensation under EU Regulation 261.