The Best Plane Spotting Locations in Portugal

Portugal is home to some of the most exciting and scenic plane spotting locations in Europe. From the sun-soaked Algarve to the dramatic landings at Madeira, the country offers a mix of holiday traffic, domestic routes, and long-haul operations from Europe, the Americas, and Africa. Whether you’re looking for a dedicated viewing platform, a hillside vantage point, or a prime runway-side spot, Portugal has something for every aviation enthusiast.

Here’s a roundup of the best plane spotting locations in the country.

Faro Airport (FAO | LPFR)

Photo (c) Aero Icarus

Faro is a key gateway to Portugal’s southern coast, bustling with European charter and low-cost airline traffic, particularly in summer. While there are no official viewing areas, the sunny climate makes it ideal for photography.

• Runway 28: Located east of the terminal, this spot offers great views of aircraft landing. A dirt road leads to the perimeter fence, and a short walk takes you to a spot where you can capture aircraft lining up.
• Runway 10 & Perimeter Track: A track runs along the southern side of the runway, offering multiple viewing angles. The best spot is at the end of Runway 10, where a small road leads to the perimeter fence. A stepladder may be required.

Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS | LPPT)

Lisbon Airport. Photo (c) Erik Ritterbach

Portugal’s busiest airport is a hub for TAP Air Portugal, easyJet, and Ryanair, handling a mix of European, long-haul, and African routes. Though heavily congested, there are some excellent spotting locations.

• Runway 02 Viewing Spot: Easily accessible via Av. Santos e Castro, this area offers a great view of aircraft lining up and landing. A stepladder may be needed to see over the fence.
• Runway Overlook: A raised vantage point offering a panoramic view of the main runway and taxiways. Located off Eixo Central, it’s an excellent spot for photographers with a good lens.
• Northern Taxiway: Located near the air force base, this spot gives a closer look at aircraft taxiing before departure.

Madeira Airport (FNC | LPMA)

One of the world’s most famous airports for aviation photography, Madeira features a stunning approach and a runway built on stilts over the sea. The airport’s location often results in challenging landings due to crosswinds.

• Airport Terminal Observation Deck: A dedicated viewing terrace offers fantastic close-up views of aircraft on the apron and runway.
• Viewing Hill: For the iconic overhead shots of aircraft landing, this hill above Rua Santa Catarina is the perfect spot. A short walk leads to an incredible vantage point overlooking the threshold.

Porto Airport (OPO | LPPR)

Photo (c) Aero Icarus

Portugal’s second-largest airport has grown significantly in recent years, with increased international connectivity and a busy cargo operation.

• Runway 17/35 Perimeter Road: Driving along R. das Bicas, you’ll find a bend in the road offering a view of the runway through the fence. A stepladder is recommended for photographers.
• West Side Viewpoint: Continuing past the first location, under the runway tunnel, provides another angle for spotting movements.

Title image: Frank Kovalchek

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These are just a few of the incredible spotting locations in Portugal, but the world has so much more to offer. Our brand-new World Airport Spotting Guides (3rd Edition) features spotting details for over 350 airports worldwide, helping you plan your next aviation adventure. Order your copy today and explore the best locations for plane spotting around the globe!

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