Make firm decisions about the dates of your trip to Porto and the type of car you require. Review your itinerary to determine whether you need a rental car with unlimited miles. Note that distances in Portugal are small -- from Porto to Lisbon is only 200 miles -- so less expensive, mileage limited cars are an option. List any amenities you require, such as baby seats or bike racks.
Contact one or more of the seven car rental establishments operating in the Porto Airport. They are A.A. Castanheira/Budget, Auto Jardim, Avis, Europcar, Hertz, National Car Rental and Sixt. Describe your needs and get quotes. Be sure the quotes contain any special services or amenities. If driving automatic shift is essential, spell this out clearly. Most car rentals in Europe are stick shift.
Alternatively, contact a trusted travel service provider to obtain a price comparison. The Porto Airport recommends EasyTerra, an independent company offering rentals and rental car price comparisons in Porto. Look for the link in the Porto Airport site.
Select the best deal and book the reservation. Use a credit card to hold the car, and be sure to carry it with you when you go to Porto. All car rental company offices are on the ground floor in the Porto Airport.