Arouca is 70 kilometres southeast of Porto and around 45 kilometres from Aveiro. The drive from Porto takes about an hour via the A29 and A32 motorways, turning off at Castelo de Paiva and climbing into the hills on the N224. The road through the mountains is well-maintained but winding; the last stretch into town involves hairpin bends. A car is by far the most practical way to visit, especially if you plan to do both the bridge and the trail.
There is no direct train service to Arouca. The closest train station is at Castelo de Paiva, about 25 kilometres away by road, on the Porto–Aveiro suburban line. From there, local buses serve Arouca but infrequently — check schedules carefully if travelling without a car.
Day-trip buses from Porto run during the summer season. Several companies offer organised day trips from Porto that include transport, trail access, and the bridge crossing; these are worth considering if you are not renting a car. The Porto tourism office has current listings.
By car from Porto: Take the A29 south towards Aveiro, then the A32 east towards Oliveira de Azeméis and Arouca. The total motorway toll is around €3–4 each way.