Driving from Algarve to Seville? Rental Car Cross-Border Guide
Planning to drive from Portugal to Spain? The trip from the Algarve region to Seville is one of the most popular cross-border road journeys in southern Europe. This guide covers everything you need to know about driving a rental car across the Portugal-Spain border — rental policies, route options, documents, tolls, and tips for a smooth ride.
📍 Route Overview – How Far Is It from Algarve to Seville?
| Departure Point | Distance (approx.) | Travel Time (by car) |
|---|---|---|
| Faro Airport (FAO) | 200 km | ~2h 15min |
| Lagos (Western Algarve) | 260 km | ~2h 45min |
| Albufeira | 220 km | ~2h 30min |
🗺️ Recommended Route:
Take A22 (Via do Infante) east → cross the Guadiana International Bridge → continue on A-49 to Seville.
🛂 Can You Take a Portuguese Rental Car to Spain?
Yes — most car rental companies in Portugal allow cross-border travel to Spain, but you must inform them in advance.
✅ What You Need:
- A valid EU or international driving license
- Permission noted in your rental agreement
- Passport or ID card
- Optional: green insurance card (not always required within EU)
⚠️ Additional Fee:
Most providers charge a cross-border fee of €20–€50. Some include it for free with premium coverage.
💸 Don’t Overpay at the Airport
Compare real-time rental deals with no hidden fees or credit card needed.
🏢 Which Rental Companies Allow Cross-Border Travel?
| Company | Spain Allowed? | Cross-Border Fee | Advance Notice? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sixt | ✅ Yes | ~€30 | ✔️ Required |
| Europcar | ✅ Yes | May apply | ✔️ Required |
| Guerin | ✅ Yes | ~€20–€40 | ✔️ Yes |
| Avis/Budget | ✅ Yes | Depends on office | ✔️ Yes |
| Discovercars | ✅ Yes (platform) | Transparent info | ✔️ Yes |
👉 Tip: Always declare cross-border intent during booking. Some providers cancel insurance if you cross without approval.
🛣️ Toll Roads Between Algarve and Spain
🇵🇹 In Portugal (A22 – Via do Infante):
- Fully electronic toll road
- Use Via Verde device or prepay at CTT/post office or online (portugaltolls.com)
🇪🇸 In Spain (A-49):
- Free — no tolls between border and Seville!
🅿️ Parking in Seville
- Street parking is limited and metered
- Use paid underground garages or hotel parking
- Avoid driving in Seville’s historic center (narrow streets & restricted areas)
⛽ Fuel Stops on the Way
- Available on both sides of the border
- Portugal fuel prices are generally higher than Spain — consider refueling after crossing
- Be aware of fuel policy in rental agreement: full-to-full vs prepaid
📸 Border Control & Documents
- No passport checks at the border (Schengen Zone)
- Random police checks may occur — carry your:
- Passport/ID
- Rental agreement
- Driver’s license
- Insurance document
❓FAQ – Algarve to Seville by Rental Car
Do I need an international license to drive in Spain or Portugal?
→ Only if your license is not in Roman characters or not EU-issued.
Can I return my rental in Seville if picked up in Algarve?
→ Yes, with a one-way rental. Extra drop-off fees may apply.
Is insurance valid across borders?
→ Basic coverage usually extends to Spain, but confirm in writing.
Can I take a ferry to Morocco from Spain with the rental car?
→ No — crossing to Africa is usually forbidden by rental companies.
✅ Final Tips for Cross-Border Travel
- Book early and confirm cross-border policy
- Opt for full insurance coverage for both countries
- Use Google Maps or Waze with downloaded offline maps
- Travel during daylight for scenic views along the Algarve–Andalusia route
