- ✈️ Why Rent a Car at Lisbon Airport?
- 🧭 Terminal Overview: Where to Pick Up Your Car
- 📑 Required Documents to Rent a Car
- 🕒 Step-by-Step Rental Process
- 💡 Important Tips to Avoid Surprises
- 🧾 Example Pricing
- 📌 Best Time to Book
- 🔗 Where to Book Online (With Filters)
- People Also Ask
- Can I rent a car directly at Lisbon Airport?
- Do I need an international driving permit in Portugal?
- Which companies operate at Lisbon Airport?
- Is it cheaper to book in advance?
- ✅ Final Thoughts
✈️ Why Rent a Car at Lisbon Airport?
Lisbon Airport (Humberto Delgado – LIS) is not only Portugal’s busiest airport but also one of the most convenient places to start your trip by car. With major highways connected right to the terminals, renting a car here gives you instant access to destinations like Sintra, Cascais, Porto, or the Algarve.
Whether you’re traveling for leisure or business, having a car from the moment you land saves time and adds freedom. No more waiting in taxi lines or adjusting to public transport schedules — just land, grab your keys, and go.
🧭 Terminal Overview: Where to Pick Up Your Car
Lisbon Airport has two terminals, but all car rental desks are located at Terminal 1.
🛬 Arriving at Terminal 1? You’re in the right place — just follow the signs for “Car Hire / Rent-a-Car” near the arrivals exit.
🛫 Arriving at Terminal 2 (Ryanair, EasyJet, Wizz)? No problem — a free airport shuttle runs every 10 minutes to Terminal 1. Once there, you’ll find rental counters from:
- Avis / Budget
- Hertz / Thrifty
- Sixt
- Europcar
- Guerin
- RecordGo
- Centauro (shuttle to external lot)
- TurisPrime, DriveOnHolidays, and more
📝 Pro Tip: Companies like Centauro, OK Mobility, and TurisPrime may not have desks inside the terminal but offer free shuttle pickup — look for their reps at arrivals.
📑 Required Documents to Rent a Car
To rent a car at Lisbon Airport, you’ll typically need:
- ✅ Valid passport or EU national ID
- ✅ Driver’s license (minimum 1 year old; International Driving Permit if outside EU)
- ✅ Credit card (Visa/Mastercard, not prepaid)
- ✅ Rental confirmation (email or printed)
💳 No credit card?
Some companies accept debit cards, but usually only if you purchase full insurance. Check with:
- Centauro
- RecordGo
- DriveOnHolidays
🕒 Step-by-Step Rental Process
- Compare & Book in Advance Use a comparison tool like Discovercars to get the best price and filters (e.g., “no credit card,” “automatic,” etc.)
- Arrive at Terminal 1 Follow the “Car Rental” signs; be ready with your documents
- Sign the Contract Review conditions, insurance, and deposit policies. Ask questions!
- Inspect the Vehicle Take clear photos/videos of the car before driving off. Document scratches, tires, fuel level.
- Pick Up & Drive You’ll get directions to the parking zone or be taken by shuttle. Start your journey!
💡 Important Tips to Avoid Surprises
🔎 Fuel Policy:
Most companies use full-to-full — return with the same fuel level. Penalties apply if not followed.
💸 Don’t Overpay at the Airport
Compare real-time rental deals with no hidden fees or credit card needed.
🛡 Insurance:
- Basic insurance is included but has high excess (up to €1,500)
- Consider buying full coverage (online or at counter) to avoid holding deposits
🚦 Driving in Portugal:
- Drive on the right
- Use seatbelts at all times
- Many highways are toll roads — check if your rental has a toll device
📷 Take Photos:
Front, back, sides, wheels, interior, and fuel gauge — saves you from false damage claims.
🧾 Example Pricing
| Car Type | Price/Day (€) | With Full Insurance | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy (Fiat 500) | €17–25 | ~€35–40 | Best for city use |
| Compact (Seat Ibiza) | €25–35 | ~€45–55 | Ideal for short trips |
| SUV (Dacia Duster) | €40–55 | ~€70+ | Great for long drives |
| Auto + No Credit Card | ~€50–60 | Full insurance needed | Offered by RecordGo, Centauro |
📌 Best Time to Book
- ✅ 1–2 weeks before travel — best rates and availability
- 🚫 Booking on arrival = higher prices and longer queues
- 🔥 High demand: June–September
🔗 Where to Book Online (With Filters)
We recommend using this live comparison tool — filter by:
- Car type
- Insurance included
- Debit card accepted
- Supplier rating
People Also Ask
Can I rent a car directly at Lisbon Airport?
Yes, you can rent a car on arrival at Lisbon Airport. Rental desks are located in the arrivals hall and in the P1/P2 car parks.
Do I need an international driving permit in Portugal?
For most EU and US citizens, an international driving permit is not required. A valid national driver’s license is sufficient.
Which companies operate at Lisbon Airport?
Popular companies include Sixt, Europcar, Hertz, Avis, Guerin, and Enterprise.
Is it cheaper to book in advance?
Yes, booking online in advance usually results in significantly better prices than renting on the spot.
✅ Final Thoughts
Renting a car at Lisbon Airport is quick and straightforward — especially when you’re prepared. It gives you freedom to explore Portugal on your terms, whether you’re heading to a beach in Cascais or mountains in Serra da Estrela.
Just follow the steps above, compare your options, and choose the provider that fits your trip and budget. Drive safe — and enjoy your adventure!
