Complete Guide to Car Rental at Lisbon Airport (LIS)

📝 Lisbon Car Hire at Airport — Ultimate Guide

Renting a car at Lisbon Airport (LIS) is one of the best ways to explore Portugal. With over 15 rental providers on-site, travelers can choose from economy to luxury cars, with prices starting at €18/day if booked in advance. This guide covers the best rental companies, price comparisons, insurance tips, deposit requirements, and how to avoid hidden fees.

🚗 Why Choose Lisbon Airport for Your Car Rental?

Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) is the main international gateway to Portugal and offers:

• ✅ On-site rental desks in Terminal 1
• ✅ Easy pickup and drop-off access via signs and parking lots
• ✅ Extended hours for international travelers
• ✅ Competitive pricing from major and local providers

Whether you’re heading to Sintra, Algarve, or Porto, Lisbon Airport car rental gives you immediate mobility upon arrival.

💰 Average Car Rental Prices at Lisbon Airport (2025)

💡 Prices rise sharply in July–August. Booking 3–4 weeks ahead is highly recommended.

🏆 Best Lisbon Airport Car Rental Companies (2025)

Here’s a list of top-rated providers at LIS Airport:

📌 Always read the fuel policy, insurance coverage, and deposit terms.

💳 Deposit & Payment Policies at LIS Airport

• 💰 Standard deposit: €600–€1500 on your credit card
• ✅ Some companies offer zero-deposit if full coverage is added
• 💳 Credit cards preferred; debit cards accepted by select companies with conditions

🛡️ Insurance Options at Lisbon Airport

Most rentals include basic CDW (Collision Damage Waiver), but:

• You’re responsible for excess fees of €900–€1500
• Full coverage reduces liability to €0 (costs €10–€25/day)
• Some US and UK credit cards include rental insurance – bring proof
• ✅ Third-party insurance can be used, but check if the agency accepts it

🧠 Never assume you’re fully insured unless you see it in writing.

🗺️ How to Find Your Rental Desk at Lisbon Airport

• All rental car desks are in Terminal 1 arrivals area
• After pickup, you walk ~3–5 minutes to the parking garage (P2 or P3)
• If flying into Terminal 2, take the free shuttle to T1

✈️ If you arrive late, choose a provider with extended hours or key-drop box.

🧾 Tips to Avoid Hidden Fees at Lisbon Airport

✔️ Take timestamped photos of the car (exterior, fuel gauge, mileage)
✔️ Return on time – grace period is usually 30–59 minutes
✔️ Use Via Verde toll tag (some rentals include it by default)
✔️ Avoid “empty tank return” unless clearly stated
✔️ Always confirm what’s included: second driver, young driver fee, etc.

📲 Can You Use Your Phone for Navigation?

Yes — and it’s recommended. Just make sure to:

• Download offline Google Maps or Waze
• Bring a car charger and mount
• Use local eSIM or prepaid SIM to avoid roaming fees
• Most rentals have USB ports but not GPS devices by default

✅ Summary – Renting a Car at Lisbon Airport

• Best prices start at €18/day with early booking
• Over 15 providers operate on-site
• Consider Drive on Holidays, Guerin, or Centauro for best value
• Always compare deposit rules, insurance, and location terms
• Use a credit card for lower deposit and smoother pickup

❓ FAQ

Q: What is the cheapest way to rent a car at Lisbon Airport?
A: Book 3–4 weeks in advance with companies like Drive on Holidays or Centauro, and opt for full insurance to reduce deposit.

Q: Do I need an international license to rent a car in Lisbon?
A: No, not if your license is in English and includes a photo.

Q: Are there hidden fees with Lisbon Airport car rentals?
A: Read the terms carefully — fuel, insurance, and out-of-hours fees are common.