How to Rent a Car at Lisbon Airport in September

Renting a Car at Lisbon Airport in September

Lisbon is one of Europe’s most vibrant capitals, and September is a perfect month to visit. The weather is warm but not too hot, the tourist crowds are smaller than in July and August, and the roads are ideal for scenic drives across Portugal. For many travelers, renting a car at Lisbon Airport (Aeroporto Humberto Delgado, also known as LIS) is the smartest way to begin a trip.

This guide will show you exactly how to rent a car at Lisbon Airport in September, what to expect in terms of prices, insurance, fuel policies, and what makes September a particularly good month for hiring a car in Portugal.

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Why Rent a Car in Lisbon in September? 🚘

September is one of the best months for a Portuguese road trip. Here’s why:

• 🌤️ Mild weather: Temperatures average 22–26°C, perfect for driving.
• 🚦 Less traffic: Fewer tourists than in peak summer.
• 💰 Better deals: Rental companies often drop prices compared to July–August.
• 🏖️ Best balance: You can still enjoy the beach season without overcrowding.

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Car Rental at Lisbon Airport: What to Expect ✈️

Lisbon Airport is well equipped with both international and local rental companies. When you arrive, you’ll find most car hire counters in Terminal 1, near the arrivals area.

Popular Rental Companies at LIS

• International: Hertz, Avis, Sixt, Europcar, Enterprise
• Local: Guerin, Drive on Holidays, Bravacar

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Step-by-Step: How to Rent a Car at Lisbon Airport in September 📝

1. Book Early

Even though September is calmer than summer, Lisbon is still popular. Booking in advance ensures the best price and availability, especially for automatic cars.

2. Pick the Right Car 🚙

Consider your trip:

• Small city cars (Fiat 500, Renault Clio) for Lisbon’s narrow streets.
• Compact SUVs (Nissan Qashqai, VW T-Roc) for comfort on highways.
• Vans or MPVs if traveling with family.

3. Documents You Need 📑

• Passport
• Valid driving license (EU or international permit if required)
• Credit card (in driver’s name, for deposit)

4. Insurance Options 🔒

• Basic coverage is included but comes with a high excess.
• Full coverage reduces liability and is recommended for peace of mind.

5. Fuel Policies ⛽

• Full-to-full: Best option—return with a full tank.
• Prepaid fuel: Convenient but usually more expensive.

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Average Car Rental Prices in September 💶

Here’s what you can expect in Lisbon Airport car rental prices for September (per day):

Car Type	Average Price (€)	Best For
Economy (Fiat 500, VW Polo)	€25–35	Budget travelers, city driving
Compact (Seat Leon, VW Golf)	€35–45	Couples, small families
SUV (VW T-Roc, Nissan Qashqai)	€45–65	Road trips, extra comfort
Luxury (Mercedes C-Class, BMW 3 Series)	€80–120	Business, style & comfort
Van/Minivan (7–9 seats)	€90–130	Groups, families with kids

💡 Tip: Prices drop mid-September compared to early September, when some tourists are still around.

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September-Specific Tips 🍂

1. Weather Prep: Evenings are cooler, so a car with good A/C and heating is useful.
2. Festivals: September often has local events—expect more traffic in Sintra, Cascais, or Algarve during weekends.
3. Sun Protection: Keep a windshield sunshade in the car.
4. Check Road Tolls: Portugal uses many electronic tolls. Add Via Verde to your rental for stress-free driving.

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Best Destinations to Drive from Lisbon in September 🚗🌊

• Sintra (30 km) 🏰 — Cooler in September, fewer tourists at Pena Palace.
• Cascais (35 km) 🏖️ — Perfect seaside escape.
• Évora (130 km) 🏛️ — Historic city with warm September evenings.
• Algarve (270 km) ☀️ — Still sunny but less crowded than August.
• Douro Valley (300 km) 🍷 — September is harvest season, ideal for wine lovers.

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Pros and Cons of Renting at Lisbon Airport in September ⚖️

✅ Pros	❌ Cons
Lower rental rates than summer	Still busy in the first week
Great driving weather	Some smaller agencies close earlier off-season
More car availability	Higher deposit requirements for luxury cars
Easier parking in tourist spots	Rain showers possible late September

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Common Mistakes to Avoid 🚫

• ❌ Booking too late (prices rise closer to arrival).
• ❌ Forgetting an international license if required.
• ❌ Not checking fuel policy before signing.
• ❌ Ignoring toll road options (bills can surprise you later).

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Packing Checklist for September Road Trips in Portugal 🎒

• Light clothes + jacket for evenings
• Sunglasses & sunscreen
• Phone holder for navigation
• Portable charger
• Small coins for parking meters

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ❓

1. Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a car in Portugal?

If you hold a valid EU or UK license, you do not need an IDP. Travelers from the USA, Canada, Australia, and other non-EU countries can usually rent with their home license, but some rental companies recommend having an IDP to avoid complications.

2. How old do I need to be to rent a car at Lisbon Airport?

The minimum age is typically 21 years, but drivers under 25 may face a “young driver surcharge.” Luxury or premium vehicles often require a minimum age of 25.

3. Is parking in Lisbon easy in September?

It’s easier than in peak summer, but parking in central Lisbon is still limited. Opt for public car parks or hotel garages. For day trips, towns like Cascais or Évora offer more convenient parking options.

4. Do I need full insurance coverage in Portugal?

Basic insurance is always included, but it comes with a high excess. In September, when rainy days may occur, many travelers choose full coverage to avoid unexpected costs.

5. How much is the deposit when renting a car at Lisbon Airport?

Deposits range between €600 and €1,500, depending on the rental company and vehicle class. Make sure your credit card has sufficient funds available.

6. Can I drive to Spain from Lisbon with a rental car?

Yes ✅, but you must inform the rental company in advance. Some agencies charge a small cross-border fee. September is a great time for a Lisbon-to-Seville or Lisbon-to-Madrid road trip.

7. What is the speed limit in Portugal?

• 120 km/h on highways
• 100 km/h on rural roads
• 50 km/h in towns and cities

Always check road signs, as police in Portugal are strict about speeding.

8. Are tolls expensive in Portugal?

Portugal has many toll roads, and costs vary depending on your route. Adding the Via Verde device to your rental is the easiest way to pay automatically. Expect about €20–40 for a Lisbon-to-Porto drive.

9. Is September a good month for a road trip in Portugal?

Yes! The weather is pleasant, tourist crowds are smaller, and driving conditions are better compared to July and August. You’ll also find more affordable car rental prices.

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Final Thoughts 💡

Renting a car at Lisbon Airport in September is one of the smartest ways to explore Portugal. You’ll enjoy lower rental rates, pleasant driving conditions, and more flexibility than relying on trains or buses.

Whether you plan to explore Lisbon’s charming neighborhoods, drive along the Atlantic coast, or discover Portugal’s countryside, a rental car gives you the freedom to make the most of your trip.