Hit the Road: Lisbon to Algarve by Rental Car
Driving from Lisbon to the Algarve is one of the best ways to explore southern Portugal. With beautiful beaches, whitewashed villages, and scenic stops along the way, a rental car gives you full freedom to discover the coast at your own pace.
This guide covers the best rental options, route suggestions, prices, and how to book a one-way car rental from Lisbon to the Algarve in 2025 — without overpaying.
💸 Don’t Overpay at the Airport
Compare real-time rental deals with no hidden fees or credit card needed.
🛣️ Lisbon to Algarve – Best Driving Routes
| Route Option | Time (approx.) | Distance | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| A2 + A22 (Toll) | 2.5 – 3 hours | ~275 km | Fastest route via toll highways |
| N120 via Alentejo | 4–5 hours | ~300 km | Scenic, slower, coastal villages |
| Via Évora (A6 + A2) | ~3.5 hours | ~320 km | UNESCO stopover possible in Évora |
🧭 Recommended: Take A2 → A22 if speed is priority, or N120 if you want scenic countryside and surf towns.
📍 Where to Drop Off in the Algarve?
| Drop-Off City | Notes |
|---|---|
| Faro Airport | Most popular drop-off, open 24/7 |
| Albufeira | Beach destination, limited hours |
| Portimão | West Algarve hub, good for surf trips |
| Lagos | Ideal for cliff views, fewer car depots |
🧠 One-way drop-offs are easy if booked in advance, especially to Faro.
💰 Rental Car Prices – Lisbon to Algarve (2025)
| Company | 1-Day Base (Manual) | One-Way Fee | Total From (€) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Centauro | €18–€24 | €0–€30 | €25–€55 | Great for full-to-full & debit card |
| Drive on Holidays | €20–€28 | €0–€25 | €28–€60 | Local brand, solid service |
| OK Mobility | €17–€22 | €20–€50 | €37–€65 | Watch for mileage limits |
| Sixt | €35–€50 (auto) | €60–€80 | €95–€130 | Premium vehicles available |
| Record Go | €22–€30 | €25–€40 | €47–€70 | Confirm fuel policy at booking |
✅ Tip: Some brands waive one-way fees if booked through Discovercars or Rentalcars with “same-country” drop-off.
🛡️ Insurance & Fuel Policy Tips
- Fuel: Choose Full-to-Full policy to avoid overpriced prepaid tanks
- Insurance: Buy Full Coverage if you want to avoid deposit/credit hold
- Tolls: Most cars come with Via Verde device for automatic toll billing
🌟 Suggested Stops Along the Way
| Stop | Why Visit? |
|---|---|
| Setúbal | Ferry to Troia, seafood, dolphin tours |
| Sines | Historic port town, Vasco da Gama |
| Zambujeira | Cliffs, beach walks |
| Vila Nova de Milfontes | Stunning coast, relaxed vibe |
| Lagos | Dramatic cliffs, boat tours |
✅ Booking Tips for Lisbon → Algarve One-Way Rentals
- 📲 Use Discovercars or Rentalcars with “Different Drop-off Location” filter
- 🛫 Start at Lisbon Airport for widest fleet and 24/7 service
- ⏳ Book at least 7–10 days in advance (esp. in summer)
- 💳 Want to avoid credit card hold? Select “Full Insurance”
- 📍 Drop off at Faro Airport for best flexibility
