What is the fastest route from Lisbon to the Algarve by car?

The fastest route is via the A2 and A22 highways, covering approximately 275 km and taking around 2.5 to 3 hours. This route is ideal for travelers prioritizing speed.

Are there scenic routes from Lisbon to the Algarve?

Yes, the N120 route via Alentejo offers a scenic drive through coastal villages, taking about 4 to 5 hours. Another option is the A6 and A2 via Évora, which includes a UNESCO World Heritage stopover.

What are the typical one-way rental fees for this route?

One-way fees vary by company and rental duration. For example, Centauro charges €0–€30, Drive on Holidays €0–€25, OK Mobility €20–€50, Sixt €60–€80, and Record Go €25–€40. Some brands waive one-way fees if booked through platforms like Discovercars or Rentalcars with a 'same-country' drop-off.

Where are the best places to drop off the rental car in the Algarve?

Popular drop-off locations include Faro Airport (open 24/7), Albufeira (beach destination with limited hours), Portimão (West Algarve hub), and Lagos (ideal for cliff views with fewer car depots).

Lisbon to Algarve by Rental Car – Best Route, One-Way Deals

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 2026 — without overpaying.

💸 Don’t Overpay at the Airport

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🛣️ 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 (2026)

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