If you’re arriving in Lisbon after a scenic cruise through the Atlantic or Mediterranean, continuing your journey by car is a brilliant idea. Picking up a rental car after disembarking at the Lisbon Cruise Terminal opens up the rest of Portugal—from charming coastal towns to majestic countryside. This complete 2026 guide shows you how to rent a car after a cruise in Lisbon quickly, affordably, and stress-free.
Why Rent a Car After a Lisbon Cruise?
Cruises are great for relaxing—but they often only scratch the surface of what Portugal has to offer. By renting a car in Lisbon:
- You can explore hidden gems like Sintra, Cascais, and Évora
- Travel at your own pace
- Avoid costly group excursions
- Save time getting to the airport or your next destination
If you’re planning to stay in Portugal a few more days, a rental car gives you unmatched flexibility.
Where to Pick Up a Rental Car After a Cruise
Lisbon Cruise Terminal (Santa Apolónia) is located near the city center. You have several options nearby to pick up a rental vehicle:
- Downtown Lisbon locations: Many rental offices are just a 10-minute taxi ride from the port.
- Lisbon Airport (LIS): Around 20–25 minutes away by taxi or Uber. Often cheaper rates and more vehicle options.
- Hotel Delivery: Some companies offer delivery right to your hotel in central Lisbon.
Tip: If you’re flying out of Lisbon Airport, renting there and returning the car before your flight is the most efficient choice.
Required Documents for Renting a Car in Lisbon
To rent a car in Portugal, you’ll need:
- A valid driver’s license
- Passport or EU ID card
- Credit card (or debit, depending on provider)
- International Driving Permit (IDP) for non-EU/EEA licenses
Best Car Rental Companies Near Lisbon Cruise Port
Based on customer ratings, availability, and location convenience, here are top-rated companies near the port or airport:
- Discover Cars
- Avis
- Europcar
- Sixt
- Guerin
Booking online in advance with discovercars.com is often cheaper and includes full insurance, optional no-deposit rentals, and transparent cancellation policies.
💸 Don’t Overpay at the Airport
Compare real-time rental deals with no hidden fees or credit card needed.
What Kind of Car Should You Rent?
Portugal has narrow streets, especially in historic towns. Consider these types:
- Mini/Compact cars (Fiat 500, VW Polo): Perfect for city driving
- Intermediate (Renault Megane, Seat Leon): Great for highway comfort
- SUVs: Best if traveling to mountainous regions or with family
Planning a surf trip after your cruise? Look for wagon or SUV models with space for gear.
Parking in Lisbon After Renting a Car
Lisbon has a mix of public parking zones, underground garages, and private lots. Near the cruise terminal, you’ll find:
- Parque Santa Apolónia – closest to the terminal
- Campo das Cebolas Garage – secure and convenient
- Hotel valet services – available if you’re staying overnight
Tip: Download parking apps like ePark or Via Verde to manage payments easily.
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Car After a Cruise?
Prices vary depending on car type, time of year, and location. As of 2026:
- Economy cars: From €15–€30/day
- SUVs or automatics: €45–€70/day
- One-way rentals: May include an additional fee
Booking 2–3 weeks ahead through platforms like Discovercars usually gets the best deal.
Do You Need a Credit Card?
Some companies allow debit card rentals, but most require credit cards for deposits. If you’re traveling without a credit card:
Driving from Lisbon: Where to Go Next
After picking up your rental car, consider these easy post-cruise road trip ideas:
- Cascais & Estoril – 40 mins west, great for beach lovers
- Sintra – 45 mins, home to fairy-tale palaces
- Setúbal & Arrábida – for wine tasting and mountain views
- Évora – 90 mins inland, full of Roman history
These destinations are all under 2 hours from Lisbon.
Final Tips for a Smooth Car Rental Experience
- Pre-book online for the best price
- Opt for full coverage insurance
- Check the car for damage before leaving the lot
- Learn the basics of Portuguese toll roads: Toll Roads in Portugal Explained
- Have Google Maps or Waze ready
Conclusion: Is Renting a Car in Lisbon After a Cruise Worth It?
Absolutely. If you want to see more than just Lisbon’s city center and experience authentic Portugal, renting a car post-cruise is a smart, affordable option. From historical sites and national parks to vineyards and coastal towns—everything becomes reachable when you’re behind the wheel.
