Only need a car for a few hours or one day in Lisbon? Whether you’re heading to the beach, IKEA, or just exploring outside the city, renting a car for 24 hours or less is easier — and more affordable — than you might think.
This guide breaks down the best places to rent short-term, how pricing works, and when it’s smarter than taking an Uber or taxi.
⏱️ Can You Rent a Car in Lisbon Just for a Day or a Few Hours?
Yes!Many rental companies in Lisbon offer:
💸 Don’t Overpay at the Airport
Compare real-time rental deals with no hidden fees or credit card needed.
- Full 24-hour daily rentals
- 3h, 6h, and 12h packages (some via local providers)
- Half-day rates in select agencies (especially local ones)
💡 This is ideal for shopping runs, airport trips, or coastal drives.
🏆 Best Companies for 1-Day or Hourly Rentals in Lisbon
| Company | 1-Day Rentals | Hourly Rental Option | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guerin | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | Minimum: 1 day |
| Turiscar | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Some locations | May allow 6–12 hour slots |
| discovercars.com | ✅ Yes | ❌ No (daily only) | Compare across providers |
| Localrent Partners | ✅ Yes | ✅ Some allow hourly | Contact directly |
🚗 Some providers require returning to the same location within the day.
💶 How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Car in Lisbon for One Day?
| Rental Length | Estimated Price (EUR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 3–6 hours | €25–€40 | Available with small cars or vans |
| 1 full day | €35–€65 | Includes basic insurance and 100–200 km |
| + Insurance | +€10–€20 | Optional full coverage |
⛽ Fuel and tolls not included. Return car with a full tank to avoid fees.
🧳 Best Use Cases for 1-Day Car Rentals in Lisbon
- 🏖️ Day trip to Costa da Caparica or Sintra
- 🛍️ IKEA / furniture pickup
- ✈️ Lisbon Airport drop-offs
- 📷 Road trip along the coast for Instagram shots
- 🛒 Local market hauls or moving small items
🟡 What to Watch Out For
- 🕐 Rental day = 24 hours, not calendar day
- 🕔 Returning late = charged for 2nd day
- 🚘 Choose fuel-efficient models for city trips
- 💳 Many agencies still require credit card deposit, even for short term
🛻 Car Types Recommended for Short-Term Use
| Type | Best For | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Small Hatchback | City drives, IKEA, errands | Easy to park, low fuel |
| Estate/Wagon | Beach gear, luggage | Long boot, more space |
| Compact SUV | Day trip with 3–4 people | Comfort + visibility |
🧭 Final Tips
- ✅ Book online the night before
- ✅ Look for agencies with after-hours return boxes
- ✅ Check for included km — don’t get caught over limit
- ✅ Take photos at pickup & return (even for short trips)
