Renting a car in Portugal is the best way to explore its beaches, castles, and hidden mountain villages. While trains cover big cities, only a car lets you reach places like Serra da Estrela, Costa Vicentina, or remote wineries in Alentejo.
Pros:
- Total freedom & flexibility
- Affordable fuel and rental prices
- Great road infrastructure
Cons:
- Some toll roads
- Parking in big cities
- Credit card often required
✅ Rental Requirements in Portugal
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 18–21 (varies by company) |
| License | EU or International Driving Permit |
| Credit Card | Usually required for deposit |
| Insurance | Basic included, extra available |
| Passport & Booking | Must match driver’s name |
✈️ Best Places to Rent a Car
| Location | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lisbon Airport | Best selection & prices | Avoid city traffic |
| Porto Airport | Ideal for Northern Portugal tours | Quick access to highways |
| Faro Airport | Perfect for Algarve trips | High demand in summer |
| City Centers | Good for locals or 1–2 day trips | Less variety, often pricier |
🚘 Best Car Rental Companies in Portugal
| Company | Airport Locations | Avg. Price/Day | Trustpilot Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sixt | Yes | €32–45 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Guerin | Yes | €30–42 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Centauro | Yes | €25–38 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Hertz | Yes | €35–55 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Discovercars | Yes (aggregator) | From €12 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
🛣️ Driving in Portugal – What Tourists Need to Know
- Speed Limits:
- Urban: 50 km/h
- Highways: 120 km/h
- Rural roads: 90 km/h
- Toll Roads:
Portugal uses Via Verde electronic tolls. - Fines:
Fines for speeding or improper parking range from €60 to €250+. Police may require on-the-spot payment from foreigners.
💶 How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Car in Portugal?
| Car Type | Avg. Price/Day | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Economy (Fiat 500) | €12–25 | Solo travelers, city trips |
| Compact (Golf) | €20–35 | Couples, short tours |
| SUV (Duster) | €30–60 | Mountains, families |
| Minivan | €50–90 | Groups |
💡 Tip: Prices rise in summer — book at least 2–4 weeks in advance.
💸 Don’t Overpay at the Airport
Compare real-time rental deals with no hidden fees or credit card needed.
💳 Credit, Debit Cards & Deposits
- Most rental companies require a credit card for deposit.
- Some accept debit cards with full insurance.
- Deposit ranges from €300 to €1,200 depending on vehicle and company.
- Want no deposit? Use full coverage insurance.
💡 7 Money-Saving Tips for Car Rentals in Portugal
- Book early (especially in July–August).
- Avoid extras like GPS – use your phone.
- Always take photos of the car before driving off.
- Decline expensive fuel prepay options.
- Compare prices with full insurance included.
- Avoid airport pickup fees if possible.
- Use Discovercars to see all deals at once.
❓ FAQ – Renting a Car in Portugal
Do I need an International Driving Permit?
If you’re from outside the EU, yes. EU licenses are accepted.
Can I rent with a debit card in Portugal?
Yes, with full insurance and select companies.
Is it safe to drive in Lisbon?
Mostly yes, but traffic can be dense. Avoid rush hours.
Can I take the rental car to Spain?
Yes – but always inform your rental company first.
🚗 Final Thoughts: Is Renting a Car in Portugal Worth It?
Absolutely. If you plan to explore more than Lisbon, a car rental gives you flexibility, saves time, and often costs less than guided tours or multiple train tickets. Just make sure you understand the rules, book early, and choose the right pickup location.
