Car rental in Portugal

Portugal is a fantastic destination not only for beach enthusiasts but also for travelers who enjoy exploring by car. This country offers a unique combination of ancient cities, charming villages, diverse monasteries, and striking castles built in the distinctive Neo-Manueline architectural style. Along with breathtaking mountains, Portugal boasts some of the most beautiful beaches catering to every preference. Renting a car in Portugal is an excellent way to experience all these wonders firsthand.

When you rent a car, you can conveniently pick it up or drop it off either in the city or at the airport. At the scheduled time, a rental representative will be there to assist you with the necessary paperwork and ensure a smooth process.

Driving across Portugal is a comfortable experience. The toll roads are well-maintained, and even the toll-free roads are in good condition. Traffic congestion is usually minimal, and the local traffic police tend to be relatively tolerant towards tourists.

By reserving a vehicle through our platform, you can embark on an unforgettable journey discovering the stunning landscapes and cultural gems Portugal has to offer.

Top 5 reasons to rent a car on try2travel.life

  1. Our platform aggregates the best offers from local car rental providers, allowing you to quickly compare options and select the one that fits your needs perfectly.
  2. Booking requires only a partial advance payment of 15-20%, with the remaining balance payable upon car pickup.
  3. Transparent pricing with no hidden fees — the price you see at booking is exactly what you pay when collecting your vehicle.
  4. Standard insurance coverage is included in the rental price, providing peace of mind during your travels.
  5. Friendly and responsive customer support is available throughout the entire rental period to assist you whenever needed.

Documents required to rent a car

To rent a vehicle, you will need to provide the following documents:

  • Valid identification card or passport.
  • Driving license.
  • Credit or debit card for payment and deposit purposes.

Before making a booking, double-check that all your documents are up to date and valid.

If you plan to have two drivers, the additional driver must meet the same age and experience requirements as the primary driver. Their driving license and identification documents will also be necessary for registration and paperwork.

How to choose the right car for your trip

Planning your itinerary is crucial for selecting the most suitable car. For city sightseeing, a compact or mid-size car is ideal due to easier parking and maneuverability.

For mountainous terrain, opt for a vehicle with a powerful engine (1.6 liters or more) that can comfortably handle steep ascents while running air conditioning. A manual transmission is highly recommended for enhanced control.

Make sure to fill up your fuel tank before heading into mountainous regions, as fuel consumption rises sharply during uphill drives and petrol stations are sparse in these areas.

If you enjoy scenic drives along coastal roads and mountain views, consider renting a convertible. It offers a unique driving experience and fantastic photo opportunities. Keep in mind, however, that convertibles are typically two-seaters and the rear seats can be quite windy.

For larger groups or families, a minivan provides ample space and comfort. Planning ahead is advised, and sometimes renting two cars might be more practical depending on your group size.

Car pickup and return procedures

When picking up your rental car, bring your booking voucher (digital or printed), driving license, and passport.

Follow these steps to ensure a smooth pickup:

  • Thoroughly inspect the car for any existing scratches or damage and note them on the provided checklist.
  • Take detailed photos or videos of the vehicle from multiple angles as proof of its condition.
  • Carefully read and sign the rental agreement.
  • Ask the rental agent any questions if something is unclear.
  • Pay the remaining rental balance and deposit as required.

This process generally takes less than 20 minutes.

Returning the car is even simpler and faster:

  • Arrive at the agreed location on time, ensuring the vehicle is clean and filled with fuel to the same level as when you picked it up.
  • The agent will inspect the car, collect the keys, and sign off on the return report.

This usually takes around 10 minutes.

Traffic rules in Portugal

Portuguese traffic regulations are generally similar to the rest of Europe, but with some local nuances. Notably, some locals tend to ignore traffic laws, but tourists should strictly adhere to the rules to avoid penalties. Traffic police actively monitor compliance and enforce fines for violations.

Speed limits are as follows:

  • 50 km/h within city limits
  • 90 km/h on rural roads outside cities
  • 100 km/h on highways
  • 120 km/h on expressways

Daytime running lights are required only inside tunnels or in conditions with poor visibility.

All vehicle occupants must wear seat belts at all times.

Children under 12 years old and shorter than 135 cm must be secured in appropriate child restraints in the rear seats.

Using a mobile phone while driving is only allowed with a hands-free system.

The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0.49‰.

Parking regulations

Portugal offers both free and paid parking areas. Information about parking fees and permitted free parking durations is displayed on nearby signs.

Always pay for parking where required and monitor your parking time carefully, as fines are issued immediately for violations.

Payment is made in advance at parking meters using coins, and the receipt must be placed visibly under your windshield. Note that parking meters do not provide change.

Toll roads in Portugal

There are two types of toll roads: those that accept payment by card, cash, or electronic means, and others that can only be paid electronically. Toll charges depend on the length of the tolled section, averaging around €1 per 10 kilometers.

Must-visit locations in Portugal

Portugal is perfect for beach vacations. The southern town of Lagos serves as an excellent base for exploring several beautiful beaches situated conveniently nearby, including Praia de Porto de Mós, Praia de Dona Ana, and Praia da Falésia.

Lisbon is a must-see destination. Be sure to drive across the Vasco da Gama Bridge, the longest bridge in the European Union, which links the northern and southern parts of the capital. While in Lisbon, it's recommended to park your car and explore the historic center on foot to fully appreciate its charm.

For lovers of parks, palaces, and Moorish fortresses, the town of Sintra is an ideal stop.

Porto, the country's second-largest city, is renowned for its architectural landmarks and nearby wine plantations. The Alto Douro Valley offers a timeless experience where traditional handcraft wine-making methods have been preserved for centuries.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate visiting the Peneda-Gerês National Park, a mountainous reserve featuring rivers, waterfalls, and authentic villages built from grey granite stone.