Those who rent a car in Portugal will discover a country brimming with energy, beauty and history. A rental car in Portugal allows you to discover this fascinating country according to your own schedule. When you have your own four wheels, you will be able to explore the history and culture of Lisbon, the stunning beaches of the Algarve, and Porto’s old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However long you decide to stay and wherever you want to go, with a rental car, you can be sure to get there.
Car rental Portugal: The most important rental sites
A long and narrow country, you will need to rent a car to make the most of everything Portugal has to offer. Luckily there are many locations from which you can pick up your auto rental throughout Portugal. Choose to rent one way from Portugal to Spain, or for a long term Portugal trip – it’s up to you. Plan ahead to take advantage of the best deals by using our price comparison. There are several cheap car hire companies with locations throughout the country:
Lisbon
Porto
Ponta Delgada
Lagos
Rent a car in Portugal and explore its sights
With historic cities, stunning beaches and natural beauty beyond comparison, Portugal has it all. Though there are many things to do in Portugal, some stand out among the others. Grab the keys to your rental car and check out some of the sights.
Azores is an enchanting destination. Comprised of nine islands forming an archipelago, those who rent a car can expect to discover stunning mountainous landscapes, quaint fishing villages and peaceful lakes. Those seeking an adventure will also find plenty to enjoy here, with many excellent hiking and cycling options available. Although there is no ferry service between the islands and mainland Portugal, you can rent a car there.
Colourful Porto has everything you would expect from a thriving port city, with excellent cafes and bars, enchanting cobblestone streets and an artistic atmosphere. If you choose to see just one attraction, make it the Church of Sao Francisco, one of Europe’s best examples of Gothic architecture. After exploring the city, take your rental car and make the short trip to the nearby Braga, a charming city noted for its baroque architecture.
The coastal city of Lisbon has a little something for everyone. Historic buildings, modern art galleries, a beautiful landscape, and plenty of beaches for sunbathing and swimming are just a few of the attractions Lisbon offers to those with a car rental in Portugal. Also, located just 30km from Lisbon is Pinta, a quaint town at the base of the Sintra Mountains that features romantic architecture such as the fairytale Pena Palace.
Enjoy the Mediterranean way of life in the Algarve, an area noted for its excellent weather, food, beaches and golf resorts. When you rent a car in Portugal, you can spend your days exploring the many picturesque beaches the Algarve has to offer.
Getting around with your car rental in Portugal
Like in most European countries, you are to drive on the right-hand side of the road in Portugal. While driving in Portugal is generally not an issue, those new to driving abroad should be prepared for a few things. Portuguese drivers use their indicators less than you may be accustomed to, so have some patience and be cautious. Toll roads are common across the country, with both pay booths and electronic tolls in effect. Electronic tolls are not always well signposted, so pay attention.
