Portugal

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Rent a car in Portugal

Portugal is a country made for driving. Whether you’re chasing waves along the Algarve, winding through the vineyards of the Douro Valley, or exploring the hilltop castles near Lisbon, having a car changes everything. Public transport is good — but it won’t get you to the quiet beaches, village markets, or that perfect sunset road above the cliffs. That’s where car rental in Portugal really makes a difference.

Photo: Stefany Sa, Unsplash

Why Choose Car Hire in Portugal?

Renting a car here is straightforward. The roads are in great condition, signs are clear, and the scenery... well, you’ll see. With car hire in Portugal, you’re not just booking transport — you’re unlocking flexibility.

Planning to stay a while? Options like long-term car hire Portugal or monthly car rental Portugal are available if you're working remotely, moving around, or just taking it slow. You’ll find a wide range of models across the country, from compact city cars to SUVs and even automatic car rentals in Portugal for those who prefer simplicity.

Pick-Up Made Easy: From Porto to the Islands

If you’re landing in the north, car rental Porto, Portugal is a popular choice. The city is a perfect starting point for road trips — from medieval towns to the northern coast. Most travelers arriving by air prefer car rental at Porto Airport, Portugal, for quick access after landing.

Need something more flexible? Auto car rental Portugal services let you pick up in one city and drop off in another. If you're starting in Lisbon and finishing in Faro, it’s no problem.

For those heading to the islands, car rental Madeira, Portugal is the go-to option. This island may be compact, but its mountain roads and hidden viewpoints are best reached by car — and a small one at that.

What About Age & License Requirements?

If you're wondering about Portugal car rental age rules, in most cases, you need to be at least 21 and have held your license for at least one year. Some companies may apply a young driver fee for drivers under 25. An international driving permit is usually not needed if you’re from the EU, US, or UK — but always double-check the conditions when booking.

How Much Is a Car Rental in Portugal?

Prices vary depending on the city, time of year, and vehicle type. So if you're asking how much is car rental in Portugal costs, here’s a rough idea:

Compact car: from €20–30/day
SUV: €45–60/day
Long-term or monthly: from €400/month, depending on duration and model

If you're staying longer, long-term car rental Portugal plans may offer better value than short-term daily rates.

City or Coast? You Don’t Have to Choose

Portugal is small enough to drive across in a day, but rich enough that you’ll want to take your time. With the Europe car rental Porto, Portugal as your starting point, you can explore the green north. Or, head south to the Algarve with a Portugal car hire and check out the beaches you’ve seen in postcards.

Whichever route you take, auto Europe Portugal car rental providers make pick-up and return easy, whether you're in a capital city or a coastal town.

A Few Tips Before You Hit the Road

Tolls are common, especially on the A1 and A2 highways. Some cars come equipped with electronic toll tags — ask at pick-up.
Gas stations are frequent, even in rural areas, but many close early on Sundays.
Parking in big cities like Lisbon and Porto can be tricky — look for underground garages or stay just outside the center.

Ready to Drive?

Portugal car hire is more than just getting from A to B. It’s watching the sunrise from a vineyard road, pulling over for grilled sardines in a fishing village, or finding that unmarked beach locals don’t tell you about. Wherever you’re heading — city, coast, or island — renting a car gives you the freedom to find your own way.

FAQ

What documents do I need to rent a car in Portugal?

You’ll need a valid driver’s license (an International Driving Permit may be required if you're from outside the EU), a passport or ID, and a credit card in your name. That’s it for most bookings.

Can I book an automatic car in Portugal?

Yes, automatic car rentals in Portugal are widely available, especially in larger cities and airports. If you're not used to manual gearboxes, it's worth reserving in advance — automatics can sell out quickly during peak travel seasons.

How much is car rental in Portugal?

It depends on the city, season, and car type. On average, compact models start from €20–30 per day, while larger cars like SUVs or automatics may cost €45–60 per day.