This is the ultimate Ranking of the Best Car Hire Companies in Portugal in 2024. Find the best options for your travel needs and enjoy a seamless rental experience.
Deciding on the best company for car hire in Portugal hinges on reliable service and competitive pricing. Renting a car in this picturesque country is not just a good idea; it’s a fantastic way to ensure flexibility and freedom as you explore its diverse landscapes, from the sun-kissed beaches of the Algarve to the historic streets of Lisbon and Porto. With the right hire company, your journey through Portugal can be both comfortable and tailored to your travel needs.
There is a lot to see and do in Portugal. It has beautiful beaches, amazing food, some of the best wine, a vibrant artistic and night scene, and very nice and interesting cities such as Lisbon, Porto, Braga, Amadora, Setúbal, or Coimbra. Though Portugal is much more than its beautiful capital, you can discover its charming cities and villages by renting a car.
Tourists’ interest in Portugal is growing steadily and with good reason. Portugal has all the beauty of Western Europe, with much lower prices, and it is safe to explore by walking and by car; just be careful and get used to the Portuguese driving style!
Allow Portugal and fall in love with the country, but before, make sure to learn about the best car rental companies in Portugal, so that nothing stops you from exploring Lisbon, Porto, and beyond.
Whether you want to visit Lisbon, Porto, Faro, Coimbra, Madeira, or the Azores, we have made a Ranking of the TOP Car Rental companies in Portugal in 2024 to help you choose your next car hire booking, which, by the way, you can do easily and at the best price on this website.
Please note:
– The order of the companies in the ranking has been established by the average rating of these companies on Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and Rentalcars.com.
– This data has been updated as of July 2024.
TOP Car Hire Companies in Portugal in 2024
1 – Amoita Car Rental (9.2/10)
Amoita is the Best Car Hire company in Portugal 🏆. It is a Portuguese car rental company that has been working since 1988, and even though you might not hear about it as often as the big names, those who have rented with them have been very happy with their customer service.
They provide 24/7 service and are located in almost all the most important cities and towns in Portugal, including Lisbon, Faro, Oporto, cities, and airports, as well in all the Algarve.
Amoita car rental is especially known for its great customer service, which is a common complaint among renters regarding the different car hire options, making it a good option if you are concerned about the unfriendly or difficult staff.
They own a good fleet of cars of different sizes, brands, and types, from small cars to luxury and SUVs, and their rates are often lower than those of other car rentals in Portugal, which is another reason for considering renting with them.
Car rentals with Amoita are free of charge for any number of extra drivers, which might be quite convenient if you are thinking about sharing the steering wheel but you wouldn’t like to pay more for that, and you can also drive their cars to Spain, always that you get a Spanish Green Car.
Amoita is a local car rental company with a surprisingly good reputation, with many customers happy to rent with them again, and they have a fair amount of locations across the most popular destinations in Portugal.
As usual, make sure to ask enough questions, read their FAQ, and get informed about driving in Portugal to have a great experience with Amoita car rental.
Amoita customer ratings:
- ⭐ Excellent cleanliness of the car
- ⭐ Excellent service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ✔️ Quick drop-off process
- ⭐ Excellent overall value for money
2 – Luzcars Rent a Car (9.1/10)
Luzcars Rent a Car is the second 🥈 on the ranking. For those travellers who want to spend their time in Portugal in the city of Faro, in the popular region of the Algarve, Luzcars is a great local car hire company, with many happy customers under their belt.
There are things that you might miss from Luzcars, such as a more modern website, or the possibility of adding a GPS to the rent, which they do not provide. But their excellent service, their prices, and their good reputation rest of importance to those.
Another great thing about renting with Luzcars is that you can take your car anywhere in Portugal, and even to Spain, but not other European countries (get informed about the need for a Spanish Green Card), but you must drop it off at their location in Faro.
Even though it might miss some of the good things one gets from renting with a major car hire brand, Luzcars is an honest local car rental, and most travellers have said very good things about them, giving peace of mind to those who might be wary worried about renting a car in Portugal.
Luzcars customer ratings:
- ⭐ Excellent cleanliness of the car
- ⭐ Excellent service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ✔️ Quick drop-off process
- ⭐ Excellent overall value for money
3 – Guerin (9.0/10)
Guerin stands on the podium 🥉 of car rental services in Portugal with a score of 8.7/10, reflecting its commitment to providing an outstanding car hire experience in Portugal.
Known for its user-friendly services and a wide array of vehicle options, Guerin ensures that every customer finds the perfect match for their trip. The company receives high marks for its maintenance standards, flexible rental terms, and efficient pick-up and drop-off processes.
Guerin’s customers often point out the courteous staff and the overall value for money, solidifying its status as a trusted choice for those looking to discover the beauty of Portugal by road.
Guerin customer ratings:
- ⭐ Excellent cleanliness of the car
- ⭐ Excellent service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ✔️ Quick drop-off process
- ⭐ Excellent overall value for money
4 – Alamo (8.9/10)
Alamo also secures a strong fourth position with an impressive score of 8.9/10. Renowned for its comprehensive coverage across major airports and cities in Portugal, Alamo offers a seamless rental experience from the moment you land.
Customers frequently commend Alamo for its efficient pick-up and drop-off processes, wide selection of modern vehicles, including economy, large, hybrid, luxury, sport utility vehicles and minivans; and transparent pricing. The company’s dedication to customer satisfaction shines through its flexible hire options and responsive customer service, making it a top choice for travellers seeking reliability and convenience on their Portuguese adventure.
Alamo customer ratings:
- ⭐ Excellent cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Good service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ⭐ Excellent drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
5 – Enterprise (8.7/10)
Enterprise secures the fifth spot with a robust score of 8.7/10, echoing its global reputation for exceptional service and reliability. Today, Enterprise continues to drive success through a simple but effective set of beliefs to become a car hire leader, sustainability, and innovation.
With numerous branches peppered across Portugal, including prime locations like Lisbon, Porto, and Faro, Enterprise caters to both leisure and business travellers. Enterprise is lauded for its pristine fleet, competitive pricing, and the personal touch in its customer service.
The company’s commitment to creating a hassle-free rental experience is evident in its easy booking system, comprehensive insurance options, and the Enterprise Plus loyalty program, ensuring value-packed offerings for its customers.
Their customers value highly the cleanliness of the vehicles, and the customer service, and their vehicle collection and delivery process is very agile.
Enterprise customer ratings:
- ⭐ Excellent cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Good service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ⭐ Excellent drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
6 – Drive on Holidays (8.7/10)
Drive on Holidays is a 100% local company with more than 10 years of experience in the industry. With a commendable score of 8.7/10, Drive On Holidays offers a distinctly local touch to the car hire scene in Portugal.
Their business model is aimed to provide the leisure market inbound Portugal, with a low-cost operation, operating off terminal on the 3 main airports in Portugal (Lisbon, Porto, and Faro) with a very competitive price, a fleet serving the needs of the leisure market and a good level of service, guaranteed by experienced staff.
Esteemed for its personalized service and deep understanding of what travellers need, Drive On Holidays excels in providing a tailored rental experience. Their main goal is customer satisfaction, providing a fast and professional service as well as an answer to all their requests.
Customers highlight the friendly staff, competitive rates, and the variety of cars available, from economical options to luxury vehicles. Drive On Holidays stands out for its approach to customer care, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey across Portugal.
Drive on Holidays customer ratings:
- ⭐ Excellent cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Good service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ✔️ A bit slow drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
7 – CAEL Rent a Car (8.7/10)
CAEL Rent a Car matches the high standard of its peers with a score of 8.7/10, distinguishing itself with localized expertise and a focus on customer satisfaction.
CAEL’s presence in key Portuguese cities and towns makes it a convenient choice for travellers. The company is praised for its transparent pricing, absence of hidden fees, and fleet that caters to a wide range of preferences and budgets.
Customers appreciate the ease of booking, the quality of the vehicles on offer, and the attentive service from CAEL’s team, making it a reliable partner for exploring Portugal.
CAEL customer ratings:
- ⭐ Excellent cleanliness of the car
- ⭐ Excellent service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ✔️ Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
8 – Sixt (8.7/10)
Sixt Car Rental maintains its esteemed reputation with a score of 8.7/10, showcasing its global standards in the Portuguese car rental market. Sixt is a German car rental company that has become increasingly popular in Europe, and it is one that you will find often among the options for renting a car during your time in Portugal.
The rates with Sixt are not considerably lower than those of its major competitors like Hertz or Europcar, but you could find a great offer with them that could be a deal-breaker, and make you decide to go with Sixt in Portugal.
With its wide selection of high-quality, latest-model vehicles, Sixt caters to a diverse clientele, from business travellers looking for luxury sedans to families needing spacious SUVs.
What sets Sixt apart is its premium customer service, streamlined booking process, and attractive loyalty programs. Customers often highlight the convenience of locations across Portugal, including major airports and city centres, making it a go-to choice for those seeking comfort and efficiency on their travels. Other reviews are rather mixed though, and many customers have reported having had a good experience renting with Sixt during their time in Portugal, while others have been charged unexpected extra fees.
For this reason, make sure to do your research, understand tolls and car rental insurances in Portugal, ask in a forum about renting with Sixt in Portugal, and take photos during pick-up and drop-off. By doing these, you will be on your way to a great time in Portugal.
Sixt customer ratings:
- ⭐ Excellent cleanliness of the car
- ⭐ Excellent service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ✔️ Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
9. Key N Go (8.7/10)
Key N Go is a subsidiary of Goldcar, and distinguishes itself with an impressive 8.7/10 score, appealing to travellers who prioritize speed and convenience.
This innovative car rental service simplifies the pickup process, allowing customers to bypass the traditional rental desk and access their vehicle quickly. Key N Go is celebrated for its user-friendly online booking system and competitive pricing.
Customers appreciate the straightforward rental terms, the quality of the vehicles, and the efficient self-service kiosk system, significantly reducing waiting time and getting you on the road faster.
Key N Go customer ratings:
- ✔️ Good cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Good service at the rental desk
- ⭐ Excellent pick-up process
- ⭐ Excellent drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
10. Green Motion (8.6/10)
With a commendable score of 8.6/10, Green Motion car rental wins over environmentally conscious travellers in Portugal.
As a pioneer in eco-friendly car rentals, Green Motion offers a fleet of low-emission vehicles, including hybrids and electric cars, without compromising on performance or comfort. Customers are drawn to Green Motion for its commitment to sustainability, competitive rates, and attentive customer service.
The company’s presence in convenient locations across Portugal and its dedication to reducing its carbon footprint make it a preferred choice for those looking to make a positive impact while exploring the country.
Green Motion customer ratings:
- ✔️ Good cleanliness of the car
- ⭐ Excellent service at the rental desk
- ✔️ A bit slow pick-up process
- ✔️ Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
11. Drivalia (8.4/10)
Drivalia earns a solid score of 8.4/10, marking its position as a reliable choice for car rentals in Portugal. Drivalia is recognized for its transparent pricing model, which includes a full-to-full fuel policy and comprehensive insurance options, ensuring customers face no unexpected charges.
The company boasts a modern fleet and prioritizes customer satisfaction with a friendly, helpful staff ready to assist with any inquiries.
Customers appreciate the smooth booking and pickup process, the cleanliness of the vehicles, and Drivalia’s competitive rates, making it a strong contender for those seeking a hassle-free car rental experience.
Drivalia customer ratings:
- ⭐ Excellent cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Good service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ✔️ Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
12. Tangerine (8.4/10)
Tangerine stands out with a score of 8.4/10, appealing to those who value personalized service and a straightforward rental experience.
This boutique car rental company offers a handpicked fleet that satisfies both budget and luxury preferences. Tangerine is praised for its no-hidden-fees policy, flexible rental terms, and exceptional customer support.
Clients often note the ease of the booking process, the impeccable condition of the rental cars, and the personalized approach to customer service. Tangerine provides a refreshing alternative to mainstream rental options for travellers looking to explore Portugal at their own pace.
Tangerine customer ratings:
- ⭐ Excellent cleanliness of the car
- ⭐ Excellent service at the rental desk
- ⚠ Slow pick-up process
- ✔️ Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
13 – Avis (8.3/10)
Avis secures a commendable spot with an 8.3/10 rating reinforcing its international reputation for quality and reliability in the car rental industry, and Portugal is not the exception, as you will find their offices in most airports, as well as in all major cities and popular tourist destinations of Portugal.
Avis shines with its extensive network of locations throughout Portugal, offering convenience to travellers arriving at airports, train stations, and city centres.
There is an ongoing thread in travelling forums of customers who rented with Avis in Portugal and were charged an extra fee after drop-off for alleged damage to the vehicle, which might get those considering renting with Avis concerned.
As usual, it is a good idea to learn from these situations and to be careful, but it is also a reminder of how important it is to understand what are we paying for when renting a vehicle. With Avis, the standard insurance that is included with all cars does not cover damage to the windows.
Overall, Avis is a good car rental company for renting a car in Portugal, with many locations and a fleet of cars in good condition, as well as an international reputation that might be reassuring. Customers often highlight the Avis Preferred loyalty program, which enhances the rental experience with perks and streamlined services, making Avis a top pick for those seeking comfort and efficiency on their Portuguese journey.
However, make sure to take good pictures of your car during pick-up and drop-off and understand the insurance coverage you are getting, so there won’t be unexpected charges to your credit card and you have a great time driving across Portugal.
Avis customer ratings:
- ✔️ Good cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Good service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ⭐ Excellent drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
14. Budget (8.3/10)
Budget matches the high standards set within the industry with a score of 8.3/10, known for offering competitive rates without compromising on service quality.
As a subsidiary of Avis Budget Group, Budget benefits from a vast selection of vehicles and widespread locations across Portugal, making it accessible and convenient for a variety of travel plans.
Customers appreciate Budget for its value-for-money offerings, straightforward booking process, and no-nonsense approach to car rental. The company’s focus on providing affordable options makes it a favoured choice for budget-conscious travellers looking to explore Portugal’s stunning landscapes and cities.
Budget customer ratings:
- ✔️ Good cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Good service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ✔️ Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
15 – Europcar (8.3/10)
The French car rental company Europcar is one of the most popular options for renting a car in Europe and other countries in the world, and they have a fair share of the best companies to rent a car in Portugal. Europcar holds a solid position with a rating of 8.3/10, showcasing its commitment to delivering high-quality car rental services across Portugal. With a broad network of branches, Europcar offers travellers the convenience of picking up and dropping off vehicles at numerous locations.
The company’s fleet is diverse, featuring everything from small economy cars to larger family vehicles and luxury options. Europcar is praised for its flexible rental terms, efficient customer service, and the Privilege loyalty program, which provides benefits such as priority service and rewards for frequent renters, ensuring a seamless rental experience.
As a major car rental, you should expect Europcar’s rates to be higher than with a local or smaller car rental company, though you might still find lower prices than with other major companies in Portugal.
When looking for reviews and experiences with Europcar in Portugal, we found rather mixed reviews and opinions, with several negative experiences, but also positive ones that are reassuring.
It is fair to say that bad reviews are common when talking about the most popular car rentals, and some of these have happened due to a lack of knowledge about renting cars and driving in Portugal.
Europcar is a very popular company to rent a car in Portugal, but you should make sure to do your research, compare prices, and get informed about tolls and the particularities of driving in Portugal so that you can make sure to have a great experience with Europcar Portugal.
Europcar customer ratings:
- ⭐ Excellent cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Good service at the rental desk
- ✔️ A bit slow pick-up process
- ⭐ Excellent drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
16. Klass Wagen (8.3/10)
Klass Wagen earns a well-deserved score of 8.3/10, distinguishing itself with a focus on affordability and customer-centric service. Though perhaps less known than some of its competitors, Klass Wagen impresses with its personalized approach, offering a straightforward and transparent rental experience.
The company’s fleet is regularly updated and maintained to high standards, ensuring reliability and comfort. Customers value Klass Wagen for its competitive pricing, friendly staff, and ease of the rental process, making it an excellent choice for travellers who prioritize value and simplicity in their car rental needs in Portugal.
Klass Wagen customer ratings:
- ⭐ Excellent cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Good service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ⭐ Excellent drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
17. Turisprime (8.3/10)
Turisprime stands firm with an 8.3/10 rating, marking its presence as a trusted local car rental company in Portugal.
Turisprime is celebrated for its dedication to customer satisfaction, offering a tailored approach to car rental with a diverse fleet that meets various preferences and budgets. The company’s competitive rates, coupled with a commitment to transparent pricing and no hidden fees, resonate well with customers.
Turisprime’s efficient booking system, friendly customer service, and the convenience of locations across key Portuguese destinations make it a preferred choice for those seeking a personalized and hassle-free car rental experience.
Turisprime customer ratings:
- ✔️ Good cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Good service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ✔️ Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
18. Thrifty (8.3/10)
Thrifty Car Rental earns a respectable score of 8.3/10, reinforcing its position as a reliable choice for travellers seeking both value and quality. With a presence in major Portuguese airports and cities, Thrifty makes it convenient for visitors to start their journey seamlessly.
The company is known for its wide range of vehicles, catering to various travel needs and preferences, from compact cars for city trips to larger SUVs for family vacations.
Customers appreciate Thrifty for its competitive pricing, straightforward rental policies, and the Blue Chip rewards program, which offers benefits like quicker reservations and expedited service, enhancing the overall rental experience.
Thrifty customer ratings:
- ✔️ Good cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Good service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ⭐ Excellent drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
19. Dollar (8.2/10)
Dollar maintains a strong presence in the car rental market with a score of 8.2/10, offering a blend of affordability and reliable service.
As a sister company to Thrifty, and being both subsidiaries of The Hertz Corporation, Dollar provides a similar range of vehicles and services, aimed at cost-conscious travellers. Dollar’s straightforward approach to car rental, focusing on providing good value without compromising on quality, has earned it a loyal customer base.
The company’s efficient pick-up and drop-off processes, along with friendly customer service, make Dollar a go-to option for those looking to explore Portugal without breaking the bank.
Dollar customer ratings:
- ✔️ Good cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Good service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ✔️ Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
20. Firefly (8.2/10)
With a score of 8.2/10, Firefly positions itself as a budget-friendly car rental option in Portugal, appealing to travellers keen on saving without sacrificing service.
Firefly, also a subsidiary of Hertz, offers a straightforward, no-frills approach to car rental, with a focus on basic, reliable vehicles at affordable rates.
Customers value Firefly for its ease of booking, convenient locations, and the flexibility to meet diverse travel needs. The company’s commitment to providing a fuss-free rental experience, combined with effective customer support, makes Firefly a smart choice for budget-savvy travellers.
Firefly customer ratings:
- ⭐ Excellent cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Good service at the rental desk
- ⚠ Slow pick-up process
- ✔️ Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
21. Goldcar (8.2/10)
Goldcar scores 8.2/10, known for its competitive rates and expansive coverage across Portugal’s top destinations. Specializing in economy car rentals, Goldcar appeals to those looking for cost-effective solutions without compromising on mobility.
The company has garnered attention for its attractive deals, especially for longer rentals, and its young and dynamic fleet. While customers are drawn to Goldcar for its pricing and the availability of additional options like the Key’n Go express pickup service, it’s essential to review terms carefully to ensure they align with your travel plans, as some have noted additional fees at the counter.
Goldcar customer ratings:
- ✔️ Good cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Good service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ✔️ Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
22. Record Go (8.1/10)
Record Go secures a score of 8.1/10, offering a solid car rental service with a focus on transparency and customer satisfaction. Operating in key Portuguese airports and cities, Record Go makes it easy for travellers to access their services upon arrival.
The company is praised for its competitive rates, a wide selection of vehicles to suit various needs and an intuitive booking process.
Record Go’s commitment to a straightforward rental experience, with clear information on rates and policies, ensures travellers can enjoy their trip with peace of mind. The inclusion of free cancellation and a loyalty program further enhances its appeal to those visiting Portugal.
Record Go customer ratings:
- ✔️ Good cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Good service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ✔️ Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
23. Centauro (8.0/10)
Centauro earns a solid score of 8.0/10, marking its commitment to providing a reliable and affordable car rental service in Portugal. With a broad selection of modern vehicles, Centauro caters to a wide range of travel needs, from compact cars for city driving to spacious options for family trips.
Centauro is appreciated for its transparent pricing structure, avoiding hidden costs, and offering clear terms and conditions. The company’s locations at major airports and convenient online booking system make it a popular choice among travellers looking for value and ease in their car rental experience.
Centauro customer ratings:
- ✔️ Good cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Good service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ✔️ Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
24 – Hertz (8.0/10)
Hertz secures a commendable score of 8.0/10, reinforcing its status as a leading global car rental company known for its reliability and comprehensive service offerings. As would be expected from those who have rented cars somewhere else, Hertz is an important name among car rental companies in Portugal, so you should expect to find several offers from it and find offices across several locations in the country.
With a strong presence in Portugal, Hertz offers travellers convenience through its numerous pick-up and drop-off locations, including major airports, cities, and tourist destinations.
Hertz’s fleet is diverse, catering to a wide array of preferences and requirements, from economical compact cars to luxury vehicles and SUVs for family travel. Customers appreciate Hertz for its high standards of vehicle maintenance, flexible rental terms, and the Hertz Gold Plus Rewards program, which offers exclusive benefits and expedited service.
One thing to consider if renting with Hertz in Portugal is that their rates are often higher than the competition, especially in a country like Portugal, which is cheaper than other destinations. The company’s commitment to customer satisfaction and its reputation for quality make it a top choice for those seeking a seamless car rental experience in Portugal.
Hertz customer ratings:
- ✔️ Very good cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Very good service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ✔️ Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
25. OkMobility (7.6/10)
The last in the ranking is OkMobility. With a score of 7.6/10, Ok Mobility distinguishes itself in the competitive car rental market by focusing on flexible and customer-friendly services.
Specializing in affordable rentals, OkMobility offers a variety of vehicles to meet different travel needs, from economical models for budget travellers to more premium options.
The company is recognized for its commitment to providing transparent pricing and flexible rental terms, aiming to deliver a stress-free rental experience.
Customers appreciate the personalized attention and the convenience of OkMobility’s locations, especially in and around Portugal’s major airports.
OkMobility customer ratings:
- ✔️ Good cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Good service at the rental desk
- ⚠ Slow pick-up process
- ✔️ Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
Tips to Rent a Car in Portugal
Why is car hire in Portugal so cheap?
Car hire in Portugal offers exceptional value due to a combination of factors that benefit both locals and visitors alike. The competitive market filled with numerous car rental companies drives prices down, making deals more attractive as each company strives to offer the best rates and services.
Portugal’s efficient infrastructure and the relatively small size of the country reduce operational costs for rental companies, savings that are often passed on to the customer. Furthermore, the high demand for car rentals, especially in tourist seasons, allows for economies of scale, enabling companies to maintain lower prices.
This affordability, coupled with the desire of travellers to explore Portugal’s vast and varied landscapes at their own pace, makes car hire in Portugal not just economical but also a preferred choice for experiencing all that the country has to offer.
On our website, you can find car hire in Portugal’s main cities for less than €10 per day.
How to get a cheap rental car in Portugal?
Securing a cheap rental car in Portugal is straightforward, especially when leveraging online platforms like ours, which compare prices from various suppliers to ensure you get the best deal. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:
- Start Early: Begin your search as soon as you have your travel dates. Early bookings often secure lower prices since availability is higher and rates have not yet peaked due to demand.
- Use Comparison Websites: Head to Rentalcars.com, Skyscanner.net, or similar comparison sites. These platforms aggregate rental options from multiple providers, giving you a broad view of the available deals.
- Enter Your Details: Input your pickup and drop-off locations (these can be different if you’re planning a road trip across Portugal), along with your rental dates. Be as precise as possible with pick-up and drop-off times to avoid extra charges.
- Filter Your Search: Utilize the website’s filters to narrow down your options. You can filter by car size, rental company, price range, and even specific car features. If you’re looking to save money, opt for the smallest vehicle that meets your needs.
- Compare Deals: Look at the offerings from different companies. Pay close attention to what’s included in the price, such as unlimited mileage, insurance, and any additional fees.
- Read Customer Reviews: Before making a decision, check out reviews of the rental companies you’re considering. Previous customers’ experiences can provide valuable insights into the company’s service quality and reliability.
- Check for Special Offers: Often, companies offer on their websites special deals, such as discounts for paying upfront. These can provide additional savings on your rental.
- Complete Your Booking: Once you’ve found the perfect car at a great rate, proceed to book it through the website. You’ll need to enter your details and payment information. Consider whether you want to pay in advance or upon pickup, though prepaying can sometimes offer additional discounts.
- Review Rental Terms: Before finalizing your booking, carefully review the rental agreement and terms. Ensure you understand the policy on fuel, mileage limits (if any), and what documentation you’ll need to provide when picking up the car.
- Confirmation and Pickup: After booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all the details of your rental. Make sure to bring your driver’s license, a credit card in the driver’s name, and any other required documents to the rental desk at pickup.
By following these steps and being mindful of the details, you can secure a budget-friendly rental car in Portugal, making your trip both economical and enjoyable.
What do you need to drive a rental car in Portugal?
To drive a rental car in Portugal, you must meet certain requirements and have specific documents at hand. Here’s a checklist to ensure you’re prepared:
- Driver’s License: You need a valid driver’s license from your home country. If your license is not in Portuguese, Spanish, French, or English, or if you’re from a country outside the EU, you might also need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to accompany your national driver’s license.
- Minimum Age Requirement: The minimum age to rent a car in Portugal is usually 18, but this can vary depending on the rental company. Drivers under 25 may be subject to a young driver surcharge.
- Credit Card: A valid credit card in the name of the main driver is essential. This is used for the rental payment and to hold a deposit for the duration of the rental. Some companies may accept debit cards, but this is less common and may come with restrictions.
- Identification: A passport or national ID card is required for identification purposes.
- Rental Agreement: When you pick up the car, you’ll need to sign a rental agreement. Read this document carefully to understand your rights and responsibilities, including the insurance coverage and what to do in case of an accident or breakdown.
- Insurance: Basic insurance is usually included with car rentals in Portugal, covering third-party liability and theft protection. However, you may want to consider additional coverage for collision damage waiver (CDW) and personal accident insurance (PAI) for greater protection. Verify what’s included in your rental package and what the insurance covers.
- International Driving Considerations: If you’re from outside the EU, or the UK, check if there are any additional requirements or restrictions for drivers from your country.
- Driving Rules and Regulations: Familiarize yourself with Portuguese driving laws, including speed limits, alcohol limits, and toll roads. Portugal drives on the right-hand side of the road, and seat belts are mandatory for all passengers.
Having these documents and meeting the requirements will ensure a smooth process when renting a car in Portugal, allowing you to explore the country’s beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage at your leisure.
Is it difficult to drive in Portugal?
Driving in Portugal is generally not difficult for those accustomed to European driving conditions. However, newcomers should be cautious, especially on narrower rural roads or when navigating the unique traffic patterns of historic city centres.
Being prepared, understanding the rules, and adopting a cautious driving style can make driving in Portugal a straightforward and enjoyable part of your visit.
- Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
- Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers.
- Use of mobile phones while driving is prohibited unless using a hands-free system.
- Speed limits vary by area (typically 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on motorways) and are strictly enforced. Radar detection devices are illegal.
- Drinking and driving laws are strict; the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%.
- Urban areas can be congested, especially during peak hours, while rural roads may be narrow and winding. Exercise caution and patience.
How do I pay tolls on a rental car in Portugal?
Paying tolls on a rental car in Portugal involves a few different methods, depending on the type of toll road and the rental car company’s policies. Here’s how you can manage toll payments during your trip:
Electronic Tolls
Many of Portugal’s motorways use an entirely electronic toll system, with no booths for cash payments. Here’s how to handle them:
- Rental Company Devices: Most rental companies in Portugal offer devices (e.g., Via Verde transponders) that automatically register any tolls incurred during your rental period. These devices are typically available for an additional daily fee plus the cost of the tolls themselves. The rental company will charge the tolls to your credit card during or after your rental period.
- Prepaid or Postpaid Services: Some rental companies might offer the option to prepay for tolls or register for a postpaid service that bills you for tolls incurred during your rental. This can be convenient and help avoid administrative fees for processing toll payments.
Manual Payment Methods
For roads that allow manual payments (less common for the purely electronic tolls but applicable for some bridges or traditional toll booths):
- Cash or Card Payments: On roads with manned toll booths, you can pay with cash or credit/debit card. Keep some euros handy for these situations.
- PayShop: For electronic tolls without booths, you have up to 48 hours after passing through the toll to make a payment at a PayShop location. You’ll need to provide the vehicle’s license plate number, which is linked to the tolls incurred.
Other Considerations
- Ask Your Rental Agency: Upon vehicle pickup, inquire with your rental agency about the best method to manage tolls. They can provide the most suitable option based on your itinerary and their available services.
- Check for Tolls in Advance: If you’re planning your route ahead of time, check which roads will require toll payments. This can help you decide whether to opt for a toll transponder or another payment method.
- Keep Receipts: If you’re paying tolls through any manual method or via a rental company device, keep receipts or records of payments for your records and in case of any discrepancies with your rental company.
By understanding these payment methods and planning accordingly, you can navigate Portugal’s toll roads smoothly during your car rental period.
Can you rent a car in Portugal and return it to Spain?
Yes, it is possible to rent a car in Portugal and return it in Spain, but there are a few important considerations to keep in mind:
- Additional Charges: Renting a car in one country and returning it in another typically incurs a cross-border or one-way fee. This fee can vary significantly depending on the rental company and the distance between the pickup and drop-off locations.
- Advance Booking: It’s advisable to arrange your rental well in advance, specifying both your pickup and drop-off locations during the booking process. This allows the rental company to prepare for the vehicle’s return to another country.
- Compare Prices: Given the additional costs associated with cross-border rentals, it’s wise to compare prices and terms from multiple companies to find the best deal.
Not all rental companies offer this service. Some of the companies that offer one-way rentals between Portugal and Spain are Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Goldcar.
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