Car Rentals in Guimarães, PRT

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Guimarães

Renting a car in Guimarães provides the freedom and flexibility to explore this historic city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it ideal for families and culture enthusiasts alike. Key attractions such as the magnificent Guimarães Castle and the historic Palace Duques de Bragança are easily accessible, allowing you to delve into the rich cultural heritage of the area. A short drive will take you to the beautiful church at Penha, where you can enjoy a serene cultural experience.

Exploring popular destinations like the charming Old Town Guimarães, which features notable sites such as Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira, is convenient with a rental car. You can also venture to nearby cities like Urgezes and Creixomil, where you can find additional attractions, including Bom Jesus do Monte and Braga Cathedral. Overall, a rental car enhances your ability to discover the diverse offerings in and around Guimarães, ensuring a memorable trip tailored to your interests.

Where to stay in and around Guimarães

• Ponte: Situated in the Guimarães area, Ponte offers an eco-friendly and outdoor experience, making it ideal for families. Here, visitors can enjoy activities such as body treatments and tree top walks. The local attractions include the picturesque bridge and a significant monument, along with a hotspring. Key points of interest nearby are the cultural shrine of Bom Jesus do Monte and the Braga Cathedral, both of which are suitable for a culture-themed holiday.
• Old Town Guimarães: This charming neighbourhood is perfect for those seeking a culture-themed and romantic getaway. With its historic sites and vibrant public market, Old Town Guimarães is rich in character. Explore the iconic Guimaraes Castle, the historic Palace Duques de Bragança, and the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira, all within close proximity. Additionally, there are various options for food and drink, including wineries and coffee shops, making it a delightful place to stay.
• Braga: Located 16 km from Guimarães, Braga is known for its rich cultural heritage and outdoor activities. The city features a range of attractions, including the renowned Bom Jesus do Monte shrine and the Braga Cathedral, both ideal for culture enthusiasts. With a variety of shopping malls and dining options, including restaurants and wineries, Braga is a vibrant destination that complements your stay in Guimarães, offering an enriching experience just a short distance away.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Guimarães

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the best options for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary depending on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles tend to be more affordable to rent and are easier to manoeuvre in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car with an empty tank in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car from airports, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It’s simple to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.