Why rent a car in Lisbon?
Lisbon is the capital of Portugal and overlooks the Iberian Peninsula in the Atlantic Ocean. Rich in historic architecture and run through by the stately, majestic river Tagus, Lisbon was first settled in the 13th century. It’s a great location for visiting nearby destinations by hire car, such as Porto, Setubal, Seville and Lagos.
How to get to and around Lisbon?
If you’re arriving via Lisbon then it’s a four-mile drive by rental car to Lisbon. En route, you could drive to the shores of the scenic Iberian Peninsula to enjoy the view.
Hiring a car in Lisbon city centre
Finding a hire car in Lisbon is easy. You can rent a car from a range of providers at either Lisbon or within the city centre itself. Note that Lisbon has limited on-street parking and much of it is metered, so read signs carefully and bear in mind that fines are applied strictly. However, there are a number of large underground car parks available. Lisbon also has a wide variety of hotels to suit a range of budgets, including Hotel Real Parque, Radisson Blu Hotel and Rossio Garden Hotel. Many hotels offer free parking so do check before booking.
What brands are available?
There are various hire car providers to suit your budget and preferences, including Centauro, Turisprime and Drive On Holidays. Many offer extras like free cancellation, unlimited mileage and a shuttle service to your rental car.
Must-sees within an easy drive of Lisbon
There is much to see and do by hire car in Lisbon. This coastal city is built on seven hills and as you explore its winding streets you’ll be rewarded by stunning views. Key attractions include the late-Gothic Jeronimos Monastery, now home to two museums, the medieval Belem Tower, which has wonderful views from its rooftop terrace, Sao Jorge Castle, an 11th century Moorish building, the Lisbon Baixa, a district at the heart of the city filled with shops and eating places, the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and the Lisbon Oceanarium. Other sights to enjoy by rental car in Lisbon are Pedro IV Square on the banks of the river Tagus, and the charming, labyrinth-like district of Alfama, the oldest part of the city and home to Lisbon Cathedral.
Porto, the second largest city in Portugal, is a 194-mile drive from Lisbon by hire car. The city is a coastal destination rich in medieval history, with roots stretching back to 300 BC. It’s a wonderful, winding place to explore by day then relax in by night while dining al fresco. Porto has many historical attractions, including Bolsa Palace, an impressive 19th century building with guided tours, the Monument Church of St Francis, a 14th century Franciscan worship place with a stunning interior, and the iconic, Baroque-style Clerigos Church. If you’re feeling energetic you can climb the 240 steps of the bell tower for a wonderful view of Porto.
Braga, a historic city in northwest Portugal, is a 227-mile drive from Lisbon by rental car. Braga is famous for its Baroque architecture, including the Raio Palace. Other attractions include the Bom Jesus do Monte, a retreat that includes a Neo-classiclal church and wooded hillside gardens, the Biscainhos Museum, housed in a Baroque palace, and the 11th century Monastery of Sao Martinho de Tibaes, based just outside of the city.
Tips and tricks for driving in Lisbon
Due to its many narrow, winding roads and lack of signs, driving in Lisbon can sometimes be tricky and it’s easy to take a wrong turn. Make sure you have GPRS or a good map in your hire car. Traffic in the city can get congested at times. When driving on motorways in Portugal, you may have to pay a toll and bear in mind that if you break a driving law you can be given an on-the-spot fine. Always keep an eye on local speed limits and remember that Portugal is right-hand drive
Ready to plan your Lisbon city break?
Feeling inspired to explore Lisbon and the rest of Portugal? Check out this
City Guide and use the Expedia search tool to help you find the best car hire, flight and hotel deals and to research the best attractions and activities.
