Portugal Car Hire

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Top destinations to hire a car in Portugal

A densely packed urban area with a mix of colorful buildings, including a prominent white church with a bell tower.
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Funchal

Funchal

What you need to know for your Portugal car rental

Reasons to book a car hire in Portugal

Renting a car in Portugal offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the country at your own pace. With a hire car, you can conveniently manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in beach, outdoor, and cultural experiences. For instance, you can easily visit Albufeira Old Town Square, a charming piazza perfect for cultural experiences, or enjoy a day at Falesia Beach, known for its stunning views. If you're seeking adventure, Vilamoura Marina is also within reach. Additionally, a rental car allows you to discover popular destinations like Lisbon and Porto. In Lisbon, you can explore attractions such as Rossio Square, Belém Tower, and Marquis of Pombal Square. Porto offers its own array of sights, including the historic Porto Historic Center, Ribeira Square, and the iconic Dom Luis I Bridge. With a car, you can travel between these remarkable locations easily, ensuring you make the most of your time in Portugal.

Most popular car hires in Portugal

  • Compact: This car type accommodates 5 travellers comfortably and allows for up to 3 medium suitcases. A compact vehicle is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or families looking to navigate Portugal's charming streets with ease. Its size makes it convenient for parking in tight urban areas, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
  • Midsize SUV: The midsize SUV is a versatile option that also accommodates 5 travellers, but with the added benefit of space for up to 3 large suitcases. This makes it ideal for families, couples, or small groups who might require more room for luggage. The SUV provides a higher driving position and enhanced comfort on longer journeys, making it a popular choice for those looking to travel comfortably.
  • Economy: An economy car is a great choice for those seeking a balance between cost and convenience, accommodating 5 travellers with space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is particularly suitable for solo travellers, couples, or small families who wish to keep rental costs down while enjoying the freedom to explore Portugal. Its fuel efficiency helps in managing travel expenses effectively.

Where to stay in Portugal

  • Lisbon: Lisbon is an enchanting city known for its rich culture and family-friendly atmosphere. Travellers can explore key attractions such as Rossio Square, a lovely piazza perfect for a leisurely stroll, and the historic Belém Tower, both contributing to the city's vibrant culture. The nearby beach offers a refreshing escape, while shopping areas and entertainment venues cater to various interests. Dining options abound, including local restaurants and wineries, making it a delightful destination year-round.
  • Porto: Porto, a bustling metropolis, invites visitors to immerse themselves in its rich history and culture. The Porto Historic Center is a must-visit neighbourhood, brimming with charm and character. Explore Ribeira Square, a picturesque piazza ideal for enjoying local cuisine and drinks while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. The iconic Dom Luis I Bridge provides stunning views of the cityscape. With its array of restaurants and wineries, Porto is a delightful destination for cultural enthusiasts.
  • Albufeira: Albufeira is renowned for its beautiful beaches and family-friendly environment, making it a popular choice for sun-seekers. The Albufeira Old Town Square offers a charming atmosphere with local shops and dining options nearby. Falesia Beach and Sao Rafael Beach are both excellent choices for beach lovers looking to relax and unwind. With various shopping areas and golf courses in the vicinity, Albufeira presents a diverse range of activities for every traveller.

10 tips to save on your car hire in Portugal

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you’re in need of an SUV for extra space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilise filters on Expedia to identify the ideal option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your vehicle well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and more convenient to park in busy areas. Mid-size vehicles 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 types—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 restrictions prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, yet it may be worthwhile for the added convenience.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies typically accept only credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides you with added peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. Adding car hire insurance when booking with Expedia is straightforward.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extended road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s licence is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in Portugal

The best value period to rent a car in Portugal is February, when both prices and demand are moderately low. This time is ideal for those looking to avoid crowds and secure a good deal. Additionally, January offers similar benefits, with low demand and prices. Moving into the spring, prices and demand remain average in March and April. However, the most expensive months typically fall in June through August, when both prices and demand peak, making it a busy time for car hires.

Renting a car in Portugal will give you the freedom to really get to the heart of this incredible part of the world. Use your hire car to discover the best that Portugal has to offer, from its natural beauty to its bustling towns and cities.

With Expedia, booking you Portugal car hire is easy. Each hire car in Portugal option offers you competitive rates and a variety of pick-up and drop-off locations around the country to make your life easier. Book your rental car in in Portugal with confidence through Expedia.

At Expedia, our goal is to offer you a great variety of Portugal car rental discounts at the best price. When hiring a car in Portugal with Expedia, you can compare a massive range of vehicles, from compact economy cars with low fuel consumption to luxury or off-road solutions, depending on your preference. Every Portugal hire car we feature will come fully equipped with the latest amenities and safety features to ensure your trips will be safe and comfortable.

It has never been easier to find a rental car in Portugal. We offer you competitive prices and up-to-date information, ensuring quality and efficiency for all our visitors, at all times. Rent a car in Portugal today and enjoy your holiday, or get anywhere in time for your business meetings. At Expedia, we understand that travelling can be a hassle if you are not well organized, which is why we provide a variety of car types to compare and choose from for all types of travellers. In just a few clicks you can hire a car in Portugal with Expedia.

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my Portugal car reservation?
We get that plans change and flexibility is important. That's why many rentals give a complete refund if you let us know at least six hours prior to pick-up. It's a good idea to read over the hire agreement though because there are some exclusions. If you can't find the answer there, click on our Customer Service Portal.
What types of cars can I rent in Portugal?
Compact, mid-size or full-size... Grab the keys to whatever you prefer! Economy is the top rental vehicle category in Portugal. Zippy, fuel-efficient and a snap to park, these wheels make cruising bustling city streets effortless. Maybe the best part? Your wallet will love them. That means you'll have more money to splash on other things, like touring as much of this destination as you can.
How do I find the best car hire deals in Portugal with Expedia?
It's easy to score the best deal with Expedia. Just choose your preferred ride, select your dates and preferred pick-up and drop-off points, and compare offers from trusted brands. Make even bigger savings when you combine your Portugal car rental with hotel or flight bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Portugal?
Portugal requires drivers to be 18 and above before they can hire a car. However, young drivers can expect an extra charge and stricter hire conditions. Many companies impose a daily young renter fee on top of the normal hire car rate. This covers the extra risk of damage or accident. While many car categories (like compact and mid-size) are available to young drivers, restrictions usually apply to specialty cars.
What do you need to rent a car in Portugal?
Be prepared to present a valid driver's license and a credit card at the rental counter. Before pick-up, check with your hire supplier whether other documentation is needed. For example, you may also need to show proof of insurance.
Can I hire a car for a month or longer in Portugal?
Click through to our long-term car rental deals page, enter your preferences and then secure a ride that suits. Whether you're staying put in Portugal or venturing far beyond, Expedia will help you find a long-term hire at an incredible rate.
Where can I find a Portugal hire car if I am younger than 25?
You'll need to investigate the age policy of the Portugal rental providers you're considering. If you're under 25 years old, some outlets will charge additional fees. It's better to know this before collecting the vehicle so you can have the funds ready. Each car hire company has its own policies for young drivers, so it pays to do your research.
Why should I rent a Portugal car with Expedia?
With multiple car hire companies to choose from in Portugal, Expedia will help you find a set of wheels that suits your style. And when you combine your rental vehicle, hotel and flights into a package, you can save more on your entire Portugal getaway. From economy and compact models to full-size sedans and more, Expedia will get you on the road to your next unforgettable adventure. Plus, when you join our free One Key™ loyalty programme, you can collect OneKeyCash™* and spend it on eligible hotels, car rentals, activities and more. *OneKeyCash disclaimer - OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia.

Car Hire Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
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