Portugal Car Rentals

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Top destinations to rent a car in Portugal

A coastal cityscape with terracotta-roofed buildings, a prominent white church, and a view of the sea and distant city lights.
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Lisbon District

Lisbon District

What you need to know for your Portugal car rental

These Portugal insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: .

Reasons to book a car rental in Portugal

Renting a car in Portugal offers you the freedom to explore attractions at your own pace, making it a popular choice for tourists. With a rental car, managing your luggage becomes easy, and you can create flexible travel plans tailored to your interests. Whether you seek beach experiences at Falesia Beach or cultural immersion in Albufeira's Old Town Square, a car allows you to reach these sites conveniently. Additionally, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the adventures at Vilamoura Marina. You can also venture into vibrant cities like Lisbon and Porto. In Lisbon, you can visit notable landmarks such as Rossio Square and Belém Tower, while Porto boasts attractions like the historic Porto Historic Center and Dom Luis I Bridge. Renting a car makes it easy to travel between these key destinations, ensuring you don’t miss any of the cultural and scenic delights that Portugal has to offer. With a vehicle at your disposal, you can explore both popular sites and hidden gems across the country, making your trip a memorable experience.

Most popular car rentals in Portugal

  • Compact: The Compact car is a popular choice among travelers in Portugal, accommodating up to 5 passengers and offering space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo travelers, couples, and families seeking a vehicle that is fuel-efficient and easy to park. Its smaller size makes navigating through busy streets and tight parking spaces a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your journey without the stress of maneuvering a larger vehicle.
  • Economy: The Economy car is another frequently booked option, also seating up to 5 travelers, but providing space for 2 medium suitcases. This car type is perfect for solo adventurers, couples, and families who desire a budget-friendly vehicle that does not compromise on comfort. With its economical fuel consumption, it allows you to explore Portugal while keeping your travel costs down, making it a smart choice for those looking to maximize their experience without overspending.
  • Midsize SUV: For those traveling with more luggage or a larger group, the Midsize SUV is a fantastic option. Accommodating 5 travelers and providing space for up to 3 large suitcases, this vehicle is well-suited for families, couples, or small groups. Its spacious interior ensures that everyone has ample room to relax during your travels, making it an excellent choice for longer road trips across Portugal. The extra space also means you can comfortably pack everything you need for your adventures.

Where to stay in Portugal

  • Lisbon: A vibrant city known for its rich culture and family-friendly experiences, Lisbon offers a variety of accommodations near local landmarks. Explore attractions like Rossio Square and Belém Tower, both suitable for culture-themed vacations. Enjoy nearby dining options, including restaurants and wineries, while staying close to the beach for relaxation and leisure activities.
  • Porto: This bustling metropolis is perfect for culture enthusiasts and families alike. Staying in Porto allows easy access to the Porto Historic Center and Ribeira Square, both excellent for city explorations. The area is rich in local markets and well-regarded restaurants, as well as wineries that showcase the region's renowned wine. Enjoy the scenic views from the iconic Dom Luis I Bridge during your visit.
  • Albufeira: Albufeira is an ideal destination for beach lovers and families seeking a fun getaway. The city is known for its stunning beaches, such as Falesia Beach and Sao Rafael Beach, perfect for sunbathing and water activities. Accommodations in Albufeira also provide easy access to the Albufeira Old Town Square, which offers a lively atmosphere with shopping and dining options, ensuring a memorable stay.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Portugal

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically cost less to rent and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is typically the best option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also be suitable. 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, but the added convenience might make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in Portugal

The best value period to rent a car in Portugal is February, when prices and demand are both moderately low. January also offers similar advantages, making it a quiet time for rentals. As spring approaches, March through May sees average prices and demand, providing a balanced option. However, the summer months of July and August tend to be the busiest and most expensive, with higher rental prices and increased demand. Thus, planning around these peak times can enhance your rental experience.

Tips for car rentals in Portugal in 2026

Car rental prices in Portugal

To get the right car rental prices in Portugal, it's a good idea to reserve in advance so your car is ready to go once you get to beautiful Faro or land on the remarkable Azores, islands created by volcanic eruptions less than 300 years ago.

 

Finding some of the best deals for cheap car rentals in Portugal

Deals for Portugal car rentals are easy to find on Expedia. Just start with your dates, customize for features like unlimited mileage and car class, and search Expedia's massive inventory for a convenient Lisbon airport rental or car in Ponta Delgada. Not sure which car class is the right choice for what could be your best car rental in Portugal? Use Expedia's "Great Deal" filter to see the lowest prices in each category to help you decide between a rugged SUV or a more compact option perfect for Libson's narrow streets.

 

Some of the best places to rent a car in Portugal

Discover everything the breathtaking Atlantic coast has to offer with a Portugal car rental. Find great deals for a rental car in Porto, a historic and vibrant city. Or, with a car rental in Lisbon, you and your family can enjoy an active vacation heading inland throughout beautiful mountains and lush valleys. Depending on how long you need your rental car and what for, you can rent directly from the airport or spend a few days on Madeira for a unique event like the flower festival in Funchal before you explore the rest of the island with a sports car rental in Portugal.

 

Some of the best car rental companies in Portugal

Some of the best car rental companies in Portugal include international brands like Alamo and Avis, but you'll also find great deals and customer service from regional companies like SurPrice. Each company has its own policies and deals for insurance, so if you go through the details in advance, you'll not only get your best choice for a cheap car rental in Portugal, but also a smoother pickup without the hassle.

 

Portugal car rental types

The car class perfect for your adventure depends on how you'll use your rental car in Portugal. You might prefer a SUV for getting off the beaten track in northern Portugal. Or your whole family, luggage and bikes could fit perfectly in a mid-size van for enjoying scenic drives up and down the coast. A luxury car rental in Portugal adds comfort to your romantic vacation for the just the two of you on the southern Atlantic coast. Try out the European approach to city driving with a compact rental and see just how much easier it is to park in the city.

 

Advice on car rental in Portugal as an American

For many car rentals in Portugal, you just need your driver's license, but check with your provider to see if you need an International Driver's Permit as well. It's easy to get by mail or from any AAA location. Make sure you filter for automatic transmission in your search if it's important for your rental car in Portugal to not have a manual transmission. Fuel costs are also higher, so it's important to factor that into your overall car rental cost in Portugal. But you may also be able to improve your fuel economy with the overall slower travel speed on Portugal's beautiful coastal roads.

 

One-way and long-term car rentals in Portugal

Lock in a one-way car rental in Portugal from Porto to Faro to explore all of Portugal without making a round trip journey. Expedia makes it easy to put in your destinations and browse through a variety of options. If you're taking your time along Portugal's coast or need to get around the secluded part of the Serra da Estrela mountains during a longer stay, then a long-term rental in Portugal from one of Expedia's trusted partners could be the right choice for you.

 

Benefits of booking a car rental in Portugal with Expedia

Searching for car rentals in Portugal is a breeze with Expedia's range of filters and vast number of companies. We also show you a brand's customer recommendation level, so you can make an informed decision. Discounts may also be available when you book your car rental in Portugal together with your flights or hotel on Expedia. And then everything you need is all in one place, so you can sit back and enjoy your island getaway, or your journey from Porto through the lush Douro Valley and majestic Alentejo plains.


*Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my Portugal car reservation?
Canceling a prepaid reservation with at least six hours notice should allow for a complete refund. But this is not always the case. It's worth checking your booking confirmation and cancellation policy. Still stuck for answers? Jump onto our Customer Service Portal.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Portugal with Expedia?
Expedia makes it a breeze to compare costs, offers and providers, and to check customer recommendations. Combine your Portugal car rental with flight or hotel bookings and you can make even bigger savings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Portugal?
The minimum age to rent a car in Portugal is 18. A young driver surcharge will apply, so check before you book and budget for any additional costs. There could also be restrictions on the types of vehicles available to young drivers. For instance, some outlets will only rent out small and medium-sized cars to less-experienced motorists. Requirements may differ between companies, so look over the fine print.
What do you need to rent a car in Portugal?
Any rental company you select will need these two things — your driver's license and credit card. If you choose to opt out of the supplier's insurance plan, proof of other coverage may also be needed. Read your policy so you know what to bring with you to the rental counter.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Portugal?
Yes, and you can find your perfect wheels on our long-term car rental deals page. Simply enter your trip details and we'll show you excellent options from various leading suppliers.
Where can I find a Portugal car rental if I am younger than 25?
Age policies differ between rental suppliers, so you'll have to do a bit of research. Found a Portugal outlet that does rent to under 25s? Great news! Just take note that extra fees often apply to drivers between the ages of 21 and 24. The fine print of each rental car you're considering will have all the information you need.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Portugal?
For a safe, stress-free road trip, add Expedia's collision protection while reserving your rental car. This insurance covers your ride against theft, vandalism and collision damage. It also offers customers 24-hour emergency help in times of need. Opt in to this insurance while finalizing your Portugal vehicle with Expedia and save time and money at the rental counter.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation