Portugal Car Rentals

I have a discount code

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car suppliers logo

  • protection illustration

    Change your mind

    Penalty-free cancellation on many/select car rentals
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    One Key members save 10% or more on over 1 million car rentals
    Learn about One Key
  • package illustration

    Shop smart

    Compare car suppliers and package your flight, hotel, and car to save

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.
CarsCars

Lisbon District

Lisbon District

What you need to know for your Portugal car rental

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 are the cheapest car rentals in Portugal?
Smaller classes like economy and compact cars tend to be among the most affordable car rentals in Portugal, which are easy to maneuver and fuel-efficient for getting around. You'll find these options commonly available in major cities such as Lisbon, Porto, and Albufeira. Suppliers like Europcar and Sixt offer a wide selection of these vehicle types. Keep in mind that car rental rates can vary by city, specific pickup location, and the time of year, so comparing different cities and dates on Expedia will help you find great value for your trip.
What are the best car rentals in Portugal?
Car rentals across Portugal come in a full range of vehicle types from providers like Europcar, Sixt, and SurPrice Car Rentals, broadly available in major cities such as Lisbon, Porto, and Albufeira. The most common car classes include:
  • Compact SUV
  • Economy 4-5 door
  • Compact 4-5 door
  • Compact elite 4-5 door
  • Mini 2-3 door
These options cater to various travel needs, whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or a small group. You'll find these same classes broadly available across the country's major cities. Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving primarily in the city or covering longer distances between regions.

What are the best car rental companies in Portugal?
For car rentals across Portugal, providers like Europcar, Sixt, and SurPrice Car Rentals offer a strong mix of vehicles with wide availability in major cities such as Lisbon, Porto, and Albufeira. These companies are well-regarded for their service and range of options. To find the right vehicle for your trip, compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia.
Can I rent a car one-way in Portugal?
Yes, one-way car rentals are a great way to see Portugal, allowing you to pick up in one city and drop off in another. This is ideal for a cross-country road trip, for example, picking up in Lisbon and dropping off in Porto. Providers like Europcar and Sixt offer flexible one-way options across the region. A one-way drop-off fee usually applies and can be higher over longer distances, so it's always a good idea to confirm any associated fees when booking on Expedia.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in Portugal?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Portugal, including in major cities like Lisbon and Porto. Companies such as Europcar and Sixt offer various electric and hybrid options, including electric, hybrid, and hybrid plug-in vehicles. Choosing an EV or hybrid can help keep fuel costs low, and charging infrastructure is becoming increasingly available along major routes. For longer drives between cities, it's wise to plan your charging stops in advance.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Portugal?
For luxury car rentals across Portugal, providers like Sixt, Europcar, and Greenmotion offer premium categories — high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for touring the country in style. You'll find options such as luxury sedans, premium SUVs, and fullsize elite vehicles available in major cities such as Lisbon and Porto. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse these premium options and compare before you book your sophisticated ride.
What are the best car rentals in Portugal for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Portugal, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage — available across major cities from Lisbon to Porto and Albufeira. Consider these options:
  • Europcar: midsize SUV — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Sixt: fullsize SUV — seats up to 6 with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases
These vehicles keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips between regions. It's advisable to book a few weeks ahead, as larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods.

Which airports in Portugal can I pick up a rental car?
Portugal has several international airports with car rental pick-up, so you can start close to wherever you land:
  • Lisbon International Airport (LIS)
  • Francisco Sa Carneiro Airport (OPO) in Porto
  • Faro Airport (FAO) near Albufeira
Choosing the airport nearest your starting city helps keep your travel plans convenient. It's a good idea to compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a great option for your trip.

What are the best road trips in Portugal by rental car?
With a rental car, Portugal opens up for multi-stop road trips between its major cities and regions:
  • Lisbon to Porto — a classic route exploring Portugal's two largest cities, with opportunities to visit places like the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima along the way.
  • Lisbon to Albufeira — journey south to the Algarve coast, passing by beautiful beaches such as Costa da Caparica Beach.
  • Porto to Nazaré — explore the central coast, known for its stunning beaches and surf, including Nazaré Beach.
A rental car makes these multi-stop trips across the country easy, and a one-way rental suits point-to-point routes so you don't have to double back. Compare pickup cities and one-way options on Expedia to plan your adventure.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Portugal?
In Portugal, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. This is consistent across all cities and regions, from Lisbon to Porto and the Algarve. If you're accustomed to driving on the left, give yourself a little time to adjust to the local traffic flow. Take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, as the direction of travel will be opposite to what you might be used to. Keeping this in mind will help ensure a smooth and safe journey as you explore Portugal's beautiful cities and scenic roads.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Portugal?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Portugal. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Portugal?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Portugal?
Budget car rental in Portugal can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Portugal?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Portugal. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Portugal car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Portugal?
To rent a car in Portugal, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Portugal car rental?
If you need to cancel your Portugal car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.

Car Rental Information

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