Ready to kick off your Portuguese road trip? Use the search form above to compare real-time car rental rates across Portugal. Select your pickup location (from major gateways like Lisbon Airport (LIS) or Porto Airport (OPO), to city locations in Lisbon, Porto, Faro, or even Madeira and Azores if you’re island-hopping), choose your dates, and hit “Search.” In seconds, you’ll see offers from dozens of rental companies from international brands to reliable local firms for everything from mini two-door cars perfect for Lisbon’s narrow streets to spacious SUVs or vans for family adventures. Booking is fast and secure. Most reservations allow free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, and many let you reserve now and pay at pick-up. Lock in a great deal now, and you’ll be all set to cruise the coasts and countrysides of Portugal without hassle. At AirportVanRental, we compare top suppliers to guarantee the best price and customer service on your Portugal car hire.
Bem-vindo a Portugal! From Lisbon’s historic trams and neighborhoods to the sun-kissed beaches of the Algarve and the vineyards of the Douro Valley, having your own rental car is the key to unlocking all these experiences. While Portugal has decent public transport between major spots, many of the country’s hidden gems secluded beaches, hilltop castles, picturesque villages are best reached by car. This page is your comprehensive guide to renting a car in Portugal. We’ve combined unbeatable Euro rental deals with local driving tips so you can book with confidence and hit the road prepared. Whether you’re landing at Lisbon Airport car rental in hand, exploring Porto’s wine country, or planning a cross-border trip into Spain, AirportVanRental helps you find the perfect vehicle quickly and easily. Book your Portugal car rental with AirportVanRental, your trusted global OTA partner, and get ready to explore Portugal on your terms with extra savings along the way!
Portugal is a country made for road trips. While you can get between Lisbon, Porto, and some towns by train or bus, a car rental gives you ultimate freedom to discover the real Portugal beyond the train tracks. Here’s why renting a car in Portugal is a game-changer for travelers:
Our Portugal Car Rental Benefits (Why Book with AVR)
When you book your Portugal car hire through AirportVanRental, you’re choosing convenience, savings, and peace of mind. We go above and beyond a basic rental site to ensure your experience is smooth from pickup to drop-off. Here’s why travelers trust us for their Portugal rentals:
Top Portugal Car Rental Deals
We’ve sifted through our live rates to highlight some popular rental deals for Portugal. Whether you’re picking up at Lisbon Airport, Porto downtown, or Faro in the Algarve, here’s a taste of what you can expect:
(Rates vary by date and location; “from” prices based on a 7-day rental in shoulder season. Prices include basic insurance and unlimited mileage unless stated otherwise. Always check the fuel policy (usually full-to-full) and any young driver fees if under 25.)
Driving in Portugal: Tips, Rules & What to Expect
Driving in Portugal is generally straightforward and rewarding, but there are a few local nuances to be aware of. Here’s your quick guide to navigating Portuguese roads safely and confidently:
Right-Hand Driving & Road Basics: In Portugal, as in continental Europe, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. The driver’s seat is on the left side of the car. If you’re coming from the UK, Australia, or other left-driving countries, take it slow at first to adjust perhaps practice in the rental car lot or a quiet street near the airport. Roundabouts are very common in Portugal; at roundabouts, yield to traffic already in the circle (coming from your left) they have priority. You’ll often see multiple lanes in larger roundabouts know your exit and get into the appropriate lane (usually right lane for first exit, left lane for later exits, but always follow arrows/markings). Use your turn signal when you’re about to exit the roundabout. Seat belts are compulsory for all occupants. Children under 12 or under 135 cm tall must use appropriate child seats and sit in the back (unless the front airbag is deactivated for a rear-facing infant seat). Headlights should be used from dusk to dawn; it’s also recommended to use dipped headlights on highways even in daytime for visibility (not mandatory, but many locals do). Portugal has a zero tolerance for DUI for new drivers (0.02% BAC limit if licensed under 3 years) and 0.05% BAC for others essentially one drink could put you over, so it’s best not to drink at all if you’re driving. Police do random checkpoints for documents or DUI especially at night. Always carry your driver’s license, passport (or EU ID), rental agreement, and insurance papers in the car.
Speed Limits & Cameras: Speed limits in Portugal depend on the type of road. Unless otherwise posted, the limits are 50 km/h in urban/built-up areas (sometimes 30 km/h on narrow residential streets), 90 km/h on standard two-lane roads outside towns, 100 km/h on “vias reservadas” (smaller expressways), and 120 km/h on motorways (highways). On some curvy rural roads, you might see lower limits like 70 km/h. Always watch for signs, as limits can drop near towns or dangerous curves. Speed cameras (radars) do exist on some highways and near towns they are usually signposted with a warning (a blue sign with a camera icon). Portugal has been expanding its speed camera network and also has a few average speed zones (especially on certain highway stretches). Fines for speeding can be hefty and if you’re way over (like 50 km/h over the limit) it can even mean a court appearance. The rental company will charge your credit card for any camera tickets plus admin fee, so save yourself the trouble and stick to the limits. Many Portuguese drivers do go a bit above the limit on highways (it’s not uncommon to see 130-140 km/h on the highway), but that doesn’t mean you should especially since as a visitor, you’re not familiar with where cameras or police might be. If you find vehicles behind you flashing lights, it usually means they want to pass move to the right lane when safe and let faster cars overtake.
Toll Roads & Via Verde: Portugal’s highways (autoestradas) are excellent smooth, well-maintained, and relatively uncrowded but most are toll roads. There are two types of toll systems:
For tourists, the simplest solution is to have a Via Verde electronic toll transponder in your rental car. All major rental companies offer an electronic toll device (Via Verde box) either included or for a small fee. We highly recommend opting for it. Typically, they charge ~€1.50 to €2 per rental day (capped around €15) for the service, plus the tolls you incur. With this device, you can go through the green Via Verde lanes at any toll booth (no need to stop fully) and all electronic-only tolls will be automatically recorded. After your rental, the tolls are either charged to your credit card or you pay at drop-off. If you do not have a transponder, you’d have to pay electronic tolls by other means (like at a post office within 5 days, which is a hassle for visitors). So, get the transponder at pick-up it makes driving stress-free. The device usually sits on the windshield. When you pass under a toll gantry, you might hear a beep that’s the toll being registered. If you accidentally go on an electronic toll road without a device, don’t panic; you can still pay later at a post office or PayShop, but it’s inconvenient (and fines apply if not paid in a few days). For reference, toll costs can add up: Lisbon-Porto on the A1 is ~€22 in tolls, Lisbon-Faro €20 on A2, Porto to Algarve quite a lot (€40+). Budget for tolls if covering long distances. You can avoid toll highways by using secondary roads (marked “EN” or “N” for national roads) they are scenic but slower (and sometimes curvy). For example, instead of the A1 highway, you can take the N1 or N109 to Porto more to see, but expect trucks and lower speeds.
City Driving (Lisbon, Porto) & Parking: Portuguese cities, especially Lisbon and Porto, have old quarters with narrow, winding streets. Driving in historic downtown areas can be challenging: steep hills in Lisbon’s Alfama or Bairro Alto, extremely narrow lanes in Porto’s Ribeira, and one-way mazes. If you’re not comfortable, consider parking the car and using public transit or walking while in the big cities. Both Lisbon and Porto have good metro systems and trams/buses. Driving is useful for inter-city travel and exploring regions, but inside Lisbon’s core, a car is more burden than help (traffic and scarce parking). That said, if your accommodation offers parking, or you find a central garage, you can drive just avoid rush hour if possible (Lisbon 8-10am and 5-7:30pm can have congestion on main avenues and bridge approaches). In Lisbon, be cautious on hills use the handbrake on steep inclines when starting, locals are adept at hill starts but if you’re rusty, automatic cars help. Porto has some very steep and narrow streets down to the river sometimes it’s better to park uptown and take the funicular or walk down.
Parking: In cities, street parking is usually paid Mon-Fri (and Sat in central zones) during business hours. Look for parking signs and meters (pay at machine, display ticket on dash). The signage can be a bit confusing: a blue sign with a P means parking allowed; if it has timings, those are paid hours. Lisbon and Porto have colored zones e.g., red zone (expensive, shorter max time), yellow, green (cheaper, farther out). Rates vary from about €1 to €2 per hour. Enforcement: Parking attendants and police do patrol; fines or wheel-locks (clamping) can happen if you don’t pay or overstay. If you see a lot of cars parked in what looks like no-parking but they’re all doing it use judgment, but I’d advise sticking to legal spots. A common solution: use underground parking garages. Both Lisbon and Porto have many public garages often indicated by electronic signs showing available spots. They are not cheap (maybe €15-€25/day in city center) but are secure and save time. If staying overnight, ask your hotel/Airbnb about parking options they might have discounts at a nearby garage or their own lot. Never leave valuables in sight in a parked car, especially rental-branded cars, to deter break-ins (which aren’t rampant but can occur in tourist areas). Outside the big cities, parking is generally easier. In small towns, you might find free street parking or very cheap meters. At popular tourist sites (e.g., Pena Palace in Sintra or coastal viewpoints), parking fills up; go early or be ready to park a bit further and walk.
Road Conditions & Driving Style: Highways in Portugal are modern and smooth. Major national roads are generally in good shape too. Rural roads can be narrow and winding. In the mountains (like Gerês or Serra da Estrela), expect hairpin bends and occasionally no guardrails drive cautiously and use low gears on descents. Portuguese drivers are fairly confident (sometimes to the point of impatience). Tailgating on highways is unfortunately common if someone is close behind you, it’s usually a sign they want to overtake; move right when you can. Use the left lane strictly for overtaking on highways, then move back right. In cities, scooters and motorcycles will zip through traffic; watch your mirrors before changing lanes. At traffic lights, note that there is no left turn on red (like everywhere in Europe), and no equivalent of right-on-red either. One unique thing: some very small towns or old city centers have weird priority rules e.g., a narrow intersection might not have signs; the rule of priority to the right technically applies, but many locals might just cautiously assert right-of-way. If unsure, slow down and use eye contact/hand waves to communicate at unmarked junctions. In Lisbon and Porto, trams have priority never cut off a tram; they can’t stop easily. Also in Lisbon, watch for bus lanes marked “BUS” or “VA” (via reservada) don’t drive or park in those.
Fueling Up: Gas stations (“posto de combustível” or just “bomba de gasolina”) are frequent along highways (service areas roughly every 50-100 km) and in cities. They usually have attendants who will often pump for you, especially in smaller towns tipping ~€0.50-€1 is a kind gesture if they provide service (not mandatory). Fuel types: Gasolina 95 (Unleaded 95), Gasolina 98 (Super), and Diesel (Gasóleo). Rental cars will run on 95 unleaded or diesel. Check what your car is if it’s diesel, typically the fuel cap is yellow or says “Diesel”. Diesel is common in European cars and often clearly labeled on rental keys or a sticker. Petrol (95) costs around €1.70/L, diesel ~€1.50/L. You might see LPG (GPL) pumps too, but you won’t need those. Payment: credit cards widely accepted; some stations at night are card-only automats requiring a chip & PIN card. If your card doesn’t work, you may need to use cash (some automats take notes, some not). Inside cities, some small stations are literally just a couple of pumps on a corner careful pulling in/out. Pro tip: Many stations in Portugal are 24h, but staffed hours maybe 8am-10pm; at night, they might switch to automated mode.
Electronic Toll Devices & Traffic: As discussed, make sure to use the Via Verde if you have it it also can pay for some parking garages and even McDonald’s drive-thru (!) but primarily it’s for tolls. Regarding traffic, Lisbon’s 25 de Abril Bridge (the big red suspension bridge) can get very congested at rush hours plan accordingly (also it has a toll €1.90 southbound only). The Vasco da Gama bridge (the longer new one in Lisbon) is a good alternative to cross the Tagus, also toll (€3.50), but further from city center. In Porto, no tolls within city, but bridges there can back up at peak times too.
Safety & Emergency: On highways, there are emergency phones periodically. If you break down, put on the reflective vest (should be in your car by law) before exiting the car, and set the warning triangle 30m behind the vehicle. Call the rental’s roadside assistance number. The emergency number in Portugal is 112 for any serious accident or help needed. Police are generally helpful; many speak some English, especially the traffic police in tourist areas. If you’re in a fender-bender, you’re supposed to fill out the European Accident Report form (provided with rental documents). If fault is clear or damage minor, often people settle without police, but as a tourist, it’s best to always involve the rental company and police if any doubt.
Driving Etiquette & Regional Tips: In rural villages, you may encounter tractors, ox-carts, or stray animals on the road. In the Azores or Madeira (if you drive there), roads can be extremely steep and narrow an adventure for sure, just drive slowly and use horns on blind bends. Portuguese drivers do use the horn but mostly only if necessary (like alerting someone when overtaking on a twisting road). Flashing headlights can mean “I’m coming through” or warning of something ahead. A friendly local custom: if someone lets you merge or yields, you might see them flash hazard lights briefly as a thank you; you can do the same. Conversely, if you see someone behind you flash headlights, they likely want you to yield/move aside.
GPS & Signage: Road signs in Portugal follow international conventions a red-bordered triangle for warnings, circular signs for regulatory (with a red border usually means prohibition). Highways are indicated by letter A and a number (A1, A22, etc.). National roads by N or sometimes EN. Directional signs on highways show destinations and usually the road number. If using GPS or Google Maps, be cautious that it might suggest a toll vs non-toll route if you want to avoid tolls, adjust settings accordingly. However, non-toll routes can be significantly slower. We generally advise: it’s worth spending a few euros on the toll road to save time on long legs. But for shorter scenic drives, the national roads are fine. One thing: Google might not fully know which Portuguese toll roads are electronic vs cash with a transponder it won’t matter to you, though.
Seasonal Notes: Summer (July-August) is high tourism season roads to Algarve beaches or popular surf spots (like around Sagres or Nazaré) can get busy, and parking near beaches by midday is tough. Go early for beach parking. In winter, interior north (Serra da Estrela) can have snow, and occasionally mountain roads get closed for snow check if heading there (the authorities do plow main routes and even have a small ski area near Torre). Coastal areas may have heavy rain or fog in winter, so drive cautiously. The Portuguese rain can come in bursts use wipers and lights accordingly.
Driving in Portugal offers incredible variety one day you’re on a coastal cliff road, next day zipping on a modern freeway, then on a cobbled lane to a vineyard. With a bit of preparation and understanding of local rules, you’ll find it enjoyable and pretty easy. And if in doubt at any point, remember you can call AirportVanRental support for guidance. We want you to have a safe and memorable journey through Portugal!
Popular Road Trips in Portugal
Portugal may not be large, but it’s packed with diverse landscapes and cultural sites perfect for road trips. Here are three road trip itineraries that showcase different sides of Portugal, each easily tackled with a rental car and a spirit of adventure:
1. Lisbon to Algarve Coastal Adventure Approx. 300 km one-way (Lisbon to Lagos), 5–7 days recommended
Highlights: Start in the vibrant capital Lisbon. After enjoying Lisbon’s sights, pick up your car (if you haven’t already at the airport) and head south. First, consider a 30 km detour to Sintra (west of Lisbon) before leaving the region this magical town of palaces and castles (Pena Palace, Moorish Castle) is a must-see, and a car lets you arrive early before the tour buses. From Sintra or Lisbon, drive south across the 25 de Abril Bridge (stunning views of Lisbon’s skyline as you cross the Tagus River) and join the A2 motorway towards the Algarve. En route, you might stop in Évora (if you don’t mind a 1-hour detour east into Alentejo) to see its Roman temple and medieval charm.
As you approach the Algarve, leave the highway at Lagos, the western Algarve’s historic town (about 3 hours from Lisbon if direct). Lagos features 16th-century walls, cobbled lanes, and the gorgeous Ponta da Piedade cliffs golden rock formations in the turquoise sea. Continue east along the coastal N125 road to hop beach towns: Portimão (for Praia da Rocha), Albufeira (bustling nightlife and family resorts), Vilamoura (upscale marina). Don’t miss Benagil Cave from the village of Benagil, take a small boat or kayak to this famous sea cave with a hole in its roof; truly a postcard of Portugal.
Farther east, visit Faro, the Algarve’s capital, with its quaint old town and lagoon nature reserve (Ria Formosa). Finally, end near Tavira, a charming riverside town known for its bridges and Roman history, close to the Spanish border. You can dip your toes in the Atlantic at Monte Gordo beach or even pop over to Spain’s Ayamonte for lunch, since you have wheels! If doing round-trip, drive back to Lisbon via the quicker A2/A1 highways (approx. 2.5-3 hours from Faro). Alternatively, drop your car in Faro if arrangements allow, or continue your adventure into Spain.
Pro Tip: The Algarve has scores of beaches some of the best (and less crowded) are a bit hidden off smaller roads. For example, Praia da Marinha and Praia do Camilo are two stunning cove beaches accessible by car and short walk; follow local signposts off N125. Summer traffic in the Algarve can slow down on N125 due to volume and roundabouts in every town; if you’re in a hurry, use the A22 (Via do Infante) highway which spans the Algarve (note: A22 is an electronic-toll road, so ensure your transponder is on; it’ll cost a few euros but save time). In shoulder seasons (May-June, Sept-Oct), the roads and beaches are quieter and weather still great. Parking at popular beaches is easiest early morning or late afternoon. Stay hydrated and use sunscreen those coastal drives give a lot of sun! And don’t rush the trip the joy of an Algarve road trip is stopping whenever a beach or cliff view catches your eye. With a car, you’re free to explore countless nooks along the coast that package tours miss.
2. Porto to Douro Valley Wine Route Approx. 200 km round-trip (Porto Pinhão Porto), 2–3 days
Highlights: Begin in Porto, Portugal’s second city, famed for its port wine cellars and UNESCO-listed Ribeira district. Once you’ve soaked in Porto’s ambiance, hit the road eastward. Take the A4/IP4 highway towards the heart of the Douro Valley, the world’s oldest demarcated wine region (and also UNESCO-listed for its breathtaking terraced vineyards). Exit at Peso da Régua (about 1.5 hours from Porto), a riverside town considered the gateway to the Douro. Here, you can visit the Douro Museum to get context on wine history, or drop by a quintas (wine estate) nearby for a first tasting.
From Régua, switch to the scenic N222 road heading to Pinhão this stretch is often called one of the most beautiful drives in the world. It winds gently along the Douro River, flanked by steep vineyards on both sides. Stop at viewpoints like São Leonardo de Galafura (a short detour uphill) for a panoramic look over the river’s bends. Arrive in Pinhão, a charming village at the confluence of the Douro and Pinhão rivers. The Pinhão train station is worth a stop for its lovely azulejo tile panels depicting the grape harvest. Take a boat cruise here if you like a relaxing way to see the valley from the water.
Spend a night or two in the Douro region perhaps at a wine quinta that offers guesthouse accommodations. Many quintas around Pinhão (and Régua) welcome visitors for tours and tastings you can drive to Quinta do Bomfim (Dow’s port, in Pinhão) or Quinta da Roêda (Croft, near Pinhão) for tours. If you want to venture further, drive up to Alijó or São João da Pesqueira, small towns with local eateries and more wine estates. When ready, loop back to Porto via a different route: cross the river at Pinhão and take N323/N313 through Sabrosa (birthplace of explorer Ferdinand Magellan) and then back to the highway. Alternatively, continue east a bit more to Villa Nova de Foz Côa to see the prehistoric rock carvings (if you have an extra day) though that’s farther and makes for a longer return.
Pro Tip: The Douro roads are narrow and winding don’t plan to drive them after dark if possible, especially after a day of wine tasting! Assign a designated taster if traveling with friends, or spit/dump after tasting those wines are strong (port wine ~20% alcohol). Distances may look small on the map, but due to curvy roads, time to cover ground is longer and you’ll want to drive slowly to admire views. There are few gas stations within the valley; fill up in Régua or before. The best times to visit are late spring (May-June, lush green vines) or harvest season (September) when vineyards turn golden and there’s activity (but also the busiest and priciest time). In summer, it can get very hot (35°C+), so air conditioning in your car is a blessing. Many viewpoints have very small parking pull-outs be cautious when stopping. And absolutely try the local food: the Douro region is known for hearty dishes like roasted goat and bola de carne (meat bread). Driving allows you to reach those countryside tasquinhas (taverns) that serve authentic fare. This road trip is all about slowing down and savoring the scenery, the wine, the culture truly a must-do if you love wine and road travel.
3. Lisbon to Porto via the Heart of Portugal (The Silver Coast Route) Approx. 400 km one-way (with detours), 4–6 days
Highlights: This route takes you from Lisbon to Porto not by the fastest highway, but by a richer path through Portugal’s historic heartland and Silver Coast. Depart Lisbon heading north on A8 and make your first stop about 1 hour out at Óbidos, a picture-perfect medieval walled town. Park outside the walls (parking lots available) and wander the cobbled streets adorned with bougainvillea, perhaps sipping the local cherry liqueur ginjinha served in a chocolate cup. Next, continue north and veer towards the coast to Nazaré, a traditional fishing town that’s now world-famous for something very modern: record-breaking surf waves. If it’s winter (big-wave season) or even off-season, drive up to the Sitio clifftop and check out the view of Praia do Norte where daredevil surfers ride 20-30m waves. Even in summer, Nazaré’s long beach and charming town are worth a stop for fresh grilled seafood lunch.
Continuing north, consider a detour inland to Batalha or Alcobaça (or both) to see their majestic monasteries Batalha’s Gothic Manueline architecture and Alcobaça’s medieval abbey (with the tombs of star-crossed lovers King Pedro & Inês) are highlights of Portuguese heritage. Further north, you reach Coimbra, roughly halfway to Porto. Coimbra is a historic university city park near the river or your hotel and explore on foot: the University of Coimbra atop the hill, its famous Biblioteca Joanina library, and the lively student atmosphere. If time permits, catch a fado de Coimbra show (this city has its own unique fado music style, often sung by male students).
From Coimbra, head to Aveiro on the coast dubbed “the Venice of Portugal” for its canals and colorful moliceiro boats. It’s a nice place to take a break, stroll by Art Nouveau buildings, and try the local sweet “ovos moles” (egg yolk sweets). Finally, push on to Porto, about 45-60 minutes from Aveiro via A1 highway, or more if you meander along the coast (you could swing by Costa Nova beach near Aveiro to see its striped painted houses). Arrive in Porto, crossing the Douro River on the Arrábida Bridge or the dramatic Ponte de Luís I (depending on your approach) a fitting grand entrance into the city of port wine.
Pro Tip: This journey packs a lot of sites tailor it to your interests. History buff? Don’t skip Tomar, a bit east of Coimbra, where the Convent of Christ (former Templar stronghold) is amazing. Prefer nature? Add a stop at Serra da Aire e Candeeiros Natural Park between Batalha and Tomar, or the Mira de Aire Caves (Portugal’s largest caverns). The Silver Coast (central coast) has beautiful beaches Foz do Arelho, São Martinho do Porto (a calm bay good for a swim), Figueira da Foz near Coimbra if in summer, bring your swim gear and enjoy a beach day. Keep some coins for occasional highway toll booths between Lisbon and Coimbra (most are electronic, but a few spots like near Aveiro might have a booth). Traffic is usually light except near Lisbon and Porto metros. If possible, avoid entering Lisbon or Porto during rush hour plan to arrive Porto in midday. Lastly, central Portugal cuisine: be sure to try roast suckling pig (leitão) around Mealhada (there’s a famous stretch of restaurants on the old road), and the variety of fresh fishes and stew (like monkfish rice) along the coast. This road trip gives you a broad taste of Portugal from medieval alleys to ocean spray and with your own car, you can adjust the pace: linger longer in places you love, breeze through those you don’t. Bom viagem (good journey)!
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, you must be 21 years or older to rent a car in Portugal. Most rental companies have this minimum, and you need to have held your license for at least 1 year. Drivers under 25 will usually incur a young driver surcharge (typically around €5-€15 per day, depending on the company). Some companies set the minimum at 19 but with a hefty fee and limit you to economy cars. If you’re 18, it’s quite difficult to rent unless you find a special local agency or go through a broker that finds an insurer willing to cover expect high surcharges. The surcharge often drops off at age 25. On the flip side, there’s no strict maximum age in Portugal; as long as you have a valid license, you can rent (though a few companies might require a medical certificate if you’re 75+). Always check the rental terms: for example, a premium or luxury car might have a higher minimum age (like 25 or even 30). If you’re under 25, it’s a good idea to compare surcharges as they can vary significantly sometimes the cheapest base rental becomes not cheap after adding a €10/day fee. With AirportVanRental, we list any young driver fees clearly before you book. Just be prepared with a credit card in the main driver’s name, as that’s required regardless of age.
Portugal recognizes valid foreign driver’s licenses as long as they are written in the Latin alphabet and have a photo ID. So, if you have a U.S. license, UK license, Canadian, Australian, etc., you can rent and drive in Portugal without an International Driving Permit. It’s perfectly legal to drive with your U.S. license for visits (up to 6 months). However, if your license is in a non-Roman alphabet (say, Chinese, Russian, Arabic, etc.), you will need either an IDP or a certified translation. The International Driving Permit (IDP) is essentially a translation of your license into many languages including Portuguese. While Portuguese rental agencies often speak English, having an IDP can be useful if you get pulled over by police who may not read your home license language. It’s also sometimes required by the rental company as a matter of policy if your license isn’t obviously understandable. The U.S. State Department actually recommends an IDP for Portugal, though in practice many Americans rent cars with just their state license and passport with no issue. Our advice: If you have time to get an IDP (available from AAA in the US, for example, for about $20), it doesn’t hurt to have it as a backup. But if you’re from, say, the UK or EU your license is fine (UK: still fine post-Brexit for rentals). Always carry your passport (or EU national ID) along with your license when driving; by law, identification must accompany your license. Also note: you must have had your license at least one year. If you just got your license a few months ago, that could be an issue for renting. In summary, no IDP is needed for English-language licenses, but do bring one if your license is in another script, or just for extra peace of mind on long trips.
Yes, generally cross-border travel with a rental car from Portugal is allowed into other Western European countries, but always inform the rental company and check the terms. Driving from Portugal to Spain is extremely common the two countries have open borders (no checkpoints) under Schengen, so physically it’s as easy as driving to another province. Most Portuguese rentals include Spain in permitted countries. In fact, many companies do not charge extra for Spain, though a few might have a cross-border fee (e.g., €30-€50 flat) this is mainly for insurance extension. With AirportVanRental, we’ll indicate if any fee or requirement exists for cross-border. Usually, you tell the desk at pickup “I plan to go to Spain,” they’ll note it and that’s it. The car’s insurance Green Card (proof of insurance) is often in the glovebox and covers EU countries. For other countries: Typically you can also drive into France without issue (if you were going from Spain into France, etc.), and generally into any EU country. If you plan to drive much beyond, like to Italy or Germany, check if unlimited mileage still applies (sometimes cross-country trips with high mileage might have restrictions, but rarely). Some companies restrict travel to Eastern Europe (like you can’t take the car into Poland, etc., often due to insurance or theft concerns). But Spain, France, Andorra are usually fine. One exception: taking a car on a ferry (e.g., you want to ferry from Portugal’s mainland to Madeira/Azores that’s not allowed; those islands require separate rentals). Or if you somehow thought to go to Morocco (from Spain) generally not allowed without special permission and insurance changes. If you do cross into Spain: remember a few things toll transponder won’t work for Spanish tolls (different system), but Spain has few tolls in the regions near Portugal. Fuel is similar (diesel often a tad cheaper in Spain). And your Portuguese rental will have a license plate from Portugal no issues, just perhaps carry that insurance Green Card as proof if stopped. No routine border stops, but occasionally there could be random checks near borders by police have your passport and rental papers, it’s fine. And importantly: if you plan to drop off in Spain (one-way rental ending in Spain), that’s a different scenario many companies allow it but with a steep one-way fee because they have to repatriate the car. We do see one-way rentals Lisbon to Madrid or Faro to Seville etc., but fees can be €300+. It can be worth it for some itineraries (saves backtracking). But if you’re returning to Portugal, then no extra fee typically. Always mention to the rental company which countries you’ll visit so that the insurance remains valid. Summed up: Portugal-Spain cross-border is easy and usually free, further EU countries typically allowed, just double-check specifics with us or the provider.
Yes, automatic transmission cars are available, though less common than manuals. Portugal, like most of Europe, has a majority of manual (stick shift) cars in rental fleets, especially in the economy and compact categories. However, automatics have become much more prevalent in recent years due to tourist demand. If you require an automatic, be sure to reserve one in advance and explicitly choose a car class that is listed as automatic. On AirportVanRental’s platform, you can filter by transmission. Automatics in Portugal might be labeled as such or often the higher category cars (Fullsize, Premium, many SUVs) are likely auto. An automatic may cost a bit more (often €5-€10 per day extra) and they can book out in peak season. So book early for summer! If you show up with a reservation for a “Fiesta or similar” without guaranteed automatic, chances are you’ll get a manual Ford Fiesta. Don’t assume you can request an automatic at desk without a specific booking for it you’d be at the mercy of availability. The good news is that at major pickup points (airports, Lisbon, Porto), they stock plenty of automatics for tourists. Smaller towns might have fewer. Also note: if you rent a higher-end car, it will likely be automatic by default (e.g., Mercedes C-Class, BMW, etc.). If driving on hilly cities like Lisbon or fun but twisty roads, an automatic can reduce your stress (no rolling back on hills, etc.). If you do end up with a manual or choose one: remember, clutch and stick pattern are same as elsewhere (and you’re shifting with right hand since car is left-hand drive). But again, if you only drive automatics, absolutely reserve one. In peak travel times, supplies can be tight; I’ve seen some renters frustrated when they didn’t book properly and none were available. At AirportVanRental, we clearly indicate the transmission for each vehicle option. So you won’t be guessing. To sum up: automatics are certainly obtainable in Portugal just plan and book accordingly to secure one. And if you’re in a pinch and only manuals are around, well, maybe it’s time for a quick stick shift lesson in a parking lot but hopefully it won’t come to that!
Portugal’s toll system can be a bit confusing for newcomers because of the mix of traditional toll roads and electronic toll roads. Here’s how it works for rentals: When you pick up your car, the agency will likely offer you a Via Verde electronic toll transponder device (usually already installed in the car near the windshield). We strongly recommend accepting it. This device will automatically pay all tolls (both electronic and ones with booths) as you drive. With Via Verde, you can go through the green Via Verde lanes at traditional toll plazas without stopping, and on electronic-only highways, it just beeps and logs the toll. At the end of your rental, you’ll pay the toll charges. Each company has its own policy: some will charge your credit card a week or two later for the tolls (plus maybe a small convenience fee), others have you pay upon drop-off for whatever was recorded. The cost for the device itself is usually around €1.50 to €3 per day (capped at maybe €15 or so per rental). It’s worth it. If you decline the transponder: you’ll have to pay tolls manually. For roads with booths, you can pay cash or card on the spot okay. But for electronic toll only roads (marked at the start with “Electronic toll only” signs), there’s no place to pay on the highway. Instead, your license plate is recorded. As a driver of a rental without a transponder, you’d need to later go to a post office or PayShop with the plate number to pay tolls after 1-2 days (and within 5 days). This is a hassle for travelers, and if you miss it, the bill goes to the rental company who will then charge you later with an admin fee. So not fun. Examples of electronic tolls: A22 in Algarve, some parts of A25, A24 in the north, etc. Many major routes are mixed or fully electronic. Thus, life is simpler with the Via Verde box. One tip: when using Via Verde lanes at tolls, slow down to the posted speed (usually 40 km/h) and ensure you have sufficient following distance to the car ahead, so your transponder reads correctly. You’ll hear a beep. If you accidentally go through without paying and no transponder, the camera got you mention to rental on return, maybe they can charge through their system or it will come as bill later. Also, note: the toll transponder can sometimes be used for other things some parking garages and even McDonald’s drive-thru have Via Verde lanes (deducts from your account). That likely won’t concern you, but just interesting. For you, it’s all about the roads. Cost management: If you’re on a budget and have time, you can avoid many tolls by sticking to “N” roads. But sometimes paying the toll (like A1 Lisbon-Porto ~€23) is worth the 2 hours saved versus slow route. Up to you. If you do avoid toll highways entirely, maybe you can skip the device fee but one missed electronic toll and you’d regret it. Generally, we say take it for peace of mind unless you 100% know you’ll stick to non-toll routes (and even then, a surprise detour or mis-turn could land you on a toll road). In summary: toll transponder yes please! It simplifies everything. You’ll just settle the tolls with the rental company later, no hunting down payments or worrying about fines. Drive through Portugal’s highways like a local, breeze through tolls, and focus on the scenery instead of the payment logistics.
Yes, driving in Portugal is generally safe. Millions of tourists rent cars here every year and drive without issues. Portuguese roads are modern and well-marked, and local drivers, while sometimes fast, are not outright crazy. That said, like any country, there are a few cautions: Portugal has a relatively high rate of traffic accidents per capita in Europe, often due to speeding or reckless passing on two-lane roads. Use common sense: don’t speed excessively, and be patient if stuck behind a slow vehicle until it’s truly safe to overtake (or better, enjoy the scenery and don’t overtake at all if not urgent). In rural areas at night, you might encounter slow farm vehicles or even animals on the road (especially in agricultural regions goats, sheep). Use your high beams on dark roads and watch for reflectors of animal eyes. In cities, petty theft can be a concern. It’s generally safe, but don’t leave valuables visible in a parked car (lock them in trunk or take them). In tourist spots, opportunistic thieves target rental cars (which can sometimes be identified by sticker or license plate starting with certain letters) for smash-and-grab. So, keep it empty-looking. When driving, doors locked and windows up in city traffic is a basic precaution against anyone reaching in at a stoplight (rare, but can’t hurt). Corruption or police hassle is not an issue in Portugal. Police might stop you for random document checks or if you commit a violation. They are usually polite. Many know English or will get by. If you do get a ticket from police (for speeding, etc.), they can sometimes request on-the-spot payment in cash this is normal procedure for foreigners to ensure the fine is paid (not a bribe). If you don’t have cash, they might escort you to an ATM or so. But if it’s minor, you may also opt to have it go to rental company address and handle later (not recommended the rental will charge admin fees on top). Road conditions: safe. Mountains: If you go to Serra da Estrela or remote areas, roads might be narrow drive slowly and be ready to yield on one-lane segments. Coastal cliffs: some have no guardrails don’t drive too close to edges. GPS safety: Some old towns have extremely narrow streets that GPS might try to send you through if it looks too tight, trust your eyes and find another route or park outside and walk in. There have been cases of tourists wedging cars in medieval lanes. Not really a “safety” thing like injury, but a nuisance to avoid. Emergency support: Portugal has good emergency response. Dial 112 if needed. Hospitals are decent and there’s usually an emergency room within reachable distance anywhere. Car breakdown? Rental companies have 24/7 roadside assistance often included. As for crime: violent carjackings etc. are extremely rare. At gas stations or rest stops, normal caution (lock car when you go in to pay, etc.). Portugal is consistently ranked one of the safest countries in the world for travelers. So, main safety points: drive defensively, especially on unfamiliar roads. Respect speed limits and road signs. Avoid driving fatigued distances aren’t huge but fatigue plus unfamiliar roads can be risky. Watch out for local driving quirks: tailgaters, sudden passing, and roundabout confusion just stay calm and predictable. If someone is aggressively overtaking you on a country road, let them go better not to have them behind. Also, weather: in summer, risk of wildfires in inland sometimes roads can close if fire is near. In winter, floods or landslides can happen on rural roads after heavy rain. Keep an ear on local news if extreme weather, or ask locals. In summary, Portugal is safe to drive likely safer than many places you might have driven (certainly less chaotic than say Italy or some Eastern European countries in general). With a bit of caution and awareness, you should feel comfortable hitting the road. And remember, you have the backup of AirportVanRental’s support and the rental’s assistance if anything does go wrong, so you’re not alone out there.