What's new with Portugal toll roads?
If you’re gearing up to explore Portugal by road, you’re in luck! In May of last year, Portuguese Parliament approved a proposal to end toll roads on a…
Car Hire in Portugal.
Search for car hire deals in Portugal
- Free Cancellation
- Excess Protection
- 24/7 Support
- Fair Fuel Policy
What our customers say
Drive4Fun are pragmatic and straight forward to deal with. They are clear that they want to provide a good service so that you will book with them again. Car was in a satisfactory condition, but it was for a great price. Will defi…
Alan C C - Faro Airport, 14 hours ago
Compare the best Portugal car hire deals
Compare the best car hire deals in Portugal using our search above. With Zest you'll have a free additional driver, no excess protection as standard, and peace of mind that you'll have the best car hire experience. This all adds up to give you the best value car hire deal around.
Whether you're picking up your hire car from Lisbon Airport, Lagos or Faro Airport, getting around by car is the best way to enjoy this European gem. Book your Portugal car hire today.
- Free Additional Driver in Portugal as standard
- Excess insurance included
- Free Cancellation & amendments
- Fair Fuel Policy
- Breakdown assistance
- 24/7 customer support
- Which? Recommended Car Hire Broker
Which car rental company should I book with in Portugal?
Booking your Portugal car hire with Zest means you're ensuring a smooth, easy, and stress-free experience. Whether you're booking with big brands such as Centauro, Dollar, Hertz or smaller companies like RentAuto or Masterkings, you'll always get a great deal and be greeted with a friendly smile. We keep a close eye on customer feedback and vehicle standards from our providers so you will always have peace of mind that your car rental experience will be hassle-free with no hidden extras.
Book with Zest Car Rental in Portugal
We take a fresh, honest approach to car hire. Our booking process is simple: clear pricing, no hidden costs, and no small print to worry about.
We want you to relax and look forward to your holiday, not worry about the logistics.
Unlock the real Portugal
Portugal is famous for its dramatic Atlantic coastlines, sun-bleached historic villages, and world-class culinary heritage, making it an extraordinary destination for a driving holiday.
A scenic drive along the southern coast introduces you to the golden cliffs of the Algarve, tracing paths that effortlessly connect vibrant resort towns like Lagos, Albufeira, and Faro.
Navigating these routes opens up pristine, secluded beaches and dramatic coastal nature reserves that regular public transport networks cannot easily reach.
Further inland or heading north, a rental vehicle gives you the complete freedom to explore the country's diverse landscapes at your own comfortable pace.
You can journey through the rolling, cork-oak plains of the Alentejo region, wind along the dramatic terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley, or head into the rugged peaks of the Serra da Estrela mountains.
Having complete control over your travel itinerary allows you to stop at rural morning markets, explore remote historic hilltop castles, and discover family-run countryside taverns completely free from rigid group tour schedules.
Can I take my rental car across national borders?
Given Portugal's position on the Iberian Peninsula, many travelers want to extend their road trip across borders into neighboring Spain.
To check what options are available for your journey, we recommend generating a live quote on our website where eligible cars will be explicitly labeled with exact permissions or local fees.
Our Fleet in Portugal
At Zest Car Rental, we offer a wide range of vehicles in Portugal to suit every type of traveller. Fuel-efficient economy cars and nimble compact models are highly practical for navigating narrow historic town roads, maneuvering through old quarters, and finding parking in busy urban centres like Lisbon or Porto.
If you plan to tour the steep mountain routes of the interior, carry substantial holiday luggage, or cruise regional highways with family, choosing a spacious intermediate vehicle or a compact SUV can provide additional power, ground clearance, and reliable interior comfort for the terrain.
One Way Rentals in Portugal
In Portugal, you can pick up your car and drop it off at a different location, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
One-way rentals are perfect for linear road trips, cross-country travel, or flexible itineraries, such as collecting your vehicle at Porto Airport and returning it at Faro Airport or Lisbon Airport.
Please note that each provider sets their own rules for one-way rentals, and some may apply a mandatory local fee. This is clearly shown during the booking process.
Driver Age Requirements in Portugal
Can I rent a car in Portugal if I am under 25?
Yes. However, many providers apply a Young Driver Surcharge and may restrict access to luxury vehicle categories. Young driver fees vary by provider and may still apply depending on age and vehicle category.
Can I rent a car in Portugal if I am over 70?
Yes. While some providers may have additional requirements or conditions for older drivers depending on policy, others welcome senior drivers with zero restrictions or extra costs.
What is the best time of year to explore Portugal by car?
The ideal time to explore Portugal on a driving holiday is during the months of April to June or September to October.
During these periods, you can enjoy beautifully mild, sunny temperatures and comfortable driving conditions across both coastal and inland routes while avoiding peak summer crowds.
Toll Roads in Portugal (Updated for 2026).
Driving in Portugal is conducted on the right-hand side of the road, with overtaking executed on the left. Key motorways like the A22 in the Algarve, as well as the A4, A13, A23, A24, A25, and A28 are toll-free for passenger vehicles, but tolls remain active on several other major routes, such as the A2 towards Lisbon. To manage these active routes, providers commonly supply an electronic transponder at the rental desk, which links toll charges directly to a required security deposit. If you stick purely to toll-free routes and no charges are incurred, this deposit is refunded when the vehicle is returned.
Drink-driving is prohibited under Portuguese law and punishments are strict. If you plan to drink, you should not drive.
When navigating major urban areas like Lisbon or Porto, remain alert for exceptionally narrow historic streets, intricate multi-lane roundabouts, and fast-moving city traffic. Parking spaces in central municipal districts vary by location, and drivers should look out for localized restrictions and designated pay-and-display zones managed by meters or digital payment options.
Outside the main cities, maintain a defensive driving style to look out for sudden speed limit drops near rural villages, slow-moving agricultural machinery on secondary country roads, and winding mountainous terrain with tight turns in the northern and central interior ranges.
What documents do I need to hire a car in Portugal?
It is essential that you have a full valid driving license to hire a car in Portugal. It is also essential that you’ve had this license for atleast a year. The length required does vary between providers though so be sure to check the specifics with the car hire provider you choose. Along with your valid driving license (and International Driving Permit if required), you’ll also need to present a valid passport for identification when collecting your car.
Since 1st January 2021, if you have an old paper style UK driving license, you may need an International Driving Permit to hire a car in Portugal.
How do I collect my rental car in Portugal with Zest Car Rental?
Whilst many car rental companies have desks at airports across Portugal, many also allow collection from the airport car parks. Hopping on a shuttle bus and picking up your car off-site is also an option.
If you are collecting your rental car at Faro Airport, we have created a guide on how to collect your vehicle. You can check it out here!
For a handy guide of what to do when collecting your hire car, read our tips for stress-free car hire collection
What are the licence requirements for renting a car in Portugal?
Most companies that we work with in Portugal only require you to have held a full EU issued driving licence for 1 year. Some need you to have held your licence for 2 years. When making a booking, check the individual provider's licence requirements in the side bar by clicking on the (i) information icon.
Driving in Portugal.
Hiring a car in Portugal is the best way to discover this wonderful country. There are lots of hidden beaches and beautiful villages in the Portuguese countryside waiting to be discovered. In Portugal, you will be driving on the right and overtaking on the left. Vehicles coming from the right have priority at junctions. Learn more in our extensive Portugal Driving Guide!
Useful facts about Portugal before your rental!
- Currency: Euro
- Side of the road to drive on: Right
- Time difference: GMT
- Dialling code: +351
Need to contact us on rental?
We hope that your holiday and Portugal car hire collection goes smoothly, however we understand that things don’t always go to plan.
If your flight is cancelled or delayed, please let us know right away on +44 1362 852288.
If you experience an issue upon collection or you’re not happy about something, please do not hesitate to get in touch! Contact us today and we will liaise with the car rental provider to resolve any problems.
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Places to hire in Portugal
- Albufeira
- Alcoutim
- Alges
- Aljezur
- Almada
- Almancil
- Altura
- Alvor
- Armacao de Pera
- Aveiro
- Barreiro
- Beja
- Braga
- Budens
- Burgau
- Cabanas de Tavira
- Carvoeiro
- Cascais
- Castro Marim
- Coimbra
- Conceicao de Tavira
- Estoi
- Estoril
- Evora
- Falesia
- Faro
- Faro Airport (FAO)
- Faro Rail Station
- Ferragudo
- Ferreiras
- Fuseta
- Guia
- Lagoa
- Lagos
- Lagos Rail Station
- Leiria
- Lisbon
- Lisbon Airport (LIS)
- Lisbon Gare Do Oriente Train Station
- Lisbon Santa Apolonia Train Station
- Loule
- Loule Rail Station
- Manta Rota
- Monchique
- Monte Gordo
- Montijo
- Odivelas
- Oeiras
- Olhao
- Olhos de Agua
- Paco de Arcos
- Parede
- Pedras de El-Rei
- Perafita
- Porches
- Portimao
- Porto
- Porto Airport (OPO)
- Praia da Luz
- Praia da Oura
- Praia da Rocha
- Praia das Macas
- Praia de Faro
- Praia Verde
- Quarteira
- Quinta do Lago
- Rocha Brava Village Resort
- Sagres
- Santa Barbara de Nexe
- Santa Luzia
- Sao Bras de Alportel
- Setubal
- Silves
- Sintra
- Tavira
- Trofa
- Vale do Lobo
- Viana do Castelo
- Vila do Bispo
- Vila do Conde
- Vila Real de Santo Antonio
- Vilamoura
- Viseu
Average customer rating for car hire in Portugal
(4.8 out of 5.00) based on 18133 responses to our customer survey.
Popular locations in Portugal
See all locationsZest's Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Portugal!
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Sintra
Just a short drive from Lisbon, Sintra is known for its fairytale-like castles and palaces. Don't miss the colorful Pena Palace, the historic Moorish Castle, and the romantic Quinta da Regaleira with its mystical gardens.
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Praia da Marinha
This iconic beach is often considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. Known for its golden cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and natural arches, Praia da Marinha is perfect for a relaxing day by the sea or exploring the caves by boat.
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Lagos
A historic town with a lively atmosphere, Lagos offers a mix of cultural attractions and stunning beaches. Visit the 17th-century Forte da Ponta da Bandeira, stroll through the historic center's narrow streets, and relax on nearby beaches like Praia Dona Ana.
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Cidade Velha
Explore the historic center of Faro, with its cobbled streets, white-washed buildings, and traditional Portuguese architecture.
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Cascais
Relax on beautiful beaches, wander through the historic center, and enjoy the seafront promenade. The Boca do Inferno cliff formation is also a must-see.
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Nazaré
A coastal gem known for its towering waves, Nazaré offers a lovely beach, traditional fishing culture, and stunning viewpoints. Enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants and take in the panoramic vistas.
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Algarve Caves and Grottoes
Embark on a boat tour to explore the mesmerizing sea caves and grottoes along the coastline.
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Cape St. Vincent
Head to the southwesternmost point of Europe, Cape St. Vincent, for breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
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Ria Formosa Natural Park
Faro is a gateway to the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a protected area with salt flats, marshes, and a diverse array of bird species. You can take boat tours to explore this unique ecosystem.
