Last updated: April 2026

Driving in Portugal: What You Need to Know

Before you rent a car in Portugal, here are the essential driving facts:

Drive SideRight
International Driving PermitRecommended
Speed Limit (Motorway)120 km/h
Average Fuel Priceโ‚ฌ1.65/L
Minimum Rental Age21+

Sources: Visit Portugal โ€” Driving ยท ANSR (Portuguese Road Safety Authority)

๐Ÿ’ก Insider Tip

Many rental agencies in the Algarve have lower rates than at Lisbon airport.

Best Cities for Car Hire in Portugal

Click on any city below to see detailed rental information, driving tips, and provider comparisons.

Lisbon

Lisbon's position at the mouth of the Tagus makes it an excellent base for coastal road trips. Drive...

Car hire in Lisbon โ†’
Faro

Faro airport is the gateway to the Algarve, Portugal's sun-drenched southern coast. A rental car is ...

Car hire in Faro โ†’
Porto

Porto is the starting point for exploring northern Portugal's Douro Valley wine region, one of Europ...

Car hire in Porto โ†’
Funchal (Madeira)

Madeira's mountainous terrain and dramatic coastal roads make renting a car essential for exploring ...

Car hire in Funchal (Madeira) โ†’

Airport Car Hire in Portugal

Car Hire in Portugal FAQ

Do I need an International Driving Permit in Portugal?
For Portugal, an IDP is recommended. We recommend carrying one as some rental agencies and police may request it, especially outside major tourist areas.
What side of the road do you drive on in Portugal?
In Portugal, you drive on the right side of the road. If you're used to driving on the left, take extra care at roundabouts and junctions.
How old do I need to be to rent a car in Portugal?
The minimum age to rent a car in Portugal is typically 21. Drivers under 25 may face a young driver surcharge of โ‚ฌ5โ€“25 per day depending on the provider.
Which car rental comparison site is best for Portugal?
Portugal's rental market favors local specialists. Localrent has particularly strong coverage in the Algarve and Lisbon, where its local agency partners regularly undercut the brands by 25โ€“30%. For Porto and northern Portugal, QEEQ and Economybookings offer broader selection from both local and international operators.