Porto

Car Rentals in Porto, Portugal

Rental Companies

• Major International Companies:
  • Hertz
  • Avis
  • Budget
  • Enterprise
  • Sixt
• Local Companies:
  • Guerin
  • Rent a Car Porto
  • Auto Jardim

Costs

• Daily Rental Rates:
  • Economy cars: €25 - €50
  • SUVs: €50 - €100
  • Luxury vehicles: €100+
• Additional Fees:
  • Young driver surcharge (under 25): €15 - €30 per day
  • Additional driver fee: €10 - €15 per day
  • GPS rental: €10 - €15 per day

Required Documents

• For Renters:
  • Valid driver’s license (EU or international)
  • Passport or national ID
  • Credit card in the name of the primary driver
• Age Requirement: Minimum age is typically 21; some companies may require drivers to be 25.

Insurance Options

• Basic Coverage: Included in rental price, usually covers third-party liability.
• Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Reduces financial liability for damage to the rental car.
• Theft Protection: Covers theft of the vehicle.
• Personal Accident Insurance: Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers.
• Excess Reduction: Option to reduce the excess amount in case of an accident.

Local Driving Rules

• Driving Side: Right-hand side.
• Speed Limits:
  • Urban areas: 50 km/h
  • Non-urban roads: 90 km/h
  • Highways: 120 km/h
• Seat Belts: Mandatory for all passengers.
• Mobile Phones: Use of handheld devices while driving is prohibited.
• Alcohol Limit: 0.05% BAC for general drivers; 0.02% for novice drivers.

Parking Considerations

• On-Street Parking: Pay-and-display zones; rates vary by area (€0.80 - €1.50 per hour).
• Parking Garages: Available throughout the city; prices range from €1.50 to €3.00 per hour.
• Residential Areas: Some areas require a parking permit; check signage.
• Avoid: Parking in restricted zones to avoid fines.

Fuel Policies

• Fuel Types: Unleaded petrol (Gasolina) and diesel (Gasóleo).
• Fuel Policy: Most rentals operate on a full-to-full policy; return the car with a full tank.
• Fuel Stations: Widely available; self-service stations are common.

Tips for Tourists or Immigrants

• Navigation: Use GPS or a reliable map app; Porto’s streets can be narrow and winding.
• Toll Roads: Some highways have tolls; consider getting a transponder for convenience.
• Driving in the City: Be cautious of trams and cyclists; Porto has steep hills.
• Parking Apps: Consider using parking apps like Parkopedia for real-time availability and pricing.
• Book in Advance: Especially during peak tourist seasons to secure better rates and availability.

This guide provides essential information for renting a car in Porto, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience while exploring the city and its surroundings.