Car rental in Portugal is a popular service, and it's advisable to book your car in advance for the best options. It's important to consider the narrow streets in Portugal, so choosing a smaller vehicle is recommended to avoid potential scratches. Prices for car rentals in Portugal typically start from 50 EUR per day for a compact car.
If you're looking for a quality car rental in Portugal, consider one of the international car rental companies. While local companies may offer cheaper rates, keep in mind that you may not have insurance coverage with them. When renting a car, it's essential to have a bank card as a deposit of between 1000 EUR and 1500 EUR will be held on it.
The price of a liter of gasoline in Portugal is approximately 1.70 EUR, with diesel fuel being slightly cheaper. Most gas stations in the country accept payment by bank card, and they are typically open 24 hours a day.
Portugal has an extensive network of highways, and travel on them is typically subject to tolls, averaging around 1 EUR per 10 km. However, local drivers may not always adhere to speed limits and may drive aggressively.
Be aware that the fines for traffic violations in Portugal can be substantial. For example, speeding can result in fines ranging from 60 to 2500 EUR, while drunk driving can lead to a 250 EUR fine. Parking in the wrong place may incur a penalty of about 50 EUR, and using a cell phone while driving can result in a fine of up to 600 EUR.
The speed limits in Portugal depend on the type of road:
- Highways: up to 120 km/h
- Expressways: up to 100 km/h
- Ordinary roads: up to 90 km/h
- In cities and villages: up to 50 km/h
