How much does it cost to rent a car in Portugal in 2026?

Car rental prices in Portugal can vary considerably. Understanding what affects the cost is the best way to save without compromising on what you need.

In this article, you’ll find real prices, example quotes from Drivalia and a checklist to help you avoid unexpected costs.

What are the average car rental prices in Portugal?

Prices vary widely depending on the time of year, the type of car and how far in advance you book. As a guide, here are the average daily price ranges:

• Low season (October to March): from €10–€20 per day for a small city car;
• Mid-season (April, May, June and September): €25–€50 per day;
• High season (July and August): €40–€80 per day or more, depending on the model.

These figures are indicative, as the final price depends on several factors, which we explain below. Further on in this article, we share real car rental quotes for both high and low season.

What affects the cost of renting a car in Portugal?

Car rental prices in Portugal depend on the time of year, how far in advance you book, the type of vehicle and the pick-up location. In high season, the same car can cost more than twice as much as it does in low season.

Time of year

This is one of the biggest factors affecting the price. Demand rises significantly in July and August, and prices follow. In November or March, rates are much more affordable — sometimes less than half the summer price.

If your travel dates are flexible, travelling outside peak season is the most effective way to save.

Save on your car rental by choosing the best time of year to visit Portugal.

How far in advance you book

Booking weeks or months in advance secures better prices and a wider choice of vehicles. Leaving it until the last minute, especially in high season, means paying more and having fewer options.

Type of vehicle

A small city car is always the most economical option. An SUV or family car costs more but may be the right choice for families travelling with luggage or for longer journeys. Automatic cars generally cost more to rent than manual cars.

Pick-up location

Picking up your car at the airport is more convenient but may involve additional charges. Nearby branches, such as Drivalia’s Mobility Store in Prior Velho, Lisbon, offer the same vehicles with a free shuttle service and sometimes more competitive rates.

Promotions and special offers

Throughout the year, many car rental companies, including Drivalia, run seasonal promotions, online discounts and limited-time offers that can make a significant difference to the final price.

Early booking offers, summer promotions and exclusive online booking codes are common examples.

How can you save on car rental in Portugal?

The most effective way to save is to book in advance, choose your travel dates carefully and avoid paying for services you don’t need. Small decisions when booking can add up to significant savings.

Checklist for getting a better price

• Book in advance: the earlier you book, the better the price and availability;
• Compare different dates: sometimes shifting your dates by a day or two can change the total price;
• Consider branches outside the airport terminal: they may be cheaper and just as convenient;
• Choose only the cover you need: don’t pay for unnecessary protection;
• Check the fuel policy: full-to-full is generally the most transparent option.

Mistakes that can cost you more

• Overlooking additional charges that are not included in the base price: airport fees or additional driver charges, for example;
• Not checking the insurance excess: this can be a significant cost if the vehicle is damaged;
• Adding unnecessary extras at the counter: consider the options carefully and make sure you actually need them.

How much does it really cost to rent a car in Portugal? Real quotes from Drivalia

To give you a clear idea of prices, we obtained two real quotes on the Drivalia website, with pick-up and return at the same branch and the same rental duration, but at different times of year.

We compared two types of vehicle:

• A medium-sized five-seater car: ideal for couples or small groups;
• A five-seater SUV: a more spacious option for families or anyone travelling with more luggage.

Each vehicle is available at two rates:

• Rate with an excess: the base rate, with insurance included. If the vehicle is damaged, the driver must pay an excess;
• MAX RELAX rate (€0 excess): includes full protection. If there is an accident or damage, you pay nothing extra. It costs more but offers greater peace of mind.

Compact car — 5 seats — high-season car rental

SUV — 5 seats — high-season car rental

Compact car — 5 seats — low-season car rental

SUV — 5 seats — low-season car rental

Want to know how much your car rental in Portugal will cost?

The cost of renting a car in Portugal depends on the time of year, the type of vehicle and how far in advance you book. With the right information, however, finding an option that suits your budget becomes much easier.

On the Drivalia website, you can get a quote in just a few steps: choose your pick-up location, select your dates and instantly see the available options, with clear prices that are easy to compare.

As you move through the booking process, you can also check all the details — what’s included, cover options and terms and conditions — before entering any personal information. This means you can explore and compare freely, with no obligation to book.

With transparent pricing, no hidden costs and roadside assistance included, it’s easier to make an informed decision and book with confidence.