Renting a car in northern Portugal: where, how, and the best options by region
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Updated on July 30, 2025
Want to rent a car in northern Portugal but not sure where, how, or which regional options are best? This article is for you.
Whether it’s for a business trip, a family getaway, or a sightseeing adventure, we’ve gathered all the information you need to discover the best locations to rent a car in the north of Portugal.
Keep reading to learn how to choose the right place to pick up your vehicle and check out our suggestions.
5 factors to consider when choosing where to rent a car in northern Portugal
Choosing the right place to rent your car can make your trip much easier.
Here are five key factors to help you decide:
Reason for renting a car
For business trips, we recommend renting a car close to your arrival point, such as the airport or train station, to save time on transfers.
For leisure trips, especially with family, choosing less touristy locations can increase the availability of family cars or spacious vans.
Main destination
Where will you be spending most of your time? If it’s in the Douro region, it might be more practical to rent a car in Régua or Vila Real. If you’re heading to Trás-os-Montes, then Bragança could be a more convenient option.
Opening hours
What if you arrive late or need to return the car outside regular hours? Before choosing where to rent your car, check that the opening hours suit your schedule.
Arrival at the rental location
Another important consideration is: how will you get there? You can pick up the car from a rental company near your arrival point, or choose to rent only once you’ve reached your final destination. Select the most convenient option to simplify your journey.
Traffic and complications
Porto, Braga, and Viana do Castelo are some of the main urban centres in the north, which means traffic and added stress. If you’d prefer a more relaxed experience, we suggest renting a car in a location away from the hustle and bustle.
Best places to rent a car in northern Portugal: Minho, Douro, and Trás-os-Montes
Now that you know what factors to consider, let’s go through our regional suggestions on where to rent a car to explore northern Portugal.
Renting a car in Braga: visit Minho and Gerês
In addition to the Peneda-Gerês National Park, renting a car in Braga also allows you to visit Amares, Terras de Bouro, or Ponte da Barca. This vibrant historic city is an excellent starting point to explore small villages and stunning natural landscapes.
Renting a car in Guimarães: ideal for discovering northern Portugal
The city of Guimarães is a strategic location that offers easy access to Braga, Barcelos, Ponte de Lima and Viana do Castelo.
And of course, take the opportunity to explore Guimarães’ historic centre, the birthplace of Portugal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Renting a car in Famalicão: close to Braga and Porto
Vila Nova de Famalicão, located between Braga and Porto, offers quick connections via the A3, A4, and A24 motorways, making it easy to reach cities like Braga, Porto, Vila Real, or even Viana do Castelo.
Renting a car in Penafiel: perfect for trips to Douro and Trás-os-Montes
In Penafiel, rent a car for quick access to the Vale do Sousa, the Douro region, and continue on to Bragança or Chaves via the A4 motorway — the transmontana route that takes you through the most beautiful wine landscapes of northern Portugal’s interior.
Renting a car in Vila Real: discover the Douro and Serra do Marão
With a car rental in Vila Real, you can explore the wine estates and panoramic viewpoints of the region.
It’s an excellent choice for travelling through the Douro Valley, discovering the Serra do Marão, and visiting the beautiful city of Lamego. Don’t miss the Mateus Palace and the Alvão Natural Park.
Renting a car in Régua: in the heart of the Douro Valley
Start your journey in Régua and explore the vineyards along the Douro River. In addition to the wine estates, you can visit the Douro Museum to learn more about the region’s history and culture.
Located in the heart of the Douro Valley, this city is one of the main wine tourism destinations in northern Portugal.
Renting a car in Bragança: gateway to Trás-os-Montes
The Trás-os-Montes region is one of the most authentic and well-preserved areas in Portugal. We suggest renting a car in Bragança to fully enjoy the region — and don’t miss a visit to the Montesinho Natural Park.
Where to rent a car in northern Portugal with Drivalia: discover the best options
At Drivalia, we have 33 mobility stores across the country, including several options in northern Portugal. You can rent your car in Braga, Guimarães, Famalicão, Penafiel, Vila Real, Peso da Régua, or Bragança — always with comfort, safety, and a fleet suited to every trip.
Choose the most convenient location and get ready to explore Minho, Douro, and Trás-os-Montes with total freedom.
Renting a car in northern Portugal: the most common questions
1. What is the best city to rent a car in northern Portugal?
It depends on your itinerary. If you’re arriving via Porto, Famalicão or Penafiel are practical alternatives to avoid city traffic. To explore the Douro region, you might opt for Peso da Régua or Vila Real. If you’re in Trás-os-Montes, rent a car in Bragança.
2. Is it better to rent a car at Porto Airport or in a nearby city?
If your flight arrives late or you want to leave Porto quickly, renting at the airport is convenient. However, renting in Famalicão or Penafiel can be more affordable and helps you avoid heavy city traffic.
3. What type of car should I rent to visit northern Portugal?
For the Douro and Trás-os-Montes regions, a comfortable and powerful car makes it easier to drive through mountainous areas. For city visits, a compact car is sufficient. If you’re travelling with family or in a group, a spacious van is the best choice.
4. Are there electronic tolls in northern Portugal?
Yes, some motorways like the A24 and A25 have electronic tolls only. When renting with Drivalia, you can include the Via Verde device, allowing you to drive without worries. The toll amount is paid at the end of the rental contract.
