To visit Portugal, is it more worthwhile to use public transport or rent a car?

While public transport might seem like the more economical and sustainable option, renting a car to visit Portugal offers freedom, flexibility, and comfort, advantages that are hard to match.

Are you planning a tourist trip to Portugal and wondering what’s the best way to get around between cities, places, or tourist spots?

To find out which option is more beneficial, read this article where we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of public transport and car rental, helping you decide what's best for your stay in Portugal.

Using public transport to visit Portugal

You are planning a visit to Portugal as a tourist, so it is wise to consider the transportation options available based on where you’re visiting and the activities you want to do.

Generally, in large urban centers like Lisbon, Porto, Setúbal, and Braga, there is a good supply of public transport to reach popular and busy tourist spots.

However, the options become limited when you aim to explore the outskirts of cities or the more rural regions of the country. This is because the transport network in these areas is less extensive, and public transport can become a hassle when visiting Portugal.

Advantages

• Avoid Traffic: In big cities, metro and train services are great for getting around without worrying about slow-moving traffic. They usually have stations near tourist attractions.

• Cost-Effective: Passes offer unlimited travel in certain areas for a fixed price, allowing you to save on travel expenses (ideal for long trips and within large urban centers).

Disadvantages

• Time Consumption: Transport schedules can constrain your day and sightseeing plans, and delays (one of the main complaints about these services) can lead to unnecessary time lost.

• Fixed Timetables: Dependence on specific schedules can make your trip less flexible, especially if you need to make last-minute changes or stay longer in certain places.
  

• Limited Accessibility: There are areas of the country not covered by regular public transport (buses, metros, and trains). In these cases, the only way to reach your destination might be by taxi or ride-sharing service (TVDE), which is often expensive.

• Discomfort: During peak times, public transport can be crowded, making long journeys uncomfortable, especially if you’re carrying luggage or shopping. Additionally, a lack of available seats can be a problem for larger groups or families with young children.

The Mobility and Transport Authority states that in 2023, the number of complaints about public transport almost reached 30,000.

Renting a Car to Visit Portugal

Renting a car is increasingly common in holiday planning alongside booking flights, accommodations, and pre-purchasing tickets for popular attractions.

When it comes to visiting Portugal, deciding between renting a car or using public transport is crucial for making the most out of your trip.

Advantages

• Freedom: Renting a car in Portugal allows you to visit destinations beyond conventional tourist routes and stop wherever and whenever you like.
  

• Flexibility: You don’t have to worry about the limited schedules of public transport. You can plan your day as you wish, maximizing your time exploring the region.

• Comfort: Long trips become more comfortable without unnecessary stops and the hassle of moving luggage around. It also offers more privacy.

• Accessibility: What is a disadvantage for public transport becomes an advantage for car rentals. Accessing places like secluded beaches or remote villages becomes easy.

• Efficiency: A rented car enables direct travel between destinations without the need for transfers. This means less time spent traveling and more time enjoying your holiday in Portugal.

Disadvantage

It's true that, in terms of monetary costs, renting a car can be less economical compared to public transportation."

However, considering all the benefits it offers can make it worthwhile. It all depends on the type of trip you want and the value you place on time and comfort.

Additionally, if you're traveling in a group or with family, the cost of renting a car can become competitive when shared among several people, making it a cost-effective option.

When Renting a Car is the Best Option for Visiting Portugal

Considering the benefits of renting a car for your holiday in Portugal, it’s clear that this option provides a more comfortable, flexible, and efficient travel experience.

While public transport can be a cost-effective alternative, it becomes limited when you need to:

• Visit areas outside urban centers;
• Explore more than one region of the country;
• Discover hard-to-reach places (secluded beaches or remote villages);
• Travel in a group, with family, and young children.

Places Worth Visiting by Car in Portugal

Algarve

Known for its stunning beaches and cliffs, luxury resorts, and golf courses, the Algarve is a region where having a car makes it easier to visit less crowded, hidden beaches away from tourist hotspots.

Additionally, it allows for the freedom to enjoy lively summer nights or explore natural parks like Costa Vicentina.

Douro Vinhateiro

To explore northern Portugal, especially the Douro region famous for its vineyards and impressive landscapes, it’s ideal to take your time and savor every moment.

Driving along the Douro River allows you to stop at small wineries for wine tastings and enjoy the breathtaking views of the terraced vineyards.

Serra da Estrela

Portugal’s largest mountain range offers incredible scenery and charming villages.

Renting a vehicle is definitely worthwhile to discover the mountain villages, from Videmonte, Folgosinho, and Belmonte to Unhais da Serra, Gouveia, Manteigas, Seia, and Celorico da Beira, where you'll find true mountain gems.

Alentejo

This vast region is known for its wide plains, historic cities, and tranquil beaches. The almost straight roads shorten the distances between villages, allowing you to explore more unique places in less time.

For instance, if you're in Portalegre, renting a car lets you easily visit in one day: Marvão (the village within the castle) and Portagem with its natural swimming pool from the Sever River, as well as Alter do Chão, Fronteira, and Castelo de Vide, beautiful and historic Alentejo villages.

Similarly, Évora, Monsaraz, or Odemira are municipalities with much to offer in their surroundings.

Central Region (Beiras and Schist Villages)

The central region of Portugal, with its quaint villages, charming landscapes, and hidden river beaches nestled between valleys and mountains, is stunning but has limited transport options.

If you're visiting Portugal to explore the Schist Villages, driving is the best, if not the only, way to reach your destination. Only then will you be able to explore unique natural landscapes, such as the Açor and Lousã Mountains.

In summary, if you want a peaceful holiday in Portugal without constraints on schedules and places to explore, renting a car is the right choice.

Where to Rent a Car to Visit Portugal

If you’ve decided to rent a car for your visit to Portugal, Drivalia has several car rental stations from north to south of the country, in major urban centers and interior regions.

We are also located at strategic points like the airports of Lisbon, Porto, Faro, and Funchal, with free shuttle service if you have a flight booked.

Drivalia has more than 30 car rental stations from north to south of the country

At Drivalia, you can find car rental options for 1 day, 1 month, 1 year, or more, and everything in between.

From short-term rentals to long-term leasing and subscriptions, Drivalia offers solutions tailored to your needs: car use for short, medium, and long durations.

• Short-Term Rental - up to 1 month: Ideal for tourists planning a brief stay but wanting flexibility and convenience during that time.

• Medium-Term Rental - Monthly: Recommended for tourists or other individuals staying in Portugal for more than a month who seek continuous mobility and independence.

• Long-Term Rental - 12 months or more: This option is perfect if your stay in Portugal is extended. It provides more attractive rates compared to other options and ensures flexibility for daily transport.

In addition to the solutions we offer, you can choose from a diverse range of car categories, such as:

• Minivans and 9-seater vans: For group or family travel, offering space and comfort for passengers and luggage.

• Compact and Economy Cars: For short trips and saving on rental costs.

• Luxury or Premium Cars: Ensuring greater comfort for all passengers, ideal for long trips across the country.

Booking is done online, hassle-free. Rely on our experience and availability to ensure comfort, mobility, and safety during your stay in Portugal.