Portugal is a country full of charm, where history, culture, and natural beauty blend seamlessly. While Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve are popular with tourists, the true magic lies beyond these bustling hubs. To experience Portugal like a traveller—not just a tourist—you’ll need the freedom to roam, and renting a car is the perfect way to do it.
I have an old Ford Fiesta 1994 that’s a great runaround, but if I have people come to visit I like to hire a car to take them to the local sights, like Fatima or Obidos.
I found these, LocalRent.com, you can find great deals on hire cars, giving you the flexibility to explore Portugal’s smaller towns and countryside at your own pace. Whether you’re planning to visit the sacred town of Fátima, the academic city of Coimbra, or the medieval charm of Tomar (where I run my own historical tours), having a car makes all the difference.
Why Rent a Car in Portugal?
1. Explore Beyond the Beaten Path
Portugal is compact, making it easy to drive from one region to another. Renting a car allows you to uncover hidden gems like small villages, remote beaches, and historic sites often missed by organised tours. Imagine winding through the Douro Valley vineyards, strolling the cobbled streets of Obidos, or standing in awe at the Convent of Christ in Tomar—all without a tour bus in sight.
2. Affordable Prices
Believe me I look around for good prices, I use all the major comparison sites, but LocalRent.com offers competitive prices on a wide range of vehicles, from budget options to spacious family cars. It’s an affordable way to see more of this small but diverse country.
3. Convenience
Public transport in Portugal is good, but it doesn’t always connect you to those off-the-beaten-track locations. With a rental car, your itinerary is entirely up to you.
A Word About Parking
If you’re driving into larger cities like Lisbon or Porto, be mindful of parking. Spaces can be limited and expensive, so plan ahead. However, this is less of an issue in smaller towns and rural areas, where parking is often free or inexpensive. Consider using park-and-ride options if you want to explore big cities without the hassle of city-centre driving.
Be a Traveller, Not Just a Tourist
My advice to anyone visiting Portugal is this: go beyond the major tourist attractions. Be a traveller, not just a tourist. While the iconic trams of Lisbon and Porto’s riverside cafés are fantastic, the real soul of Portugal is found in its smaller towns and scenic countryside. A rental car gives you the freedom to immerse yourself fully in the culture, history, and natural beauty of this wonderful country.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car through LocalRent.com and start your journey to discover Portugal’s hidden treasures today!