Porto, located in northern Portugal, serves as a convenient base for exploring the region. Car rental in Porto enables access to places where public transport runs infrequently or not at all.
Porto, located in northern Portugal, serves as a convenient base for exploring the region. Car rental in Porto enables access to places where public transport runs infrequently or not at all.
If you are planning a trip during high season, book your car as early as possible. This way, more cars will be available at lower prices.
This is the most practical way to visit wineries in the Douro Valley or historic cities like Guimarães and Braga. Taxi trips to such locations can be prohibitively expensive. Exploring Porto's surroundings, including Matosinhos beaches or the town of Vila do Conde, becomes significantly more comfortable without depending on bus schedules.
Localrent specializes in car rental from verified local companies in Porto. Here's why you should book your car on Localrent:
Plus, you get access to customer support available throughout your rental period.
Typically, minimum rental age in Porto is 23 years, with at least 1 year driving experience required. Some vehicles may have higher thresholds—25 years or 3+ years experience.
Rental requirements:
Note that age and experience requirements may differ among rental companies and even for identical car models. Use filters to immediately see options matching your age and driving experience.
To pick up your booked car, you will need to have your passport, driving licence, and a copy of your voucher (you can show it on your phone screen), pay the remaining amount of the order price and make the deposit (if applicable).
Please note that all available payment methods are listed on each car's booking page.
Read the agreement carefully, note any damage to the car on the inspection sheet and take photos with your phone.
You will then receive the keys and set off on your journey. This procedure usually takes 15-20 minutes.
The drop-off takes even less. Arrive on time in a clean car with the same fuel level as when you picked up the car. The rental agent will inspect the car and sign your copy of agreement. Be sure to keep all documents until the deposit is returned.
Porto is a modern city, so any car will be okay. Choose one based on your interests.
If you are travelling alone or with your partner and want to save a lot of money, a compact car would be fine. You will save on petrol and use for shopping not only the boot but also the back seat.
A family can rent a more comfortable mid-size car.
While a crossover is good for long journeys around the country and for travelling to the mountains.
Fill up with plenty of fuel before travelling to the mountains because fuel consumption increases 1.5 or 2 times when driving uphill.
A minivan is a car for a group of friends that have the same preferences and plans for the vacation.
The classy convertible is perfect for a summer trip along the coast.
Understanding Porto's unique traffic dynamics is crucial for smooth city navigation and efficient regional exploration.
Typical congestion periods in Porto:
Key recommendations for optimal travel:
Porto follows general Portuguese traffic rules, similar to European standards. Main differences apply only to drivers from left-hand traffic countries—Portugal uses right-hand traffic with left-side overtaking.
Essential traffic rules:
Critical Porto Driving Considerations:
Urban driving dynamics: Central Porto driving can be somewhat stressful due to dense traffic, narrow streets, and active movement. Local drivers sometimes exceed speed limits and don't always use turn signals. However, foreign drivers typically adapt quickly to local driving patterns.
Porto parking operates through zone systems and parking meters. Streets are divided into zones I, II, III, and IV. Parking costs increase approaching city center, with Zone I being most expensive.
Street Parking Operations:
Alternative Porto Parking Options:
For full-day city center visits, Park & Ride or covered parking represents the best solution.
Most gas stations in Porto operate 24/7, though some close at 10:00 or 11:00 pm.
Refueling and Payment Methods:
Keep bank cards with contactless payment or chip support—this is the primary payment method at Porto gas stations.
Online booking enables leisurely selection from dozens of offers. To book your car, follow these steps:
During pickup, verify all existing defects are noted in vehicle receipt. Check fuel level—return with same amount. Sign contract, pay remaining balance, and receive keys.
Porto's surroundings offer numerous scenic locations conveniently accessible by car. Good roads and short distances enable easy interesting route planning without lengthy transfers. See Douro Valley vineyards, historic towns, beautiful beaches, and mountain landscapes—just choose appropriate vehicles.
Top Regional Destinations:
From Porto, easily reach historic cities, wine valleys, and nature parks by car. Choose appropriate vehicle types. Roads are well-maintained; trips will be comfortable even for first-time Porto drivers.
During booking, choose the most convenient pickup location:
Each vehicle has specific pickup locations. For example, some cars are airport-only; others offer all listed methods. Exact available pickup points are specified during specific vehicle booking.
Porto has unique characteristics important for car rental consideration. Here are recommendations to make your Porto rental experience positive:
Urban Navigation Strategy
Considering these nuances enables comfortable travel through Porto and surroundings. Key: study routes and parking rules in advance.
High season prices start from €30-40 daily. Duration also affects cost—longer rentals offer better daily rates.
In Porto, like all Portugal, car rental typically requires deposits. Finding deposit-free vehicles is very difficult, but Localrent offers cars with minimal deposits—€150-300.
Yes, Localrent features special filters showing only vehicles rentable without credit cards.
Yes, but add appropriate cross-border travel option during booking.
Yes, you can collect cars in one city and return in another. Specify desired cities in pickup and return fields during search.
Can I pay for the rental with a bank card?
Good afternoon! On our website, you can make an advance payment with any card. The available options for paying the remaining amount and the deposit depend on the car you choose and can vary even for similar models. On each car’s page, you can check the available payment methods before booking by clicking on the corresponding callout text: “Payment method” (next to the deposit information) and “Why?” (in the “To pay now” section).