Driving in Portugal: Your Complete Guide
Driving is a modern staple, offering the freedom to explore at your own pace. In Portugal, you can cover the entire country in just a day, but driving in a foreign land can feel overwhelming. Here’s a detailed guide to renting a car and driving safely in Portugal.
Before Renting: Do You Really Need a Car?
Before booking a rental, think carefully about your itinerary:
Where are you visiting?
Do you need a car to reach those destinations?
Are there budget-friendly alternatives?
For big cities like Porto and Lisbon, I usually advise against renting a car. These cities are congested, and public transportation is reliable. Taxis and rideshares are abundant, and most attractions in Porto are within walking distance. However, if you plan to explore outside the city—such as the Douro Valley or small coastal towns—having a car makes more sense. Keep in mind the costs: rental fees, fuel, and tolls.
For simple travel between major points, consider trains, buses, or even short flights between Porto and the Algarve. But if you want to explore off-the-beaten-path locations, a rental car or a private driver/guide may be the better option.
Choosing the Right Car
Portugal is known for its narrow roads and tight parking spots, especially in historic towns. Choose the smallest car that comfortably fits your group and luggage. Keep it practical for the terrain you’ll encounter.
Car Rental Companies
Opinions vary widely on rental companies. When things go well, people rarely share their experiences, but when problems arise, reviews can be harsh. It’s always beneficial to get local recommendations or assistance. In this regard, David Silva often receives high praise from those in the know.
Insurance: Yes or No?
All rentals come with mandatory third-party liability insurance. If you plan to explore the countryside and want peace of mind, I recommend opting for full coverage. For short-term rentals mainly on highways, you might skip the extra insurance. But beware—rental companies are meticulous about damages, so if you’re without full coverage, you could face hefty charges for minor scratches.
Picking Up Your Rental Car: A Checklist
Before hitting the road, make sure you:
Inspect the Car: Take pictures of all sides and close-ups of any existing scratches or dents. Ensure these are documented in the rental agreement.
Check the Fuel Type: Unleaded (green nozzle) or Diesel (black/yellow nozzle)? Make sure you know.
Required Equipment: Confirm the car has the mandatory triangle and reflector vest.
Via Verde: This transponder makes toll payments automatic—check if your rental includes it.
Driving in Portugal: Tips for the Road
Now you’re ready to drive! Here are some tips:
Stay Right: Use the right lane except when overtaking.
Stick to the Speed Limits: 120 km/h on highways, 50 km/h in cities and villages.
Tolls: The left lanes are for Via Verde users. Plan your lane changes early.
Navigation: Skip the car's built-in GPS. Google Maps or Waze offer better navigation and up-to-date info.
Key Road Sign Tips:
Round Signs: Indicate obligations (blue) or prohibitions (red).
Triangular Signs: Warn of potential hazards ahead.
Motorhomes in Portugal
Motorhomes offer a unique way to explore, but remember that overnight parking is restricted to designated motorhome parks and campsites. Search "Parques de Autocaravanas" or "Parque de Campismo" in your destination to find legal spots.
Electric Vehicles in Portugal
For EV travelers, the “Miio” app is essential. It shows real-time status of charging stations, lets you manage your account, and covers all public chargers in Portugal. Note that while charging at DC Fast Chargers, stop at 80% to avoid delays. AC chargers are fine for full charges when parked for longer periods, but be courteous—unplug once you’re done.
Driving in Portugal – Navigating Car Rental Insurance
Above, I covered the essentials of driving in Portugal. Here, I’m diving into a specific and important topic: car rental insurance. Safety should always be a top priority, especially when driving in a foreign country. So, here’s a deeper look at what you need to know about insurance when renting a car in Portugal.
The Basics: Third-Party Liability Insurance
In Portugal, unlimited third-party liability insurance is a legal requirement for all drivers. The good news is that this insurance is automatically included in the total cost of any rental car. It provides coverage for any damage to property or injuries caused to others while you’re driving. This mandatory insurance offers peace of mind, ensuring you're covered in case of accidents or unforeseen incidents on the road.
Understanding CDW and Excess Waivers
When it comes to rental car insurance, you'll hear terms like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Excess Waiver (EW) a lot. Here’s a quick breakdown:
CDW (Collision Damage Waiver): This is usually included with most car rentals. It covers damage to the rental car itself but comes with a deductible, known as an "excess," which can range between 2,000 to 3,000 Euros.
Excess Waiver (EW): This is an optional insurance that can be added to reduce or eliminate the deductible.
Now, how do you decide which option to go for? Here are some choices to consider:
1. Rely on Your Credit Card Insurance
If your credit card offers rental car insurance, you might be able to skip the additional Excess Waiver. But there’s a catch: to be covered, you must use that particular credit card for the payment. If your rental vehicle is damaged, the rental company will initially charge your credit card the full deductible amount, and you’ll need to claim reimbursement from your card provider. It’s a convenient option if you’re already covered, but make sure to double-check the details with your credit card company.
Tip: Be certain to pay with the same card that offers the coverage, or the insurance won’t apply!
2. Stick with the Basic CDW
You could stick with the quoted rental price, which includes the standard CDW, leaving you with a deductible of 2,000 to 3,000 Euros. It’s a budget-friendly option but a bit of a gamble if damage occurs, as you'll be liable for covering the deductible out-of-pocket.
3. Go for the “Reduced Excess” Option
Some rental companies offer mid-tier coverage, reducing the deductible to around 1,000 Euros. This strikes a balance between affordability and peace of mind, limiting your financial risk if something goes wrong.
4. Opt for the “Super CDW” or Minimum Excess
For maximum protection, you can choose the “Minimum Excess” or Super CDW option. This covers virtually all damages and eliminates most worries—but at a higher price. It’s the most comprehensive coverage available, providing full peace of mind with no deductible to pay in case of damage.
When to Decide on Insurance
It's best to decide on insurance when you’re booking the rental car online rather than waiting until you’re at the rental counter. Insurance options can be more expensive when purchased last minute, and making this decision in advance can save you both money and stress.
Important Details to Keep in Mind
Even if you go with the basic CDW, be aware that it doesn’t cover everything. Here are a few things not included:
Damage to windscreens and windows
Tire damage or punctures
Headlight damage
Underbody damage
Accident-related costs like administration fees, towing, or loss of use fees
If your credit card doesn’t offer comprehensive coverage, it’s wise to consider an excess waiver that covers these exclusions.
Safe Travels!
Choosing the right insurance can make a big difference in your driving experience in Portugal, so weigh the options carefully before hitting the road. A little preparation can go a long way in ensuring a stress-free journey! Safe travels!