20 Interesting Facts about Portugal, and renting cars in Lisbon and Faro
- Portugal's car rental market is one of the fastest-growing in Europe.
- Lisbon, the capital, is the most popular starting point for car rentals in Portugal.
- Most car rentals in Portugal offer unlimited mileage, allowing you to explore freely.
- Portugal has a well-developed network of highways called "Autoestradas" (A-roads).
- Automatic cars are less common in Portugal, so manual transmission cars are cheaper to rent.
- International drivers must be at least 18 years old to rent a car in Portugal.
- Portugal is known for its scenic drives, especially along the Atlantic coast and in the Algarve region.
- It's common to find car rental offices at major airports, train stations, and city centers in Portugal.
- Most rental cars in Portugal are diesel-powered, which can be more economical for long trips.
- Toll roads in Portugal use electronic systems, so check if your rental car is equipped with a toll transponder.
- Portuguese car rental companies offer a variety of insurance options, including CDW and theft protection.
- Many rental companies offer one-way rentals, allowing you to pick up and drop off at different locations.
- Some car rental agencies in Portugal offer electric and hybrid vehicles as an eco-friendly option.
- The minimum age to rent a car in Portugal varies by company but is typically between 21 and 25 years old.
- Car rental prices in Portugal are generally higher in the summer due to increased demand.
- Portugal has strict drink-driving laws; the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%.
- Driving in Portugal is on the right-hand side of the road, similar to most of Europe.
- GPS navigation is highly recommended, especially for first-time visitors driving in Portugal.
- Car rental companies in Portugal often offer additional accessories like child seats and GPS devices.
- Booking a rental car in advance can often save money and ensure vehicle availability during peak seasons.
Why Rent a Car in Portugal?
Renting a car in Portugal offers numerous advantages for travelers:
- Explore Portugal's diverse landscapes, from beaches to mountains, at your own pace.
- Visit off-the-beaten-path locations that are not accessible by public transportation.
- Enjoy the freedom of stopping at scenic viewpoints and charming villages along your route.
- Experience Portugal's renowned wine regions, such as the Douro Valley, with ease.
- Travel comfortably with your luggage and personal items without the hassle of public transport.
- Conveniently access Portugal's UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Sintra and Porto.
- Plan your itinerary without being restricted by bus or train schedules.
- Take advantage of spontaneous day trips to nearby attractions and cities.
- Enjoy Portugal's mild climate year-round, making road trips enjoyable and scenic.
- Access remote beaches and coastal areas that are less crowded and more tranquil.
Funny Facts about Tourism in Portugal
- In Portugal, there are more registered cars than drivers.
- Portugal is home to the world's oldest bookstore, Bertrand Bookstore, which opened in 1732 in Lisbon.
- The traditional Portuguese dish "Bacalhau" has over 365 different recipes, one for each day of the year.
- Portuguese sidewalks, known as "calçada," are made from mosaic-like stones and are a unique form of art.
- Portugal is one of the world's largest cork producers, and you can even find cork souvenirs!
- Portuguese people are known to drink more wine per capita than any other country in the world.
- Lisbon’s famous Tram 28 is often more crowded than the Eiffel Tower at peak times.
- Portugal has the longest bridge in Europe, the Vasco da Gama Bridge, which spans 17.2 kilometers.
- The Portuguese word for "speed bump" is "lombas," and some locals jokingly refer to them as "sleeping policemen."
- In some rural areas, you might encounter more sheep and goats on the road than cars.