Renting a Car in Lisbon: Do You Really Need One? A Local’s Honest Guide
When I first moved to Lisbon, I didn’t think much about renting cars. The city has it all: trams, metro, Uber, Bolt, tuk-tuks, scooters… you name it.
But over time — especially while helping friends, family, and photography clients explore Portugal — I started learning the truth about car rentals here.
And here it is: renting a car in Lisbon can be incredibly helpful… but only if you know what you’re doing.
So if you’re wondering whether to book that rental car, here’s what you really need to know — from someone who lives here, drives here, and occasionally gets stuck in traffic here.
Do You Really Need a Car in Lisbon?
Short answer: Not really.
Lisbon is a walkable city, especially in central neighborhoods like Baixa, Chiado, Alfama, and Bairro Alto.
Public transport is cheap, efficient, and safe. Uber and Bolt are everywhere and affordable.
But if you’re planning to:
- Visit Sintra, Cascais or Costa da Caparica
- Explore the Alentejo, Douro, or inland Portugal
- Stay in a rural Airbnb, vineyard, or eco-resort
➡️ Then yes, renting a car is your best friend. It gives you freedom and saves you time.
When and Where Should You Rent a Car?
Best tip?
Don’t rent a car while staying in Lisbon.
Why?
- Traffic is hectic
- Streets are tight
- Parking is a nightmare
✅ What to do instead:
- Explore Lisbon on foot for the first few days
- Rent the car only when you leave the city (e.g. from Lisbon Airport or Sete Rios station)
This strategy saves money and stress — and it’s what I recommend to everyone visiting.
What to Look Out For When Renting a Car in Portugal
Here are some golden rules I’ve learned:
- Pick a reputable company
→ Sixt, Avis, Europcar, Guerin, or trusted local companies like Cael. - Use a comparison site
→ Check prices on DiscoverCars, Rentalcars.com, or Zest. - Choose full insurance
→ Portuguese drivers are great… until they park. Scratches happen. Protect yourself. - Manual or automatic?
→ Manuals are cheaper. Automatics are limited — book early. - Highway tolls (Via Verde)
→ Always ask for a car with an electronic toll reader. It makes trips smoother. - Fuel policy: Full to Full
→ Never accept “empty to empty” — it’s a trap.
What About Parking in Lisbon?
Parking in Lisbon is… tricky.
Most areas are:
- Paid (via EMEL)
- Reserved for residents
- Very tight or non-existent
Alternatives:
- Stay in accommodation with private parking
- Use apps like EMEL ePark or Telpark to find and pay for parking
- Sleep in neighborhoods like Campo de Ourique or Restelo, where parking is easier
A Photographer’s Perspective…
As someone who photographs people and places all over Portugal, I can tell you: renting a car opens up a whole new world.
You’ll find:
- Secret cliffside viewpoints
- Quiet backroads through vineyards
- Wild beaches with no one around
If you want to go beyond the postcard — a car helps you find the real, raw beauty of Portugal.
Want More Travel Tips (or to Capture the Adventure)?
If you’re planning a road trip in Portugal and want to remember more than just the scenery, I offer natural, relaxed photography sessions across Lisbon, Sintra, Cascais and beyond.
📸 Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple or with family — let’s capture real moments in stunning places.
📬 Let’s connect:
- 📧 Email: martim.dotti@gmail.com
- 🌍 Website: mdfotografia.blog
- 📸 Instagram: @shoots.md
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