Frequently Asked Questions | FAQ's
1. What do I need to rent a car in Lisboa?
To rent a car in Lisboa, you generally need to be at least 21 years old (age may vary by car category), have a valid driver’s license for at least one year (international driving permit if your license is not in Roman alphabet), and a credit card in the driver's name for a security deposit. Some rental companies may have additional requirements, so it’s advised to check with the specific agency.
2. Can I rent a car in Lisboa without a credit card?
Renting a car without a credit card can be challenging, as most car rental companies in Lisboa prefer a credit card for the security deposit. However, some may accept a debit card or cash deposit but may impose additional restrictions. Always check with the rental agency for their specific terms and conditions.
3. What type of insurance do I need to rent a car in Lisboa?
When renting a car in Lisboa, you are typically required to have third-party liability insurance, which is often included in the rental price. Additionally, you may want to consider Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection (TP), which may be included or available as optional extras. It's important to understand the coverage limits and exclusions before you rent a car.
4. Can I rent a car in Lisboa and travel with it outside of Portugal?
Many rental companies in Lisboa allow you to take their cars across borders into other European countries, but you need to inform them in advance and possibly pay an additional fee. It's also important to make sure your insurance coverage extends to the countries you plan to visit.
5. Are there toll roads in Portugal, and how do I pay for them?
Yes, Portugal has a mixture of traditional toll roads where you can pay with cash or card and electronic toll roads that use an electronic toll collection system. For the latter, car rental companies often offer toll devices for an additional daily fee which enables seamless payment. Ensure you inquire about this service when you collect your rental car.
6. What should I do if I have an accident in my rental car in Lisboa?
In the event of an accident, immediately contact the car rental company and local authorities if necessary. Obtain an accident report form from the authorities or the rental agency, as this is essential for insurance purposes. Do not admit fault or make any agreements with other involved parties without the rental company’s knowledge.
7. Is it easy to find parking in Lisboa, and is it expensive?
Parking in downtown Lisboa can be challenging and more expensive than in the outskirts of the city. It’s advisable to use designated parking facilities and avoid parking on the street in restricted areas. Rates vary but expect to pay a premium for convenient locations, especially in tourist-heavy areas.
8. Can I rent a car directly at Lisboa airport?
Yes, you can rent a car at Humberto Delgado Airport (Lisboa Airport), which hosts several car rental agencies. It is often advised to book your rental car in advance for the best rates and to ensure availability upon your arrival.
9. Are there any hidden fees I should be aware of when renting a car in Lisboa?
While most fees should be disclosed at the time of booking, you should be aware of potential additional charges, such as for young drivers, adding additional drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, GPS rentals, and fuel charges. Carefully read your rental agreement and ask the agency if anything is unclear.
10. What is the best way to get the best rates for car rentals in Lisboa?
To get the best rates for renting a car in Lisboa, book your car in advance, compare prices from different rental agencies, consider renting for a longer period to potentially reduce the daily rate, travel outside of peak seasons, and check if any discounts or promotions apply to you (like AAA or frequent flier programs).
