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Car Return Advise

I need help trying to figure out the best way to get a car return to a train station. Arriving in Faro from Spain via bus. Want to pick up a car at the airport. Drop off near a train station in Faro or area before heading to Lisbon. Is it easier just to return it to the airport? I don't want to have to make too many transfers. HELP!

Posted by
269 posts

Hi
The distance between the Faro airport and Faro train station is about 7km ( a little less than 5 miles).
It's easier to drop off the car at the airport and take a taxi to the train station.
I would communicate with the taxi driver the exact destination, approximate time of travel required and approximate cost of the trip, just to avoid any misunderstandings.
Happy travels

Posted by
14 posts

Sounds simple enough. Wasn't sure how close the station was. And reading about all these various rental agency scare me. I have traveled quite a bit and never have been "taken". I have to say prices are all over the place in Faro. Thanks for the info.

Posted by
6052 posts

We use
Www.autoeurope.com for all our European rentals
Check their website or give them a call toll free
They are a US based consolidator with excellent service and knowledge, usually can get you the best rates
They can answer your questions about best pick up/ drop off locations, insurance, etc

Posted by
269 posts

Hi
Regarding the car rental itself, some info you may find helpful.

I have used autoeurope but be aware if it is .com, .pt, .eu, .ca. Depending on the dot com you may be charged in US dollars, Canadian dollars, Euros. Verify the currency you are being charged to avoid high exchange rates and foreign transaction fees.

Regarding extra fees, on my last car rental at Orlando, Florida, USA, I was charged an airport convenience fee, a tire fee, local taxes - these were non optional fees that added when I returned the car.
Optional fees were GPS, toll road transponder etc.

Regarding insurance:

  • Liability coverage protects you in case you get into an accident that causes bodily injury or property damage to a third party that decides to sue. In my experience this type of insurance is included with the rental.
    I always verify the dollar amount of the liability insurance and if it’s not enough I purchase additional / higher liability coverage.

    • Collision-damage waiver coverage ( CDW) protects you in case the car is stolen, lost, vandalized, or otherwise damaged. In my experience this type of insurance is optional with the rental. I always purchase this type of insurance - this avoids being charged for dents / scratches after the return of the rental when somehow the rental company “ discovers” some unseen damage to the car and thousands are now required to repair it.

By being fully insured I don’t worry about such things and fully concentrate on enjoying my trip.
I view this as an essential cost of travel and budget for it has I do for hotel, flights, etc.
Happy travels

Posted by
14 posts

I will watch for all the add on. Have reserved a car at Faro Airport and will drop off there. Since the train station is so close it seemed to be the best option. Thanks for the help.