Hello Everyone,
You've all been so helpful with many inquiries from people. I hope you can provide some guidance. We're looking to rent a car for 7 days from Lisbon and return to Lisbon (we will not be driving in Lisbon while in Lisbon). We're thinking renting from the airport might be the most efficient/easiest? Are there any car companies that are good to rent from w/reliable cars. Yes, we're needing a small/automatic and I understand that raises the price significantly. Any thoughts on Olivauto, CAEL, Happy Deals, Avis/Hertz, amoita, and Portugalrent?
Thank you! Mary
Posted by
Cascais, Portugal
1665 posts
I’ve used Auto Europe for years and always been pleased. They are a consolidator and if I remember correctly, I found them through RS. They have excellent customer service and very good prices.
The companies I usually end up with in Portugal are Europcar or Hertz. I’ve not had problems with either.
Posted by
OP
24 posts
Thank you KathrynJ
Posted by
stevens point, wi, usa
1189 posts
Hello from Wisconsin,
Start with Autoeurope. When we have rented in Europe we have been very happy with Europcar. As always, go over your rental with a fine tooth comb looking for any scrapes, dents, and cracked windows. No matter how little identify them on the sheet you are provided and get them 'approved'.
We stayed in Lisbon for several days, then went out to the airport to pick up our car. Seems you will want a transponder to pay tolls if I recall correctly. We returned out car to airport also.
My cousin rented a car in Portugal and drove in Lisbon. THAT was NOT a good idea. From the airport you can get a nice highway into the countryside.. As with much of Europe but more so in southern Portugal than elsewhere, the big modern roads will get you where you want to go, but it is no fun. On the other hand, the secondary roads are agonizingly slow. I don't say that about Spain, France, Hungary or else where. Agonizingly slow. Each development no matter how small spreads out for what seems like forever with reduced speed limits and many entrances and exits. Especially driveways.
Don't be fearful, of driving there, just be aware that it is either big and fast, or scenic and slow, very slow.
wayne iNWI
Posted by
OP
24 posts
Thanks for the information Wayne! Yes, we've read that driving in Lisbon is a no go. We decided to go through AAA as they had the cheapest rates and are reputable. Autoeurope is a great site. We are picking up at the airport and hoping to go North to Porto. Hoping to stop/drive by a few of the small towns o our way North.
Good information regarding the roads. Making the wrong assumption that if the roads are tolled they'll be in good condition and fast. Yes, we're planning on getting the toll road transponder thingy (LOL) too.
M