Driving in Portugal

Each rental agency has its own age restrictions. I am 84 and never have a problem renting.

You asked: "Is Portugal more difficult or are there things about driving there that would be helpful to know?"Many travelers do just fine driving in Portugal. The Rough Guide series points out that Portugal does have the highest accident rate in the EU. Here's what Rick says about it in his book Portugal (2005 edition): "Portugal, statistically one of Europe's most dangerous places to drive, has lots of ambulances on the road. Drive defensively. If you're involved in an accident, expect a monumental headache--you will be blamed. Expect to be stopped for a routine check by the police, be sure your car insurance form is up-to-date. Small towns come with speed traps and corruption. Tickets, especially for foreigners, are issued and paid for on the spot. Insist on a receipt so the money is less likely to end up in the cop's pocket."

I drove in Portugal for a couple weeks two years ago and it was almost like home.
Be sure and have a good map as some towns are a challenge finding your way in and out. Lisbon is easy without a car. The Algarve is car friendly. The only problem, if this is a problem, was driving the speed limit on the new highway system and being passed by cars going a million miles an hour. Have a great trip.

The only problem we had on the highways was the many testosterone-charged young guys on their motorcycles, who seemed to be racing to their deaths.

Thank you all... helpful as usual... we will porobably rely on trains et al with selected days of leasing a car. george