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Convertible Auto Rental in Portugal

Anyone have thoughts on/experience with renting a convertible in Portugal or elsewhere in Europe? I.e. greater difficulty with luggage stowage, theft concerns, etc.?

Posted by
6113 posts

Not many companies offer convertibles in Portugal, as most people want shelter from the sun. The locals don’t drive convertibles - in a 2 week holiday there, I would see no more than 1 or 2 convertibles and often none. I have hired a car in Portugal about 20 times and I don’t recall ever seeing convertibles available.

I have owned a convertible years ago and it had restricted boot space for luggage, the ride was dreadful plus the roof leaked when it rained hard! I have had an attempted break in to a compact hire car in the Algarve (not a convertible) so I would not risk a soft top.

Posted by
16893 posts

If you are thinking of using CDW insurance provided by your credit card, read the detailed policy. Convertibles may be excluded, as are luxury vehicles and some other specifics.

Posted by
2 posts

Thank you both for your replies. The question actually only occurred to me when one of the choices with Hertz was a convertible, one of the new little Fiats, and looked like it might be fun (picturing the Mercedes in "Two for the Road"; I know, I'm dating myself). But your comments confirm my subsequent thoughts that it probably doesn't make practical sense. My cc (Citi Aadvantage) does not specify convertibles as excluded. Thanks again.