My top 5 car rentals at Lisbon Airport: the best companies for Your convenience

Looking for a car rental at Lisbon Airport can be a time consuming task, especially if you're unfamiliar with the car hires. That's why I've put together a list of my top 5 car rental companies at Lisbon Airport. My recommendations are based on personal experience in combination with reviews, so you can trust that you're getting the best service possible.

Scroll down 👇 for top 5 car hires at Lisbon Airport

My personal top 5 car rentals at Lisbon Airport

Based on reviews and personal experience

1. Guerin - Best Overall car rental

📍In Lisbon Airport Terminal

Guerin is my top choice for a car rental at Lisbon Airport and Faro Airport. Their service is exceptional, and they offer clear communication and transparent pricing. Something that you don't see to often in car rental world, unfortunately. I like that I don't feel like I'm being "tricked" into extra costs with Guerin. They accept AMEX and have great reviews on all rental sites, so you can trust that you're in good hands.

Good to know:

• Great customer service

• Accept AMEX

• No pushy salesmen

• Average prices

• Located on Faro Airport parking

• Good reviews

2. Enterprise - Reliable car hire

📍In Lisbon Airport Terminal

Enterprise is a reliable car rental company with excellent customer service. They accept AMEX and have a variety of affordable to average priced options. Their cars are provided between P2-P3 airport parking, so you can quickly and easily pick up your vehicle.

Good to know:

• Great customer service

• Accept AMEX

• No pushy salesmen

• Cheap to average prices

• Provide your car on Faro Airport (between P2 - P3) airport parking

• Good reviews

3. Thrifty - Best Budget Option

📍In Lisbon Airport Terminal

If you're on a tight budget, Thrifty is an excellent option for a car rental at Lisbon Airport. Despite their lower prices, they still offer good service and accept AMEX. Their cars may be slightly older, but they're still in excellent condition. Thrifty is also within walking distance of the airport, so you won't have to wait long to get behind the wheel.

Good to know:

• Good service

• Slightly older cars

• No pushy salesmen

• Accept AMEX

• Budget prices

• Walking distance from airport

4. Hertz - Best Luxury Option

📍In Lisbon Airport Terminal

For those who want to travel in style, Hertz is the perfect car rental company. They offer new and luxury cars at a slightly higher price point, but their service is impeccable. Hertz accepts AMEX and has a generous membership rewards program, making it an excellent option for frequent travelers.

• Good service

• Fairly high prices

• New cars

• Accept AMEX

• No pushy salesmen

• On airport parking

5. Dollar - Good Budget Option

📍In Lisbon Airport Terminal

Dollar is a budget-friendly car rental company that's also owned by Hertz Corporation. While they may not be known for their customer service, we've had positive experiences with them. They offer slightly older cars at a lower price point, making them a great option for those on a budget. Dollar is also located at the airport, so you won't have to travel far to pick up your rental car.

• Good service ( in my opinion)

• Slightly older cars

• Accept AMEX

• No pushy salesmen

• Budget prices

• On airport parking

Why I like booking with Discover cars

It's easy...

1. Fill in your preferred dates and pick up location.

2. Compare offers from all car rentals at Lisbon Airport.

3. Select your preferred car rental company under suppliers in the left collum.

4. Book a car.

5. After you finish your booking, you will receive a conformation.

6. Free cancelation up to 48 to your booking.

So these are my top 5 companies that I recommend to rent your car with. All of them are available at the airport for your convenience. This article is not sponsored.

Getting from Lisbon to the Algarve

If you're planning a trip to southern Portugal, traveling by car is the best way to explore at your own pace. Renting a car in Lisbon gives you the freedom to enjoy stunning coastal views and charming towns along the way.

Driving from Lisbon to the Algarve

The drive from Lisbon to the Algarve takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on your destination. The fastest route is via the A2 motorway, a toll road that provides a smooth and direct journey. If you prefer a more scenic drive, take the N120 or N125, which wind through picturesque countryside and coastal towns.

Toll roads:

A2 (Lisbon → Algarve)

• The A2 (also called the Autoestrada do Sul) connects Lisbon with the Algarve region.

• This motorway does charge tolls and the toll cost for a standard car is roughly €22–€24 one-way (prices are usually updated annually).

• Tolls here are typically traditional booths or electronic payment, depending on the section. The car rental with offer you an electronic device for the tolls so they can charge you automatically with no hassle.

Alternatives

• If you want to avoid tolls, you can take secondary roads (like the IC1/N120) — but these are slower and often longer.

A22 in the Algarve

• Once you reach the Algarve, the A22 motorway (Via do Infante) used to have tolls, but tolls were removed from the A22 from 1 January 2025 — so that part is now toll-free.

Renting a car in Lisbon is the perfect way to explore the Algarve at your own pace. Whether you're heading to Lagos, Albufeira, or Faro, the road trip is an enjoyable part of the adventure!

People also ask:

Frequently asked questions

How long is the drive from Lisbon Airport to the Algarve?

From Lisbon Airport, the drive to the Algarve usually takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on where you’re heading and traffic. When I drive straight down the A2 motorway, it’s a smooth and pretty stress-free journey. In summer or on weekends, I always allow a bit of extra time just in case.

Are there any scenic routes?

Yes and they’re beautiful, just slower. If I’m not in a rush, I sometimes skip the motorway and take parts of the IC1 or N120, which pass through small towns, countryside, and coastal areas. It’s a lovely way to see a more authentic side of Portugal, but expect the drive to take longer.

How do tolls work?

Most motorways in Portugal, including the A2, are toll roads. When I drive, I either pay at toll booths or use an electronic system that automatically charges the tolls. Rental cars usually make this easy, but it’s always worth checking which payment option is included before you set off.

Does an electronic toll device cost extra?

In most rental cars, yes. When I rent a car, the electronic toll device usually comes with a small daily fee, plus the tolls themselves. I find it convenient because I don’t have to stop or worry about missing a payment, everything is charged automatically.

How is the overall driving experience in Portugal?

Honestly, I find driving in Portugal very pleasant. The motorways are modern and well maintained, signs are clear, and rest stops are frequent. Once you’re outside the big cities, traffic is generally light, which makes road trips especially enjoyable.

Is driving in Portugal easy?

Yes — especially if you’re used to driving in Europe. I find it straightforward and well organised, even as a visitor. As long as you’re comfortable with roundabouts and stick to speed limits, driving in Portugal feels relaxed and very manageable.

In conclusion, I hope my list of the top 5 car rental companies at Lisbon Airport will be valuable to you as you navigate through the process of selecting the perfect rental car for your trip. By comparing prices, you can find the best deal that fits your budget while also meeting your specific needs and preferences. Additionally, reading reviews from other customers can provide valuable insights into the quality of service, prices, and the overall experience with each rental company.

Remember that choosing the right car hire company is not just about finding the cheapest option, but also about considering factors such as customer service, flexibility in booking and cancellations, additional services offered, and the overall reputation of the company.

Boa viagem!

* Important note: The recommendations provided in this article are solely based on my personal experience and reviews, and have not been sponsored by any car rental company. I have rented multiple times from each of the recommended companies. It's worth noting that if you decide to book through my website, I will receive a small commission, but this will not result in any extra charge for you.