My personal tips on renting a car at Faro (Algarve) Airport

Renting a car at Faro Airport can be a great way to explore the Algarve. You have the freedom to head to the beach whenever you feel like it, discover little towns and villages, and take those scenic coastal roads without having to worry about taxis or public transport.

But after renting cars in Portugal myself over 15 years, several times a year, and making a few mistakes along the way, I’ve picked up some personal tips that can make the whole experience a lot easier.

So, here are my personal tips for renting a car at Faro Airport, based entirely on my own experiences.

1. Choose a rental company that actually cares about customer service

This might sound obvious, but I’ve found that customer service can make a huge difference when renting a car. I personally prefer companies that are friendly, helpful and straightforward rather than simply offering the cheapest possible deal and than make you add all the extra's. Help, stress!

Companies such as Guerin have given me good experiences, and I generally look for rental companies with a good reputation for dealing with customers properly. The cheapest option isn't always the cheapest in the end, especially if something goes wrong.

My favorite car rentals

2. Want a budget option without the transfer? Check out Ceal

If you're mainly looking for a budget car, Ceal is another option worth checking out.

One thing I like is that you can arrange for the car to be brought to the airport, which can make things quite convenient.

It’s definitely worth comparing the total price rather than just looking at the headline rental price. Check what's included, what the deposit is, and what the insurance situation looks like before booking.

3. Firefly is just a short walk from the airport

Firefly can be a handy budget option if you're looking to keep costs down.

The rental location is only a few minutes' walk from Faro Airport, which I find quite convenient. No complicated transfer or long shuttle ride, you can simply walk over after arriving.

For me, convenience is a big part of choosing a rental company, especially after a flight when all you really want to do is pick up your keys and get going.

4. Check which credit cards they accept before you arrive

This is one I would really recommend checking in advance.

Don't assume that because you can pay for the rental online with your credit card, the same card will necessarily be accepted for the deposit at the rental desk.

Rental companies can have specific requirements for the card used for the security deposit, and the rules can differ between companies.

So before booking, check:

• Which credit cards are accepted

• Whether a credit card is required for the deposit

• Whether the card needs to be in the main driver's name

• How much the deposit will be

• Whether debit cards are accepted

It can save you a very unpleasant surprise at the counter.

Car rentals that accept Amex

5. Do a little research before booking

I always recommend doing some homework before choosing your rental car.

I've rented cars at Faro Airport countless times, and my preferences have definitely changed based on experience. Price is important, but so are things like customer service, deposit requirements, insurance, location and how easy the pickup process is.

I've also put together my personal favourite car rental companies at Faro Airport, including why I like them and what my experiences have been like. If you're planning a trip to the Algarve, that's probably a good place to start before making a booking.

My favorite car rentals

6. Not used to driving a manual? Think twice

If you're not comfortable driving a manual car, Portugal might not be the best place to learn!

I’m not saying this because driving in Portugal is generally difficult, quite the opposite. Outside the towns, I actually find driving in Portugal pretty relaxed and easy. The highways are often quiet, the roads are generally straightforward, and getting around the Algarve by car is fantastic.

But then you arrive at a tiny old town.Suddenly you're dealing with very narrow streets, steep hills, tight corners and cars parked everywhere. And yes, I've found myself sitting at a stop sign on a surprisingly steep hill more than once, wondering why I didn't just book an automatic.

Driving down towards some beaches can also involve steep and narrow roads, so having confidence with a manual gearbox definitely helps.

If you're not used to stick-shifting, I'd seriously consider paying a little extra for an automatic.

7. Consider insurance if you're driving in old town centres

Here's another tip based on personal experience.

If you're planning to drive into the old town centres of places like Lagos, I would seriously consider getting good insurance coverage.

Why? Because those streets can be tiny. I've already bumped my rental car twice in narrow streets. Nothing dramatic but enough to leave some paint on the corners. And, judging by some of the marks on the walls and buildings in these old town centres, I’m definitely not the only person who's misjudged a corner!

The old parts of Algarve towns were simply not designed for modern cars.

So while I wouldn't say you need to be terrified of driving there, it's worth knowing what you're getting yourself into. Good insurance can give you some extra peace of mind when you're squeezing through a street that seems about 20 centimetres wider than your rental car.

Overall: don't be scared of driving in Portugal

Despite all of the above, I actually love driving in Portugal.

Once you're out of the historic town centres, driving around the Algarve is generally very mellow and enjoyable. The highways are often relatively empty, the roads are easy to navigate, and having your own car gives you so much freedom.

You can stop at a beach because it looks nice, take a detour to a little village, or stay for sunset without worrying about catching the last bus.

For me, renting a car is one of the best ways to explore the Algarve.

Just choose your rental company carefully, check the small print, make sure your credit card is accepted, and don't underestimate those charming little Portuguese streets!

And if you're looking for a rental company at Faro Airport, check out my personal favourites and my experiences with each one before you book. It could save you some money, and possibly a few scratches on the rental car.