You can easily combine a visit to the city of Lagos with its pretty collection of cobblestone streets encircled by medieval walls and the coastline’s liveliest beachside town, Albufeira, just one hour east of Lagos. Albufeira has a huge range of activities from golf and water sports to golden beaches and popular restaurants, so you may want to stop for a while and take advantage of everything it has to offer.

A little farther east brings you to the cosmopolitan capital of Faro, where you can broaden your perspective on Portuguese culture and history.

Winter or summer, a holiday in the Algarve serves up stunning beaches, world-class golf courses and family-friendly attractions. Located in the south of Portugal, its capital Faro has an international airport. Beaches in this region are second to none, ranging from off-the-beaten-path escapes to well-equipped resort beaches with all the amenities you could wish for.

Which side of the road?

In Portugal, please drive on the RIGHT side of the road.

Unique Country Driving Laws

The use of mobile phones is prohibited; however, you may talk on your phone if you have a hands-free kit.

Do not use your horn in a built-up area unless you urgently need to warn other road users of your presence.

Speed Limits

For a standard Avis rental vehicle with no trailers:

·         Urban areas: 31 mph (50 km/h)

·         Motorways: 74 mph (120 km/h)

·         Rural areas: 55 mph (90 km/h)

Unless indicated by road signs.

Child Safety / Seatbelt Laws

It is compulsory for the driver and all passengers to wear a seatbelt

·         Children under 12 and less than 150 cm tall must be seated in an appropriate child restraint for their size.

Please note - It is the child’s parent/guardian or vehicle renter’s responsibility to fit the child seat.

Compulsory Equipment in your Avis rental car

·  Passport/photo ID

·  Spare tyre/air filling equipment for tyres

·  Reflective jacket

·  Warning triangle

Emergency Services

Police                                                                112

Ambulance                                                     112

Fire Department                                          112

European Emergency Number   112

If you want to learn more about driving in Lagos, see the full Portugal Road Rules guide.

From Lagos, jump behind the wheel of your hire car and head to Sagres, the most westerly town of the Algarve Region with its rugged coastline and wild seas. From here you can check out numerous walking trails, enjoy dramatic scenery and escape the crowds.

If lounging poolside is more your thing, a 15-minute drive out of Lagos, heading west, brings you to the idyllic resort town of Praia da Luz. The calm beach, atmospheric promenade and seafront restaurants make this a top spot for families and couples looking to relax.

If you’re looking for retail therapy, a 30-minute drive east brings you to the town of Portimão which has some of the Algarve’s best shopping. Its pedestrianised streets and bars and cafes make for a perfect stroll around town.

Just 20 minutes from Portimão lies the ancient, fortified town of Silves. Once the thriving capital of the Algarve, historic sites are scattered throughout this now sleepy town – allowing its visitors to reflect its rich and distant past.

Do you need a hire car in Lagos?

Renting a car in Lagos is the easiest way to explore Lagos and the Algarve on your own terms. It gives you the freedom to explore the area’s beautiful beaches and scenic spots at your leisure without having to wait for and rely on public transportation.

Is it expensive to rent a car in Lagos?

The price of a hire car in Lagos varies depending on the season. With Avis, you can find the best car rental deals in Lagos and enjoy flexible booking options. Use our online booking form to compare prices for your chosen dates.

How old do you have to be to hire a car in Lagos?

Anyone looking to rent a car in Lagos must be at least 18 and be in possession of a full UK driving licence for over a year. Age limit is restricted to certain vehicle types, and there is a young driver surcharge fee for most vehicles.

What is the weather like in Lagos?

Lagos enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers. Lagos receives plenty of sunshine throughout the year, while the rainy season, while sporadic, typically runs from November to March.

We’ll pack all the extras you need to get the most from your venture – from sat nav and super-fast mobile Wi-Fi, to our tailored range of child seats. And, you don’t have to drive full-circle: why not make the most of one way car hire?

If you’re moving house or travelling with a heavy load, a van might be the best choice for you. Check out our van hire options – whatever your needs, there’s something for everyone.