Life is busy enough without having to worry about the details. You just want to feel the freedom of Porto’s rolling roads. We understand. That’s why we’ve made picking out your car hire in Porto as straightforward as possible.

Whether you fancy a stealthy compact car for urban routes, a sleek saloon for that business trip, a dependable estate for a weekend in the country, or a herculean cargo carrier to haul large loads, we have the perfect rental vehicle for you.

Also called Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport, Porto Airport is only 30 minutes’ drive from the town of Porto. One of the most beautiful coastal towns in the world, Porto is famed for its beautiful bridges and Baroque architecture.

A world heritage city, Porto is dissected by the River Douro giving it a picturesque look, whichever way you enter the town. The town has ancient buildings, such as Sé Catedral and the Church of São Francisco, as well as modern architectural wonders such as the Casa da Música and the Serralves Museum.

Which side of the road?
In Portugal, please drive on the right side of the road.

Country driving laws

• Mobile phones may only be used with a headset or hands-free device
• If you're caught committing a driving offence, the police can issue an on-the-spot fine

• Do not use the horn in a built up area unless in danger
• As you approach toll booths on motorways, don't use the green lanes. These are reserved for drivers using an automatic e-toll payment system. (Please speak to an Avis representative when collecting your rental car if you would like us to register you for this service)

Speed limits
All speed signs will be in km/h.

For a standard Avis rental vehicle with no trailers:

• Urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph)
• Motorways: 120 km/h (74 mph)

• Rural areas: 90 km/h (55 mph)

Unless indicated by road signs.

Child safety / Seatbelt laws

• It is compulsory for the driver and all passengers to wear a seatbelt
• Children aged under 12 are not allowed to sit in the front seat

• Children aged under 12 and less than 135 cm must be seated in 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.

This road rules information is for provided for general guidance only. We endeavour to keep the information up to date and accurate, but any reliance you place on this information is at your own risk.

Porto to Coimbra
90 minutes from Porto lies one of the oldest university towns in Europe, the riverside town of Coimbra.  Head into town and you’ll be greeted by two beautiful cathedrals, one built in the Baroque fashion and the other more Roman influenced.

You’ll feel the academic influence of this student town any time of year. The streets are filled with elegant cafes, vibrant bars and political graffiti and offer a real taste of Portuguese academia.

Porto to Caminha
Just over an hour's drive (traffic dependent) from Porto is the sleepy riverside town of Caminha, one of the most historically rich, beautiful and scenic towns in Portugal.

There’s so much to see and do once you arrive in Caminha, we’d recommend starting with the main square, where you’ll get a real taste of the town. Here you’ll see the beautiful old town hall and the Misericórdia church, two must-see’s when in Caminha.

If you’re seeking something a little more active then head to the river estuary, to take part in all sorts of water-based activities including boating and windsurfing.

Porto to the Douro Valley
The Douro Valley is one of the most breath-taking and majestic drives in the whole of Portugal.  The valley is famed for its wine production but there’s so much more to see on this route. Follow the river and you’ll see hundreds of vineyards dotted around, as well as towns and villages offering a true taste of authentic Portuguese culture.

Depending on traffic, getting to the Douro Valley in your Avis hire car is around 2.5 hours, but is well worth your time.

What is driving like in Portugal?

The roads in Portugal are generally in good condition, and most towns and cities are relatively well-connected. Driving on the open road in the countryside is a breeze, although traffic coming in and out of the major cities can be noticeably bad.

Is it expensive to hire a car in Portugal?

Avis has competitively-priced vehicles for all budgets throughout Portugal, and the country is one of the cheapest in Europe for car hire. Check out our available hubs, and contact us to see how easily you can get out on the Portuguese roads in the vehicle of your choice.

Can I return a rental car to the airport?

If you've rented a car from a different Avis hub but wish to return it at Porto Airport, then you must arrange your return prior to the commencement of your rental agreement. If you return your car to the airport without specifying in your rental contract, a fee will apply.