Hire a car at Lisbon Airport (LIS), Portugal

Car hire at Lisbon Airport

Lisbon Airport (LIS), officially known as Humberto Delgado Airport, is Portugal's primary international gateway. Situated just 7 kilometres northeast of Lisbon's city centre, the airport handles over 30 million passengers annually. Featuring two main terminals, Terminal 1 serves the majority of airlines, while Terminal 2 caters predominantly to low-cost carriers. Lisbon Airport plays a pivotal role in connecting Europe, Africa, and the Americas, offering a multitude of amenities including lounges, free Wi-Fi, and an extensive range of car hire services. Opting for a hire car directly from Lisbon Airport allows you to seamlessly explore the historic city of Lisbon, the scenic coastal towns, and other charming destinations within Portugal.

Why hire a car at Lisbon Airport

Hiring a car at Lisbon Airport offers numerous benefits. Whether you're visiting for business, food and drink tourism, a family holiday, or a solo adventure, having your own vehicle provides flexibility and convenience. For business travellers, a hire car ensures punctuality and time efficiency when attending meetings or conferences. Food and drink enthusiasts can savour regional delicacies and visit vineyards at their own leisure. Families will appreciate the ease of travelling with children, luggage, and essentials without relying on public transport schedules. Adventurers can explore Portugal's varied landscapes, from mountainous interiors to scenic coastal routes, all at their own pace. Additionally, during peak season in the summer, hiring a car enables you to escape crowded tourist spots and discover tranquil hideaways.

Choosing the right vehicle class

Selecting the appropriate vehicle class depends on your trip's nature and specific needs:

• Economy: Ideal for solo travellers or couples on a budget. These cars are fuel-efficient and easy to manoeuvre through Lisbon's narrow streets. Available for pick-up directly from the airport car park or via a short shuttle ride.

• Compact: Suitable for small families or groups of up to four. These cars offer a balance of comfort and affordability, and can be conveniently collected from the airport's car hire desks or car park.

• Supermini/Hatchback: Perfect for those needing extra boot space while maintaining a compact size. Excellent for city driving and short trips, with pick-up available at the airport counter/desk or through a shuttle service.

• Saloon: Great for business travellers and those seeking a smooth, comfortable drive on longer journeys. Typically collected via the airport counter or shuttle transfer to nearby facilities.

• Estate: Ideal for families needing additional luggage space. Estates are perfect for road trips and extended stays. You can collect these vehicles from the airport car park or take a short shuttle to off-site providers.

• SUV/4x4: Best for adventurers planning to explore rugged terrains or rural areas. These robust vehicles are available for pick-up at the airport or through a transfer service.

• MPV/People Carrier: Excellent for larger families or groups of friends, offering ample space and comfort. Collection points include the airport's car hire desks or off-site locations reached by shuttle.

• 7–9-seater/Minibus: Ideal for large groups or team travel, ensuring comfort and convenience for everyone. These can be hired directly from airport facilities or via shuttle services.

• Luxury/Executive: For those wanting to travel in style and comfort, luxury cars offer superior features and a premium driving experience. Typically, these vehicles are available for collection at the airport's dedicated car hire desks.

How to hire a car at the airport

Hiring a car at Lisbon Airport is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for a smooth experience:

Driving tips & conditions

After picking up your hire car at Lisbon Airport, consider the following for a smooth journey:

• Tolls/Electronic Tags: Portuguese motorways often have tolls, with some using electronic toll systems. Check whether your hire car is equipped with an electronic tag (DEM) and understand how charges will be billed. If not equipped, you will need to manage toll payments at traditional booths or arrange for a tag at your pick-up spot.

• Car Parking: Lisbon offers various parking options, from on-street pay and display to multi-storey car parks. Parking fees vary by location and duration, so keep change and major credit cards handy. Lisbon Airport has convenient parking facilities near the car hire return area.

• Traffic and Routes: Traffic congestion is common during peak hours, especially on routes heading into the city centre. Use navigation apps for real-time traffic updates and the most efficient routes. For coastal destinations like Cascais or Sintra, the A5 motorway offers a quicker route but includes tolls.

• Low Emission Zones (LEZ): Lisbon has specific LEZs that may restrict access to certain vehicles. Verify if your hire car meets the required emission standards to avoid fines.

• Local Driving Customs: Adhere to all local traffic laws and regulations. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on motorways. Seat belts are mandatory, and using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless hands-free.

• Winter Driving: Although winter conditions in Lisbon are mild, if you plan to travel to the northern parts of the country during winter, be cautious of potential icy roads. Ensure your hire car has appropriate features like winter tyres if necessary.

By keeping these considerations in mind, you can enjoy a hassle-free and memorable journey while exploring Lisbon and beyond.