Four wheels is all you need to explore the south of Portugal, where the roads lead to epic adventures that usually end with a refreshing swim in the sea. But before you pick up the key and switch on the ignition, you should read this step-by-step guide to car hire in the Algarve… and discover MANY breathtaking landscapes without ANY hitches!

1. Car hire in the Algarve: look for the best deals

To begin with, as there are several car hire companies in the Algarve, if you don’t have a recommendation from a family member or friend, you should search Google for “car hire Algarve”.

You’ll get plenty of results, but just go to the respective websites and check the offer, company reputation and customer reviews to make an initial selection. Then you have to compare the prices of the car hire companies to ensure you make the best choice, the one that is in line with your budget and adjusted to your type of group and travel objectives.
Don’t forget to also check the insurance options available (consider adding additional cover if necessary), the fuel policies, mileage restrictions, taxes (such as a fee for returning the car to a different location) and travel assistance of each car hire company in the Algarve.

The location and opening hours of the agencies where you can hire a car in the Algarve are also important factors, as the time and place where you pick up and drop off the vehicle must be convenient, although it is almost always possible to hire a car in the Algarve on arrival at the airport or train station.

If you book with ready2drive you can pick up your car at www.ready2drive.pt

2. Car hire in the Algarve: choose the vehicle best suited to your group and type of trip

Have you selected what you think is the best car hire company in the Algarve? Great, now it’s time to choose the vehicle, which, of course, must be the right size for the number of people in your group, the amount of luggage and additional equipment (such as bicycles) you want to transport. The extras you can’t do without (such as GPS, a baby seat or a sunroof) should also be considered.

In addition, the vehicle must be suitable for the purpose of the trip. For example…

• For a family holiday, a spacious car is ideal.
• For a romantic getaway, a small, compact car is more practical.
• For a luxury weekend, there are premium brand models with top features and greater comfort.
• For travelling with a group of friends, car rental companies offer minivans or vans with capacity for 7 or more passengers.
• To explore areas that are difficult to access, a jeep or four-wheel drive car is more advantageous!
• For more ecological and sustainable driving, electric or hybrid cars are also available from Algarve car hire.

Discover ready2drive’s fleet of cars.

3. Car hire in the Algarve: book in advance

Have you chosen your car? Perfect, now book it in advance to guarantee availability and possibly get a discount or special offer.

Book now

4. Renting a car in the Algarve: follow this inspection checklist

Yupie! First day of holiday, time to pick up the car… and do a pre-rental inspection, following these steps:

• Make a visual inspection of the car’s exterior to check for dents, scratches or other damage.
• Check the condition of the tyres.
• Inside the car, check the condition of the seats, carpets, roof and seatbelts.
• Test the lights, electric windows, air conditioning and radio.
• Check for the emergency triangle, first aid kit and other safety equipment.
• Take note of the current mileage and fuel level.

5. Renting a car in the Algarve: respect the local traffic rules

Respect the traffic rules to ensure a safe and smooth journey. If you live in Portugal, you already know the speed limits and other specific rules, but if you’re used to driving in another country and want to rent a car in the Algarve, know that here you drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left. Speed limits in urban areas are generally 50 km/h, all car occupants must wear seatbelts and children must travel in age-appropriate car seats. Blood alcohol limits? They’re strict! The permitted level is 0.05 g/dL.

6. Car hire in the Algarve: choose the best destinations

From Sagres to Monte Gordo, there’s plenty to explore in the Algarve, so you should prepare your itinerary with your specific interests in mind… or the suggestions we’ll give you below!

• Drive to Praia da Marinha, known for its golden cliffs and crystal-clear waters, and considered one of the 100 best beaches in the world.
• Explore the Sagres Fortress and enjoy the panoramic sea views at the exact point where the mainland meets the ocean.
• Discover the beautiful beaches of Lagos and then park your rental car and stroll through the cobbled alleys of the historic centre.
• Enjoy Vilamoura’s sophisticated marina or book a game on one of the world’s best golf courses.
• Take a photo next to the medieval walls in Faro and then explore the city on foot or behind the wheel of your car to watch the traditional architecture mingle with the vibrant local life.
• If you hire a car in the Algarve, you can also enjoy the nightlife in Albufeira or drive along the scenic roads that lead to the Ria Formosa, a nature reserve with stunning landscapes.
• At the wheel of the hire car you can also head for the historic churches in Tavira, the medieval castle of Castro Marim, the green hills in the Serra de Monchique or the unforgettable sunset at the lighthouse of Cabo de São Vicente.

As you can see, from the golden beaches to the historic monuments, renting a car in the Algarve is an unforgettable experience, especially if you click here and make your booking with ready2drive!

We’re happy to provide you with the best vehicle to get to know this region safely and reliably!