Lisbon car hire

[EmmaCB1]

Hi, does anyone have recent experience of hiring a car from Lisbon airport? There are all sorts of negative experiences on line and it’s stressing DH as it’s his job to book it.

We’re going in August for 12 nights and staying in 2 different locations so I don’t think taxis will work even though we’ll only need a car for occasional days.

Thanks.

[SwedishEdith]

We didn't get it at the airport but from somewhere in the city. We stayed in a hotel on our first night so it was easier but whenever I've/we've hired a car, it's always much less hassle at somewhere away from the airport.

[EmmaCB1]

Thank you, I think you’re right. The airport environment can be stressful enough without adding car rental paperwork to the mix. I’ve emailed the hotel for advice.

[Fortysix]

Last summer we waited at least 90 mins week day around 1.00 pm in early July. I would be tempted to hire in the city and not for whole period. Train was great and we used it on 3 days out of seven.

[LoniceraJaponica]

If you are staying in Lisbon first I wouldn't bother with a car until you are leaving the city for your other destination. We have been to Lisbon and used public transport to get around.

[Elementally]

Also had a really long wait for a car at Lisbon airport. Well over 2hrs in total. That was with Avis. Never again.

[sausagerollsontheside]

Hired with Hertz from central Lisbon ten mins from Hotel after we spent a few days in Lisbon as parking is VERY expensive there it's cheaper to get the car when you need it

[Pastwordprotected]

Have hired from Lisbon airport several times (but driven down to Algarve, never stayed in city so no advice on that I'm afraid). Had many years of miserable queues in the main car rental area but would recommend Avis preferred loyalty scheme as you can go straight to pick up keys and usually have a shorter wait.

[Frauline]

We hired from Avis in Lisbon airport and dropped off back there. Be very very careful to check and photograph any damages before you take it and get them to sign it off.

They charged us around 300 euros for a tiny (less than 0.5cm) chip of the paint in a place almost under the car, which I'm fairly sure we didn't cause but we failed to note it down when we took the car. Would have had to get on our hands and knees to spot it.

It was clearly a massive con but has made me way way more careful (to the point of anal) when hiring a car now!

[EmmaCB1]

Thanks everyone, really helpful. Our hotel have organised us a car which we can return to a number of locations which are convenient for public transport back to the airport. Feeling much more relaxed about it now.