Can I Take a Rental Car from Portugal to Spain?

The answer is an unequivocal yes. Taking a rental car from Portugal to Spain is a viable option for those travelling the Iberian Peninsula. It is a very popular route for tourists, taking advantage of the most affordable and comfortable way to explore both countries.

The 500-kilometer drive between Portugal’s easternmost Algarve region, and Spain’s westernmost region of Galicia is known for its stunning coastal scenery, and is an ideal road trip that combines both countries’ stunningly different landscapes, cultures, and cuisines.

The two countries, formerly one political entity, are linked by bridges and tunnels across the Douro River and the Tavares River, making it easy to traverse.

Traveling between the two countries by car provides greater flexibility for how much time and effort you wish to invest in your exploration. This allows you to choose the speed of your journey and decide on what sites to see along the way.

In addition, the car rental costs are usually quite affordable. In addition to the cost of the car, drivers will be required to pay taxes such as the Portuguese Vehicle Registration Tax, the Spanish Vehicle Special Tax, and a bridge and tunnel fee for crossing the Douro River or Tavares River. Most companies will include these taxes in their initial rental cost calculations.

For those with an EU driver’s license, you may not be required to pay any additional fees or charges. For those without an EU license, some rental companies may require paying an insurance fee. Further, some insurance companies may prohibit drivers from taking a rental car from Portugal to Spain.

The Portuguese-Spanish border is also known as a Schengen zone. This means that, once properly authorized by a rental car company to take the car from Portugal to Spain, drivers may cross the border without additional check points, restrictions, or documents.

Before making any travel plans, make sure to contact your car rental company as some are not authorized to cross the border. Others may allow you to take the car, but will require additional proof of insurance and authorization documents.

To sum up, driving a rental car from Portugal to Spain can be an excellent option for those looking to experience all that the Iberian Peninsula has to offer. With some research and preparation, you can enjoy a road trip of a lifetime.