Faro Car Hire

Find the best deals in Faro

With a massive choice from the biggest brands, Enjoy the best way to find the best prices for car hire in Faro.

  • Huge choice of cars to suit every budget
  • Save up to 70% compared to buying on the day
  • 10 years experience in car hire

Essential Tips for Car Hire in Faro

The gem of the Algarve region of Southern Portugal, Faro is one of the most popular tourist hotspots in the country. From its sweeping coastlines to its world-famous golf courses and abundance of attractions, it’s no wonder the city sees a high footfall of tourists every year. With so much to see, and an abundance of road trip possibilities, Faro is a popular car hire destination. Some essential tips for car hire in Faro are:

Book in Advance: Booking in advance is the best way to ensure that the vehicle you want is available on the date of your travel and that you secure the vehicle. As Faro is a favoured holiday spot all year round, car hire in Faro city centre or Faro Airport is popular with both tourists and locals.

Opt for Airports: Hiring your car from Faro Airport can help you get better deals, meaning you can enjoy everything Faro and the Algarve has to offer without worrying about overspending.

No matter your reason for visiting Faro, whether planning a business trip with colleagues or planning a family holiday, Enjoy Travel offers an extensive range of vehicles to perfectly match your preferences. When you’re looking for efficient, reliable, and low-cost car hire in Portugal, choose Enjoy Travel.

Beach in Lagos near Faro
Typical building in Faro

Budget-Friendly Car Hire in Faro

We offer low-cost car hire for those days when public transport just isn’t an option for you. Exploring the Algarve by car is arguably the best way to appreciate everything the region has to offer, from its famous golf courses to its rich history and camera-worthy sights. Being strategic and well-organised with your car hire is imperative, especially during the months of June to August when tourist season is at its peak.

Securing the Best Deals

During peak summer months, Faro sees a higher demand for car rentals as the number of tourists increases. To avoid missing out on your ideal vehicle, ensure you book your hire car at least one month in advance, especially between June and August.

Beach in Faro
Night time in Faro

Understanding Faro’s Driving Regulations

● The general speed limit in Portugal is 75 mph (120 km/ph) on motorways and 30 mph (48 km/ph) in inner city or built-up areas.
● All road signs are shown in kilometres.
● In Faro, as with the rest of Portugal, driving is on the right side of the road and overtaking is on the left.
● All occupants of the vehicle must wear a seatbelt at all times.
● Faro’s car hire age requirements are the same as the country’s – to drive in Portugal, you must be 18 or older, and to hire a vehicle you must be 21 or over.
● You must have any relevant paperwork and a full valid driving licence to hand.
● It is illegal to use your phone when driving any vehicle.
● It is illegal to run a red light in Faro.

Rules of the Road for Renters

● Give way to the right when driving.
● Every occupant of the vehicle must wear a seatbelt.
● Using your phone while driving is illegal. If you absolutely have to use your phone, switch to hands-free mode so you’re not distracted.
● The busiest times trafficwise are from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. and from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
● Many rental cars in Faro may be fitted with an electronic transponder, depending on the supplier. This is used for toll roads, which are common in Faro and other areas across the country. The cost of the transponder will normally be added to the overall cost of the vehicle rental.

Parking in Faro: A Guide

Parking in Faro is usually street parking, with various parking garages and parking zones available usually for a fee. Certain coloured zones may indicate the type of parking available, such as residential or permit holders only, free parking, or paid parking. There are usually also on-street parking meters available for drivers to pay for their parking.
If you park your car in the wrong designated area or on yellow lines, you may incur a fine of up to €200. You should ensure when parking on one-way or single-entry streets that you park facing the same direction as oncoming traffic.
For free parking, there are certain areas like Largo de São Francisco, a large car park close to the city that provides parking free of charge. For parking meters, ensure you have cash to hand in case card payments are not accepted.

Finding Convenient Parking in Faro

As Faro is small, parking is usually easy to find, especially if you are in the city centre or in busier areas. During peak tourist season, large parking areas like Largo de São Francisco may be full, so ensure that you have backup options readily available if you struggle to find a parking space. Apps like EasyPark and other online platforms can help you find parking options in your area, so consider using them if you’re new to Faro and are wondering where to store your vehicle. For the most part, parking is signposted.

Restaurant in historic street of Faro
Eating out in Faro

Top Attractions in Faro

Faro and the Algarve provide locals and tourists with a variety of things to do– from wine tours to golf courses and cultural and historical hubs like museums. Faro and the Algarve are often cited together when talking about attractions or things to do, and as Faro is the capital of the Algarve region, you’ll surely find many exciting and fulfilling activities to make your trip memorable.

Discovering the City’s Highlights

Some of the best things to do in Faro and the Algarve include:
Waterparks: Waterparks including Aqualand and Zoomarine are great for kids and adults alike. For more water-based activities, why not head on a boating tour around the Algarve?
Algarve Science Centre: Head to the fascinating Algarve Science Centre, which hosts an abundance of interactive activities to keep visitors of all ages entertained and occupied. Learn about science, nature, and interesting facts and information that’ll leave you in awe.
Golf Courses: The Algarve is known for its stunning and world-famous golf courses, where you can tee off and try your hand at one of the world’s most well-loved sports. Some of the most renowned golf courses in the region include Monte Rei, Quinta do Lago, and Vilamoura.

Transport Options in Faro

The mode of transport that’s right for you depends solely on your personal circumstances and preferences. If you want to access somewhere without having to worry about parking, opt for a bus. Taxi fares are usually reasonable, depending on the length of the journey– on average, you can expect a taxi to cost around €10-15 for around a 10-minute journey. Faro also has an efficient railway station to transport you quickly to other cities or regions and an airport for domestic or international travel.

Buses: An Extensive Network Across the City

Buses are one of Faro’s main modes of transport, with destinations including other cities and areas in the Algarve, such as Albufeira or Vilamoura, plus citywide areas. Payments on buses include contactless payments or cash. You can expect to find a bus to most small towns surrounding Faro. Bus stations are usually at their busiest between June and August.

Taxis: Convenient for Direct Routes

Taxis around Faro are also popular ways of getting around the city, as fares tend to remain affordable and reasonable, and taxis are efficient and convenient ways of accessing attractions and other sights. Taxis are a good option for people who don’t want to rely on public transport.

Best Day Trips from Faro

Vilamoura: A prime Algarve tourist hotspot, this resort town is known for its world-famous golf courses, large marina where you can take boat tours to neighbouring towns or cities, and its entertainment scene which includes a casino and several bars/restaurants. A short distance away, you can relax and soak up the sun at Praia de Vilamoura, a well-loved beach that is lined with clubs and bars.ç

Distance from Faro: 15,4 miles

Albufeira: Complete with a lively marina, bustling nightlife and entertainment scene, and even more sand and sea, Albufeira is also a short distance from Faro and is certainly worth the journey. Why not take a boat trip to go dolphin watching, or explore the Algarve’s waters?

Distance from Faro: 28,4 miles


Tavira: Complete with medieval buildings, beaches, and lagoons, Tavira is a hidden gem of the Algarve. And with flamingos and other bird species often setting up home here, Tavira is the perfect place for birdwatching.

Distance from Faro: 23,7 miles

Planning your Adventure

The Algarve is filled to the brim with must-see sights, so it’s a good idea to have an itinerary and plan the places you want to visit, and how you will get to them. Use a sat-nav, Google Maps, or additional navigation tools to help make your journey easier and more convenient.

Optimal Driving Times in Faro

Much like the UK, Faro has certain times of day where traffic is heavier than normal, such as rush hour. Avoid driving between 7-9 am and 4-7 pm on weekdays, if you can.

Weighing the Benefits of Car Hire in Faro

Driving gives you much more freedom to explore your destination based on your own timings and preferences. However, car hire is not for everyone.

Advantages of Personal Mobility

The advantages of driving in Faro and the Algarve include the ability to access places that might not be reached by public transport or that are a little further away. Additionally, you have the freedom to access places in your own time. Public transport can be unreliable, as delays or cancellations may occur.

Potential Drawbacks of Hiring a Car

Driving in Portugal can be hard, especially if you’re unfamiliar with roads or regulations, and when driving on toll roads, which are common in Portugal.

Variety of Rental Vehicles in Faro


From downtown Faro or Faro Airport (FAO), you can find a large selection of vehicles supplied by some of the most trusted and well-known car hire suppliers in Europe. Select from a compact Volkswagen Polo, a spacious Volvo V60, or for larger groups or families, a 7-seater Mercedes V-Class.

Partnering with Faro’s Car Hire Providers


Enjoy Travel sources and provide low-cost and exceptionally reliable vehicles from well-known and well-loved companies: Airauto, Alamo, Avis, Best Deals, Budget, Centauro, Dollar Europe, Drive on Holidays, Enterprise, Europcar, Firefly, GoldCar, Guerin, Hertz, Keddy, Key-n-Go, KlassWagen, Luz Ocean Drive, Million Car Hire, Movyng, National, Ok Mobility, PAA, SurPrice, Tangerine, Thrifty, Yes Car Hire.

Selecting a Reputable Company

The best way to ensure the company you hire from is reputable and reliable is to read previous reviews about the services offered and assess whether they align with your expectations and requirements.

Got a Question? Chat with our UK support team

Online chat help is open 08:30am to 17:00 weekdays. Email: [email protected]

FAQs about car hire in Faro

Most frequently asked questions about hiring a car in Faro

In the winter season it can be as cheap as £2.20 per day but in the summer prices start at £6.50 per day.
In Faro and the rest of Portugal, the speed limit on large roads like motorways is around 75 mph. In inner city areas or surrounding built-up areas, the speed limit rarely exceeds 30 mph. Driving around Faro is easily the best way to get around, as you cannot always rely on modes of public transport to get you around.
In Portugal, the general age requirement for driving a car is 18 years of age, and to hire a car you usually need to be 21 or over. Sometimes, for drivers who are under the age of 25, certain car hire companies may require a surcharge. Also, to hire a larger vehicle like a 7-9 seater or a luxury/estate style car, you may need to be older than 21-25.
You can hire a BMW from Faro Airport for around £100-£145 per day depending on the model of BMW. There are currently no BMWs for hire from downtown Faro, however, you can rent a similar car like a Mercedes or Audi. For a week-long car rental, a BMW may cost between £700-£900 for the week. Again this is dependent on the model of BMW you select.
You can hire a transit van from Faro Airport for around £23 per day, or £165 for a week. From downtown Faro, a transit van can cost around £90 per day, or up to £630 per week. If you want to rent a transit van for a month, costs will likely increase further depending on where in Faro you want to hire from.
With economy cars, you’re guaranteed to find better prices on small and medium-sized vehicles, such as Ford, VW, Hyundai, and Fiat 500. The cheapest prices you can find on economy cars are around £3.12 per day the cheapest for car hire from downtown Faro, and £2.55 per day for hire from Faro Airport.
This depends on the type of car you want to rent. Small cars can be rented for as little as £17– however, if you book your car too close to your trip dates, you may find that prices can increase. Booking in advance is the best way to ensure prices remain within your budget, and opting for a small car can help you find the best prices.
Faro is famed for being a very affordable area compared to the rest of Portugal, or other European holiday destinations. However, there of course are still some expensive parts such as large inner city areas. You can expect to stick within budget no matter where you go in Portugal and can expect to spend no more than €100 per day not including accommodation.
It is worth renting a car in Faro, as public transport cannot always be relied upon. Hiring a car can give you the freedom to travel around the Algarve and the rest of Portugal according to your itinerary and in your own time. You can also accommodate any other passengers or travelers you may have with you when hiring a car.
Driving around Faro is relatively easy, with lots of easy-to-navigate routes and roads, conveniently placed parking spaces and very little traffic. Try to stick to the outer suburbs of Faro to find driving the easiest, as driving in urban or downtown areas may mean traffic is more prominent or parking spaces are less easy to find.
Faro has numerous public transport options for your convenience. If you intend to travel to more rural areas of the Algarve or Portugal, you may find that public transport is less frequent and well-connected than in inner city areas. Because of this, we’d recommend hiring a car or traveling by foot or bicycle.
Depending on how long you want to book for, the time of year and the type of car you want to hire, hiring a car in Faro is relatively easy and can see prices as cheap as £2 per day for a small car. If you want to increase your car hire to a week or month, then prices will change accordingly, however, base prices are usually affordable.
Generally, yes. UK driver's license holders usually have no trouble driving in Portugal if they hold a full and valid UK driving license with a picture. However, it’s important to double-check the eligibility of your license if there is no picture, if it is out of date, etc. People from other European countries generally have no trouble driving in Portugal either.
This depends on what you’re most interested in doing or seeing. If you enjoy lounging around on the beach, then go to Faro from June to August when the weather is at its hottest. If you enjoy more cultural activities, traveling to the city at any time of year is fine, although if you want to avoid large crowds of tourists then travel in off-peak seasons like winter or autumn.
Depending on the type of car, a week-long car hire can range from £21 to £590 per week for hire from downtown Faro. If renting from Faro Airport, prices can range from £17 to £450 starting from the smallest vehicle to a 7-9 seater vehicle. You don’t always have to drop your car off at the same location as you picked it up, either.
Month-long car hire from downtown Faro or Faro Airport can see prices increase dramatically. However, sticking to a small car can make prices feel more reasonable. For a month, the cheapest price you can get on hiring a car is around £175, and the highest price is around £2,200 for larger vehicles like 7-9 seaters.
Booking in advance is a sure-fire way to get the price of fuel and car hire down to their cheapest rates. Booking in advance can also be helpful when it comes to cancelling or amending, as it leaves room for you to rectify any issues or problems you may run into when hiring your car. The longer you wait to reserve your vehicle, the higher prices may be.
Yes, there are several 7-9 seater vehicles available for hire in downtown Faro and also from Faro Airport, as well as across the Algarve and Portugal. 7-9 seaters are a popular choice for families or those traveling in a large group, as they can accommodate numerous passengers and hold more room than other smaller vehicles.
The cheapest cars you can find on Enjoy Travel include the VW Up! Model, at a rental price of £2.92 per day, and the Fiat 500 which sees a daily price of around £3. These prices are only per day, as per week they can cost around £20-£21. Of course, the larger your car the more the prices will increase, but if you stick to smaller cars, you can stay within budget on the car hire and fuel.