Alfama Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Alfama

Renting a car in and around Alfama offers you the freedom to explore this vibrant neighbourhood and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can conveniently manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans that suit your needs. This is especially beneficial for families or those seeking a city and culture-themed experience. You can easily visit nearby attractions such as Rossio Square and the Castle of São Jorge, both located less than 1 km away, and explore the cultural richness of Marquis of Pombal Square, situated 2 km from Alfama. Additionally, having a car allows you to venture into the broader Lisbon area, including the Lisbon District and Lisbon City Center, which is only 4 km away. This flexibility means you can spend more time enjoying the sights, such as Belém Tower or the bustling streets of Lisbon, without the constraints of public transportation. Whether you're travelling with family or on a romantic getaway, renting a car enhances your adventure in Alfama and beyond.

Most popular car rentals around Alfama

• Compact: The Compact car is ideal for navigating the narrow streets of Alfama. It comfortably accommodates up to 5 travellers and allows for easy management of up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or small families seeking the freedom to explore the area at their own pace while keeping fuel costs low.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a versatile choice for those travelling with more gear. It accommodates 5 travellers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases, making it suitable for families, couples, or small groups. This option provides the comfort and additional room needed for a more leisurely exploration of Alfama and its surroundings.
• Economy: The Economy car is a practical choice for budget-conscious travellers. It accommodates 5 travellers and allows for the management of up to 2 medium suitcases. This type is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families looking for an economical option without compromising on the flexibility to discover Alfama and nearby attractions.

Top rated car suppliers around Alfama

• Sixt: Sixt is a popular choice for car rentals in Alfama, offering 3 rental locations, with the nearest being 2 km away. Known for friendly service and a clean fleet, Sixt has an overall rating of 7.2 out of 10. Travellers often choose the Compact SUV and Midsize SUV, making it a reliable option for those seeking comfort and space while exploring Lisbon.
• Europcar: Europcar stands out with over 5 rental locations, with the nearest less than 1 km from Alfama. This supplier is a favourite for its convenient proximity and a diverse selection of vehicles. The Midsize SUV and Compact are among the most booked options, providing great flexibility for tourists wanting to navigate the vibrant streets and attractions of the area.
• Hertz: Hertz offers a single rental location 2 km away from Alfama, catering to those who prefer a straightforward rental experience. Known for its Economy and Compact cars, Hertz is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers looking to explore Lisbon without sacrificing quality. Their reputation for reliability makes them a solid option during your stay.

Where to stay around Alfama

• Alfama: This historic neighbourhood is renowned for its narrow winding streets and rich cultural heritage. Staying in Alfama allows you to immerse yourself in local traditions and explore attractions such as the nearby Castle of São Jorge, which is perfect for culture and romance holidays. Alfama also offers easy access to restaurants and bars, making it a vibrant choice for those seeking a city-themed experience.
• Cacilhas: Located 3 km from Alfama, Cacilhas offers a blend of city charm and family-friendly activities. This neighbourhood features shopping centres and a picturesque beach, ideal for relaxation. Key points of interest include the Santa Justa Elevator and Rossio Square, both of which are suitable for culture-themed holidays. Cacilhas is a great option if you’re looking for a balance of leisure and sightseeing.
• Cova da Piedade: Situated 5 km from Alfama, Cova da Piedade is perfect for those seeking a mix of city life and outdoor activities. This neighbourhood boasts shopping areas and access to beautiful riverfront spaces. With attractions like Commerce Square and the historic Santa Justa Elevator nearby, Cova da Piedade caters well to both business and leisure travellers, making it a versatile choice for your stay.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Alfama

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to secure lower rates and benefit from better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a great balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in this situation.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience might make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind if something unexpected occurs during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Alfama

The best value period to rent a car in and around Alfama is November, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderate. January and February also offer good options, with slightly low prices and lower demand. The shoulder months from March to June tend to see average prices and demand, making them decent times for rentals. However, August is the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and moderately high demand, followed closely by July and September, which also experience elevated demand levels.