The most popular models representing the mini, compact, and economy car segments in Porto are: Chevrolet Matiz, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Accent, Suzuki Swift, Toyota Yaris, Toyota Auris and others.
When hiring a budget hatchback, it is definitely worth saving on insurance deposit (franchise). Deposits on small cars in Portugal vary from 100 to 1.000 euro/dollars. Check the rental conditions of each car in your selection to find a vehicle with a minimum deposit.
If your routes in Portugal are foreseen to pass through hilly areas or mountains, it is not recommended to consider very small cars for rental. Their engines are usually insufficient for a confident driving on the roads with long or steep climbs.
At the rental office in Porto, consider to take a 'Breakdown Assistance' package or ask an officer for a contact data to use in case of a vehicle breakdown. Cheap cars are sometimes unpredictable in operation.
Upon receipt of the rental invoice, please check that all the information, as well as the final payment amount do match the data in your voucher.
OrangeSmile.com wishes you a safe and great trip to Porto!
Detailed FAQ on the rental process
Here we should definitely mention friendly attitude of local drivers and pedestrians to other drivers. For example, if an inexperienced driver tries to “squeeze” to a narrow parking space, people passing by or other drivers will surely help him. They will stop and will show the driver the best way to turn the wheels and how long it is possible to move backwards in order not to crash into a nearby car or rail.
In major cities, you may find so called “parking experts” who offer their services to drivers. As a rule, these are children and local jobless people. They are on duty along roads with heavy traffic, where they offer their assistance to drivers in search of free parking.
There are non-official “parking staff members” at large parking lots as well. They stand on a free space in the parking lot and wave their arms actively, drawing attention of motorists. If you have used the services of such assistants, make sure to leave a small tip. A tip of 0.5 - 1 euro will be sufficient. A greedy driver risks to find his new car scratched or without a mirror.
