Transport in Portugal

Portugal is a relatively small country, but offers a diverse and efficient transportation system that is suitable for all types of travelers. From high-speed trains connecting the main cities, through buses traveling all over the country, to metro systems and a developed road infrastructure. Convenient public transportation and car rental options make getting around the tourist sites accessible and simple. This guide will help you choose the option that best suits your needs and will help you make the most of your time during your visit to Portugal.

Taxis in Portugal: What You Should Know
The most popular apps for ordering taxis in Portugal are Bolt and Uber, and they are considered reliable, affordable, and easy to use. However, it's important to pay attention to the pickup location – sometimes it might not be exact and could be across the street or in a nearby area.

Choosing a suitable vehicle for luggage: If you have a lot of luggage, it’s recommended to select an appropriate vehicle when booking (for example, the XL category).

Taxi colors: Most taxis in Portugal are cream-colored, but you can also find traditional-style taxis that are black with a green roof.

Fare prices: The fare is shown on the meter inside the taxi, and you can ask the driver about it. If you call to book a taxi, there is an additional charge of €0.80. For luggage, there is a charge of €1.60, regardless of the number of items or their weight. Carrycots, strollers, wheelchairs, and walking aids are carried at no extra charge.

Outside the cities: Fares are calculated per kilometer, and toll charges are the passenger’s responsibility. Prices can be agreed upon in advance with the driver.

Tipping: It is customary to leave a tip of 5-10% or round up the fare to the nearest euro.

Car Rental in Portugal: Everything You Need to Know
In Portugal, there are many options for car rentals at airports, international train stations, and in major towns and cities.

Booking in advance
Especially during peak season, it’s recommended to book a car well in advance and choose large and reliable rental companies to ensure good service and a well-maintained vehicle.

Special Services
Drivers with mobility issues or anyone who prefers an automatic vehicle can rent cars adapted to special needs.

Car Rental Requirements
Minimum age: Drivers must be 21 or 25 and older, depending on the rental company’s policy.

Driver’s license: A valid ID (passport) and a valid driver’s license for at least one year must be presented.

International driving permit: Israeli tourists are required to obtain an international paper driving permit, as the plastic Israeli driver’s license is not valid as a substitute.

Obtaining an international driving permit
An international driving permit can be issued at an authorized station with a permanent driver’s license.

Service fee: 8 ILS (6 ILS in Eilat, VAT-free).

For more information and to locate stations, visit the following link:

https://www.gov.il/he/service/drivers_license_photo_stations

Recommended Car Rental Companies
Well-known rental companies such as SIXT, AVIS, and Europcar are recognized for their high level of vehicle maintenance and reliability. Booking with these companies ensures professional customer service and cars in excellent condition.

Insurance and Car Rental
I recommend adding full insurance (Zero Risk), which covers all vehicle damage and ensures peace of mind during your trip.

Via Verde
Additionally, it’s recommended to request the Via Verde toll service, which allows for smooth travel on toll roads in Portugal, similar to Highway 6 in Israel. It saves time and toll fees by enabling quick passage on the highways.

Renting a car with all these extras guarantees a smooth and safe driving experience during your trip to Portugal.

Toll roads in Portugal: what is important to know

Portugal offers a network of highways (Autoestradas - AE) and other toll roads. There are two types of toll: a conventional toll with payment booths and an electronic toll only.

Conventional fee: You can pay with coins, credit cards, or the Via Verde service - an electronic payment system that enables automatic billing. It is recommended to ask the car rental company for the Via Verde service, which will charge the credit card directly according to the trips.

Electronic toll: in this system there are no payment booths, but electronic gates that identify the vehicle and charge automatically. Tourists can use services such as EasyToll, TollCard or a 3-day subscription to pay the tolls.

Via Verde Visitors: a system intended for foreign vehicles, which allows the use of the toll system without booths, including the electronic toll lanes and bridges.

More information on paying tolls for vehicles with foreign license plates can be found at:
https://www.portugaltolls.com
And to register for Via Verde Visitors:
https://visitors.viaverde.pt/en/

The use of these systems makes driving on the toll roads in Portugal comfortable and simple, especially for tourists.

Driving in Portugal: Important Rules and Regulations

In Portugal, as in Israel, vehicles drive on the right side of the road. It’s important to be familiar with local rules and regulations to ensure safe and smooth driving:

Right of Way

Roundabouts: Vehicles already on the roundabout have the right of way, unless otherwise indicated.
Intersections: Vehicles approaching from the right have priority.

Speed Limits

In built-up areas: 50 km/h
On regular roads: 90 km/h
On roads restricted to motor vehicles: 100 km/h
On highways (Autostradas): 120 km/h

Safe Driving

Seat belts: All passengers must wear seat belts.
Mobile phone use: It is prohibited to use a mobile phone while driving unless a hands-free system or earphones are used.

Driving for Disabled Persons
Disabled drivers with a valid driving license can drive a vehicle, subject to any restrictions or adaptations specified on their license. Disabled parking permits are recognized in Portugal and allow parking in specially designated areas.

Driving and Alcohol
Portugal strictly enforces drunk driving laws:

0.5-0.8 grams per liter: Considered a serious offense, with fines between 250 and 1,250 euros and suspension of the driving license for one month to one year.
0.8-1.2 grams per liter: A very serious offense, with fines from 1,250 to 2,500 euros and suspension of the license for two months to two years.
Above 1.2 grams per liter: Considered a crime, with prison sentences of up to one year, additional fines, and suspension of the license for three months to three years.

Safe and legal driving in Portugal is especially important to ensure a positive and enjoyable experience during your trip.