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RV travel in Portugal: rental, routes, tips

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Portugal, the westernmost country of continental Europe, with its long Atlantic coastline, historic towns, and unique culture, is great for exploring by motorhome. A campervan trip lets you surf in the morning, visit a medieval castle in the afternoon, and enjoy grilled fresh fish by the ocean in the evening — all in one day. This way of traveling lets you experience Portugal up close and at your own pace.

Quick overview of the country

Before starting a motorhome trip in Portugal, it’s helpful to know a few basics.

Capital: Lisbon. Driving is on the right-hand side.

Language: The official language is Portuguese. English proficiency is among the highest in Southern Europe, especially in tourist areas and among younger people. Communication in English is usually not a problem.

Currency & Money: The currency is the euro (EUR, €). Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. Still, it’s good to carry some cash for small markets, cafés in rural areas, or minor services. ATMs are common and multifunctional. Russian bank cards do not work in Portugal.

Time Zone: Mainland Portugal (including Madeira) operates on UTC+0 in winter and UTC+1 in summer (same as London). The Azores are in the UTC-1 / UTC+0 zone.

Visas: Portugal is part of the Schengen Area. Citizens of countries outside the EU/Schengen will need a valid Schengen visa to enter. Visa requirements should be checked on the official website of the Portuguese consulate in your country.

Why is Portugal ideal for RV travel?

Traveling by motorhome in Portugal is convenient for several reasons.

The main one is the country’s compact size. Unlike its larger neighbor Spain, Portugal lets you explore very different regions in a short time without spending entire days on the road.

The heart of Portuguese RV travel is the Atlantic coastline. A motorhome is the best way to explore it. You can drive along the entire coast, stopping in fishing villages, at surf spots, on wild beaches, and by towering cliffs that are hard to reach by public transport.

RV travel infrastructure is well-developed. The country has high-quality roads and a large number of campgrounds, especially near the coast. There are also designated parking areas for motorhomes.

Finally, the cost of travel. Portugal is one of the most affordable countries in Western Europe. Campground fees, fuel, groceries, and restaurant meals are usually cheaper than in Spain, France, or Italy, making RV travel more economical.

Popular regions and RV routes

RV routes in Portugal typically follow the coast or head inland to historic towns and wine regions.

Algarve (southern coast)

Portugal’s most famous resort region. Here you’ll find iconic beaches, dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and arches (especially around Lagos and Albufeira), as well as quieter towns like Tavira. The region offers a large selection of campgrounds. Summer can be very crowded, so spring and autumn are more pleasant for exploring.
From Lisbon to Porto (Silver Coast)

A classic route that lets you see a lot. It includes the capital Lisbon and its surroundings (Sintra, Cabo da Roca), then heads north along the coast through the fortified town of Óbidos, the fishing village of Nazaré (known for its huge winter waves), and the university city of Coimbra, ending in Porto — the capital of port wine.
Northern Portugal and the Douro Valley

This route reveals a different side of Portugal — lush and mountainous. It includes the country’s only national park, Peneda-Gerês, and the Douro Valley — a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its terraced vineyards producing grapes for port wine. A scenic journey along vineyard-lined roads.
Alentejo

A vast region south of Lisbon, covering nearly a third of Portugal. Known for its cork oak forests, olive groves, whitewashed hill towns, and nearly deserted beaches. The main city, Évora, is also a UNESCO site. Perfect for those seeking peace and authentic Portugal, far from tourist crowds.

RV routes in Portugal

To the Edge of Europe: Discovering the Coast of Portugal

Route: ~790 km
Duration: 11 days

Learn more

View other road trips

Best time to travel by RV

Choosing the right season for an RV trip in Portugal depends on your plans — whether it’s a beach vacation, surfing, or visiting historical cities.

Spring (April–June) and Fall (September–October)

These periods are considered by many to be the best for RV travel.

Weather: Very pleasant temperatures across the country (+18–25°C), ideal for sightseeing and travel without extreme heat. The ocean water is still or already cool, but it’s the best time for exploring.
Nature: Spring brings blooming landscapes, while fall offers mild weather and less wind.
Tourists and prices: Fewer people compared to summer, no issues with parking or campground availability. Rental and service prices are lower.

Summer (July–August)

Summer is peak tourist season, especially along the Algarve coast.

Weather: Hot and sunny, with southern temperatures often exceeding +30°C. The northern coast is cooler due to ocean influence, making it better for swimming and beach time.
Downsides: Highest prices across the board. Campgrounds in the Algarve and popular beach areas may be full — book well in advance. Tourist crowds cause lines and traffic.

Winter (November–March)

Winter in Portugal is mild, which makes it a great season for RV travel — especially for long-term stays.

Algarve: The southern coast is the main hub for winter RVers. Days are sunny and warm (+15–18°C), but nights can be cool. Ideal for peaceful walks and golfing.
North and Center: The weather is cooler and rainier, especially in the north. However, it’s the best time for surfers in Nazaré, where the world’s biggest waves arrive in winter.
Prices: Lowest rental and campground rates (except for long-term rentals in the Algarve).

Motorhome rental in Portugal: what you need to know

Motorhome rental in Portugal is well developed, especially in large cities and tourist centers.

Where to rent?

The main rental points are located near the international airports of Lisbon, Porto, and Faro (the capital of the Algarve region). Starting your rental in one of these cities makes it easier to plan your route around the country.

Rental conditions

Age and driving experience: The minimum driver age is usually 21–25 years, with at least 2 years of driving experience.
License: To drive a motorhome weighing up to 3.5 tons, a category "B" license is sufficient. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not required for citizens of many countries, but it can be useful.
Deposit: When picking up the motorhome, a refundable deposit is blocked on your credit card, usually between €1,500 and €2,500.
Mileage: Often mileage is unlimited, but some companies may impose limits, especially for short-term rentals.

Types of motorhomes

In Portugal, standard European models are available: compact campervans (popular with surfers), semi-integrated, and overcab motorhomes. Given that Portugal has many narrow streets in towns and rural areas, more compact models may be more convenient. Most rental motorhomes are equipped with manual gearboxes.

Insurance

The rental price includes basic insurance with a deductible. Rental companies offer the option to purchase additional coverage to reduce or remove the deductible. Carefully read the contract to understand which situations (for example, tire or windshield damage) are not covered by the insurance.

When to book?

For summer trips, it’s best to book your motorhome 4–6 months in advance. For the off-season, 1–3 months is usually enough. Early booking gives you more choice and better prices.

One-way rental

Major rental companies offer one-way rentals between main hubs (Lisbon, Porto, Faro), which is convenient for routes from south to north or vice versa. An additional fee is charged for returning the vehicle in a different city.

Cross-border travel in Europe

With a motorhome rented in Portugal, you can freely travel to Spain and other EU countries. The insurance included in the rental usually covers the entire EU. If you plan to visit countries outside the EU (for example, Morocco), you must obtain prior approval from the rental company. Such trips require extended insurance and special permission, and not all rental companies allow them.

Average rental cost in Portugal

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

€110

€90

€95

€103

€85

€105

€85

€110

€85

€95

€110

€103

Roads and driving in Portugal

Portugal has a modern and well-maintained road network, but the toll system has some specifics travelers need to be aware of.

Road types

Autoestrada (A): High-speed motorways. Most of them are toll roads.
Itinerário Principal (IP) / Itinerário Complementar (IC): Main toll-free roads, usually in good condition.
Estrada Nacional (N): National roads that often go through towns and villages.

Toll system

There are two types of toll roads in Portugal, and understanding the difference is essential for travelers:

Manual/card payment roads: Some highways have traditional toll booths (Portagem), where you can pay by cash or card.
Electronic toll roads: Many highways only have electronic gantries with cameras that read your license plate or transponder. There’s no manual payment option. These are often marked with a sign that says “Electronic toll only.”

How to pay for electronic toll roads?

For cars with foreign (or rental) license plates, there are several options:

EASYtoll: Upon entering Portugal, at special terminals (“Welcome Points”), you can link your bank card (Visa, Mastercard) to your vehicle’s license plate number. The system will automatically charge tolls to your card. Valid for 30 days.
TOLLCard: A prepaid card that can be purchased online, at post offices (CTT), or at gas stations. It can be loaded with a certain amount (€5, €10, €20) from which toll fees are deducted.
Transponder: The easiest option. Some rental companies equip their motorhomes with “Via Verde” transponders. Toll charges are then deducted from your deposit or card. Check availability of this option when renting.

Basic driving rules

Speed limits (for vehicles up to 3.5 t): Urban areas – 50 km/h. Outside urban areas – 90 km/h. Expressways – 100 km/h. Motorways – 120 km/h.
Lights: Use of low beams during the day is mandatory and recommended in poor visibility.
Alcohol: Legal blood alcohol limit is 0.5‰. For drivers with less than 3 years of experience – 0.2‰.
Parking in cities: Parking in Lisbon and Porto is difficult and expensive. It’s better to leave your motorhome at a campground and use public transport.

Fuel

Types: Gasoline is called Gasolina in Portuguese (usually 95 or 98 “sem chumbo” – unleaded). Diesel is Gasóleo. Most campervans run on diesel.
Prices: Fuel in Portugal is a bit cheaper than in neighboring Spain, but higher than the EU average.
Stations: Fuel stations are plentiful and many along motorways are open 24/7. Popular chains: Galp, Repsol, BP.

Parking and overnight stays in a motorhome

Finding a place to stay overnight in a motorhome in Portugal is generally easy, but the rules have become stricter in recent years.

Overnighting outside campgrounds

Since 2021, Portuguese law prohibits overnight stays in motorhomes outside specially designated areas. This rule applies across the entire country, including parking lots, beaches, and roadside shoulders.

Enforcement and fines: Enforcement is carried out by the police. Violations can result in fines ranging from €60 to €600. The rule is strictly monitored in tourist areas, on the coast, and in natural parks.
Conclusion: “Wild camping” in Portugal carries a high risk of fines. The safest and most reliable way to spend the night is to use official campsites or designated motorhome areas.

Official campgrounds

Portugal has a well-developed campground network, especially along the coast.

Facilities: Portuguese campgrounds are usually well equipped. They offer electricity, clean toilets and showers, laundry services, and often pools, bars, restaurants, and small shops.
Prices: Prices vary by season and location. On average, a spot for a motorhome with two adults and electricity costs €20–30 in low season and €35–50 in peak summer season.
Booking: In summer, especially in the Algarve, campgrounds near the beach fill up quickly. Book in advance.

Specialized motorhome areas (ASA – Área de Serviço para Autocaravanas)

This is an important part of road trip infrastructure in Portugal. ASA areas are designated spots where you can not only stay overnight, but also service your motorhome.

Facilities: Almost all ASA areas have a service zone for waste disposal and water refilling. Many also offer electricity hookups.
Location: They can be found across the country, often near marinas, on the outskirts of towns, or near tourist attractions.
Prices: Usually range from €0 to €15 per night. This is a more budget-friendly option compared to campgrounds.
Finding locations: To find campgrounds and ASA areas, you can use dedicated apps like Park4night or Campercontact, where users share up-to-date information and reviews.

Motorhome servicing on the road

Motorhome servicing in Portugal is easy thanks to the large number of service stations.

Water refill and waste disposal

Service points for motorhomes, where you can dump grey water (from sinks and showers) and black water (from the toilet cassette), as well as refill your fresh water tank with drinking water, are available at most ASA areas and campgrounds.

Access: The service is usually free for those staying overnight or costs a few euros for drive-through use.
Water quality: Tap water in Portugal is safe to drink.

Gas bottles

Gas is used in motorhomes for cooking, refrigeration, and heating water.

System: In Portugal, as in neighboring Spain, a specific type of gas cylinder system is used (propane or butane), which is incompatible with systems from other parts of Northern Europe. Main suppliers include Galp and Repsol.

What to do:

Rental motorhome: Motorhomes rented in Portugal come with compatible gas bottles. The rental company will explain where to exchange them.
Own motorhome: If you bring your own motorhome from another country, exchanging your bottle may not be possible. Your options are to buy a local Portuguese bottle and regulator or use an adapter set to refill your own bottle at LPG (GPL in Portuguese) stations.

Where to exchange: Bottles can be exchanged at many fuel stations and some supermarkets.

Food, groceries, and shopping

Cooking in a motorhome is a big advantage in Portugal — a country known for its fresh fish and seafood.

Portuguese cuisine is based on simple, high-quality ingredients.

Fish and seafood: Portugal’s main culinary treasure. Be sure to try grilled fish (peixe grelhado), especially sardines in summer. Octopus (polvo) and a variety of shellfish are also very popular.
Bacalhau (cod): Dried and salted cod is a national dish. They say there are 365 different ways to prepare it.
Cataplana: A seafood and/or meat stew cooked with vegetables in a special copper pot.
Soups: Caldo verde — a hearty soup made with cabbage, potatoes, and chorizo sausage.
Pastries: Pastel de nata — famous custard tarts that are a must-try in Lisbon.
Wine: Portugal is known for its wines: Port wine (Vinho do Porto) from the Douro Valley, green wine (Vinho Verde) from the north, and excellent red and white wines from the Alentejo and Dão regions.

Estimated trip budget

Traveling by motorhome in Portugal is considered one of the most affordable options in Western Europe.

Motorhome rental: The main expense. The price depends on the season and motorhome class. Roughly, a compact campervan in the low/mid season can cost €70–120/day, and in peak summer season — €130–220/day or more.
Fuel: Fuel prices in Portugal are above the European average. With diesel at around €1.70–1.80/l and average consumption of 8–10 l/100 km, each 1000 km will cost about €140–180.
Tolls: Toll road costs can add up if you use highways frequently. Driving the full length of the Algarve (A22) or from Lisbon to Porto (A1) may cost €20–25 one way.
Campgrounds and parking: An official campsite averages €25–45/night. ASA service areas are cheaper — from €5 to €15.
Food: Cooking from supermarket ingredients is economical. Expect €25–35/day per person. Lunch in a basic café (prato do dia – daily special) costs about €8–12.
Attractions: Entry to castles and museums usually costs €3–15.

Daily budget estimate (excluding motorhome rental)

Budget option (free roads, overnight stays at ASA, self-cooking): €60–90 per day for two people.
Mid-range option (partial use of toll roads, campsites, occasional meals at cafés): €100–160 per day or more for two people.

Money-saving tips:
Use ASA service areas instead of full campsites. Cook your own meals, buying fresh fish and groceries at supermarkets like Pingo Doce or Lidl. Stick to free national roads (Estrada Nacional) if you’re not in a hurry.

Connectivity and internet

Staying connected in Portugal is easy thanks to good coverage and EU roaming rules.

Mobile coverage

The main providers are MEO, NOS, and Vodafone. 4G coverage is generally good across the country, including most coastal areas.

SIM card

For tourists from the EU: If you have a SIM card from another EU country, you can use mobile service in Portugal at your home rates.
For tourists from outside the EU: Buying a local prepaid SIM card is a good option. They are available at operator stores, post offices (CTT), and some supermarkets. A passport may be required for purchase. Data packages for a month typically cost €15–30.

Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi is available in many cafés, restaurants, and shopping centers. In campsites and ASA service areas, Wi-Fi may be available, but it’s often paid or unstable.

Safety, culture, regulations and useful tips

Here are a few important things to keep in mind when traveling in Portugal.

General safety

Portugal is one of the safest countries in Europe with a low crime rate. The main concern for tourists is petty theft in busy tourist areas of Lisbon and Porto.

Motorhome security

Follow basic precautions: lock your doors and windows, and don’t leave valuables in sight. Motorhome break-ins do occur, especially in unguarded parking lots near beaches.

Police

There are two main police forces: PSP (public security police, operating in cities) and GNR (national guard, responsible for rural areas and roads). The traffic division (Brigada de Trânsito) frequently monitors speed.

Rules and regulations

Wild camping ban: Keep in mind that overnight stays in a motorhome outside designated areas are prohibited throughout the country.
Toll roads: It’s important to pay for electronic toll roads, as fines can be high.

Culture and etiquette

Unhurried pace: The Portuguese are calm and relaxed. Don’t expect fast service in restaurants.
Coffee: An important part of local culture. A small espresso (um café) after meals is a ritual.
Tipping: Not obligatory but appreciated. It’s customary to leave 5–10% in restaurants if you’re satisfied with the service.

Language barrier and English proficiency

Portugal has a very high level of English proficiency, especially in tourist areas, among young people and in business. You’ll usually be able to communicate easily in English in most situations.

Tap water

Tap water is safe to drink throughout the country.

Emergency numbers

The universal emergency number (police, ambulance, fire brigade): 112

Electricity

Voltage — 230 V, frequency — 50 Hz. Sockets are European type F (“Schuko”). To connect a motorhome at campsites, the standard blue CEE 17 plug is used.

Useful resources

To help plan your trip to Portugal and get up-to-date information:

Toll road info: portugaltolls.com – official site with details for tourists on how to pay for toll roads.
Camping & parking apps: Park4night and Campercontact – the most useful tools with up-to-date info on campgrounds, ASA spots, and service areas.
Official tourist portal: visitportugal.com – general information about the country, regions, and attractions.

Conclusion

Traveling Portugal by motorhome means exploring the ocean coast, enjoying fresh seafood, beautiful beaches, and charming towns. A good understanding of toll payment systems and overnight stay rules will make your journey through this welcoming country smooth and memorable.

E-mail: info@greatrvtrip.com

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