We took our wonderful campervan (named Helen) to Portugal back in 2022 for an EPIC road trip around Portugal.
And, in our opinion, the best way to road trip Portugal is by renting a campervan or motorhome!
Sure, you could hire a car in Portugal, but we found that having our own camper here offered us so much more flexibility in terms of where we stayed each night.
There is so much to see on a Portugal road trip, from the stunning Douro Valley (I recommend you camp overnight on a vineyard!), to the fairytale castles of Sintra, to the famous beaches of the south!
Luckily, the market for rentals is now expanding, meaning there's more choices on offer for campervan and motorhome rental companies in Portugal.
But, there is so much research needed when choosing the best firm for you (uughhhhh, right?!) so we have done all the hard work for you!
In this guide, we have included the best motorhome rentals in Portugal, and the best campervan rentals in Portugal; along with a quick description of what each one offers.
As well as the best way to save money when you book!
Looking for a SUPER QUICK answer? Then head on over to Go See (Motorhome Republic) and start comparing campervan rentals in Portugal right now!
Want more details on specific companies?....then let's get stuck in!
By far the best way to book your rental in Portugal is through a company called Motorhome Republic.
They have (by a very long way) the biggest database of campers and motorhomes across Europe.
They are essentially a comparison site which lets you search by your chosen dates and pick-up/drop-off locations to find the best possible deal.
A quick search on their site will show you which companies are available for your dates, saving you a LOT of time and effort.
For the best rental firms below, I have included their link to Motorhome Republic wherever possible as I recommend that's where you begin your search.
By far the best reason to book through Motorhome Republic is their Vehicle Guarantee. Meaning, if you book with a firm and then something happens like your vehicle suddenly becomes unavailable due to an accident or some other unforeseen incident, GoSee will personally find you the equivalent rental with a different company.
No other company can offer this, making Motorhome Republic unique. On top of this they have a huge team of support staff to help you with your booking 24/7.
For more info, read our in-depth review of GoSee Travel (Motorhome Republic).
Camperline is a great company, dedicated to those who travel in a campervan. Offering perhaps the widest and best range of campervan rentals in Portugal.
This is also popular choice amongst travellers as they offer third party insurance on all their rentals.
Another added bonus is the unlimited mileage on rentals you hire for five days or more. Otherwise, they are capped at 500 kilometres per day if you are opting for less than five days.
The app and website are pretty user-friendly, and the consultants speak a range of different languages to accommodate people.
Whether you are travelling as a couple or a family, you are sure to find something to suit your needs.
Camperline offers five different classes of motorhomes ranging from class 0 to VIP class.
Class 0 are simple self-contained motorhomes with a toilet, shower and small cooking area accommodating two people. As the classes increase, they fit more people and have a lot more space and facilities.
The VIP class is for those looking for a more luxurious experience. It contains a lot more additional space and includes a bathroom and shower.
You can add any optional extras if you need, e.g. WiFi hotspot, tables, chairs, baby seats etc.
One of the largest rental companies in Europe, McRent is a highly trusted motorhome rental company in Portugal.
You will find many positive reviews online, and they have years of experience, so you are sure to be satisfied!
The company stands out as they take many extra measures in terms of hygiene and disinfecting with the current pandemic.
They also have a focus on sustainability and encourage users to treat the environment respectfully.
If you’re also planning to visit a few other countries around Europe, McRent is an excellent option to consider as you are sure to find depots all over different countries. They are one of our top picks for camper/motorhome rentals in Wales, Scotland and Portugal!
McRent currently offers four different types of vehicles: urban, compact, family and comfort.
The Urban class vehicles are suited for smaller getaways. The comfort plus can fit four adults and is much larger designed for longer journeys.
All of the vehicles are quite spacious and equipped with basic kitchen and bathroom facilities. They also come with unlimited mileage and a comprehensive insurance cover.
If you’re arriving in Spain but don’t want to miss out on visiting Portugal you can consider SouthCamper for your next family journey! This is another rental motorhome company that offers a variety of different vehicles as per your needs.
We love that the depots are located close to the airport, and SouthCamper offers free transport to and from the hub, which will save you so much hassle.
Enjoy the extra peace of mind knowing you will receive comprehensive insurance and get 24/7 breakdown assistance if required.
If you’re looking to cover Portugal and Spain in one trip, this company is a great choice as they have many depots located all around Spain.
Their vehicles are designed for families or bigger groups. The smallest campervan sleeps two adults and two children, while the larger ones fit four or five adults.
All the campervans contain a kitchen and bathroom as well as an awning and bike racks.
The company offers only new vehicles which are a maximum of 2.5 years old which gives a lot of satisfaction to customers.
Like other companies, you can purchase extra add ons such as WIFI and GPS.
Ocean Camper is a great contender for the perfect motorhome if you’re looking to explore the Algarve coast with freedom.
They specialize in mini campervans for up to two people.
You will be picked up from the airport and transferred from Faro city, beaches or airport free of cost.
The staff are accommodating, and the company is known for excellent customer service.
Even though the campervans may seem highly compact, it contains everything you will need!
They offer three different campervan models: Vagabond, Atlantic and Nomad.
The Nomad is an older campervan with no air-conditioning and a radio aux cable perfect for those on a budget.
Vagabond and Atlantic are newer models with features such as air conditioning, cruise control, electric window openers and Bluetooth.
All the campervans are complete with two seats in the front and a double bed at the back. You also get a full set of camping equipment to use for free on your journey.
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If you’re looking to make a mark, the stylish painted motorhomes from ‘The Getaway Van’ will be perfect for you.
The Getaway Van is a small family-owned business that is not looking to expand into a huge company but remains close to its customers and ensures they feel supported throughout their journey around Portugal.
If you want to take your pets travelling with you, all the vehicles they offer are pet-friendly.
You can also enjoy the flexibility of working remotely whilst you travel as all the vans give access to unlimited wireless internet.
Make anywhere your home with unlimited kilometres and campervans equipped with everything you will need.
All the vans are fitted with a double bed, dining area, kitchen area, air conditioning and outdoor hot shower.
The majority of the campervans they offer can fit four people whilst they offer a few for five people.
You can even enjoy a seaside breakfast as the campervan is packed with a kitchen and all the essentials. There are also multiple sockets included to plug your devices in.
The vans are extremely easy to drive around Portugal. Even if you encounter any problems along the way, the team is extremely helpful and offers 24/7 roadside assistance.
Vanscape is another small motorhome rental company hoping to help you to discover the best things to see in Portugal.
The company aims for people to feel at home even when they are travelling through the remote areas of the country.
You will enjoy the opportunity to disconnect whilst you are surrounded by a homely environment.
Each of the Campervans they offer are stylish and spacious with a vintage look.
The company currently offers seven different coloured vans, each with its own qualities.
Each motorhome is equipped with the basics such as a solar panel, fridge and water heater.
Guests will save money by cooking their own meals as a cooker, and cooking utensils are included.
Like other rental companies, you can purchase additional extras such as a wifi router, bicycle, tent and other items.
Enjoy Portugal’s coastline by renting an affordable campervan and exploring the destination at your own pace.
Everything about Fly N Surf says fun, freedom and enjoyment. The vehicles don’t have any big branding, so it’s perfect for those who want to be discreet.
The campervans they provide are primarily normal vans that have been transformed into campervans and contain a large bed and storing area.
Fly n Surf are a wonderful company offering campervans for an easy-going holiday
The company offers two camper models.
The first model, known as 'The Economist', is available at just €36 per day. In this basic model, you get all the basic necessities such as a gas stove, surfboard storage, camping table, chair and pillows. You will need to bring a sleeping bag, but they will provide it if you don't have one.
‘The second model is 'The Spaceship', which is much bigger and can accommodate up to four people. It is equipped with all kitchen facilities, a pump and a camping shower.
There is a range of additional items available you can purchase for an extra fee.
Yescapa is similar to Airbnb, but instead of houses, you rent campervans.
This company allows you to rent campervans from people rather than larger companies.
It’s quite a simple process. You will be connected to a campervan host after choosing your vehicle and location for pickup based on your requirements.
Because they operate across Europe, they can also offer more competitive rates to customers depending on the season and availability.
There is a range of vehicles available with Yescapa. You can choose from 2, 4, 5 or 6 berths, each offering a unique experience.
You will be able to see a detailed outline of what is included in the price of each campervan or motorhome.
The listings also come with reviews, so you will be able to view feedback from previous guests.
Indie Campers is a famous campervan rental company that was founded in Lisbon in 2013 by two friends. The company takes a more modern approach by offering a fully digital experience.
If you stay longer, you will also get a better discount. You can even enjoy added peace of mind as you can cancel your trip for a full refund up to 15 days before your trip.
They are a great choice if you are planning to travel around other cities, as they have expanded and operate across 14 different European countries. Helping them become one of the top picks for camper rentals in the UK, as well as plenty of other popular European countries.
Enjoy a digital and personalised experience of your trip around Portugal. Indie Campers will be able to accommodate the needs of all modern day travellers.
The company offers eight different types of campervans to rent, which you can choose directly from the Indie Campers website, depending on your requirements.
When you start your trip, you will be introduced to how everything around the campervan works to ensure you have a smooth journey.
You can choose to add on different things to your rental for an extra fee, such as a heater, outdoor table and chairs or a small BBQ. If you work on the go or want to watch YouTube, Netflix or Prime, you can pay €20 for a WIFI hotspot, so you’re covered for the entire trip.
Siesta Campers is another great pick for renting a camper in Portugal.
Why?
Because they specialise in vintage VW vehicles! As well as a range of super modern VW's. So it's a win-win whether you want all the mod-cons, or an epic taste of nostalgia.
Better still, each of the iconic VW vehicles has been created with passion and love.
With over 20 years of experience in custom building VW vans and being on the road, this family-owned company is determined to create an unforgettable experience for anyone travelling around Portugal.
They offer classic VW vehicles right through from the 1970's to the present day.
This is made up of ten different VW vehicles; each has its own unique personality. Most of their vehicles fit four people comfortably.
Every campervan comes fully equipped with a fridge, cooker, shower, toilet, kitchen kit, sheets, pillows, tables and chairs. All of the equipment and materials are high quality and sourced responsibly.
There are also many optional extras you can choose from. All of the modern campervans are under two years old.
The campers maintain incredibly high standards and top quality. Staff is also extremely helpful if you need help planning your journey, and you will also be given 24/7 roadside assistance if required.
We also love that Siesta Campers is helping to reforest Portugal! The company recently purchased a protected nature reserve and plants one tree for every rental.
Recently they began offering portable chemical toilets free of charge to keep waste where it belongs. Their sustainability efforts also include a transition to fully electric campervans.
Important to note:
The approximate range you can expect to pay is between 50 and 100 for smaller campers and between 100-180 for larger and more luxurious motorhomes in Portugal.
Another factor to consider is what time of the year you will be travelling. Prices will increase during the high season around July and August.
The prices will depend on what size campervan you choose to rent and whether or not you purchase extra top-ups such as GPS, WIFI or other features.
The rules do change often but currently, as of 2021, wild camping is generally prohibited in Portugal. It’s essential also to avoid nature parks and reserves as it could incur a heavy penalty.
You can surely drive your motorhome through most cities and towns in Portugal as roads are pretty well maintained.
When you are travelling through mountain ranges or old heritage villages; make sure to check the route of your travel and beware of narrow streets as you may have to look for alternatives.
Check out our guide on the best things to do in Portugal; which we saw all of our in our camper, so you will be fine as well!
The minimum age for driving a motorhome in Portugal is 21 years old, while the maximum age is 75.
There are also additional terms and conditions with different companies. You need to be over 25 to book the larger motorhomes, so be sure to check all the regulations with the company before travelling.
Portugal is one of the most motorhome friendly countries in Europe so you won’t need to worry too much!
But for clarity, here are the exact rules on campervans and motorhome in Portugal
Previously, wild camping in Portugal had minimal restrictions, but as of the beginning of 2021, a complete ban was imposed on wild camping, requiring motorhomes to park exclusively in approved sites after 7pm.
However, regulations shifted once more on August 25th, 2021.
Right now, wild camping is permitted in Portugal under strict guidelines with location and duration.
According to the current law, overnight stays and motorhome parking are prohibited in Natura 2000 Network areas, protected zones, and areas designated by Coastal Plans, except in expressly authorized locations.
In other parts of the country, motorhomes authorized by the IMT (Institute of Mobility and Transport) can stay overnight for a maximum of 48 hours within the same municipality. Essentially, for your purpose, wild camping is now restricted unless their motorhome is IMT-approved.
But don't you worry, there are numerous ASAs (Service Areas for Motorhomes) that offer essential amenities such as water refills and waste disposal. They provide legal overnight stays at a nominal cost of a few euros per night and typically come with a nice view!
We've also just asked people if we can park overnight in their carpark, or outside ther building, and we never had a no!
Not to menion all the winieres you can also stay in overnight!!
But if wild camping isn't your thing, there are many designated campsites throughout the country for you to park your motorhome. We stayed in some lovely campsites, one had a pool and was right next to a golf club! (so naturally Brad played!) You also have the choice of parking at a free parking spot.
Check out some websites such as pitchup.com or apps such as ‘park4night’, which will allow you to book a parking slot in advance.
For more help planning your visit to Portugal, check out our epic 10 day Portugal road trip itinerary.
For any other questions, just drop a comment below!
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