Welcome to Porto Santo! Renting a car is a great way to explore the island, but knowing about pickup, paperwork, costs, and local traffic rules can help make your trip smoother. In this guide, you'll find all the important information you need upon arrival at Porto Santo Airport (PXO).
Porto Santo Airport is relatively small, so car rental offices are usually easy to find in or near the arrivals hall. Most rental counters are located in the main hall after baggage claim. If you can't find them, ask an airport employee for assistance.
Several international and local car rental companies operate at Porto Santo Airport. The most common include Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, and local rentals are also available. It’s worth comparing prices and conditions in advance to find the best deal.
Porto Santo is a relatively small island, but it has varied terrain. The choice depends on your travel style and planned activities. Here are some popular car classes:
| Car Class | Daily Price (EUR) |
| Economy | 25 - 40 |
| Compact | 30 - 50 |
| Mid-size | 40 - 60 |
| SUV | 60 - 100+ |
| Luxury | 100+ |
Prices vary seasonally and depending on availability.
Most car rental companies require the following documents: a valid driver's license, identification (passport or ID card), and a credit card. The minimum age is usually 21, but may be higher for certain cars (e.g., luxury cars, SUVs). A deposit is usually required at the time of booking and pickup, the amount of which depends on the type of car rented. Most rentals accept credit cards, but it’s worth checking payment options in advance.
The rental rate usually does not include full insurance. It is important to clarify the insurance terms. CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) covers collision damage, Theft Protection covers damage from theft or burglary. The Excess (deductible) is the amount you have to pay in the event of damage. It is worth asking the rental company if there is an option to reduce or waive the deductible by taking out additional insurance.
In Portugal, traffic generally flows on the left. Speed limits within towns are usually 50 km/h, on main roads 90 km/h, and on highways 120 km/h. Toll sections are often found on highways, so it is worth carrying cash or a bank card. Parking in cities can sometimes be difficult, so it is worth looking for parking garages or paid parking spaces.
Most countries' driving licenses are accepted, but it is worth checking the rental company's terms and conditions.
Call for help immediately and notify the rental company. Take pictures of the scene.
Toll sections are often found on highways. You can pay with cash or a bank card.
This depends on the rental company and the terms of the booking. It is worth agreeing in advance.
Notify the rental company about the delay so that your reservation is not cancelled.
Ask the rental company if there is an option to take out additional insurance.
With most rental companies, the fuel tank must be returned in the same condition as you received it.
Most rentals offer unlimited mileage, but it is worth checking the terms and conditions.
Most rental companies offer GPS for rent, but you can also use your own smartphone for navigation.
You can also rent child seats from the rental company, but it is worth booking in advance.
Yes, but an extra fee usually applies.