By Soren Rivero
First-time visitor or frequent-traveler, you can't deny the beauty of Portugal. Whether you’re a fan of long drives or simply just looking to explore outside the city, one of the best ways to explore Portugal is by hitting the roads.
With that being said, traversing the intricate pathways in Portugal can be a bit tricky (hello, Lisbon). To help you out, here are 8 essential tips for driving in Portugal!
Embrace Portugal’s Roundabouts
One unique feature of Portugal’s road system are the roundabouts – you’ll encounter them frequently while driving between cities. For the inexperienced driver, roundabouts can present themselves as daunting obstacles, but just remember that they are designed to improve the flow of traffic. Yield to the roundabout’s traffic queue and use your signal to indicate your exit. After a few tries, you’ll be embracing Portugal’s roundabouts just like a local.
Respect Speed Limits
Every country (plus their states, provinces, and cities) may have their own unique rules regarding speed limits. In Portugal, traffic flow is one of the main targets of Portugal’s transportation system, so speed limits are non-negotiable, and strictly adhering to them is one of the best driving tips in Portugal anyone can offer. Be extra vigilant in urban areas, as speed limits tend to fluctuate drastically.
Be Wary of Mountain Roads
Portugal is well-known for its picturesque mountain ranges and the stunning vistas they provide. However, these mountain ranges also create potentially hazardous driving conditions. Always maintain 100% focus when cruising down Portugal’s winding mountain roads. The scenic views are incredible, but safety is always the top priority. Mountain ranges are another area where you’ll really want to pay attention to both speed limits and changes in weather.
Toll Roads + Other Payments
Portugal’s extensive network of toll roads is not only efficient, but also quite impressive. The use of tolls has helped regulate traffic in Portugal, especially with the introduction of the electronic toll payment systems. Before heading out into the great landscapes of Portugal, ensure that your rental car is equipped with an electronic toll app device, or ask your rental agency about alternative payment methods. Failure to pay tolls promptly may result in additional fees or fines.
Cruise Along the Coastline
Highways are definitely the most efficient way to travel in Portugal, but you absolutely can’t miss exploring Portugal’s stellar coastal roads! You’ll find some of the best views of the Atlantic coastline while driving near the sea, so be sure to take part in this memorable experience. Take some time to stop at viewpoints to really soak in the beauty!
Parking Etiquette
Arguably one of the biggest challenges you’ll face while driving in Portugal is finding parking spaces. The key is to keep an eye out for specific signs that indicate where it is okay to park. Blue lines on pavement tell you that the area is a paid parking zone, and yellow lines indicate restricted no parking areas. Consider utilizing parking lots when exploring cities to make your travel much easier.
Be Mindful of Narrow Streets
Narrow streets and alleyways are a historic part of Portugal’s city/village development. Be mindful of pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles while driving through narrow streets. If it seems too risky, park the car in a designated area and explore the city by foot! This might happen more often than you think, since many of Portugal’s streets were not designed with modern vehicles in mind.
Make a Fuel Strategy Plan
You likely won’t run into any trouble with fuel when driving in Portugal’s urbanized cities, since gas stations are frequently built. Some remote locations in rural regions might not be the same, so plan your fuel stops wisely to ensure a smooth journey through the country’s beautiful landscapes.
Looking to make your trip to Portugal truly unforgettable? Start by browsing our Portugal vacation packages and booking your trip today!
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