Coimbra Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Coimbra

Renting a car in Coimbra provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for those interested in cultural experiences, outdoor activities, or family outings. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as Portugal dos Pequenitos, a miniature display ideal for family fun, or the historic Santa Cruz Church and Old Cathedral of Coimbra, both perfect for culture enthusiasts.

Additionally, a car allows you to conveniently explore popular destinations such as Coimbra City Centre, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture, or venture to Santo António dos Olivais and Sé Nova, which offer further cultural and historical insights. This flexibility is especially advantageous for families, as it enables easy management of luggage and equipment. With a rental car, you can create your own itinerary, avoid the constraints of public transport, and ensure a more comfortable travel experience while discovering the rich heritage of Coimbra and its nearby areas.

Most popular car rentals in Coimbra

• Compact SUV: This popular choice accommodates 5 travellers and allows for up to 3 medium suitcases, making it an ideal option for solo adventurers, couples, or families. The Compact SUV offers a perfect blend of space and manoeuvrability, enabling you to navigate Coimbra’s streets comfortably while having ample room for your luggage. With its versatility, this car type is well-suited for those wishing to explore the area at their own pace.
• Economy: A fantastic option for travellers needing to accommodate 5 people with up to 2 medium suitcases, the Economy car is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or families seeking an affordable and efficient ride. This car type is designed for easy handling and fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for navigating Coimbra and surrounding areas while keeping costs down. Enjoy the freedom of flexible travel plans without sacrificing comfort.
• Midsize SUV: Ideal for families, couples, or small groups, the Midsize SUV can accommodate 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases. This car type provides extra space and comfort, ensuring that you can travel with ease while enjoying your time in Coimbra. The Midsize SUV’s roomy interior allows for a relaxed journey, making it a suitable option for those who value both capacity and versatility during their car rental experience.

Top rated car suppliers in Coimbra

• Avis: Avis is the most popular car rental supplier in Coimbra, with a convenient rental location in the area. Travellers appreciate the flexibility that renting a car from Avis provides, allowing them to explore attractions at their own pace. The most frequently booked vehicle with Avis is the Compact, which is ideal for navigating the city and surrounding regions. Customers often highlight the ease of managing their luggage and adjusting their itineraries as key advantages of choosing Avis for their car rental needs.

Where to stay in and around Coimbra

• Coimbra City Centre: The vibrant heart of Coimbra, the City Centre is perfect for those seeking a cultural and romantic experience. Here, you can explore iconic landmarks such as the Santa Cruz Church, the Old Cathedral of Coimbra, and the family-friendly Portugal dos Pequenitos. The area is also known for its delightful restaurants and wineries, providing ample opportunity to indulge in local cuisine and beverages. With its bustling atmosphere, the City Centre is an ideal base for travellers looking to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of Coimbra.
• Sé Nova: A charming village within Coimbra, Sé Nova offers a blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque Praca da Republica, and explore the historic Old Cathedral of Coimbra. The Museu Nacional Machado de Castro, a notable art museum, adds to the cultural offerings of the area. With its parks and monuments, Sé Nova is perfect for families and those looking to engage with the natural beauty and history of the region.
• Mealhada: Situated 19 km from Coimbra, Mealhada is known for its outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. The National Forest of Bussaco, a stunning national park, provides a scenic backdrop for exploration and relaxation. The Bairrada Wine Museum is a highlight for those interested in local wine culture, alongside the Santa Cruz Church for a touch of history. With its recreation centres and spas, Mealhada is a great choice for travellers looking to unwind while enjoying the beauty of rural Portugal.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Coimbra

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for warm weather, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to benefit from lower rates and increased availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically offer lower rental rates and are easier to manoeuvre in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—may not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is usually the most advantageous. Others may present full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge when collecting your rental car from airports; however, this may be justified for the added convenience it provides.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you prevent unnecessary expenses and provides valuable peace of mind in case of any unforeseen events during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is essential to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Coimbra

The best value period to rent a car in and around Coimbra is March, when prices are low and demand is high. April also offers low prices and quiet demand, making it a nice option for those seeking a calm experience. Following this, May sees average prices and demand. However, June is when rentals become most expensive, with high demand continuing through July. August returns to average pricing and demand, while September sees higher prices again.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	47.7°F (8.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	48.9°F (9.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
March	52.9°F (11.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Low
April	56.5°F (13.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Low
May	62.4°F (16.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	66.6°F (19.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	High
July	70.7°F (21.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	High
August	71.2°F (21.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
September	68.4°F (20.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	High
October	62.8°F (17.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Low
November	53.6°F (12.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	49.8°F (9.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average