I'm planning a trip to Portugal next year and remember seeing a Dodge Hornet in Italy that I was quite taken with. I've been hoping to rent one during my visit, but so far can't find any rental companies in Portugal offering them. For those familiar with driving there, how much of an adjustment would narrow roads be from a U.S. perspective? Additionally, how extensive is public transportation, and would it be possible to navigate Portugal solely using buses/trains without a rental car? Any insights would be appreciated!

 

The roads is narrower than what we're used to in the US. Public transit is pretty robust between major cities, with trains and buses frequently available. You could get around Portugal using public transit alone if sticking to bigger destinations, but a rental may give you more flexibility to really see everything at your own pace. Have you checked rental sites like https://www.europcar.com/en/car-rent...tions/portugal for Portugal listings? A smaller car would suit the roads well. Let me know if any other questions come up.

 

Thanks for the insights on driving and public transportation in Portugal, @mrjoe! It's good to know about the robust public transit system, especially between major cities. Your point about the flexibility of having a rental car versus relying solely on public transport is valuable. I've checked Europcar and some other rental sites, but unable to find a Dodge Hornet in their fleet. I am also in talks with a local tour guide from https://gowithguide.com/portugal/guides they would hopefully find a rental company that have the car I was looking for or at least something that is very similar. The car most probably wasn’t released in Portugal, I only assumed it was because I saw one in Italy. I’ll research more into smaller cars that were available in Portugal for navigating the roads there. I appreciate the advice and will keep it in mind as I plan my trip.

 

you're right that a Dodge Hornet probably wouldn't be available there. Most European rental companies focus on brands that are popular in the local market. I'm sure your tour guide will be able to recommend some compact cars that are a good for driving. Don't worry too much about the exact model as long as it's comfortable and easy to drive. Let me know if you have any other questions as you continue planning your trip

 

You make a very good point. Getting too hung up on renting a specific model isn't necessary as long as the vehicle is comfortable and suitable for driving in Portugal. I'll trust my tour guide to recommend some compact options that are popular and readily available locally. Really appreciate you taking the time to offer additional guidance, @mrjoe!