Airport Tips & Quick Reference Guide to Faro Algarve Airport (FAO)

Car Hire Faro Airport

Information compiled by David Enrich, aviation and airport guide expert since 1999.

Faro Airport (FAO) – Car Rental Guide

Renting a car at Faro Airport is one of the smartest ways to explore the Algarve. With beaches, towns and hidden spots spread across the region, having your own vehicle gives you total freedom. Faro Airport offers a wide range of car rental companies, competitive prices and quick access directly from the terminal.

Car rental is often the best option in Algarve, especially if you plan to visit multiple destinations like Lagos, Albufeira or Tavira.

Car Rental Companies at Faro Airport

At Faro Airport you will find both international and local car rental companies. Most of them are located inside the Arrivals Hall, making pick-up quick and easy.

  • Europcar
  • Avis
  • Hertz
  • Sixt
  • Enterprise / Alamo
  • Budget
  • Goldcar
  • Centauro

Some additional companies operate from nearby parking areas (P4) and provide free shuttle service. 

Average Prices & Car Types

Car Type Example Price per day Best for
Mini / Economy Fiat 500 €10 – €40 Budget travelers
Compact VW Golf €20 – €60 Couples
SUV / Family Nissan Qashqai €50 – €120 Families
Luxury BMW / Audi €100+ Premium travel

Prices vary depending on season, demand and booking time. In summer, prices can increase significantly. 

Popular Destinations by Car

  • Faro city centre: 10 minutes
  • Albufeira: 35 minutes
  • Lagos: 1 hour
  • Tavira: 30 minutes
  • Sagres: 1h 30 min

Driving is the best way to discover hidden beaches and less touristy areas.

Car Rental Insurance Explained

Most rentals include basic insurance, but understanding coverage is key:

  • CDW (Collision Damage Waiver): Covers damage with excess
  • Theft Protection: Covers stolen vehicle
  • Third-party liability: Covers damage to others

Extra insurance (Super CDW) reduces or eliminates excess and is highly recommended for peace of mind. 

Top Rental Companies Comparison

Company Location Price Level Customer Rating
Sixt Terminal Medium 4.5★
Europcar Terminal Medium 4.3★
Goldcar Terminal Low 3.8★
Enterprise Terminal Medium 4.4★

Estimated Waiting Times

Company Type Average Waiting Time Notes
On-airport companies 10–30 min Fastest option
Shuttle companies 20–45 min Cheaper but slower
Peak season 30–60 min Expect queues

Expert Tips

  • Book at least 2–3 weeks in advance for best prices
  • Take photos of the car before leaving
  • Choose “full-to-full” fuel policy
  • Avoid basic insurance only (high excess)
  • Check for hidden airport fees (~€15 in some cases)

Final Tip: Renting a car at Faro Airport is not just convenient. It’s essential if you want to experience the Algarve properly.

Car rental companies

In Faro Airport you can find the following car rental companies:

Amoita Car Hire

Amoita Car Hire

Contact: +351 289 817 014
Website: www.amoita.com
Location: Out of the airport
Avis

Avis

Contact: +351 289 810 120
Website: www.avis.com.pt
Location: Airport Terminal
Budget

Budget

Contact: +351 289 810 120
Website: www.budget.com.pt
Location: Airport Terminal
Dollar

Dollar

Contact: +351 21 942 6300
Website: aluguerdecarrosbaratos.blogspot.com
Location: Airport Terminal
Drive Car Rental

Drive Car Rental

Contact: +351 21 269 7488
Website: www.driveonholidays.com
Location: Out of the airport
Europcar

Europcar

Contact: +351 289 818 777
Website: www.europcar.pt
Location: Airport Terminal
Firefly

Firefly

Contact: +351 21 942 6373
Website: uk.fireflycarrental.com
Location: Airport Terminal
Goldcar

Goldcar

Contact: +351 21 145 1595
Website: www.goldcar.es
Location: Airport Terminal
Golfauto

Golfauto

Contact: +351 289 395 316
Website: www.golfauto.pt
Location: Out of the airport
Guerin

Guerin

Contact: +351 289 889 445
Website: www.guerin.pt
Location: Airport Terminal
Hertz

Hertz

Contact: +351 21 942 6300
Website: www.hertz.pt
Location: Airport Terminal
Inter Rent

Inter Rent

Contact: +351 21 145 1381
Website: rentacarsm.blogspot.com
Location: Airport Terminal
Nice Rent

Nice Rent

Contact: +351 912 562 700
Website: www.nicerent.pt
Location: Out of the airport
OK Mobility

OK Mobility

Contact: +351 707 013 149
Website: okmobility.com
Location: Out of the airport
Sixt

Sixt

Contact: +351 255 788 199
Website: www.sixt.pt
Location: Airport Terminal
Thrifty

Thrifty

Contact: +351 21 942 6300
Website: www.alquilerdeautos.online
Location: Airport Terminal
Turis Prime

Turis Prime

Contact: +351 21 041 0379
Website: www.turisprime.com
Location: Out of the airport
Yes Car Hire

Yes Car Hire

Contact: +351 969 777 854
Website: yes-car-hire.co.uk
Location: Airport Terminal