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Cheapest Car Rental Rates in Santarém
Santarém
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Santarém
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Santarém
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Santarém
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car rental is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average rental duration of 6 days
Why Rent a Car in Santarém?
Santarém, Portugal, is a city steeped in history and surrounded by stunning landscapes. While public transportation is available, renting a car provides the freedom to explore the Ribatejo region at your own pace. Here's why you should consider a car rental in Santarém:
Explore Historical Sites: Santarém boasts a rich Roman and Gothic heritage. With a rental car, you can easily visit the Igreja de Marvila, the Portas do Sol, and other significant landmarks.
Discover the Ribatejo Region: Venture beyond the city to experience the picturesque countryside, vineyards, and traditional villages that define the Ribatejo. A car allows you to reach these hidden gems effortlessly.
Visit Golegã: Known as the horse capital of Portugal, Golegã is a short drive from Santarém. A rental car makes it easy to attend the annual Feira Nacional do Cavalo (National Horse Fair) and explore the town.
Enjoy Flexibility and Convenience: Public transportation can be limiting, especially when exploring rural areas. A rental car gives you the freedom to create your own itinerary and travel comfortably.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Santarém
Before renting a car in Santarém, it's crucial to understand the terms and conditions. Here are some essential points to consider:
Area
Approximately 552 square kilometers
Population
Approximately 28,000 residents
Time Zone
Western European Time (WET)
Ideal for
Exploring the Ribatejo region
Rush Hours
Typically 8 AM - 9 AM and 5 PM - 6 PM
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Santarém require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some companies may have a minimum age of 23 or 25, and young driver surcharges may apply.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license is required. If your license is not in Portuguese or English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) may be necessary.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is usually included in the rental price. Consider purchasing additional coverage for peace of mind. A security deposit will be required and held on your credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyCheck the mileage policy. Some rentals offer unlimited mileage, while others have restrictions. Understand the fuel policy, which often requires returning the car with a full tank.
5. Extra FeesBe aware of potential extra fees for additional drivers, late returns, or optional extras like GPS navigation or child seats.
Car Rental Prices in Santarém – How Much Does It Cost?
The average daily rate for an economy-class car rental in Santarém is from £20 / $25 / €23. Prices vary depending on the season and availability.
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €46
Electric:
from £25 / $31 / €29
Classic:
from £15 / $19 / €17
Executive:
from £35 / $44 / €40
7 Seater:
from £45 / $56 / €52
Automatic:
from £30 / $38 / €35
SUV:
from £22 / $28 / €26
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Expect prices to increase by 20-30% due to higher demand from tourists.
Low season (November to February): Often comes with discounts as rental companies seek to attract customers during quieter periods.
Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in Santarém?
Booking a car in Santarém involves several steps to ensure a smooth and satisfactory experience.
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison sites to find the best deals from various rental companies in Santarém.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, considering factors like size, fuel efficiency, and comfort.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental terms and conditions, including mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Book your rental car in advance, especially during peak season, to secure the best rates and availability.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, passport, credit card, and booking confirmation when collecting your rental car.
General Information About Santarém
Santarém is a historic city with charming streets and notable landmarks. Driving offers the best way to discover its surroundings.
As a city with a rich history, Santarém offers a delightful blend of cultural and natural attractions. While the city center is easily walkable, a car provides the means to visit nearby towns and the scenic countryside.
Top Attractions to Discover
Igreja de Marvila
A beautiful church known for its stunning tile panels.
Portas do Sol
Historic city gates offering panoramic views.
Jardim das Portas do Sol
A tranquil garden with scenic overlooks.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Several public parking garages are available in the city center for secure parking.
On-Street Parking
On-street parking is available, but be mindful of parking regulations and time limits.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities located on the outskirts of the city to avoid traffic congestion.
Gas Stations in Santarém
Major Brands Available
Find gas stations from major brands like Galp, Repsol, and BP throughout the city and surrounding areas.
Refueling Tips
Gas stations are generally easy to find, but it’s a good idea to refuel before venturing into more rural areas.
Payment Options
Most gas stations accept credit cards and cash.
Useful Tips for Visiting Santarém
Plan for Traffic
Be aware of traffic during rush hours, especially in the city center.
Explore Surrounding Areas
Use your rental car to explore nearby towns and the beautiful countryside.
Respect Local Traffic Laws
Adhere to local traffic laws and speed limits to ensure a safe driving experience.
Enjoy Local Cuisine
Take the opportunity to explore the local restaurants and try traditional Portuguese dishes.
Key Transportation Hubs in Santarém
Major Bus Stations
Santarém Bus Terminal
The main bus terminal connects Santarém with various cities and towns in Portugal.
Railway Stations
Santarém Train Station
Located on the Linha do Norte, providing connections to Lisbon, Porto, and other major cities.
Airports
Lisbon Airport (LIS)
The closest major airport, located approximately 80 kilometers south of Santarém.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Santarém?
Renting a car in Santarém is a simple process, but you'll need to ensure you have the necessary documents and meet the requirements.
You'll need a valid driver’s license. If your license is not in Portuguese, an International Driving Permit (IDP) may be required.
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with some having a higher minimum age or additional fees for young drivers.
A credit or debit card in the driver’s name is needed for the security deposit. Some companies may only accept credit cards.
A passport or other form of identification is usually required.
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This page was edited, fast-checked, and/or translated by our experts which are passionate about helping travelers experience the world by car. CarTravelers team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, rented cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customers Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Santarém as
Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have the option to post a review here. Instead, we ask each and every customer to leave a review after they return their rental car. This way, you know that all reviews are authentic.
Family vacation in Santarém was fantastic! Having a car made exploring so much fun.
David Garcia
Reviewed: 03.10.2024
Santarém in July was lovely; having a car made getting around easy. The town's tourist information could be better organized, though.
Emily Carter
Reviewed: 05.07.2025
Pretty chill vibe
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 02.11.2024
Relaxing, good drives.
Liam O'Connell
Reviewed: 11.04.2025
First trip to Santarém, and it was wonderful! Having a car made exploring so effortless. Highly recommend.
Olivia Rodriguez
Reviewed: 27.11.2024
Santarém was charming, though the local bakery lacked variety. Renting a car was a breeze.
Ben Wilson
Reviewed: 16.04.2025
Santarém's charm exceeded expectations! Getting around with a car was a breeze, perfect for exploring the coast and relaxing.
Ava Johnson
Reviewed: 13.03.2025
Santarém was magical! Exploring the region with a car was so easy and convenient. Absolutely loved it.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 02.02.2025