Choosing the Best Route for Your Journey

The most direct route uses the A2 and A6 motorways for a very fast trip. This drive usually takes about 90 minutes when starting from your central Lisbon hotel locations. You will cross the impressive 25 de Abril Bridge or the wide Vasco da Gama Bridge. Both bridges offer stunning views of the Tagus River as you leave the busy city.

Traffic is generally light once you leave the Lisbon metropolitan area and enter the countryside. You should check traveling to Évora in 2026 for updated road conditions before you depart. The road surfaces are excellent and allow for a very comfortable and safe journey. Most travelers prefer the A6 for its direct path into the Alentejo plains.

Consider starting your drive before 8:00 AM to avoid the heavy morning traffic in Lisbon. The bridges can become very congested during the weekday morning rush hour for local commuters. Afternoon departures are also pleasant but you must watch out for the bright setting sun. The sun can be quite intense when driving east toward the historic city walls.

If you prefer a slower pace, the N114 road offers a more traditional Portuguese experience. This route passes through small villages and cork oak forests at a much slower speed. You will see more of the local lifestyle but the journey takes significantly longer. Most tourists choose the highway to maximize their time exploring the UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Understanding Tolls and Driving Costs

Portuguese motorways use an advanced electronic toll system that requires some careful advance planning. Most rental cars come equipped with a Via Verde transponder device for your convenience. This device allows you to pass through toll gates without stopping to pay cash. The total toll cost for this trip is approximately 15 to 20 Euros.

You can pay with cash or card at some traditional toll booths on the A2. However, many roads now use electronic only gantries with no physical booths for payment. Make sure your rental company activates the toll service for your specific vehicle. This prevents unexpected fines arriving in your mail long after your vacation ends.

Fuel costs in Portugal are generally higher than in many other European countries in 2026. You will find several service stations along the A6 motorway for fuel and snacks. These stations are modern and offer clean restrooms for travelers during their short break. Prices at highway stations are usually slightly higher than those found in local towns.

Budgeting for your trip should include both toll fees and the cost of daily parking. You can find more details on parking in Évora old town for specific cost estimates. Planning these expenses early helps you manage your travel budget for the entire Alentejo region. Most travelers find the convenience of a car worth the extra highway costs.

Best Parking Tips for Évora Visitors

Driving inside the historic walls of Évora can be very challenging for most international visitors. The streets are extremely narrow and often restricted to local residents with special permits. It is best to park your car in the large lots located just outside. These parking areas are safe and often free or very inexpensive for tourists.

Look for the large parking lots near the Rossio or the popular Porta de Avis. From there, you can easily walk to the main Roman Temple in ten minutes. If you prefer staying inside the walls, check for hotels with private garage access. You might want to read about new luxury hotels to find a place with valet parking.

Street parking inside the old town is almost impossible to find during the peak season. Many areas are designated for residents only and police frequently issue tickets to visitors. The exterior lots provide much more space and reduce the risk of scratching your car. Walking from the gates into the center is a great way to see the city.

• Use the parking lot near the Municipal Market for easy access.
• Avoid driving through the Giraldo Square during busy weekend afternoons.
• Check if your accommodation provides a temporary permit for luggage drop-off.
• Always lock your vehicle and keep valuable items out of plain sight.

Essential Driving Rules and Safety Tips

Portugal follows standard European driving rules with traffic moving on the right side of the road. Speed limits on motorways are strictly enforced at 120 kilometers per hour in 2026. Speed cameras are common on the A2 and A6 routes toward the Alentejo region. Always keep your driver's license and all rental documents inside the vehicle.

Be aware of the local driving style which can be quite fast on highways. Use your turn signals early when changing lanes to communicate with other fast drivers. Avoid drinking any alcohol if you plan to get behind the wheel today. The legal blood alcohol limit in Portugal is very low for all visiting drivers.

If you travel during summer, ensure your car has a working and powerful air conditioner. Temperatures in the Alentejo often exceed 35 degrees Celsius during July and August months. You can check the cultural events calendar for indoor activities during the hottest hours. Staying hydrated is essential during the warm summer months in central Portugal.

Most highway service stations offer electric vehicle charging points for modern eco-friendly travelers. Portugal has invested heavily in charging infrastructure across the main highway network recently. Ensure you have the correct mobile apps to pay for electricity at these stations. Driving an electric car is now a very viable option for this route.