Portugal is one of Europe's most sought after tourist destinations for both city breaks and sun holidays and it's easy to see why. Situated on the same Iberian Peninsula as Spain, Portugal is a charming sun-drenched country that offers excellent scope for hire car touring.

Although it shares the Iberian Peninsula with Spain, Portugal has managed to exert a strong sense of its own unique culture and traditions. Portugal is a diverse land, much of which is untapped by mass tourism. Let your Portugal car hire experience take you on an exciting adventure through sophisticated, flashy marinas, time-forgotten fishing villages, enchanting cork forests, ancient olive groves, sweeping golden bays and lively cities. Driving through Portugal, the vibrant colours of myriad fishing villages and charming coastal towns brighten up your Portuguese travel experience.

Portugal has a proud seafaring heritage, evident at the many marinas, fishing harbours and villages. While in Portugal it's worth sampling the fresh fruits of the sea. Grilled sardines are a favourite dish, readily available at most coastal towns and cities in Portugal.

Portugal's fascinating history from its 15th and 16th century golden age of discovery to the 20th century era of the New State has helped to shape the modern country that we see today. In this country of bustling ports and decadent cities, it's easy to imagine the great explorers plotting their voyages.

Today, the real appeal of Portugal is that it manages to get the balance right between burgeoning modernity and charming traditionalism. One moment you could be driving through the stunning capital, with its bustling shopping malls and elegant art galleries, the next you could be passing a remote beach where fishermen mend their nets. Portugal is a sun-worshipper's paradise. The Algarve's sparkling butter-soft sands, secluded coves and craggy Atlantic-lashed outposts have made it a firm favourite with holidaymakers looking for fun in the sun. However, it's not just the beaches that have the masses flocking to Portugal every year. Portugal's striking cities offer attractions aplenty for city break aficionados. A stroll around the bright cobbled medieval streets of Lisbon or one look at pretty Oporto will tell you why these cities are gathering pace as trendy short break destinations. Meanwhile, outdoorsy types rate Portugal's golf courses as some of the best in Europe and its thrilling Atlantic surf as second to none.

Wherever you travel in Portugal you're always guaranteed to find something exciting to see or do. In terms of lively cities, world-class sporting attractions and beautiful beaches, Portugal has it all. Hiring a car in Portugal allows you to tailor-make your own voyage of discovery, follow the obvious tourist trail or beat a brand new path.