Are there tolls on Portuguese highways, and how do they work?

Post ByAdequate Travel

Summary
Are you planning a road trip to Portugal? Before you hit the open road, make sure you understand the tolls system used on the Portuguese highways. In this blog article, we will explain how Portuguese toll roads work, how much they cost, and tips for avoiding them. Before embarking on your journey to portugal, make sure to check the latest travel guidelines and entry requirements to ensure a smooth trip

Tolls on Portuguese Highways

Portuguese highways, known as Autoestradas, do have tolls, and they are usually electronic tolls called "Portagens". These tolls apply to most major highways across the country.

Types of Tolls

There are two main types of tolls on Portuguese highways:

  1. Electronic Tolling: This is the most common type of tolling in Portugal. It uses an electronic system with no physical toll booths, which means you can drive through without stopping.
  2. Traditional Tolling: Some older highways still use traditional toll booths, where you have to stop and pay the toll with cash or card. These traditional toll booths are gradually being replaced by electronic tolling systems.
How Electronic Tolls Work

Electronic tolling in Portugal relies on the use of a device called "Via Verde" or "Electronic Toll Device". Here is how it works:

  1. Obtain an electronic toll device, available for purchase or rent, from Via Verde or at selected service stations.
  2. Attach the device to the inside of your windshield as per the instructions provided.
  3. As you drive through the tolling points on the highway, the device detects and registers the toll automatically.
  4. The toll fee is then deducted from your prepaid credit or linked credit/debit card associated with the device.
Payment Methods

There are a few payment methods available for electronic tolls in Portugal:

  1. Via Verde: Via Verde is the most common electronic payment system in Portugal. In addition to toll roads, it can also be used for parking and fuel payments.
  2. Credit/Debit Card: Some rental car companies offer toll devices that are linked to your credit/debit card for payment.
  3. Estradas de Portugal (EP) EasyToll: For visitors without a Via Verde device, EP EasyToll allows payment of tolls at post offices, Payshops, CTT stores, or through the EasyToll website within five days of your journey.
  4. Electronic Toll Service (TES): TES is another electronic toll payment system available for purchase or rent, similar to Via Verde.
Example Toll Rates

Toll rates in Portugal vary depending on the distance traveled and the type of vehicle. Here are a few examples:

  1. Average tolls for a small car traveling on a major highway between Lisbon and Porto can range from €20 to €30.
  2. For larger vehicles like trucks, toll rates are higher. For instance, a truck traveling from Lisbon to Faro might pay around €60 in toll fees.
Conclusion

Portuguese highways have tolls, primarily using electronic tolling systems. It is essential to understand the payment methods and have the necessary devices or information when using toll roads in Portugal to ensure a smooth travel experience.

Travellers can find valuable travel information for tourists, such as local customs, must-see attractions, and dining recommendations, to make the most of their trip.

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