According to Myalgarvecars.com, renting a car can add an "extra element of excitement" to a holiday, as tourists will be able to drive themselves to different places in less time.

The car hire firm advises: "With a car hire in Portugal you can even have the facility of a driver who can take you to different places of interest in Portugal.

"Portugal is full of different car hire companies. There are both the costly as well as the cheap car hire companies."

The car hire firm gives holidaymakers some useful tips for their motoring adventures, including checking for availability before heading off to avoid disappointment.

Motorists are advised to make their car hire booking at least a week before the trip, as doing so could help them get bonuses and discounts offers.

Furthermore, when hiring a vehicle holidaymakers should ensure they mention all the names of those who could possibly be getting behind the wheel, to ensure they are all insured.

There are some precautions motorists can take to avoid incurring surcharges, such as checking the car for dents and problems before driving off with it.

Refuelling before returning the vehicle will also help holidaymakers avoid being charged a large fee for leaving the tank empty.

The Lonely Planet travel guide describes Portugal as a holiday destination with "an old-fashioned charm".

It adds: "With medieval castles and picture-perfect villages scattered over meandering coastlines and flower-covered hillsides … the country's proud history can be felt everywhere."