Car Seat Laws in the Algarve – How to Travel Safely with Kids by Taxi or Rental Car

BOOK AIRPORT TAXI

BOOK CITY TAXI

The Algarve is one of Europe’s top family destinations, with sun-drenched beaches, picturesque villages, and calm waters perfect for children. But before you hit the road to explore from Lagos to Faro, it’s essential to understand Portugal’s car seat laws and how to secure safe, child-friendly transport while traveling.

At Taxibambino.com, we help families enjoy the Algarve without worrying about transport safety by offering taxis and car rentals with car seats, boosters, and baby capsules already included—so your holiday begins safely, from the first kilometre.

What Are the Child Car Seat Laws in Portugal?

In Portugal, child restraint laws are aligned with EU regulations. According to the Portuguese Road Code (in Portuguese), and summarised in EU guidance on child safety in vehicles, the rules are as follows:

• Children under 12 years old and shorter than 135 cm must use a child restraint system appropriate for their weight and height.

• These children must sit in the back seat of the vehicle, unless the back seats are already occupied by younger children or the car does not have rear seats.

• Only seats that meet EU standards (ECE R44/04 or i-Size/ECE R129) are legally permitted.

These rules apply to private cars, rental vehicles, and ride services. Drivers are legally responsible for ensuring children are secured correctly.

Do Taxis in the Algarve Offer Car Seats?

Most taxis in the Algarve do not carry child car seats by default. While some drivers may allow you to use your own seat, availability of age-appropriate seats is inconsistent. Although the law allows taxis a certain degree of flexibility, safety experts—and most parents—recommend using a proper car seat at all times.

That’s why many families choose to book through Taxibambino.com, where you can pre-book a taxi in the Algarve with a certified car seat already installed—whether you’re arriving at Faro Airport (FAO), heading to your resort in Albufeira, or going on a day trip to Sagres or Tavira.

Renting a Car in the Algarve with a Child Seat

Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore the Algarve’s coastal roads, beaches, and inland treasures. Major rental companies such as Europcar Portugal, Avis Portugal, and Sixt Portugal offer child seats as optional extras, but:

• They often have limited stock during peak seasons.

• Seats may not match your child’s age or weight.

• Installation is often left to the customer, and instructions may be in Portuguese.

  
  

At Taxibambino.com, we eliminate the guesswork by helping you book a rental car in the Algarve with the correct child restraint already installed—matched to your child’s age and ready for your arrival.

Why It’s Worth Planning Ahead

Whether you’re flying into Faro, visiting theme parks like Zoomarine, or exploring the coast from Carvoeiro to Vila Real de Santo António, having the right car seat makes every ride safer and more relaxing. And with Portuguese police increasingly enforcing car seat regulations, it's simply not worth the risk of showing up unprepared.

When you book with Taxibambino.com, you’re choosing convenience, compliance, and—most importantly—your child’s safety.

The Algarve is a stunning place to explore with kids, but don’t let car seat logistics derail your holiday. Plan ahead and give your family the smooth, secure transport they deserve.

Book your Algarve taxi or rental car with a child seat today at Taxibambino.com and enjoy every moment of your trip—from the first beach to the last sunset.