Since January 1, 2026, traveling on most Portuguese highways has become more expensive. Prices have been updated by about 2.29%, an increase calculated based on inflation at the end of 2025. In the network operated by Brisa, this increase affects nearly half of the active toll booths.

For example, a trip between Lisbon and the Algarve (via A2) now costs 23.80 euros in Class 1, representing an increase of 50 cents compared to the previous year. The Lisbon to Porto connection became 45 cents more expensive, raising the cost of the trip to close to 25 euros per journey.

New exemptions: A25 and Alentejo at the top of the lists

As a counterpart to the general increase, Parliament has launched a package of exemptions that promises to revolutionize mobility in various regions of the country, greatly benefiting the interior.

The most comprehensive measure is the total end of tolls on the few sections of the A25 that were still paid (such as Esgueira to Aveiro Nascente and Albergaria), making the road completely free for all users. In the Alentejo, the rules are different: sections of the A2 (between the A13 junction and Almodôvar) and A6 (from the A13 junction to Caia) become free, but only for those who reside or have their company headquarters in these regions (Baixo Alentejo, Coastal, Upper Alentejo and Central Alentejo).

Exemptions for heavy vehicles on A8, A19, and A41.

Good news also reaches the business sector. To relieve the pressure of transportation costs in the central and northern areas, the State Budget has suspended tolls for heavy vehicles on the Circular Regional Exterior do Porto (A41). In Leiria, the measure also covers the A19 and A8 (from Leiria Sul to Pousos), promoting the movement of heavy traffic to faster and safer roads.

What do you need to avoid paying tolls?

Attention to bureaucracy: toll exemption in Alentejo (A2 and A6) is not automatic for drivers passing through. To benefit from this free pass, in effect since April 2026, it is strictly mandatory to have the car linked to an electronic payment device (such as Via Verde).

In addition, residents will have to submit an annual formal request for exemption to their Via Verde operator, presenting documents proving their tax address in the areas covered by the law. Without this equipment on the car's windshield and without approved documentation, the toll booths will continue to charge the normal amount.

Is the car burdening your monthly budget too much?

Fuel, insurance, tolls, and car credit are bills that crush income at the end of the month. By consolidating all your loans into a Consolidated Credit through Poupança no Minuto, you can lower your total monthly payment and gain the flexibility you need to travel on the road without worries.

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