Fuel prices in Portugal remain high at the beginning of 2026, despite small fluctuations recorded in recent weeks. Gasoline is around 1.44 euros per liter, while diesel is close to 1.39 euros, values that continue to weigh heavily on drivers’ pockets.
This difference compared to lower prices in some Spanish regions leads many Portuguese people to cross the border to refuel, taking advantage of the significant savings they can make.
Diesel almost 90 cents in Córdoba
In Spain, the cheapest diesel this week is at the Cotranco station, located at 24 Simón Carpintero Street, in the province of Córdoba, at just 0.981 euros per liter, according to the Spanish digital newspaper, Noticias Trabajo.
The second most economical option is the UTE Estação de Murcia, at Calle Bolos, nº 4, in Murcia, where a liter costs 0.985 euros.
In the case of gasoline, Plenergy, located on Carretera Bilbao in Miranda de Ebro, Km 40, Burgos, offers a liter for 1,209 euros. Next is the Ballenoil station, on Carretera N-611, Km 197, Piélagos, Cantabria, with a very close price, 1,219 euros per liter.
These values represent a considerable difference compared to prices charged in Portugal and explain the growing demand from Portuguese drivers looking to save money.
How much do you save when crossing the border?
Filling an average tank of 55 liters of diesel at this cheapest pump costs 54.96 euros, while the same tank of gasoline costs 66.49 euros.
Comparatively, filling up in Portugal involves spending around 76.28 euros on diesel and 79.2 euros on gasoline, reinforcing the savings that motivate crossing the border.
Why Spanish prices remain competitive
The price increase in Spain has not been immediately reflected at gas stations, as the evolution of fuels depends on several factors: crude oil prices, taxes, transport costs and margins applied by distributors. Even so, Spanish values remain historically below the European average, both for gasoline and diesel, which reinforces the advantage for Portuguese drivers.
Demand grows near the border
The price difference, although variable, has generated queues at some Spanish stations close to the border and reinforces a trend that has continued in recent years.
According to , refueling ‘next door’ can represent significant savings for those who make regular trips or long trips.
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