Azores Car Rentals

Reasons to book a car rental in Azores

Renting a car in the Azores offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this beautiful autonomous region at your own pace. With a rental car, you can conveniently manage your luggage and create a travel plan that suits your needs. This flexibility is particularly appealing for those interested in outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and scenic views. You can easily visit key attractions such as Ponta Delgada Harbour, known for its stunning scenery, and the historic Ponta Delgada City Gates, perfect for culture enthusiasts. For nature lovers, Lagoa Azul on São Miguel Island provides a romantic setting ideal for outdoor adventures. Additionally, having a car allows you to explore popular destinations like Ponta Delgada, where you can experience all these attractions, as well as Ribeira Grande, which features beautiful spots like Santa Bárbara Beach and Lagoa do Fogo. Renting a car in the Azores enhances your travel experience, making it convenient to discover the region’s charm and diverse landscapes without the hassle of public transport.

Most popular car rentals in Azores

• Economy: The Economy car option is perfect for accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 2 medium suitcases. This makes it an ideal choice for solo travellers, couples, or families seeking a budget-friendly vehicle. With its compact size, you can easily navigate the winding roads of the Azores while enjoying the freedom to explore at your own pace.
• Compact: Similar to the Economy option, the Compact car accommodates up to 5 travellers but offers room for 3 medium suitcases. This makes it slightly more spacious, making it suitable for those who may have a bit more luggage. The Compact car is perfect for individuals, couples, or families who value fuel efficiency and ease of parking while exploring the scenic landscapes of the Azores.
• Midsize SUV: If you are travelling with a larger group or need extra luggage space, the Midsize SUV is an excellent choice. It comfortably accommodates 5 travellers and has the capacity for 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. The additional space ensures a comfortable ride, allowing you to enjoy your travels through the beautiful Azores without feeling cramped.

Where to stay in Azores

• Ponta Delgada: A vibrant city that offers a mix of outdoor activities, scenic views, and cultural experiences. Here, you can explore the historic Ponta Delgada City Gates and the picturesque Ponta Delgada Harbour. The nearby Lagoa Azul provides a lovely spot for romance and outdoor adventures. With various cafes and distilleries in the area, you'll have plenty of options for food and drinks. It's an ideal base for those looking to immerse themselves in local culture and nature.
• São Miguel Island: Known for its breathtaking scenery and romantic atmosphere, São Miguel Island is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Highlights include the Ponta Delgada Marina, where adventure awaits, and the historic Ponta Delgada City Gates. The Santuário do Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres offers cultural insights and beautiful architecture. With a variety of cafes and distilleries nearby, you can enjoy local culinary delights while taking in the stunning surroundings.
• Angra do Heroismo: A city that combines outdoor sports and eco-friendly experiences, Angra do Heroismo is surrounded by natural beauty. Key attractions include the Algar do Carvao cave for adventure seekers and the Zona Balnear do Negrito beach for relaxation. The Se Cathedral provides a cultural touch to your visit. With nearby parks and nature reserves, as well as wineries and cheese options for food and drinks, this city caters to those looking to enjoy the great outdoors while indulging in local flavours.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Azores

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize the filters on Expedia to help you find the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary with demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is usually the most economical. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable; just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unexpected occurs during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in Azores

The best value period to rent a car in the Azores is February, when both prices and demand are moderately low. January also offers a quieter experience, with lower demand. Moving into the spring, March and April see average prices and demand, making them decent options as well. However, from June through August, rental prices tend to rise, with August being particularly expensive and busy due to high demand. This peak season can make securing a rental less economical.