The Ultimate Guide to Renting and Driving a Car in the Azores
Now that you've arrived in the Azores, get ready to immerse yourself in an unforgettable vacation! To truly experience the breathtaking beauty and remarkable sites across the Azores Islands, consider renting a car. Rest assured, navigating and renting a car here is quite manageable.
Keep reading for valuable insights and essential information on what to anticipate when renting a car and exploring the islands' roads:
Rent a Car in the Azores: Convenient and Flexible Transportation Options
The best way to explore the islands is to rent a car so that you can have total freedom to explore at your leisure and to be able to reach every destination you desire, even if public transportation does not go there. Unlike the more extensive public transportation systems in Portugal's mainland cities, the Azores have limited public transit options with restricted schedules. This is why hiring a car is both a wise and convenient choice for your trip. Luckily, each island is relatively small and easy to get around, and many of the must-see sights are only accessible by car, making a rental the best option for your journey.
Top 8 Essential Tips for Car Rental in the Azores: What You Need to Know:
1. Right-Side of The Road: Understanding Local Driving Practices in the Azores
If you're arriving in the Azores from Canada or the United States, you'll find the driving familiar, as locals drive on the right side of the road, just like back home. However, if you're coming from the United Kingdom, Australia, Malta, or any other left-side driving country, be prepared for a change, as driving in the Azores is on the right lane. Driving on the opposite side of the road in the Azores is surprisingly manageable for travelers, even more so than in many other destinations. This ease of navigation is partly due to the islands having much less traffic compared to other places. This creates a relaxed driving environment, making it easier for those not accustomed to driving on this side of the road to explore all the beautiful sights the Azores have to offer.
2. Embracing Both Worlds: Manual and Automatic Car Options in the Azores
While locals in the Azores mainly drive manual cars, there's no need to worry if you're more comfortable with automatic vehicles. Azores Getaways offers partnerships with reliable local rent-a-car providers, ensuring you have a comfortable and confident driving experience while exploring the islands. For any car model you prefer, particularly if you need or prefer an automatic transmission, it's wise to book as early as possible, ideally when you arrange your flights and accommodation. Fortunately, Azores Getaways simplifies this with travel packages that include a wide selection of automatic cars, book yours!
Please note: While both manual and automatic vehicles are available in the Azores, automatics are rarer and often more expensive, so early booking is essential to ensure availability and to accommodate your budget considerations.
3. The Importance of Opting for Car Rental Insurance
Driving in the Azores often involves narrow roads, increasing the likelihood of minor accidents like dinged mirrors. Additionally, some destinations may require travel on less maintained roads, where potholes and other issues are more common. Therefore, opting for additional insurance is a smart travel decision. It's also important to check with your rental company about their driving location policies, as some restrict off-road driving to prevent such incidents. Considering these factors, unless your credit card provides extensive international insurance coverage, it's advisable to purchase additional insurance from the rental car company for complete protection and safety. In short, investing in rental car insurance can be a cost-effective choice in case of unforeseen events.
4. Azores Weather: Expect the Unexpected
When renting a car in the Azores, it's wise to be prepared for the unexpected, particularly regarding the weather. The islands' rich greenery owes much to frequent rainfall, which can be heavy and sudden. Additionally, the Azores often experience storms, strong winds, and regular fog. These weather conditions require extra care and caution while driving, especially for those who are not overly confident drivers or unfamiliar with the island's roads and terrain. Fortunately, while the Azores' weather can shift quickly to rain, wind, and fog, it can also clear up just as rapidly, giving way to sunny days. If you encounter bad weather while driving, the best approach is to reduce your speed or safely pull over and wait for conditions to improve for safe travel.
Psst: Did you know that you can monitor the weather across all the Azores Islands? While traveling in the Azores, consider downloading the "Spotazores" app. It offers live webcam feeds from the islands, helping you make informed decisions based on your preferred weather conditions.
5. You May Need an International Driver’s Permit
In the Azores, the typical minimum age for renting a car is 18 years, though this can vary with different rental companies, and higher rates may apply for drivers under 25. A valid driver's license is essential, and for non-EU visitors, having an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your national driver's license is recommended, particularly if it's not in Portuguese or English. Additionally, certain car rental companies might require that you have had your driver’s license for a minimum period, usually one or two years.
6. Be Sure to Fill Your Car with the Right Kind of Gas
For travelers, particularly from North America, it's important to note that many cars in Europe, including the Azores, use diesel fuel. When renting a car, make sure to inquire about the type of fuel it requires. Filling up with the wrong fuel can be costly. Thankfully, most rental cars have a sticker indicating the correct fuel type, and gas station pumps are marked, making it easier to avoid mistakes.
7. Google Maps and Waze Coverage is Very Good
Navigating the Azores is straightforward with road signs, making it often unnecessary to depend on Google Maps or other map applications. However, it's reassuring to know that these apps work throughout the islands, providing an added layer of convenience. All major attractions and popular tourist spots in the Azores are well-marked on these platforms, so if you ever feel uncertain about your location, you can easily check your maps app to find out exactly where you are.
8. Parking Tips for Travelers
In most parts of the Azores, especially outside major cities like Ponta Delgada and Ribeira Grande on São Miguel Island, parking is typically free. When you do need to pay, like in Ponta Delgada, it's affordable at about 0.60 euros per hour, and it's completely free on Sundays. If you're renting a car and planning to stay in Ponta Delgada, it's a good idea to choose a hotel that offers parking facilities for added convenience.
Are you already in love with the Azores? Take a look at our stress-free packages that allow you to book your ultimate island adventure. All our packages are carefully curated by our team of local Azorean Experts so that you don’t need to worry about any details – just enjoy your trip!
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