Car Rental in Ponta Delgada
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The above prices are only approximate and were last updated at 11:55 on 2021-10-21. Prices may vary based on the booking dates, length of rental, and car class.
Travel Information
Language
Portuguese
Currency
EUR
Country code
351
Traffic direction
Right-hand
Speed limit out of town
90 - 100 km/h
56 - 62 mi/h
Speed limit within town
50 km/h
31 mi/h
Acceptable limit of BAC
0.05%
Why rent a car in Ponta Delgada?
Ponta Delgada is not only the largest city in the Azores, it is arguably the only one. A logistics hub, it is the location of the archipelago’s busiest international airport and a great place from which to explore all the natural riches of São Miguel. Better yet, it is also a historic and cultural place that’s a worthy destination in its own right.
Top ways to enter Ponta Delgada
- Ponta Delgada Airport: Also known as João Paulo II Airport, it handles about two million travelers per year. The airport has flights by eight different airlines, including low-cost carriers like Ryanair and Norwegian Air, and offers flights to such varied destinations as London, Brussels, Geneva, Boston, and Montreal. Ponta Delgada Airport is 5km (3.1 miles) northwest of the Ponta Delgada city center and takes about eight minutes to reach.
- By sea: There is a frequent ferry service connecting Ponta Delgada to other islands of the Azores like Santa Maria and Terceira. Most rental car providers permit bringing a rental car on board, but you should still make sure in advance. Also, ask your rental car provider if they permit you to bring the rental car on a ferry. If you’re arriving in Ponta Delgada by ferry, you can conveniently pick up your rental car at the Ponta Delgada Port.
Useful city facts
- Ponta Delgada has a Mediterranean climate, albeit with strong subtropical and oceanic influences. Like the rest of the Azores, the island of São Miguel is nearly halfway between Europe and North America and also close to the continent of Africa. The island has very warm, relatively dry summers and cool, rainy winters. The average high temperature is 25.3 °C (77.5 °F) in August, the hottest month, and 16.6 °C (61.9 °F) in January, the coolest.
- With a population of nearly 70,000, Ponta Delgada is by far the largest city not only on São Miguel, but in all of the Azores (nearly 30% of all the archipelago’s population live here). Established in the 15th century as a fishing settlement, Ponta Delgada grew steadily and was an important maritime outpost of the Portuguese Empire.
Top destinations and activities
- Carlos Machado Museum. One of the main indoor attractions in Azores, this museum features natural discoveries made by Portuguese explorers, impressive religious art, and different exhibitions related to the history of the islands. The museum is located in a former convent and still has an impressive wooden altar.
- Arnel Lighthouse. Located at the Ponta do Arnel, the easternmost point of the island, this impressive lighthouse on a cliff is one of the most impressive places in São Miguel. It is a challenge to reach it, but those who persevere will be rewarded with truly magical ocean views. Located some 45km (28 miles) from Ponta Delgada, the lighthouse can be reached in 40 minutes.
- Whale watching. European countries like Norway, Iceland, and Ireland are famous for their whale watching tours, but the Azores, located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, offer just as good, if not better, opportunities to see these magnificent creatures. Sperm whales, blue whales, and humpback whales, as well as bottlenose and spotted dolphins are frequent visitors of the Azores. The whale watching season typically lasts from April to early October. There are many whale watching tours in Ponta Delgada and the rest of São Miguel that you can join, but keep in mind that it’s a good idea to book your place in advance.
Traffic and parking tips
- You can only enter the roundabout after giving way to cars already on it.
- The car documentation and insurance always has to be inside a vehicle.
- Drivers can only use a mobile phone if it is a hands free or an earpiece.
- The legal alcohol limit is 0.05% for experienced drivers and 0.2 for novice drivers.
- Safety cameras are in use.
- When parking in a street, your car must be parked facing the direction of travel.
Toll roads
There are no toll roads on São Miguel, but some motorways are subject to fees on mainland Portugal. See the official site toll road site for maps and fees.
Ideas for a day-trip
For more about traveling around the Azores Islands with a rental car, check out our complete guide.
- Lagoa das Sete Cidades. Home to beautiful twin lakes, Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde (or the green and blue lakes), Sete Cidades is a crater and a volcanic complex. Surrounded by impressive mountains, it offers great views of the rest of the island and is one of the most popular tourism attractions on São Miguel. Located in the northwestern part of the island, Sete Cidades is about 50km (31 miles) from Ponta Delgada and takes 50 minutes to reach.
- Lagoa da Fogo. Also known as the Lake of Fire, this volcanic reservoir is even higher up in the mountains than Sete Cidades. Perhaps the most Azores place imaginable, Lagoa de Fogo will fill you with a sense of awe (and your camera with awe-inspiring photos). Located some 33km (20 miles), by road, from Ponta Delgada, the lake can be reached in some 30 minutes.
- Ponta da Ferraria. Located in the northwestern part of the island, the cove of Ponta da Ferraria is the location of famous hot springs. Visited by locals for centuries, it is best visited during a low tide. The water temperature in the springs often reaches and even exceeds 30º C (86 F). The cove is located near a popular spa center. Ponta da Ferraria is 48km (30 miles) from Ponta Delgada and can be reached in about 50 minutes.
- Nordeste. Another popular day trip, the northeastern part of the island is notable for its nature. Made up of rugged beaches, coastal, forest-covered mountains, and green valleys, the area has some of the nicest hiking trails anywhere in the Azores — although you can also just find a place with a stunning view to kick back and relax at. The drive from São Miguel takes about 40 minutes.
- Furnas. As suggested by its name — Furnas means crater in Portuguese — this central area of the island is known for its volcanic formations and geothermal activity. Marvel at the steaming geysers, take a dip in a hot spring, and make sure to try local cuisine that is cooked via the earth’s heat in pots that are dug underground. The trip from the island’s capital takes only about 30 minutes.
Most popular rental types and cars
The most popular rental car in the Azores is the VW Polo, but travelers also pick the Ford Fiesta and the Fiat 500 a lot. The most popular rental car types are economy, mini, and compact.
Further destinations
- Important: São Miguel has direct ferry services to two other islands, Terceira and Santa Maria. The ferries are only active during the warmer months of the year, and even then, trips can be canceled because of stormy weather. Most ferry companies permit taking a car onboard, but it’s a good idea to book a ticket in advance (you’ll need a separate ticket for your vehicle). Also, make sure to ask your rental car provider if they permit you to jump between islands. If you wish to reach the other islands by ferry, it’s possible to do so by changing boats in Terceira or even via multiple layovers, but this can take a lot of time. An easier option is to drop off one rental car in Ponta Delgada, take a flight, and pick up a new rental after arriving at your destination.
- Santa Maria. The southernmost of the Azores islands and the one closest to São Miguel, Santa Maria is a relaxed, sparsely populated place. Warmer and more dry than the rest of the Azores, this island of picturesque nature and quaint villages is a great place for a slow, enjoyable holiday.
- Terceira. The island of Terceira is best-known as the location of Angra do Heroismo. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this historic town is home to probably more man-made landmarks and impressive buildings than the rest of the Azores combined. Nature lovers should be excited, too - Terceira is home to truly fascinating volcanic caves.
- Pico. The small island of Pico is named after Mount Pico, the highest point in all of Portugal. An ancient volcano that dominates the landscape, it offers mind-blowing views of the rest of the island and the ocean from the top (it is possible to climb the mountain, but you’ll need to pay a fee of 15-20 euros; it is possible to join a tour and go with a guide).
Car Rental Prices in Ponta Delgada
- Convertibles - from $66 per day
- Station wagons - from $42 per day
- Large cars - from $51 per day
- Medium cars - from $42 per day
- People Carriers/Vans - from $78 per day
- Premium cars - from $107 per day
- Small cars - from $17 per day
- SUVs - from $53 per day
How can I save money on my rental car?
There are ways get a good rental car deal in Ponta Delgada:
- Compare rates of different rental car providers
- Book your rental car well in advance
- Plan your route before you go
- Know your fuel and mileage requirements
- Visit on the month when the rental prices are the cheapest. According to our data, visiting Ponta Delgada is the cheapest in February when renting a car is about 44% cheaper than the yearly average and a whole 67% cheaper than renting a car in July.
Top 8 Cities near Ponta Delgada
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162.3 km / 100.9 miles away
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Horta Car Rentals from $15.59 per day280.6 km / 174.3 miles away
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Angra do Heroismo Car Rentals from $6.59 per day168.5 km / 104.7 miles away
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Madalena Car Rentals from $15.59 per day259.1 km / 161.0 miles away
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Velas Car Rentals from $15.59 per day245.3 km / 152.4 miles away
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Santa Cruz das Flores Car Rentals from $15.59 per day511.8 km / 318.0 miles away
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Vila do Porto Car Rentals from $15.59 per day96.2 km / 59.8 miles away
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Furnas Car Rentals from $7.56 per day31.1 km / 19.3 miles away
Top 12 Locations near Ponta Delgada
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Ponta Delgada Port Car Rentals from $2.96 per day
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Ponta Delgada Delivery Car Rentals from $2.96 per day0.9 km / 0.6 miles away
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Ponta Delgada Airport Car Rentals from $2.50 per day2.9 km / 1.8 miles away
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Santa Maria Airport Car Rentals from $15.59 per day96.2 km / 59.8 miles away
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Angra do Heroismo Airport Car Rentals from $6.59 per day168.5 km / 104.7 miles away
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Lajes Air Base Terceira Car Rentals from $6.35 per day168.5 km / 104.7 miles away
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Sao Jorge Airport Car Rentals from $15.59 per day242.3 km / 150.6 miles away
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Velas Harbour Car Rentals from $16.25 per day245.2 km / 152.3 miles away
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Pico Airport Car Rentals from $15.59 per day259.1 km / 161.0 miles away
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Horta Port Car Rentals from $15.59 per day273.6 km / 170.0 miles away
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Horta Airport Car Rentals from $15.59 per day280.6 km / 174.3 miles away
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Santa Cruz das Flores Airport Car Rentals from $15.59 per day511.8 km / 318.0 miles away
Map of Car Rental Locations
Which is the cheapest month to rent a car in Ponta Delgada?
Car rental prices in Ponta Delgada vary a lot according to the time of year. This graph compares month-to-month price changes to help you find the best offer.
Average Rental Price in Ponta Delgada
The best month to rent a car in Ponta Delgada is November (when prices for an Economy class start from $19.79). This is 44% cheaper than the yearly average and 70% cheaper than renting in July (when rental prices start at $65.33 for a Compact class). Knowing this can help you find the best price.
What’s the usual rental length in Ponta Delgada?
Travel lengths vary from month to month: in May, travelers rent a car for an average of 7 days in September, the average rental period is 4 days.
Average Rental Length in Ponta Delgada
What's the most popular month to rent a car in Ponta Delgada?
While travelers visit Ponta Delgada year-round, the most popular month for renting a car is March, and the least popular is June.
Popularity of Car Rental in Ponta Delgada by Monthly Searches
Most Popular Car Models of Rental Suppliers
| Rental Agency | Model | Doors | Luggage | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ilha Verde | Renault Twingo | 3 | 1 | Small cars |
| Ilha Verde | Ford Fiesta | 4 | 3 | Small cars |
| Wayzor | VW Up | 5 | 1 | Small cars |
| Wayzor | VW Polo | 5 | 1 | Small cars |
| Ilha Verde | Renault Captur | 5 | 3 | Medium cars |
| Goldcar | Fiat Panda | 3 | 2 | Small cars |
| Wayzor | VW Polo | 5 | 2 | Small cars |
| SIXT | Renault Clio | 5 | 1 | Small cars |
| Ilha Verde | Ford Focus | 5 | 2 | Medium cars |
| Ilha Verde | Ford Fiesta | 4 | 3 | Small cars |
Our Customers Reviews
Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have an option to post a review here. Instead, we ask each and every customer to leave a review after they return their rental. This way, you know that all reviews are authentic, verified, and trustworthy.
DK
Czech Republic
Volkswagen Up
September 14, 2021
Very good personal. We get first car skoda citigo but he have not function usb socket in car (cigarette socket) problem was immediatelly solved next day , great people who make in Ponta delgada service ANC Azores Holidays PT with changing a next car in few minutes we get good car with function (cigarette socket) for charging phones for use navigation etc. We get a new car better with motor performance stronger Fiat Panda. Thank you very much comunnication excellent in english language.
JL
United States of America (USA)
VW Polo
September 13, 2021
We visited the seven cities, several different hiking spots, and several picture spots.
LB
Belgium
Ford Focus
August 19, 2021
Sao Miguel is a lovely place to visit. Nice views and great walks. However it’s a challenge to drive a car with the narrow and steep roads.
DF
Canada
Ford Fiesta
August 12, 2021
Most beautiful place in the world. Post card pictures every where you go on the island and extremely affordable.
LH
France
VW Transporter
August 11, 2021
To visit sao miguel, renting a car is compulsory. But driving on this island is easy and safe.
MA
United States of America (USA)
Ford Focus
August 5, 2021
Every place i went to was great and easy to get to .i would recommend a stop at Furnas beautiful views theres just so much to list such as a little boat ride to ilhéu of Vila Franca great food all the way around cant go wrong
KR
Hungary
Renault Twingo
June 1, 2021
A car is an absolute must to get the most of your stay on the island, so many attractions and nice places are accessible fast and easy.
AM
Portugal
Fiat Panda
April 15, 2021
Highly recommend to rent a car when visiting Azores. However, don't go down with car to visit Farol do Arnel, road is very steep and curvy. Leave the car up and go down walking.
MM
Slovakia
VW Up
January 22, 2021
just do visit island ! :)
ML
United States of America (USA)
Opel Corsa
December 11, 2020
It is very easy to pick up your car once you can get through with all the additional check points because of covid. The agent will go over the car with you and make sure all imperfections on the car are noted so you are not charged at the end for someone elses damages.
VL
United Kingdom
Volkswagen Up
November 3, 2020
If you are planning to visit different spots and see as much of São Miguel as possible, which is the point after all, definitely rent a car. If you are planning to stay in Ponta Delgada only, for a couple of days then there is no point as you can get anywhere you need to get by just walking there or take a taxi.
CD
Canada
Renault Traffic
March 24, 2020
Beautiful scenic picturistic country side. Roads are small and narrow tight quarters parking seems unorganized and anywhere. Other roads are rough and could use higher vehicles.
KD
Canada
Ford Fiesta
March 24, 2020
Travelled all over the island. Stayed in Ribiera Grande. Recommend taking some of the smaller roads thru the towns and countryside. What a beautiful place - up close. Fantastic views overlooking the lakes.
LM
United States of America (USA)
VW Polo
March 18, 2020
Must rent a car if you want to get to everywhere around the island in Ponta Delgada.
SC
Portugal
Renault Twingo
March 10, 2020
Ilha Verde rental charges cleaning over nothing, if you get a bargain in low season.
Beware, and wipe the minimal dust!
MR
United Kingdom
Renault Twingo
March 3, 2020
Difficult to get around the island unless you have a car.
BG
Canada
Ford Fiesta
February 18, 2020
Awesome island to drive on. Switchbacks, major ups and downs. Its like driving on a go cart track. Can vacation here without a car but why would you want to. Driving is 60% of the fun
JH
Canada
VW Up
February 18, 2020
Roads are narrow
TL
United Kingdom
Opel Corsa
February 12, 2020
When visiting Sao Miguel, I'd say that the best thing to do is to rent a car at the airport so you can travel around more easily. The roads are really nice (even though quite steep) and having a car allows you to go really anywhere you want. I'd suggest a middle-size car as sometimes, a bit of power in very steep places helps a lot.
PF
Poland
VW Up! Aut.
February 6, 2020
Car was perfect to travel around the island, economic for gas.
Top 14 Suppliers in Ponta Delgada in 2021
Interrent
+351914348755 / +351211451381
Área de serviço 2° Circular, Alameda de Belém, 9500-353
Working hours
Mon:07:00-23:59
Tue:07:00-23:59
Wed:07:00-23:59
Thu:07:00-23:59
Fri:07:00-23:59
Sat:07:00-23:59
Sun:07:00-23:59
SIXT
+351255788199
Aeroporto João Paulo Segundo, 9500-749 Ponta Delgada
Ilha Verde
+351296304858
Solmar Avenida Center - Lj 14 r/c - 9504-529 Ponta Delgada
Alamo
+351936890727
JOAO PAULO II AIRPORT, APARTADO 704
Enterprise
+351936890727
João Paulo II Airport, 9500-749 Ponta Delgada
Europcar
+351296304858
Av.Infante D.Henrique Centro Comercial Solmar,14-R/C
Guerin
+351296306777
Aeroporto Joao Paulo II, 9500-749 Ponta Delgada
Working hours
Mon:06:00-00:00
Tue:06:00-00:00
Wed:06:00-00:00
Thu:06:00-00:00
Fri:06:00-00:00
Sat:06:00-00:00
Sun:06:00-00:00
Avis
351296304858
Av Infante D Henrique Centro Comercial Solmar 14 Rc
Working hours
Mon:08:00-19:00
Tue:08:00-19:00
Wed:08:00-19:00
Thu:08:00-19:00
Fri:08:00-19:00
Sat:08:00-19:00
Sun:08:00-19:00
Autatlantis
+351296281248 / +351296205340
Gare Marítima, Terminal Oceânico, Loja 20, Av. 9500-770, Ponta Delgada
Working hours
Mon:09:00-19:00
Tue:09:00-19:00
Wed:09:00-19:00
Thu:09:00-19:00
Fri:09:00-19:00
Sat:09:00-19:00
Sun:09:00-19:00
Wayzor
+351296301805 / +351296301801
Rua de Lisboa, Edifício Varela - R/C, 9500-216 Ponta Delgada
Working hours
Mon:09:00-18:00
Tue:09:00-18:00
Wed:09:00-18:00
Thu:09:00-18:00
Fri:09:00-18:00
Sat:09:00-18:00
Sun:09:00-18:00
Alamo
+351936890727
Joao Paulo Ii Airport
Working hours
Mon:07:00-23:59
Tue:07:00-23:59
Wed:07:00-23:59
Thu:07:00-23:59
Fri:07:00-23:59
Sat:07:00-23:59
Sun:07:00-23:59
Interrent
+351218371626
Aeroporto de Ponta Delgada Rua Cristiano Frazão Pacheco, 16-17
Ace Rent a car
+351964862663 / +18778223872
Canto Prestes Cima, 77, 9500-702 Ponta Delgada
Working hours
Mon:00:00-23:59
Tue:00:00-23:59
Wed:00:00-23:59
Thu:00:00-23:59
Fri:00:00-23:59
Sat:00:00-23:59
Sun:00:00-23:59
Goldcar
+34965233425 / 351914348755
749 São Miguel