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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in São Miguel (São Miguel Island)
São Miguel (São Miguel Island)
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
São Miguel (São Miguel Island)
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
São Miguel (São Miguel Island)
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
São Miguel (São Miguel Island)
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Why Hire a Car in São Miguel (São Miguel Island)?
São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores archipelago, boasts stunning volcanic landscapes, lush greenery, and charming towns. While public transport is available, it can be limited, especially when exploring the island's more remote areas. Renting a car gives you the freedom to discover São Miguel at your own pace and access all its hidden gems.
Unrestricted Exploration: With a rental car, you can easily reach iconic sights like Sete Cidades, Furnas, and Lagoa do Fogo, without being tied to bus schedules or tour routes.
Access to Remote Locations: São Miguel's beauty lies in its diverse landscapes. A car allows you to navigate winding coastal roads and reach secluded beaches and viewpoints that are inaccessible by public transport.
Flexibility and Convenience: Enjoy the freedom to stop wherever you please, whether it's a scenic overlook, a local restaurant, or a hidden waterfall. A rental car provides the flexibility to tailor your itinerary to your interests.
Rental Terms and Conditions in São Miguel (São Miguel Island)
Before hiring a car in São Miguel, be aware of the standard rental terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Area
744.7 km²
Population
Approximately 140,000 residents
Time Zone
Azores Time (GMT-1)
Ideal for
Island Exploration
Rush Hours
Expect moderate traffic in Ponta Delgada during peak hours (7:30 AM - 9:30 AM and 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM)
Rating
4.8/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car hire companies in São Miguel require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some companies may have additional restrictions or fees for drivers under 25.
2. Driver’s Licence & DocumentationA valid driver’s licence is required. EU citizens can use their national driving licence. Non-EU citizens may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their original licence.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is usually included in the rental price, but it's advisable to consider additional coverage options like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Super CDW to reduce your financial liability. A security deposit is typically required and held on your credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMost rentals offer unlimited mileage, allowing you to explore the island without worrying about extra charges. Full-to-full fuel policy is common, requiring you to return the car with a full tank to avoid refuelling fees.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for extra drivers, GPS navigation systems, child seats, or out-of-hours pick-up/drop-off services.
Car Hire Prices in São Miguel (São Miguel Island) – How Much Does It Cost?
Car hire prices in São Miguel can vary based on the season, car type, and rental company. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect to pay.
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45 per day
Electric:
from £25 / $31 / €28 per day
Classic:
from £15 / $19 / €17 per day
Executive:
from £35 / $44 / €40 per day
7 Seater:
from £50 / $63 / €57 per day
Automatic:
from £30 / $38 / €34 per day
SUV:
from £20 / $25 / €23 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Expect prices to increase by 20-30% during the summer months due to higher tourist traffic.
Low season (November to February): You can often find discounts of 15-25% during the off-season months.
Car hire prices in São Miguel are affected by seasonal demand.
How to Book a Car in São Miguel (São Miguel Island)?
Booking a rental car in São Miguel is straightforward. Follow these steps to secure the best deal.
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison platforms to check prices from multiple rental companies and find the best rates.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, considering factors like size, fuel efficiency, and comfort.
3. Check Rental Terms - Read the rental agreement carefully, paying attention to mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Book your car well in advance, especially if you're travelling during peak season, to ensure availability and better prices.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver's licence, passport, and credit card when collecting your rental. Inspect the car for any existing damage before driving off.
General Information About São Miguel (São Miguel Island)
São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores, offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Driving is the best way to explore the island, but understanding local traffic rules and parking regulations is essential.
As part of Portugal, São Miguel follows European Union traffic laws. However, the island's unique terrain and road conditions require extra caution. Familiarise yourself with local customs and driving habits to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Top Attractions to Discover
Sete Cidades
A stunning twin lake nestled in a volcanic crater, offering breathtaking views.
Furnas
Known for its volcanic activity, hot springs, and traditional Cozido das Furnas (a stew cooked underground using volcanic heat).
Lagoa do Fogo
A pristine crater lake surrounded by lush vegetation, offering scenic hiking trails.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Available in Ponta Delgada and other major towns, offering secure parking options.
On-Street Parking
Look for designated parking zones, but be mindful of time limits and payment requirements.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities in Ponta Delgada to avoid city centre traffic and parking fees.
Gas Stations in São Miguel
Wide Availability
Fuel stations are readily available throughout the island, especially along major roads.
Major Brands
Look for well-known brands like Galp, Repsol, and BP.
Opening Hours
Most gas stations operate from early morning until late evening, with some 24-hour stations in Ponta Delgada.
Useful Tips for Visiting São Miguel
Drive on the Right
Remember to drive on the right side of the road.
Watch for Narrow Roads
Be cautious on narrow, winding roads, especially in rural areas.
Respect Speed Limits
Adhere to posted speed limits, typically 50 km/h in urban areas and 90 km/h on highways.
Allow Extra Travel Time
Plan for longer travel times due to winding roads and varying terrain.
Use a GPS
A GPS navigation system can be helpful for navigating the island's roads.
Key Transportation Hubs in São Miguel
Airport
João Paulo II Airport (PDL)
Located near Ponta Delgada, it is the primary airport serving São Miguel, with flights to and from Europe and North America.
Ferry Terminal
Ponta Delgada Ferry Terminal
Offers ferry services to other islands in the Azores archipelago.
Bus Stations
Ponta Delgada Bus Terminal
The main bus terminal in Ponta Delgada, providing connections to various towns and villages across the island.
What Do You Need to Hire a Car in São Miguel?
To hire a car in São Miguel, you'll need to meet certain requirements and provide necessary documentation.
A valid driver’s licence is required. If your licence is not in English or Portuguese, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some may have additional fees for drivers under 25.
A credit or debit card in the main driver's name is required for the security deposit.
A passport or other form of identification may be required.
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Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as São Miguel (São Miguel Island) as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Having a car made exploring São Miguel so much easier, especially catching up with friends. The island's beauty is incredible, although the local bus system was a little confusing to navigate.
Emily Carter
Reviewed: 07.08.2025
Pretty chill vibe
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 13.03.2025
Island life was amazing! Getting around with a car was a breeze, so we saw everything.
Jessica Brown
Reviewed: 01.06.2025
Island life felt genuinely magical. So much freedom exploring with our car!
Ava Garcia
Reviewed: 31.03.2025
Island bliss! Coastal drives were perfect.
Olivia Rodriguez
Reviewed: 13.02.2025
São Miguel was breathtaking! Exploring the island with the family was so easy thanks to our rental car. Unforgettable trip!
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 21.04.2025