Islands, Portugal
Getting around Azores
How to get around Azores
Rent a car on each island for the most freedom. Buses are infrequent and mostly for locals. Inter-island travel is by SATA Air Açores flights or seasonal ferries.
Ways to get around Azores
| Option | Fare | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Rental car | About €30–70 a day | Book early for summer; roads are narrow and winding |
| Inter-island flights (SATA Air Açores) | About €50–150 | Short hops; weather delays are common |
| Public buses | About €2–5 | Limited timetables, mainly serving locals |
| Taxi | About €10–25 within a town | Agree fares for tours; shared taxis for day trips |
Ride-hailing apps in Azores
A 5 km ride costs about €5–9 ($5.6–10.1).
| App | Notes |
|---|---|
| Bolt | Ponta Delgada only; few cars outside the city |
| Uber | Ponta Delgada area; check availability on other islands |
- Taxis are metered in towns; for hikes or remote spots, book a driver or tour. Apps do not cover most islands.
Arriving in Azores
João Paulo II (Ponta Delgada, São Miguel) (PDL)
Taxi or Bolt to the center €8–12, 10 min; direct flights from Lisbon, Porto and some European hubs; buses are infrequent.
Lajes (Terceira) (TER)
Taxi to Praia da Vitória or Angra €15–35, 15–30 min; regular flights from Lisbon and Ponta Delgada.
Driving and onward travel
- Scooters: Some rentals on São Miguel; wet, winding roads and sudden rain make it risky. A car is safer.
- Driving: on the right. Non-EU licences are accepted for short visits; carry an IDP too to avoid problems at checks and rentals.
- Onward travel in Portugal: Alfa Pendular and Intercidades trains link Lisbon, Porto, Coimbra and the Algarve; Rede Expressos and FlixBus buses reach more towns and are often faster inland.
Quick answers
Is there Uber in Azores?
Yes. Apps that work here: Bolt, Uber.
What's the best way to get around Azores?
Rent a car on each island for the most freedom. Buses are infrequent and mostly for locals. Inter-island travel is by SATA Air Açores flights or seasonal ferries.
How do I get from the airport to Azores?
Taxi or Bolt to the center €8–12, 10 min; direct flights from Lisbon, Porto and some European hubs; buses are infrequent.
Is Azores walkable?
Walkable center.
More about Azores
Going to Azores solo?
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Sources
Fares are typical 2026 prices; check the operator for today's fares. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.