Car Hire Ponta Delgada

Guide

The capital of the island of São Miguel, and largest city in the Azores, Ponta Delgada offers a wealth of historical architecture, dramatic cliffs, a quaint pretty harbour (pictured right) and soft sands. Green fields and azure blue waves mark the islands of the Azores archipelago, making São Miguel the ideal mix of beauty, culture, and relaxation, ideal for holidaymakers looking to relax. Car hire is a great option for exploring the area, and for avoiding busy tourist excursions. Travellers can book cheap car hire at Ponta Delgada right here, in advance, to secure a vehicle and obtain the cheapest online deals.

Explore Ponta Delgada

Three churches dominate the city of Ponta Delgada. The Church of St Peter (São Pedro) features statues from the 16th Century through to the 18th century, and the famous Carvalho painting of Pentecostes. The other notable churches are the 18th century Church of St Joseph (São João), and the 16th century Gothic St Sebastian Church (São Sebastião).

Ponta Delgada's 19th century, arched city gates are an excellent place to start a walking tour to view the town's other main attractions. Two masterpieces of 16th century Gothic style are the Mosteiro da Esparança and Igreja do Santo Cristo, home of the legendary statue Christ of Miracles. The churches of Santa Barbara and Sant'Ana are two of the Azores' most gorgeous examples of Baroque architecture.

Other points of interest include: the city's two forts, Forte de São Brás, once used to defend against pirates, and the popular viewpoint, Mãe de Deus. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, the 19th century Sant'Ana Palace is now a government building, and the Carlos Machado Museum holds an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, engravings, and ornamental tiles.

Transport

Flights to the archipelago of the Azores and between the islands are serviced by the regional airline SATA from Lisbon, with ferry routes to some of the islands. The best way to get around town is on foot, although car hire is recommended if tourists wish to explore the surrounding areas. We offer discount car rental in Ponta Delgada, which can be booked online in advance, to avoid long queues on arrival to the airport.

João Paulo II Airport is located only a mere 5 minutes drive west of Ponta Delgada. Car hire companies serving this airport are Autatlantis, Ilha Verde Rent a Car and the very popular, well used international supplier Hertz.

Taxis can be found at their ranks, not usually flagged down. Prices are reasonable, but obviously not for long distances. There are no bus services operating to and from the airport, but there are however buses operating throughout Ponta Delgada itself, so if car hire is not an option there are other cheaper transport options. Buses can become crowded during certain times of the day.

A tourists train travels along the streets of Ponta Delgada, which is great for relaxing and taking in the sights.