I got a seven day car rental included with my package with Azores Getaways, and I'm very satisfied with how that turned out. I picked my car up at the airport right after going through passport control, and was directed to my car after minimal fuss.
It was a manual transmission, which was definitely a good thing because it helps to be in control of your gears when motoring around this hilly island. The Peugeot 108 handled everything well, including a surprisingly tough reverse gear.
On the second day my car wouldn't start. I'd driven it plenty the day before, but for some reason on day 2 it wasn't getting going. Wasn't the battery; the lights were all fine. My hotel (Terceira Mar Hotel) got Hertz on the phone and they sent someone over with a replacement car in less than an hour. I don't know what the original problem was, but I couldn't be happier with the resolution.
Renting a car is definitely the way to enjoy a week on this island. Driving around and exploring the smaller and larger towns was an absolute joy. read more