Car Rentals in Pico Island, PRT

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Pico Island

Renting a car on Pico Island offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the island and its surroundings at your own pace. With a vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and tailor your travel plans to suit your preferences. This convenience is especially appealing for those looking for outdoor adventures, romantic getaways, or entertainment-themed experiences.

With a rental car, you can visit key attractions such as the São João Forest Reserve, located 6 km away, and Mount Pico, just 7 km from your base. The Caiado Lagoon, ideal for scenic views and romantic outings, is also a short 6 km away. Additionally, exploring nearby cities like Madalena, which is 13 km from Pico Island, or São Roque do Pico, only 4 km away, allows you to experience local culture and attractions such as the Porto Pim Whale Factory Museum and São Roque Church. Having your own vehicle enhances your travel experience, enabling you to discover the beauty and charm of Pico Island and its surroundings with ease.

Most popular car hires around Pico Island

• Economy: The Economy car option is a popular choice for travellers seeking a balance of comfort and affordability. This vehicle accommodates up to 5 travellers and allows for 2 medium suitcases, making it ideal for solo explorers, couples, or small families. Its size is perfect for navigating the charming streets of Pico Island while providing ample space for your luggage.
• Compact SUV: The Compact SUV is an excellent option for those who require a bit more space without sacrificing manoeuvrability. This vehicle comfortably seats 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 medium suitcases. It's well-suited for solo adventurers, couples, or families who appreciate the flexibility of an SUV while exploring the diverse landscapes of Pico Island.
• Mini: The Mini car is a fantastic choice for smaller groups or those travelling light. It accommodates up to 4 travellers and allows for 2 small suitcases, making it ideal for solo travellers or couples. Its compact size makes it easy to park and navigate through the scenic roads of Pico Island, ensuring a hassle-free driving experience.

Top rated car suppliers around Pico Island

• Sixt: Sixt is a well-regarded car hire supplier with a location situated 15 km away from Pico Island. This supplier is particularly favoured for its selection of vehicles, including the Compact SUV and Economy models, which are popular choices among travellers. Sixt is known for providing a flexible experience, allowing you to explore the stunning landscapes of Pico Island at your own pace.
• addCar rental: addCar rental also has a presence 15 km from Pico Island, offering a variety of vehicles to suit different needs. Travellers often opt for Economy and Mini cars, making it a great choice for those looking for budget-friendly options. With its convenient location, addCar rental provides an efficient way to navigate the island and discover its attractions.
• Thrifty EU: Located just 7 km away from Pico Island, Thrifty EU is another popular car hire option. Many travellers appreciate the Economy cars available through this supplier, which are ideal for exploring the beautiful scenery without breaking the bank. Thrifty EU is recognised for its accessibility and straightforward rental process, making it a reliable choice for your car hire needs.

Where to stay around Pico Island

• Sao Roque do Pico: Located 4 km from Pico Island, Sao Roque do Pico is perfect for travellers seeking outdoor and eco-friendly adventures. Enjoy hiking trails and golf courses, or visit local attractions such as the stunning Mount Pico and the serene Caiado Lagoon. The area is also home to the São João Forest Reserve, ideal for nature lovers. After a day of exploration, unwind at nearby wineries, which offer delightful local wines.
• Madalena: Situated 13 km from Pico Island, Madalena attracts those looking for outdoor, adventure, and romantic experiences. The region boasts beautiful hiking trails and golf courses, alongside notable landmarks like Mount Pico and the São João Forest Reserve. Don’t miss the Porto Pim Whale Factory Museum for a cultural insight. With a variety of wineries in the vicinity, it’s a lovely spot to indulge in local flavours after a day of adventure.
• Lajes do Pico: Located 9 km from Pico Island, Lajes do Pico is an excellent choice for eco-friendly and adventure enthusiasts. The area features scenic hiking trails and golf courses, with natural attractions like the magnificent Mount Pico and the picturesque São João Forest Reserve nearby. After an active day, enjoy a meal at local dining establishments or sample wines from the nearby wineries, making for a well-rounded stay.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Pico Island

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by considering vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for cost-effectiveness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements may stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can shield you from unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should any unexpected situations arise during your trip. It's straightforward to add car hire insurance while booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extended road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring additional costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is mandatory for renting a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Pico Island

The best time to rent a car in and around Pico Island is January, when both prices and demand are low. February also offers similar advantages, making it a quiet month for rentals. March sees a slight increase in demand but remains a good option with low prices. As spring arrives, April and May are busier months with higher prices and demand. Meanwhile, August is the most expensive period, characterised by high demand and premium rates, making it less ideal for budget-conscious travellers.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	59.2°F (15.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Low
February	57.7°F (14.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Low
March	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Low
April	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
May	61.2°F (16.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
June	65.1°F (18.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	69.3°F (20.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	High
August	71.8°F (22.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	High
September	70.2°F (21.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	High
October	66.6°F (19.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	62.6°F (17.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
December	60.3°F (15.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average