TRANSPORT IN FAIAL
From space, Faial has the shape of a giant turtle, 21 kilometres long, 14 wide, with a circular main road which is almost 60 kilometres long. Even though that does not sound too exciting, as there are plenty of things to explore it is worthwhile to consider how to travel on Faial before visiting the best destination of the Azores. It is not the distances which are the decisive point to decide on the mean of travel, but the weather, the time you are spending on Faial and on how much you like to stress your muscles. The roads of Faial can be pretty steep and narrow.
Travel by car
The easiest way of travelling is obvious by car, depending on the length of your stay and if you want to visit some of the neighboring islands you might rent a car for one day only or for your entire stay. Best to start the search with any of the big portals (e.g. rentalcars.com). Once you find an attractive deal it is worthwhile to check directly on their websites. You might get a better offer.
Most of the rental companies allow to take the car onto the ferry to Pico and São Jorge. But you must check beforehand with them, they might charge a fee. It is not possible to pick up a car on one island and return it on another island. Also it is advisable to book the ferry ticket in advance. In the high season, the slots available are sold out soon.
Reserve your car as early as possible, during the season prices can be very high.
Rental car companies in Faial
- Ilha Verde
- Auto Turística Faialense
- Auto Atlantis
- My Volcanic Wheels
- Terauto Rent
- Blue Island Rent a Car
- Wayzor
- Hortarent
- For the international car rental companies, check out their websites or check one of the large portals.
Travel by taxi
A good alternative to rent a car is to take a taxi, the driver will bring you to any point on the island, additionally you get some tourist information for free. If you go for one of the longer hikes, the driver will drop you at the place of departure and pick you up at an agreed time at your destination. Taxis are normally waiting at the airport and at the ferry terminal. If you are arriving by ferry at night it is advised to book your taxi beforehand.
Taxis and rates
- Official taxi rates in Faial
- Taxilink taxi centre – +351 292 101 631
- Taxi Horta – +351 910 581 115
- Fernando Pinheiro – +351 965 811 814
Travel by bus
If you are a fan of public transport, then you have two options, there exists a circular bus line around the island and a city bus network in Horta. The schedules are though optimized for schools and for going to work, with only a couple of services. Also busses do not call at points of interest such Capelinhos, Varadouro or the Caldeira.
Travel by scooter or bicycle
If you do not want to rent a car and do not mind of getting caught by a rain shower in the middle of your trip, then rent a scooter. The distances are friendly, even a round trip of the island is possible by scooter. You have to option of renting a classical one or an electrical. If you are a sporty type, then you might opt for a bicycle, be aware that the roads can be very steep on Faial, and the weather might not be favorable. But if you are located in Horta or close by, it might be a good option, if you rent an electrical bicycle, then even the climbs will be a pleasure. You might also rent a bike or a mountain bike just for an excursion, take a taxi to the to of the Calbeira and ride with your bike back to town.
