Safe & Hassle-Free Family Travel in the Azores: Taxis & Airport Transfers with Car Seats
How to Get Around the Azores with Kids – The Best Family-Friendly Transport Options
The Azores, a breathtaking archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, is one of Portugal’s best-kept secrets and a fantastic destination for families. With its volcanic landscapes, lush greenery, stunning coastlines, and geothermal wonders, the Azores offer a unique mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you're visiting São Miguel, Terceira, or Pico, traveling with young children requires safe and reliable transportation.
Since public transport in the Azores is limited, and taxis do not always provide child seats, the best option for families is to pre-book a private taxi or airport transfer with a car seat. This ensures a safe, comfortable, and stress-free journey for parents and children alike.
This guide will help families find the best transport options in the Azores, including taxis and airport transfers with child seats, as well as family-friendly activities and safety tips.
The Nearest Airports to the Azores – Choosing the Best Family Transfer
The Azores are served by several airports, but most international visitors arrive in São Miguel (Ponta Delgada Airport) before exploring the other islands.
Best Airports for Family Travel in the Azores
✈️ João Paulo II Airport (PDL) – São Miguel – The largest and busiest airport in the Azores, serving international and domestic flights. Ideal for families visiting São Miguel, the most family-friendly island.
✈️ Lajes Airport (TER) – Terceira – A smaller international airport, great for families planning to explore Angra do Heroísmo and the island’s volcanic caves.
✈️ Pico Airport (PIX) – Pico Island – The best airport for families visiting Pico Mountain and the island’s scenic coastline.
✈️ Horta Airport (HOR) – Faial Island – Ideal for those exploring Horta, Capelinhos Volcano, and whale-watching excursions.
🚖 Best Transfer Options from the Airport
Private Airport Transfer with a Car Seat: The safest and easiest option for families with young kids. Ensures a direct and comfortable ride to your hotel.
Taxi or Rideshare with a Car Seat: Not all taxis provide child seats, so it’s best to book a child-friendly taxi in advance.
Rental Car with a Child Seat: If planning to explore multiple islands, renting a car with a pre-installed infant or child seat is a practical option.
💡 Tip: The Azores’ volcanic landscapes mean steep and winding roads, so having a secure car seat for your child is essential.
Why Booking a Taxi with a Car Seat is Essential in the Azores
Many of the Azores’ best sights are scattered across the islands, making taxis and private transfers the most convenient way for families to travel.
Key Reasons to Book a Taxi with a Child Seat in the Azores
✅ Safety on Island Roads – The Azores have narrow and winding roads, making a properly secured car seat crucial for young children.✅ Legal & Safety Regulations – Portuguese law requires children under 135 cm (4.4 feet) to use a child seat or booster, but most taxis do not provide them unless booked in advance.✅ Public Transport is Limited – Buses are infrequent, and many top attractions are not accessible by public transport.✅ Ideal for Exploring Nature & Remote Areas – Many of the Azores’ best family-friendly spots are outside the main towns, making private taxis the best option.
🚖 Best Taxi Options: Several private transfer companies in São Miguel, Terceira, and Pico offer rear-facing infant seats, forward-facing child seats, and booster seats upon request. However, availability is limited, so advance reservations are highly recommended.
Best Family-Friendly Activities in the Azores – Get There Safely by Taxi
The Azores are perfect for families who love nature, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences. Here are some of the best things to do with kids, along with the best way to reach them safely with a child-friendly taxi.
Best Outdoor & Adventure Activities for Families
🌋 Sete Cidades & Lagoa Azul (São Miguel) – A must-visit volcanic crater lake with easy hiking trails and plenty of space for kids to explore.🚖 Getting There: A 30-minute taxi ride from Ponta Delgada ensures a smooth journey.
💦 Terra Nostra Park (São Miguel) – A stunning botanical garden with thermal pools, perfect for a relaxing family afternoon.🚖 Getting There: A 40-minute taxi ride from the airport ensures a comfortable trip.
🐳 Whale & Dolphin Watching (Pico & São Miguel) – One of the best family-friendly experiences, with boat tours offering child-friendly safety features.🚖 Getting There: Many tours depart from Horta (Faial) or Ponta Delgada (São Miguel), best reached by taxi or private transfer.
🌊 Poça da Dona Beija Hot Springs (São Miguel) – A natural warm-water river, great for kids to experience geothermal waters.🚖 Getting There: Easily accessible by taxi from Furnas.
Best Cultural & Educational Activities for Families
🏰 Angra do Heroísmo (Terceira) – A UNESCO-listed historic town, great for strolling through colorful streets and visiting ancient forts.🚖 Getting There: Best accessed by a pre-booked taxi from Lajes Airport.
🦀 Porto Pim Beach & Aquarium (Faial Island) – A child-friendly beach with shallow waters, plus a small aquarium with interactive marine exhibits.🚖 Getting There: A short taxi ride from Horta makes for a relaxed visit.
🛶 Kayaking & Paddleboarding (Various Islands) – Calm coastal waters in São Miguel, Terceira, and Pico make this a fun and safe family activity.🚖 Getting There: Many rental shops are outside town centers, so a taxi with a child seat is ideal.
Tips for a Safe and Comfortable Family Trip in the Azores
✔️ Pre-book your taxi or airport transfer with a car seat – Many rural areas have limited taxi availability.✔️ Choose the right child seat size – Whether you need an infant seat, child seat, or booster, confirm with the provider before arrival.✔️ Plan travel times carefully – The Azores can experience sudden weather changes, so having a safe, private transport option is ideal.✔️ Avoid renting a car if unfamiliar with mountain roads – The islands have steep and winding roads, and a professional driver ensures a stress-free journey.✔️ Stay at a family-friendly resort – Many hotels in the Azores offer play areas, kids’ menus, and family-friendly amenities.
Book Your Family-Friendly Taxi or Airport Transfer in the Azores
The Azores are an incredible destination for families, offering a mix of adventure, nature, and relaxation. However, getting around with young children requires careful planning.
By booking a taxi with a car seat or an airport transfer with a child seat, families can enjoy a smooth, worry-free vacation without the hassle of public transport or unsafe travel options.
Reserve your child-friendly taxi or airport transfer today and experience the beauty of the Azores safely and comfortably.
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