The city centre is compact enough to walk everywhere — the narrow streets of the old town are best explored on foot. For the wider city and excursions within São Miguel, the options are limited.
Buses run from the main terminal on Avenida Infante Dom Henrique to destinations around the island, but they are infrequent and not always convenient for tourist spots. Taxis are the more practical choice for getting around; fares are fixed in advance (no meters), so agree the price before you set off. Car rental is worth considering if you plan to explore São Miguel independently — most of the island's best scenery, including Sete Cidades and Furnas, is easier to reach by car.