Azores Standard Time

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about AZOT, daylight saving, and how to handle it in software. Can't find what you need? Email [email protected].

Why is the Azores further west?

The archipelago lies almost 1,500 km west of mainland Portugal, which explains why the islands sit twelve time zones behind the Portuguese mainland except for DST.

When does the Azores change clocks?

Clocks move one hour forward in late March and return one hour back in late October, following the same DST schedule as Western European neighbors.

Are there quirks to island time?

Visitors often find meals run noticeably later on casual island days, because sipping coffee and watching whales isn’t an activity to be rushed.

What happens at the end of DST?

When the clocks fall back in October, the shift lets islanders gain another hour of sleep and restores mornings to their naturally darker, misty glory.

How does AZOT compare to Lisbon?

While in winter the Azores sit one hour behind Lisbon, they match Lisbon during DST, making instant messaging surprisingly smooth for the summer months.

Are there other places with this offset outside Portugal?

Almost no other landmass uses AZOT year-round; the most similar winter offset is found along the western fringes of Greenland and Iceland.

Does AZOT affect volcanic eruptions or whale migration?

Luckily the whale pods and hot springs don’t care about the clock; DST shortens or lengthens the hours humans can enjoy these wonders.

Is AZOT bad for business?

Not really: its daylight saving rhythm keeps business hours aligned with continental Europe and eases calls to the Americas.

Is there ever an hour of an hour backwards?

Yes, in October, just when the Azores slips back an hour and gains a midnight for late-night storytellers.