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The Azores   Travel Guide

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Best Times To Visit The Azores

The best time to visit the Azores is June through August. During this time, temperatures are at their highest, cloudy days are fewer and farther between and the likelihood of rain is low. If you're looking for that island getaway that's full of sunshine and warm weather year-round, know that the Azores is not that kind of destination. The Azores' placement in the middle of the Atlantic (1,000 miles from the coast of western Portugal), means you'll be greeted with mild temperatures and rain throughout the year. No matter which month you choose to visit, understand that the weather is known to be unpredictable, even during the summer. Pack layers, sturdy, waterproof shoes and always bring an umbrella.

Weather in The Azores

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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All you need to know for your first trip to the Azores

Feb 28, 2024 • 9 min read

Read on to get the most of out your first visit to the Azores, the gorgeous “Hawaii of Europe” © EyesTravelling / Shutterstock

When you first look through the airplane window and down at  the Azores , you’ll be left speechless. From this very first glimpse, you’ll understand why many call this Portuguese archipelago the “Hawaii of Europe” and the “Islands of Colors.”

Set in the middle of the Atlantic, halfway between the USA and continental Portugal , the nine major Azores islands – São Miguel, Santa Maria, Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico, Faial, Flores and Corvo – are impossible not to adore.

Expect green fields spotted with free-roaming local cattle (locally referred to as “happy cows”), and lagoons set on the mouth of extinct volcanoes. Thermal pools offer the chance for a hot dip, the warmth coming from deep within the earth, while ultra-fresh ingredients make for a uniquely savory local cuisine.

A trip to the Azores is a must-do vacation, one you’ll never forget. If you’ve never been before, read on – then get planning.

What is the best time to go to the Azores?

The Azores are an all-year-round destination – so your key considerations will be what you want to do, and your budget. The summer brings many visitors from the mainland, who arrive to soak up the scenery or visit relatives, making this the busiest and more expensive season.

The scene is more relaxed and cheaper in the shoulder seasons, while winter can offer challenging weather. Remember that the islands are set in the middle of the ocean and are more exposed to the winter storms that form in the Atlantic – which often affects flights (and your plans!).

Whenever you visit, prepare to face all four seasons in one day. You can wake up with sunshine and warm weather, only to take a hike up a mountain to find plunging temperatures, lashing rain and minimal visibility. Don’t leave without packing a waterproof layer, and have it in your backpack at all times.

In the summer, temperatures range from about 68–79°F (20–26°C), in the shoulder seasons from about 60–71°F (15.5–22°C), and during winter from about 53–64°F (12–18°C). Keep in mind that at different spots on these remote islands temperatures can vary widely.

Is it easy to get to the Azores?

São Miguel is the largest island in the Azores and works as a hub to reach the other eight. The Ponta Delgada airport receives international flights from the United States and Canada as well as a number of other European countries; transatlantic flights also serve Terceira. If you can’t find a nonstop flight, the easiest way to get to the Azores is from Lisbon or Porto , on Portugal’s mainland.

From São Miguel, you can get internal flights with the local airline SATA to every island in the Azores. You can also opt for SATA’s Azores Air Pass , which allows travelers to visit up to three islands at a special rate.

Another way to get around is by ferry:  Atlanticoline serves Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico, Faial, Flores and Corvo.

Be advised that your plane or boat legs may change, as the departure schedule can be disrupted by air and ocean conditions. Being flexible with your itinerary is a good idea if you plan to visit more than one island in the Azores, especially in wintertime.

How to you get around the Azores? 

Renting a car is the best way to explore these beautiful islands. With so much to see and do, having the freedom to travel at your own pace and visit more off-the-beaten-track locations is essential to making the most of your trip. Plus, renting a car allows you to easily get around the larger islands, such as São Miguel (287 sq miles), Pico (172 sq miles) or Terceira (154 sq miles).

You can even take your rented car on the ferry between some of the islands, including the Pico–Faial–São Jorge triangle. Public buses are also available on all islands except Corvo.

Once you reach your desired destination, get out and explore on foot – for the views in these islands never disappoint. Walk the dirt paths, immerse yourself in nature and be amazed by the sounds of the birds and running waterfalls, and the smell of flowers and wet vegetation.

How much time do I need to visit the Azores?

It all depends on what you want to do. São Miguel is a great option for first-time visitors, with its wide range of activities, landscapes, and great restaurant and accommodation options. Five days should be enough time to get a good taste.

But if you want to get a true sense of the richness of this archipelago, set aside two to three weeks to hop between islands and get to know what truly distinguishes each – and why the archipelago is truly one of the most exceptional destinations in Europe.

Top things to do on the Azores

See how volcanoes have shaped the islands’ landscape and history.

You’ll know you’re atop a cluster of volcanoes when you see the dark-gray stone used in the old buildings, and the black sand on the beaches. When visiting São Miguel, you can even feel the volcanic activity on your skin: the water at iron-rich thermal springs is warmed by heat emanating from the island’s inner depths.

The same heat cooks the traditional cozido dos Açores (Azorean stew) in the Furnas area, where chefs place vegetables and meat in the earth for up to seven hours, where it emerges steaming hot and with a sulfur-y kick. Terceira and São Jorge have natural pools that are carved in stone by the rough Atlantic and simultaneously heated by the volcanic rock.

In Faial, the underwater  Vulcão dos Capelinhos  erupted in the 1950s – an event that caused half the island’s population to flee. An interpretative center near the site of the eruption gives context on the ongoing volcanic activity in and around the Azores.

Hike for days

If you want to immerse yourself in nature and experience the rawness of gorgeous landscapes, you’re in luck. All the islands have hiking trails that bring you deep into their wild heart, revealing lagoons formed inside extinct volcanoes or waterfalls that cascade from the top of the mountains.

On the island of the same name,  Mt Pico  is another must-see place in the Azores. As the highest point in Portugal, it’s a challenging climb. But the unforgettable view from the top on a clear day is well worth the effort.

While in Pico, visit the local vineyards that are part of a landscape that’s been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. Gaze out at the ocean as you enjoy a glass of wine – you might spot a pod of playful dolphins or even giant whales.

Combine a whale-watching trip with a visit to a tea factory

Exploring outdoors is far from the only activity in the Azores. On São Miguel, you can join a whale-watching cruise, visit cheese factories, see spiky fruit grow at  pineapple plantations or spend an hour or two at the famous  Gorreana Tea Factory , the oldest (and arguably only) tea plantation in Europe. Staff members offer free tours of the factory and museum, which feature plenty of vintage machinery (some still in use); toast to your visit with a cup at the end of the tour.

My favorite thing to do in the Azores

If your goal is to escape and disconnect from the world, you’ll find that tranquility in the Azorean fajãs , small coastal villages next to large cliffs.

I recommend the difficult-to-access but enchanting Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo in São Jorge. You can get there on foot by following the Caldeira de Santo Cristo Trail , which starts in Serra do Topo. The descent gradually reveals the small town, its houses, the church and the large lagoon stretching near the sea. You can also arrive by quad bike, starting from Fajã dos Cubres; you can pre-arrange a trip with your accommodation. 

Once in Fajã de Santo Cristo, cell phone and internet connections are almost non-existent, leaving no choice but to unplug and slow down. This is the ideal place to relax, catch up on your reading, discover the lagoon by kayak or taste the clams served at O Borges, the oldest restaurant in this location.

How much money do I need in the Azores?

The Azores is a destination for all types of travelers, with everything from five-star hotels to local homestays. You can find lodging, food options and island tours to suit all budgets. Your car rental will likely be your biggest expense, especially if you are traveling in high season; try to plan ahead and make your reservations as soon as possible.

These are the average daily costs you can expect:

• Four-star hotel room for two: from €150
• Dormitory room in a hostel: from €45
• Self-catering apartment: from €100
• Car rental: from €35 per day for a small car
• Furnas stew for two: €30
• Beer: €1.50
• Entrance to hot springs: €8

Remember to interact with nature safely

Exploring the various volcanic craters and lagoons hidden in the islands’ interiors is one of the best experiences you can have in the Azores. Keep in mind that these extraordinary natural ecosystems should be approached with great care.

Respect the local landscape by visiting in a way that doesn’t disturb the animals or damage any plants; the easiest way to do this is by sticking to marked trails. Many are there to protect vegetation and prevent soil erosion, but also for your safety, as they avoid unstable or slippery ground.

Also, as much as the lagoons seem like the perfect opportunity for a cooling dip, most are unsuitable for bathing or swimming for safety reasons. Always follow the safety signs displayed at each lagoon.

Finally, be aware that weather conditions can change from one moment to the next, especially in higher areas. Check the forecast before venturing out on a long trail to ensure you’re not caught in a precarious position mid-hike.

What to pack when visiting the Azores

Given the variable weather and outdoor-adventure possibilities in the Azores, we recommend bringing a light rain jacket, a breathable fleece layer you can take on and off on the go, and waterproof trekking boots and poles. You’ll want a good backpack to carry all this with you as you get out and about in this magical archipelago.

This article was first published June 2019 and updated February 2024

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Travel Inspiration

The Absolute Best Time To Visit the Azores

Okay, so you know WHERE you want to go, but do you know WHEN the best time to visit the Azores is? There’s nothing worse than arriving at your destination only to find out that everything is closed for the season or the weather pattern is less than favorable for the duration of your stay. Not to fear, Jordan’s here! Read on to find out the best time to visit the Azores so you can avoid the unexpected.

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The Best Time To Visit the Azores (in General)

The best time to visit really just depends on what you want to do in the Azores . If you enjoy warmer weather and want to have fun in the sun and enjoy water activities, summer is ideal. For milder temperatures and fewer crowds, spring and autumn are prime. Winter could be your best bet if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly trip and want to experience the local culture.

Generally speaking, the Azores in May, June, September, and October are considered ideal. But I’m not just going to tell you when to visit the Azores overall, but I will share the best time to visit each of the nine islands, so you can decide which one is best for you. Get your notepad ready because here we go!

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The Best Time To Visit São Miguel

May is a wonderful month to visit São Miguel . The weather begins to warm up, with temperatures ranging from 59°F to 68°F (15°C to 20°C). The landscapes are lush with blooming flowers and greenery. It’s an excellent time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the island. Additionally, May falls before the peak tourist season, so you can enjoy fewer crowds and more affordable accommodations.

June is another great month to visit São Miguel. The temperatures continue rising, providing pleasant outdoor activities and exploration weather. The island is in full bloom, and you can witness the beautiful colors of the flora. June is also the start of various cultural events and festivals, offering a chance to experience the local culture and traditions.

September is considered one of the best months to visit São Miguel. The summer crowds begin to dissipate, and you can explore the island’s attractions with fewer tourists. September is also an excellent time for whale watching, as many species pass through the Azores during this period. Additionally, you can enjoy outdoor activities, visit natural wonders, and experience the local culture without the peak season rush.

The Best Time To Visit Santa Maria

You can’t go wrong with the month you choose for peak good weather because the weather is nice year-round here. On average, the warmest months are July through October, and the rainiest months are October and December. The climate in January is ideal, especially coming from winter weather in regions of Europe or North America, but you won’t be sad if you choose any other time either. Peak tourist season is July and August, so if you want to avoid crowds, go literally any other month, and you’ll be okay.

The Best Time To Visit São Jorge

Regarding climate, November is the best month to visit São Jorge. Pro tip: don’t go during February through April unless you love constant rainfall. Visitors to the island peak in August, and it gets pretty crowded, which is perfect for all you extroverts out there. July and September are a bit slower, but November through March is the best time to go so other travelers don’t overwhelm you.

The Best Time To Visit Graciosa

This island tends to have a milder climate than the others in the Azores. It doesn’t get as much rain as the rest either, but the very best time to visit is June to September. The temperatures are pleasant, and you can also attend one of the MANY local summer festivals that are held on the island.

The Best Time To Visit Pico Island

July is a great time to visit Pico Island. The days are longer, providing ample time to explore. July is a great time for hiking, especially to the summit of Mount Pico, the highest peak in Portugal. You can enjoy the must-see Azores beaches , visit vineyards, and participate in whale-watching excursions. You can also attend cultural events and festivals to experience the vibrant local atmosphere.

The Best Time To Visit Faial Island

June through November is one of the best times to visit Faial Island. It’s an excellent time for outdoor activities such as hiking and enjoying the charming marina area. June marks the beginning of the island’s summer season, and there are many local events that take place on the island during this time. Don’t forget to sign up for a whale-watching excursion!

The Best Time To Visit Terceira

August is ideal if you want to visit Terceira Island. This is a lively month with several traditional festivals taking place, including the renowned Festas da Praia . This festival includes parades, bullfights, live music, and various cultural events. Additionally, August offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities like hiking, exploring the island’s historical sites, and enjoying the beautiful beaches and coastal areas.

The Best Time To Visit Flores Island

You can’t really go wrong with Flores Island. The best months for good weather are February through November, so basically, the entire year is a green light. Another cool thing about Flores is that it’s pretty remote, so you won’t run into any crowds at any point during the year. June is ideal for outdoor activities, and this month also has longer daylight hours, providing ample time to explore the island.

The Best Time To Visit Corvo Island

Corvo is unique in that it’s the most remote island in the Azores, and it’s the only island where the best time to visit is October. It’s an ideal time for birdwatching, as Corvo Island is a haven for many migratory bird species. If you’re an avid birdwatcher, this island is your paradise. Additionally, you can experience the culture and traditions firsthand during local events that take place on the island.

Azores Temperature by Month

To make it even easier, here’s a chart to help give you a basic understanding of the weather in the Azores year-round. This isn’t set in stone because, as we all know, weather changes on a dime. But this will give you a general idea of what you can expect during each month.

Ultimately, It’s Your Decision.

I can sit here all day and tell you the best time to visit the Azores islands, but ultimately, it’s up to you and your overall preference. Speaking of which, if you prefer quirky destinations and hole-in-the-wall places, follow me for even more adventures!

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When’s the best time to visit the Azores ?

The nine islands of the Azores are a great year-round destination – choosing the best time to visit the Azores all depends on the type of holiday you’re looking for…

January through to March tends to be the quietest time of year. That’s mainly due to the weather – you could see a week of sunshine but you might also see a little rain – which helps to make it cheapest time of year to visit the larger islands of Sao Miguel and Terceira . Both islands are great if you enjoy exploring on foot or by car, the restaurants and café bars are pretty quiet, and you’ll have your choice of the best rooms at the best hotels.

The Azores Rally usually runs towards the end of March . It’s very popular with the residents of Sao Miguel – if you’re not a rally fan but you’re planning to visit the island’s beauty spots, we’ll structure your trip so the rally doesn’t disrupt your stay.

Sao Miguel’s Tremor Festival has now settled into a regular slot in the last weekend in March . 2023 will be the festival’s tenth anniversary – it’s best described as a leftfield music festival , and it’s gradually grown into a major component of the islands’ thriving contemporary arts scene.

The islands have long been acknowledged as the best place in Europe to observe ocean wildlife, and April through to the end of May is arguably the best time to visit the Azores for whale and dolphin watching. Resident species of common dolphins and sperm whales can be seen throughout the year, whilst spring sees the larger migratory species passing through as blue whales and fin whales head north for the summer months. It’s not an exact science but sightings generally peak in April and May – our Blue Whale Watching holiday is dedicated to sighting these magnificent beasts.

The Festas do Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres (or Santo Cristo for short) is the largest religious festival in the Azores. It’s centred around the capital Ponta Delgada and the city’s hotels fill-up very quickly, very early in the year. For 2023, Santo Cristo will be from 12th to 19th May.

June’s Sanjoaninas festival on the island of Terceira is one of the Azores’ most popular, most colourful week-long celebrations, with the streets of the capital Angra de Heroismo filled with parades, concerts, street theatre and the best street food. The festival always adopts a theme – we’re still wating for 2023’s theme to be announced, but the festival will run from 17th to 25th June.

Splitting your stay between Terceira and it’s smaller neighbour Graciosa is a great way of experiencing the two sides of the Azores: culture and cuisine courtesy of Terceira, and peaceful, rural living on idyllic Graciosa.

For many, July and August are the best time to visit the Azores. Being the hottest months, it’s peak season and the most popular time to visit all the islands – particularly Sao Miguel and Terceira as they’re both well-connected to the outside world by direct flights from the UK, USA, Canada and mainland Portugal. It’s important to add: even in this peak period, the Azores are never as busy as the big capital cities of mainland Europe.

The smaller islands of Santa Maria , Flores and Graciosa are always fairly quiet, which is a big part of their appeal, but we strongly recommend booking holidays to these islands early – accommodation is very limited and fills up extremely quickly.

July’s Walk and Talk Arts Festival began life as a Ponta Delgada-based contemporary arts project in 2011. It’s expanded rapidly to encompass the whole of Sao Miguel and (since 2016) the island of Terceira. The festival’s focus hasn’t changed: to encourage the creation of new art inspired by, and in dialogue with, the Azores. It’s always a diverse program of exhibitions, artist-in-residency seminars, dance and theatre performances, and concerts in urban, rural, indoor and outdoor spaces.

If you’re not tied to the school holidays, September is the best time to visit the Azores if you’re thinking of an island hopping holiday. Our most popular combinations of islands are Sao Miguel, Flores and Faial , followed closely by Sao Miguel, Sao Jorge and Terceira . If you’re a keen walker, September’s ideal for hiking the three central islands of Faial, Sao Jorge and Pico – combining the very best of the Azorean trail network.

Also in September , the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series makes it’s annual visit to Sao Miguel. It’s an exciting, fairly bonkers event as (professional) competitors high-dive from the Ilhue d’ Vila – a collapsed, extinct volcano just off the coast of Vila Franca do Campo. COVID prevented the series visiting the islands this year, but we’re hoping it’ll make a triumphant return in 2023. Whale watching trips are suspended on the weekend of the event – we’ll carefully plan your stay so you’re able to whale watch midweek and attend the diving series.

Heading towards the end of the year, October and November are the months we tend to visit ourselves – the islands are quiet after the summer peak and the sea’s still warm enough for a little wild swimming. It’s also the best time to take advantage of our exclusive Special Offers – keep an eye on our Holiday Ideas page or follow us on Facebook to grab the best deals.

And finally into December – Azorean’s love Christmas and New Year, and a tailor-made variation on our Best of Sao Miguel holiday would be the ideal way to make the most of the islands’ festivities.

You could spend Christmas Day relaxing in the iconic hot springs and geothermal swimming pools at the Terra Nostra Hotel in Furnas , before welcoming in the New Year in the capital city Ponta Delgada.

The Praca de Goncalo Velha square is the place to be – there’s live music by the famous Portas do Mar city gates, and as the clock of the Igreja Sao Sebastiao tolls the countdown to midnight, the marina is illuminated by an explosion of fireworks.

Archipelago Choice Azores specialists

We specialise in tailor-made holidays to the nine islands of the Azores. Our experienced team of specialists are ready to put together your personalised trip; just give them a call on 017687 721020.

Our island hopping holiday to the Azores was absolutely amazing,

Dear Jake. This is a long email, so you might want to go grab yourself a cuppa before you start reading. We just wanted to send you an email to say thank you so much for everything. Our island hopping holiday to the Azores was absolutely amazing, it was far beyond our dreams and expectations,...

Personal service and efficient!

You really listened to what type of holiday we wanted and tailored our week accordingly. You understood what we were looking for and were so helpful and knowledgeable. Very personal service and efficient! Linda from Norfolk

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Everything you do, you seem to do it professionally. I know I’m not your only client, but you make me feel like I am. Bryan from Stoke

Azores Choice provided a prompt, helpful service. they found us the perfect accommodation for our needs and provided superb, expert advice on how to spend our week walking on San Miguel. I would certainly use them again. Joan from Durham

Recommended small travel company!

Great little company with friendly staff. Organisation of flights & accommodation very efficient. When problems arise they are helpful and very reasonable in their efforts to resolve them. We would definitely use them again for a return trip.  

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A wonderful break in a beautiful environment!

Everything was excellent. The information and organisation, the hotel and the island itself all exceeded our expectations. Whale watching and other trips out, fantastic. We will book again! Mark

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When Is The Best Time to Go To Azores?

Choosing when is the best time to visit the Azores is much more than just looking at the good weather. Eventually, it all comes down on your interests and which activities are you most willing to experience in the islands.

I’m breaking down some factors to find out what is your best time of the year to visit the Azores islands.

But first, if you’re looking for some short answers, here you go.

When is the best month to travel to Azores?

Well, it really is a trade-off of several factors. If you want to maximize the change of good weather, the best months to visit Azores are from May to October. You should consider other factors though, like crowds: July and August months are the peak tourist season.

Take a moment to realize what is most important for you to accomplish in the islands. The chart below might help put everything in perspective.

Now, my two cents. After living in the Azores for many years, from a local’s perspective , I’d say overall the top months to visit are:

• June – to come in time for the long-tail of whale-watching and to see flowers in full bloom.
• September – warm weather, sometimes more stable than July and August, fewer people on the beaches, but still a lot of things happening.

Should I visit Azores in winter months?

November to February sees the highest rainfall and lower temperatures, but with an ever-changing weather, anything can happen. A winter trip to Azores can still be beautiful, with landscapes wilder and rougher than ever. Also the perfect weather to relax in thermal springs .

When can you see whales in Azores?

The whale-watching season runs from April to September, with April and May being the peak months where most whales species can be found roaming the Azorean waters. More info on the whale-watching section .

For any nature-heavy trip, weather takes a huge part. As much as cinematic it can be, being out in the wild in a day of heavy showers can be… well, quite an experience.

Different seasons bring different weather to Azores islands and shape the type of trip you can have. Overall, the best time of the year to visit the Azores is between April to October, but let’s go in more detail.

When to go to Azores by month

Summer time, running from June to September offers high air and sea temperatures and is the best time to go if you’re looking to spend some time on the unique Azores beaches . These are usually the months with more sunny days, giving you access to a wide range of outdoor activities, like hiking, surfing or paragliding . However, this is also the peak for crowds, so expect sights, restaurants and hotels to be packed.

March, April, May, and October are months in the shoulder season, where the unstability of Azorean weather is even more evident. Trust no weather forecasts. A typical day during this time would involve almost-clear sunny skies alternated with periods of grey clouds and (usually light) showers.

Finally, November to March corresponds to winter time and to the peak of rainy season in Azores. Even though temperatures don’t reach freezing levels, this is not a good time to travel if you want to avoid getting wet at all costs. That said, cold weather is perfect to relax in the outdoor thermal springs .

Transportation

Flights, inter-island ferries, and even tours and boat trips are highly dependent on weather conditions and are much more frequent in the warmer months.

In summary, it is still not yet exactly easy or cheap to get around the islands of Azores here are significant differences in transportation between summer and winter months. If you want to maximize your mobility in Azores , you’ll want to avoid the latter.

Boat connections

Almost all inter-island ferries run exclusively by Atlantico Line are shut down outside the June-September period.

In São Miguel, the private boat that runs to Vila Franca islet starts running on early June.

Flight connections

From November to February you can expect significanly less flights to and from Azores.

Plus, the regional airline SATA/Azores Airlines significantly reduces the frequency of inter-island flights . Flights can get cancelled/postponed due to storms and foggy weather especially during the December and January months.

The Azores still don’t feel as crowded as other destinations in Europe. That said, during peak summer months, it’s starting to become impossible to rent a car (literally, they can run out), park next to some major highlights or getting a reservation at the best local restaurants.

If you are looking to avoud tourists crowds, definitely don’t come during the months of July and August .

By avoiding the peak summer months of July and August, you also avoid the inflated prices in accommodation, flights and services like car rental . Like most places in Europe, winter months are significantly (at least 30-40%) cheaper.

Book your hotel in Azores ASAP for the best deal!

I’ve made your life easier and you can start your search with my pre-selection of the hotels/guesthouses/villas in the Azores . This list only includes the top-rated reviewed hotels in the islands, with WiFi included. Hard to go wrong with these!

Pre-filtered list of hotels with top reviews and location with parking and free WiFi included.

Photography

If you are into capturing the islands’ essence through a lens, spring season might be the ideal time for you. From March to June flowers like hydrangeas, agapanthus and ginger lilies are in full bloom, adding some extra vibrant colors to your pictures.

For drone pilots, May to September is the best time to fly your drone, but keep in mind weather changes FAST in any time of the year. Careful with winds picking up and rain appearing from nowhere rather quickly.

Whale-watching

The Azores are a top-notch whale-watching hotspot in the world. Up to 30% of ALL known cetacean species can be seen in a single three-hour trip.

These species are spotted by lookouts on the coast, who use powerful binoculars and guide the boats to spot the location of the dolphins and whales, ensuring a higher probability of sights for the tour operators.

If whale-watching activities are on your bucket list – they should! -, it’s worth to know that April to June is the time of the year with more species swimming in azorean waters. It’s when the migratory routes of cetaceans overlap the most. Follow this calendar to plan your trip accordingly.

Note some of the species have a sighting period of only a couple of months – e.g. the almighty blue whale.

The overwhelming majority of events in Azorestake place during spring or summer months, but more and more other events are being created to populate the event calendar of Azores .

These are some of the major events in Azores.

Santo Cristo Festivities – São Miguel island

The biggest festivities in the archipelago – Santo Cristo Festivities – happen in Ponta Delgada. These is mostly a religious party, but don’t miss the stunning facade illuminations and the many open-air concerts and markets throughout the city.

Every year thousands of immigrants in the US and Canada return to the island of São Miguel to participate in the celebrations in honour of Christ.

Santo Cristo happens somewhere in April or May (2019 dates: 24th – 30th May).

Running of the bulls – Terceira island

Tourada a Corda is a unique event where bulls with a single giant rope attached chase people in the streets. Not surprisingly, a few people get injured every year. Daily from May to September .

Maré de Agosto – Santa Maria island

Maré de Agosto (August Tide) Festival in Praia Formosa, in the island of Santa Maria, joins several international musicians and artists. It’s probably the most charismatic music festivals in Azores. Takes place every year in August .

Walk&Talk – São Miguel island

This street art festival features worldwide renowned sculptors, designers and video directors to perform cutting-edge festival of public performance and visual arts. Taking place over two weeks in July .

Other important azorean events:

• Sanjoaninas (June, Terceira island)
• Espírito Santo festivities (April to June, São Miguel island)
• Semana do Mar (August, Faial island)
• World Surf League (September, São Miguel island)

Planning a trip to Azores by yourself

Azores flights.

I always recommend you plan your trip to Azores independently . No guides, no tours, no agencies. A place like Azores is an adventure and should be explored as such.

As a rule of thumb, flights to Azores are considerably cheaper from Porto, Lisbon or London. Ponta Delgada airport has the highest number of flight connections. Check this page for more info.

Book your flight through Skyscanner to compare the best prices.

Azores Hotels

For hotels, you can start off with this pre-filtered list of hotels, guesthouses and villas in Azores . Only places with parking, free WiFi, and top reviews on this list!

Azores Flight + Hotel + Transfers Deals

If you still prefer to have everything dealt through an agency, Azores Getaways is a good option. Despite not being a fan of travel agencies, I really think they have some pretty good prices for a flight + hotel + transfers packages to the Azores – starting at 599USD!

Plus, you can customize your package by combining 2 or 3 islands to your itinerary which is great:

• São Miguel (6 nights)
• São Miguel and Terceira (6 nights)
• São Miguel, Pico and Terceira (8 nights)

I particularly recommend using Azores Getaways if you are flying from the United States or Canada and don’t have much time to plan your holidays.

Useful resources about the Azores

• Start planning your Azores holidays here
• Events in Azores
• Spot Azores – Real time webcams
• Top hotels, guesthouses in São Miguel, Azores with WiFi and parking

You might also like these articles 💬

The Top Azores Hot Springs & Thermal Baths in Sao Miguel

Furnas, Azores: Unique things to do in the Furnas Valley

Ponta Delgada, Azores: 12 Things To Do In My Hometown

Destinations🌎

5 Day Azores Itinerary: 26 Top Things to Do in São Miguel Island [Plus Map]

Floating 1,400 kilometres west of the Iberian Peninsula, São Miguel island is the jewel in the crown of the Azorean archipelago. This comprehensive 5-day guide show you the top things to do in São Miguel island plus where to say, where to eat, and when to go. Plus loads of bonus travel tips.

From thousands of years old bubbling geysers, to flower-lined winding roads, hikes spiraling around dormant volcanoes, and natural thermal pools scattered throughout the island, São Miguel island is a dream. Which is why I’ve prepared a comprehensive Azores travel guide!

If you’re not familiar with the Azores or need more convincing, check out my post on  why the Azores is Europe’s best-kept secret.

São Miguel Island

São Miguel island is the largest island in the Azores, measuring 62.1 km in length and 15.8 km at its maximum width. This means that depending on which roads you take, you can see both the north and south side of the island at the same time!

São Miguel island is also home to the Azores largest city and its capital: Ponta Delgada. The best part? Today, only 5-10% of the island is built-up, leaving the rest to nature. Excited yet?

With such a relatively small area to cover, basing yourself in Ponta Delgada and setting out on day trips around São Miguel is the best way to see everything the island has to offer.

During my five days in São Miguel, I divided the island up into five pockets which I used as my itinerary for each day. This worked so well for me and managing my time during the trip that I wanted to share it with you.

Whilst there is so much that can be done, seen, and explored in São Miguel island, my complete and ultimate itinerary ensures that you will see and experience the best of the island.

I’ve covered everything including accommodation, car rental, where to eat and how to manage your days around the temperamental Azorean weather.

Five Things You Should Know

Before we jump in, here are five important things you should know about this itinerary to São Miguel.

• If you’re visiting São Miguel for the first time, this guide is for you! This guide assumes you have no prior knowledge of the island and its incredible beauty. Boy, are you in for a surprise!
• You’ll need a car to get around. I recommend hiring a car here as there is little to no public transport. Plus, having a car will give you the freedom to start and end your days on your terms.   Compare the best car rental prices here.
• I’ve tried to find a balance between quality and quantity. That being said, how often do you get to go to the Azores? For some, this might be a once-off experience and you want to see as much as possible. The best part of this itinerary is that you can adjust it to suit your needs and personal preferences. For each daily bucket list, each location is no more than 30 minutes from the next, which gives you total flexibility should you prefer to linger a bit longer at any location.
• It allows for last-minute itinerary changes. Something I wasn’t prepared for was how quickly the weather changes in the Azores. When the heavens open up and clouds roll in, some of the best viewpoints are…well, invisible! My advice? Keep track of the weather constantly and check the conditions of the locations before you go. You can either the  SpotAzores website or app. It’s a total game changer! Luckily, the size of the island allows you to zigzag around in case you need to chase good weather. To give you an idea, getting from the east to west coast will take no longer than 90 minutes.
• Keep a towel handy. There are lots of thermal pools and beaches on this itinerary so make sure you come prepared. Bring an old swimsuit, I’ll tell you why later. Just take my word for it.

So, without further ado, here are the top things to do in São Miguel island.

Looking for something in particular? Use these links to jump around.

Included in this guide to São Miguel

• Map of São Miguel Itinerary
• Day 1 itinerary
• Day 2 itinerary
• Day 3 itinerary
• Day 4 itinerary
• Day 5 itinerary

Getting to the Azores

Where to stay in são miguel, são miguel flight and hotels packages, map of são miguel island itinerary.

Want to know where you’ll be going? Take a look at the detailed map below.

Tip: For a larger view of the map, click on the icon in the top right corner.

Click on this interactive map and see where this itinerary will take you. I’ve created this map using Google Maps which you can save and use as you travel around the island.

The coloured pins represent different pockets of the island to explore each day. Click on any pin for more information. Day 1 – Purple pins Day 2 – Green pins Day 3 – Turquoise pins Day 4 – Yellow pins Day 5 – Pink pins

Day 1 Itinerary – Purple pins

Saving the best till last isn’t always the smartest idea, at least not in the Azores.

Visiting Sete Cidades requires good weather otherwise you risk seeing very little. That’s why I recommend that on your first day, you aim to visit the western part of the island. That way, if the weather isn’t in your favour you can easily try again the following day.

Sete Cidades

Chances are that if you Googled the Azores, you most likely saw a picture of the Sete Cidades. It’s the postcard of the island and quite possibly the Azores.

Sete Cidades literally means, ‘seven cities’ and is one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal. The views over Sete Cidades and its lakes are nothing short of impressive and awe-inspiring.

Lagoa das Sete Cidades (Lake of the Seven Cities)

At its centre, there are two lakes, one green and the other blue which are separated by a bridge.

According to legend, the lakes were formed from the tears of a shepherd and a princess who shared a forbidden love because of their different social status. They say that the last time they met, their tears formed the lakes. The tears of the blue-eyed shepherd formed the blue lake while the those of green-eyed princess created the green lake.

The less romantic version explains the colour difference is due to the fact that the surrounding vegetation causes the light to reflect differently.

Either way, it’s still an impressive sight!

Lagoa das Sete Cidades can be enjoyed from numerous vantage points, each offering a new and wonderful perspective.

Miradouro da Vista Do Rei (Viewpoint Of The King)

Appropriately translating to, Viewpoint Of The King, this may be the first glimpse you’ll see if Sete Cidades. Not a bad introduction! The best part of the Sete Cidades is that it can be enjoyed in different ways, including taking any one of the hiking trails.

There is also an elevated dirt road, which is quite narrow at some points, which spirals around the lake. You can both walk or drive along this road whilst enjoying the different perspectives over the lakes.

Miradouro da Boca do Inferno (Hell’s Mouth Viewpoint)

Take a moment here and try to comprehend how old this land is. This volcanic crater is 22,000 years old!

Tips on Getting to Boca do Inferno Viewpoint

• Blink and you’ll miss the entrance! Whether you’re coming from Vista do Rei or from Ponta Delgada (South East) the entrance looks like more a concealed driveway. Avoid taking any turnoffs that will take you down to the Sete Cidades village. Look out for a blue sign indicating a stop 100 metres ahead.
• Depending on how early you get there, some cars may already be parked outside making the entrance more obvious. It’s here you’ll see the Lagoa Do Canário sign. Turn down the dirt road and park your car.
• At this point there are a lot of tall trees, continue on foot for less than five minutes until you see the stairs.
• From here, it’s just 5 minutes away from the viewpoint.

Tips on Visiting Boca do Inferno

• Time: Allow 1-2 hours to wander around, get some great photos, and savour the moment.
• Price:  Both entrance and parking are free!
• Pro Tip #1: For awesome moody shots come here just before the sunset. Note that the gates close at 4pm on weekdays and at 7pm on weekends.
• Pro Tip #2: This place gets busy! So, go early. When I went it was at the end of the season and I arrived as soon as the gates opened at 8:30. I literally had 10 minutes alone before other people started arriving. By the time I left at 10am, cars were parked all the way out back onto the main road.
• Pro Tip #3: Remember to check the weather. Suns out, guns out. When the sun shines here, the landscape comes alive with vibrant colours.

After enjoying the views from above, head down towards the lovely quaint village of Sete Cidades. Along the way, you’ll pass over the bridge that separates the blue and green lakes. Stop here and say hi to the birdlife on the banks before continuing into town.

Fancy a bike ride or kayaking in the lake? In town, you’ll find a few hire shops. Not a bad way to pass the afternoon.

Not to be missed in town is the lovely village Church of Saint Nicholas (Igreja de São Nicolau) . The beautiful tree-lined promenade leading to the entrance is worth stopping by for.

Ponta da Ferraria

Put on your swimsuit, it’s time to relax in Ponta da Ferraria geothermal spring.

Not only is the location itself unique, sitting at the base of a giant lava rock cliff, but the spring opens up to the ocean creating a wonderful mix of hot and cold water that dances around your body.

Also located here are housed thermal baths with an outdoor swimming pool and restaurant. Visit Termas da Ferraria for more information.

Tips on Visiting Ponta da Ferraria

• Time: Allow 2 hours to bathe then relax at the kiosk with a beer in hand.
• Price: Entrance and parking are free!
• Pro Tip: Go at low tide to avoid be scalded. Ouch!

The cherry on the sundae is ending your day at Mosteiros.

Mosteiros is a civil parish which saw its first settlers around 1480. The name Mosteiros, means monastery in Portuguese and refers to the nearby islets, the largest of which is shaped like a church.

Come here an hour or so before sunset. Cosy up either on the beach or head around to the rocks on the right and watch the water crash over the boulders. Soon enough the sky will turn electric purple bringing this magical day to an end.

Day 2 Itinerary – Green pins

Today, we’re exploring the east and southeastern parts of the island.

The Nordeste and Pedreira districts are some of the wildest and most remote parts of São Miguel island. The sea cliffs are stand tall and steep, the vegetation is thicker and more vibrant, and the roads are more sinuous. Everything in this area is worth stopping your car for.

Ponta da Madrugada Lookout

Start your day early and head east! Watching the sunrise from the famous Ponta da Madrugada (literally means, Dawn Point) is a must! The drive coastal drive here alone is truly one of the most beautiful roads I’ve ever driven on.

Bring some breakfast, sit at any of the picnic tables and enjoy the sunrise over the vast blue Atlantic ocean.

Arnel Lighthouse

Take a slight detour north and visit the beautiful octagonal cylindrical lighthouse, Faro do Arnel. This was the first lighthouse built in the Azores used by ships arriving from mainland Portugal.

There is a wonderful spiral road leading to the lighthouse, but the best view of both the lighthouse and the road is from Miradouro da Vista dos Barcos (Viewpoint of the boats). Keep an eye out for road signs indicating the lookout on your right-hand side.

Tips on Getting to Arnel Lighthouse

• Pro tip: Once arrived, I strongly recommend parking the car and continuing on foot. The spiral road down is 35º. Don’t risk stranding your rental car on the return trip.

Ponta do Sossego Viewpoint

Lagoa das Furnas

Sitting in Furnas Valley, home to dozens of thermal springs, fumaroles and geysers, is Lagoa das Furnas (Furnas Lagoon). This lagoon is one of the three main lagoons in São Miguel.

The valley is in fact a volcanic crater which has been dormant since 1630, when the last eruption occurred.

Capela de Nossa Senhora das Vitórias

Also worth visiting here is the Capela de Nossa Senhora das Vitórias dedicated to Our Lady of the Victories. This funerary chapel was built by José do Canto, a gentleman-farmer of São Miguel, after his beloved wife passed away from a terminal illness. When José eventually died, he was buried alongside his wife, fullfulling his wishes.

There is a lovely view of the lagoon and the chapel from a jetty as you approach the chapel.

With a complicated 100,000 year history, the central caldera of the Furnas Volcano is a naturally explosive trachyte structure composed of two main calderas, that through formation, collapse and explosion have marked the natural history of the massif.

Caldeiras das Furnas and Fumaroles from Lagoa das Furnas

On the opposite end of the lagoon are the Caldeiras hot springs where the famous local dish Cozido das Furnas (Furnas stew) is prepared and transported to location restaurants.

A path navigates around the holes of boiling water and geysers where the stew is cooked.

While the dish itself might not be your best meal of the trip, it is, nonetheless worth trying. I mean, how often do you eat a meal cooked by Mother Nature herself?

Where to Eat Furnas Stew (Cozido das Furnas)

Each day several restaurants located in Furnas village send their stews to be cooked in the Caldeiras. The two most noteworthy are Tony’s and the restaurant at  Terra Nostra Garden Hotel.  Eating at Terra Nostra Garden Hotel also gets you complimentary access to Terra Nostra park and the thermal pool.

Furnas Village

Head to the main village and see how the locals live alongside thirty springs and geysers each with different temperatures and chemical compositions. These range from warm iron-rich streams to mineral-rich warm and cold water. The air here is literally filled with sulphur.

Owing to a population of several thousand people who live within and around its caldera, Furnas is considered one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the archipelago. The first recorded eruption occurred in 1440, just after early settlers started populating the coasts of São Miguel.

Terra Nostra Park

Covering 12 hectares, Terra Nostra Park is one of the most beautiful gardens in Europe boasting lush vegetation, over 2,000 different trees, peaceful promenades, lilypad-covered ponds, and a huge thermal pool.

Bathing in the ferrous orange thermal pool at Terra Nostra Park is one of the island’s postcard experiences. Full of essential minerals, the thermal spring heats the water to 35 – 40 degrees Celsius (95 – 140F).

  A post shared by Michele • The Intrepid Guide✈︎ (@intrepidguide) on Dec 17, 2017 at 7:57am PST

Tips on Visiting Terra Nostra Park

• Duration: Allow at least 1 hour to explore the gardens then half an hour to relax in the thermal pool.
• Price: 8 euros, includes access to the park thermal pool and showers.
• Pro tip #1: Don’t wear your favourite swimsuit though, the minerals will leave your whites looking a little orange. Wear something old and dark.
• Pro tip #2:  Go here on a cloudy or gloomy day. Save that sunshine for visiting places at higher altitude. Plus, having a hot bath feels so much better when it’s cold.

Poça da D. Beija Thermal Spa (Optional)

While the thermal experience is similar at Poça Dona Beija, swimming in those at Parque Terra Nostra is more of a novelty because of the orange water. Unless you really love your thermal experience, there’s no need to do both.

Poça da D. Beija offers a more authentic experience with it’s complex of newly refurbished five outdoor pools at various temperatures. Since they’re open till 11pm daily, why not stay for a romantic evening dip.

Tips on Visiting Poça da D. Beija Thermal Springs

• Duration: Anything from 1 hour
• Price: Entrance fee is 4 euros in Poça Dona Beija

Day 3 Itinerary – Blue pins

Lagoa do fogo.

One of the most beautiful yet difficult to see places on the island is Lagoa do Fogo. Literally translating to ‘Fire lake’, only on my third visit did the clouds part to reveal this impressive lake.

Lagoa do Fogo sits in a crater with a maximum depth of 30 metres. This is the island’s highest lagoon (sitting 575 metres) and the second biggest.

Miradouro da Lagoa do Fogo (Lookout)

If you reach the lookout and find the area drowning in cloud or fog, allow 15 minutes or so for it to pass (fingers crossed) it’s amazing how quickly the weather changes up there.

View from Pico da Barrosa

Once you arrive at Miradouro da Lagoa do Fogo, take the path down to the beach. After thirty minutes you’ll reach the unspoiled shoreline.

Tips for Visiting Lagoa do Fogo

• Duration: Anything from 1 hour, allow more time if heading down to the beach
• Price: Free 🙂
• Pro tip 1: Check the weather ahead of time. Having said that, even on a sunny day there can still be lots of cloud cover. Be patient and wait a little before leaving. You may need to return another day.
• Pro tip 2:  Since this is a Natural Reserve it’s important to be as respectful as possible. Don’t leave any rubbish/trash behind or go swimming if you’re wearing sunscreen.
• Pro tip 3: Located higher up overlooking Lagoa do Fogo is Pico da Barrosa.  Weather permitting, you’ll be able to see both the north and south coastlines of the island. Pretty cool!

Caldeira Velha

Located a few minutes down the road on the north slope of the Fogo Volcano is Caldeira Velha, a scenic nature preserve featuring lush vegetation, a waterfall, and hot springs. I love this place because it’s not located near a town and the towering trees make you feel like you’re at one with nature.

Located in Caldeira Velha is a park are two stone-walled naturally heated pools. Both surrounded by lush vegetation, the smaller one is 38º while the largest is 21º.

Tips for Visiting Caldeira Velha

• Duration:  You can’t rush relaxing. You’ll need anywhere between 1.5-3 hours to really it enjoy it. Price: The entrance is 2 Euros (as per 2017).
• Pro tip #1: Same rules apply regarding your swimsuit. Wear something old and dark to reduce the signs of orange stains thanks to the mineral-rich water.
• Pro tip #2: There are lockers, changing rooms and showers, but be prepared for the cold water. It’s invigorating to say the least.

Salto do Cabrito

Salto do Cabrito, literally meaning ‘Kid’s Jumping’, has a 40 metre high waterfall. Next to the base of the water is a circular pedestrian route that sits high up amongst the thick foliage.

Miradouro de Santa Iria

Located in a ravine above the sea, the Santa Iria lookout offers a superb view over Santa Iria Bay and the northern coastline of the island.

This viewpoint is very close to the main road and has a small car park both near the main road and down the short road leading to the viewpoint.

Itinerary Day 4 – Yellow pins

Starting in the north-east of São Miguel island, begin your day at Ribeira dos Caldeirões Park before making your way down to the picturesque islet of Vila Franca on the south coast.

Ribeira dos Caldeirões Park

With flowing streams and three large cascading waterfalls, Ribeira dos Caldeirões Park is not to be missed.

It’s an idyllic spot for hikers to walk along rock-cut paths that wind through the mountains. The rainforest trails invite you to explore the lush landscape with endless photo opportunities along the way.

Gorreana Tea Plantation

This family-owned business has been operating since 1883. There is a museum with free tastings, but this place is best experienced outside amongst the plantation itself where there is a magnificent view overlooking the Atlantic ocean.

Tips for Visiting Gorreana Tea

• Duration: 1 hour is enough to go through the premises and sip on a cup of tea.
• Price: Free
• Pro tip: Whether you enjoy tea, the process of making it or not, the views alone are worth the visit. If you do, there are free tea tastings inside.

Vila Franca Islet

Vila Franca do Campo was once the capital of the Azores but lost its status after it had been almost completely destroyed by a massive earthquake in 1522. From then on the capital of São Miguel was transferred to Ponta Delgada.

Sitting opposite the town of Vila Franca do Campo is the beautiful islet formed as a result of a crater of an ancient submerged volcano. At approximately 300 metres in length, this is the smallest islet I’ve ever seen!

It’s enclosed bay makes it the ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling. During the summer months, the islet can be reached by a regular boat connection from the Vila Franca marina. Get your tickets online.

Tips for Visiting Vila Franca Islet

• Duration: Allow yourself at least 3 hours here.
• Price: 5 Euros
• Pro tip #1: During high tide the small beach is complete covered, grab a spot in the concrete area instead to avoid being washed out.
• Pro tip #2: Please be respectful of the island and leave nothing behind but footprints.

Our Lady of Peace Chapel

High up on the hills overlooking Vila Franca and the Atlantic ocean is Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Paz, a stunning 16th-century chapel dedicated to Our Lady of the Peace.  According to the legend, this chapel was built after the apparition of Virgin Mary to a shepherd, in a cave.

Day 5 Itinerary – Pink pins

Swimming with dolphins and whale-watching (from ponta delgada).

What could be better than spending the morning with Atlantic Spotted dolphins and Humpback and Sperm whales?

For two hours I swam with dolphins and observed these playful creatures in their natural environment. There were literally hundreds of them! Jump in and enjoy watching these majestic mammals, play, feed, and poop. (Look out for those white trails. Haha) You’ll definitely want to capture this once in a lifetime experience.

I went out with Picos de Aventura , who were amazing. The customer service was great and the two guides on board were patient, professional, and super passionate about their work and the wellbeing of the marine life.

Picos de Aventura offer diving trips, whale watching, and swimming with dolphins and gear hire. I love my whales but this time I wanted to see the action underwater so opted for the swimming trip. 

The Azores attract many species of cetaceans which makes heading out in the ocean a must-do activity. If you can, plan your trip between April and June for the best whale watching. For dolphins, I saw plenty of them in September. They were also still running whale watching trips.

• Book a whale and dolphins watching expedition in São Miguel here
• Book your swimming with the dolphin’s tour here

Tips for Swimming with Dolphins in São Miguel

• Duration: The trip last 3 hours, this includes the time it takes to reach the dolphins and return to shore on the RIB boat.
• Price: Tours start from 75 Euros for a 3-hour trip.
• Pro tip #1: If you suffer from lower back problems or are pregnant, do not go on this trip. The RIB boat ride is pretty intense.
• Pro tip #2:  Take sea sickness tablets. If you’re not accustomed to swimming in the open ocean, chances are you feel nauseous. At least 3 others on the tour did. Come prepared.
• Pro tip #3:  The water is very choppy. If you’re not a confident swimmer, speak with the guides to advise you if this is right for you. I honestly struggled the first few stops we made, then I learned to relax and avoid wasting my energy on swimming too much.

Tips for Whale-Watching in São Miguel

• Duration: The trip last 3 hours
• Price: Tours start from 55 Euros
• Pro tip #1:  Whale watching is big business and many tour companies break certain laws in order to get their boats as close as possible to the whales and boasts being the best tour. They are actually breaking the law when they do this. Both safety and ethical regulations are in place to protect the well-being on the whales so make sure you go out with a trusted company, such as Picos de Aventura .
• Tours depart morning, early afternoon, and evening from both Ponta Delgada and Vila Franca marinas.
• Tours book out quickly so secure your spot at least a few ahead of the tour.

Ponta Delgada

  A post shared by Michele • The Intrepid Guide✈︎ (@intrepidguide) on Oct 19, 2017 at 10:54am PDT

With all of the island’s treasures now under your belt, it’s time to explore the Azores capital city, Ponta Delgada.

I’ve written a dedicated post to all the sights of Ponta Delgada, but here are a few highlights.

• Portas da Cidade (City Gates)
• Parish Church of São Sebastião
• Campo de São Francisco
• São Bras Forte (Open 10am – 6pm, Closed Saturday & Sunday)
• António Borges Botanical Garden (Open everyday 9am – 8:30pm)
• A. Arruda Pineapple Plantation (Open everyday 9am – 8pm )
• Hermitage of the Mother of God – End your day here at sunset for best view over Ponta Delgada.

António Borges Botanical Garden

Ponta Delgada is a relatively small so you can cover a lot of ground just on foot. Allow 1-2 hours each at the São Bras Forte, António Borges Botanical Garden, and A. Arruda Pineapple Plantation.

For more information about Ponta Delgada, use my complete guide to the city here.

Where to Eat in Ponta Delgada

Bacalhau, Portuguese for cod, is considered to be an iconic dish of Portugal. My Portuguese boyfriend enjoyed this salted cod with vegetable dish at Calçada do Cais in Ponta Delgada.

Running parallel with the seafront Rua dos Mercadores is one of the main thoroughfares. Here you’ll find some of the island’s best restaurants including Calçada do Cais, and further north, A Tasca .

Other highly recommended restaurants include Adega Regional ,  Rotas da Ilha Verde (vegetarian-friendly) ,  Boca de Cena (seafood),  Casa Do Bife O Galego (steakhouse),  Restaurant Sao Pedro (seafood).

Essential Azores Travel Information

Getting to the Azores is easier than you might think. You can hop on a boat or catch a plane.  Direct flights depart from the USA, Canada, UK, Sweden, Spain, Belgium, Denmark, Portugal, France, Germany, and Finland.

SATA / Azores Airlines offer the most routes with other operators such as TAP Portugal, Primera, TUI, Germania, Ryanair, and Delta offering regular flights to the Azores. My advice would be to fly from Porto, Lisbon or London where tickets are considerably cheaper. Compare deals and book your flight here.

The gateway to the Azores is located in Ponta Delgada with most flights connecting here.

Pro Tip: In some cases, you may be eligible to get a FREE inter-island connecting flight. Find out more here 

Heading to Portugal? Download my free Portuguese Travel Phrase guide here.

Where to Stay in the Azores

Booking.com offers a lot of accommodation options in the Azores, from charming guesthouses to typical houses surrounded by nature. To make your life easier, I’ve put together a list of the best-reviewed hotels, guesthouses, and villas in the Azores.

If you are coming to the Azores, chances are you’ll most likely be at least spending a few days on the largest island, São Miguel.

VIP Executive Azores Hotel

For the week I was there, I stayed at 4-star VIP Executive Azores Hotel . This is the largest hotel on the island and includes all the comforts of home. There is an excellent gym, an interior swimming pool, squash court, bar, free covered private parking, a beauty salon with hairdresser, and Wireless Internet service. With a great view of the town and ocean and surrounding landscape, VIP Executive Azores is a 10-minute walk into town.

For an alternative accommodation option, I would recommend renting out an apartment or room through Airbnb. Cute Airbnb options are popping up all over the island so you’ll find some really beautiful places at very affordable prices.  Airbnb has numerous options from as low as US$36 per night.

If it’s your first time using Airbnb get US$65 OFF here or get £50 OFF your first stay here , when you sign up using my unique reader referral links.

Otherwise, check out these top-rated hotels!

Need more options? No problem. Here is a list of pre-selected hotels, villas, and guesthouses in São Miguel with excellent ratings . The list only includes rooms with wifi and top reviews, so you can’t go wrong!

Azores Getaways  offer great prices on flight and hotel packages to the Azores. There are packages starting from 320 USD for 7 nights accommodation with return flights to London.

I recommend using Azores Getaways if you:

• Are travelling from Europe or the United States.
• Want to visit the best spots but don’t much to do all the research
• Want someone else to book and organise everything for you

Browse their offers and packages here.

Alternatively, use this itinerary and book it all yourself. I always use  Skyscanner to book flights and Booking.com for finding accommodation .

Visiting Portugal? Brush up on the local language with my free Portuguese travel phrase guide.

Got more time? Take a day trip!

• Ponta Delgada Walking Tour
• Swim with Dolphins in the Azores
• Fogo Lake Quad Bike Full-Day Small-Group Tour with Lunch
• Azores Canyoning and Thermal Baths Tour
• Half-Day Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour
• Whale and dolphins watching expedition in São Miguel
• Furnas Volcano and Lake Full-Day Tour with Lunch
• Pico do Ferro Trail Hike and Light Yoga on São Miguel Island
• Plus loads more here …

Don’t miss these Portugal travel guides

11 reasons why you should visit the azores in portugal, top 10 things to do in ponta delgada (the jewel of the azores).

• 34 Best Things to do in Madeira, Portugal (The Ultimate Guide)
• 12 Awesome Things to do in Funchal, Madeira (Includes Travel Tips & Top-Rated Tours)
• 20 TOP Things to do in Porto Santo Island // A Perfect Day Trip from Madeira

Like it? Pin it for later!

Sources Visit Azores | Wikipedia |  Geeky Explorer

Over to you!

Do you have a question about visiting the Azores or São Miguel island? Ask me below! Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

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Michele creates language learning guides and courses for travel. What separates her from other instructors is her ability to explain complex grammar in a no-nonsense, straightforward manner using her unique 80/20 method. Get her free guide 9 reasons you’re not fluent…YET & how to fix it! Planning a trip? Learn the local language with her 80/20 method for less than the cost of eating at a tourist trap restaurant Start learning today!

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Top 10 things to do in ponta delgada..., 11 reasons why you should visit the azores..., 27 comments.

Michele, thank you for this detailed guide. I was starting to wonder how I would plan a trip to San Miguel and if I should even try until I found this article. I now feel confident and so excited to go for it. I’m curious about what I should know about money there. What percentage can an American expect to be able to use a credit card there versus needing euros in currency to pay for things in restaurants, gas stations, and entrance fees?

Hi Mary, thank you so much for your lovely feedback 🙂 Most of the time, say 80-90% of the time I used my card. On the odd occasion, I needed cash so it’s definitely a good idea to carry some as a backup. Hope this helps 🙂

Michele, thank you for the amazing guide and tips. Me and my girlfriend spent 4 days on São Miguel and it has been the best trip in our lives. It is the hidden gem of Europe, indeed. All of the things you wrote here came out true, about the weather, getting up earlier to avoid crowds, using old swimming suit at thermal pools, staying a little bit more at Lagoa do Fogo miradouro to catch the glimpse of it, and just driving around and enjoying the very nature… It is truly magical, and I am happy to have experienced it all, thanks to you! It has been two months since our trip, I keep thinking about it every day and want to come back. Do you ever feel the same? Cheers! 🙂

Thank you so much for your feedback, Mirko. I’m so glad to hear my guide helped you and that you had a wonderful time. São Miguel definitely left a lasting impression on me too. So many wonderful memories and experiences to cherish for many years to come 🙂

Very useful and easy to read guide, thanks a lot!

My pleasure. Thank you, Angeles 🙂

Did you visit Ribeira Grande? And can you tell a little about language. I plan on learning some Portuguese but is English widely spoken? Thanks in advance.

Hi Carole, yes I did visit Ribeira Grande and I would definitely recommend you continue to learn Portuguese. It’s invaluable. English is spoken but it’s not something you can always rely on here. Good on you for taking it up though. Here is my Portuguese travel phrase guide which you may find useful 🙂 Have a wonderful trip!

You guide and tips are amazing, I’m happy to have stumbled here! I’m leaving for Azores in 3 weeks and cannot wait to explore and feel the beauty of San Miguel and Terceira!

Do you know what time usually the businesses (like the tea plantation, parks etc) closes in the summer months? I’ll be diving almost everyday until 1:30pm, and would love to still do other activities and checking things out in this guide. Just wonder if I should be aware of the business hours there.

Many thanks again!!

Hi Linh, my pleasure. I’m so happy to hear you find it helpful. You will have plenty of time to see a lot of places as they will close late. The Gorreana plantation closes at 7 pm everyday so you’ll have plenty of time. Miradouro de Santa Iria, Lagoa do Fogo don’t close as they are located next to the road. Caldeira Velha closes just after sunset, around 9 pm. Entry to Boca do inferno closes at 7 pm. Hope this helps 🙂

Hi Michele,

I’ve been here at Ponta Delgada for a while and i just wanna say MASSIVE THANKS for your guide – I’ve used it extensively and the tips are god sent, thank you so much again! The scenic drives have got to be the most beautiful I’ve ever seen in my life. wow!

Hi Linh, oh that’s amazing. I’m so happy my guide has helped you and that you’re having a wonderful time. You’re right, the scenic drives are one of the best things about the island. Enjoy the rest of your trip 🙂 Michele

Great article! I’ve started my research of Sao Miguel and so glad I stumbled upon this article. Is the picture of Franco Islet with a drone or from Our Lady of Peace? I would be going in November so no going to the Islet but would love a neat pic of it! With the weather being spotty I think it only makes sense to use Ponta Delgada as the base in case you need to switch up days due to weather.

Hi Valori, I used a drone to take this shot. You can see the islet from Our Lady of Peace but you will need a super zoom lens for this close up 🙂 Good luck and I hope you have a wonderful trip.

Your photos look gorgeous! Love the depth of your content and how useful your site is and how a good chunk of it is about learning language!

Hey Trang, thank you so much 🙂 I put a lot of work into my posts. So glad you’re enjoying it 🙂

Aww thank you so much Trang. I love learning and teaching which is what The Intrepid Guide is all about 🙂

love this blog! So i’m planning a trip also to azores islands, want to squeeze in also flores island. My question for Sao Miguel, did you stay in one hotel and everyday drive from the hotel to the pin points? Or did you drive to one area stay in a hotel there and then next pin points and stay in that area in a hotel?

Hi Sarit, I’m happy to hear this post has helped you 🙂 Yes, the best part of the Azores (and Sao Miguel) is that you can stay anywhere on the island and travel around. I stayed in Ponta Delgada for its centrality and convenience. Hope this helps 🙂

Some pics were loading slow but most of the ones I saw are spectacular! I’d love to make it here someday, thanks for the info!

This is so helpful! We are planning to be in Sao Miguel for 3 – 3.5 days. I am wondering if any if you think any of these day itineraries could be done in a half day?

Day 1 & 2 seem to be full days on their own. I am wondering if your Day 3 & 4 could be combined in some way as they are close together on the map. And with that, what would you recommend eliminating from those two days in order to do it all in one day? We will skip the whale watching and plan to stay in Ponta Delgada so can fit in some of those sites as well.

Thank you!!

Thanks Blair, I’m so glad you’ve enjoyed this guide. Day 3 and 4 could potentially be combined if you start your day early and be on the road by 8:30-9am. For it to work you would need to skip something Gorreana Tea Plantation (if you’re not a big tea fan) and going out to Vila Franca Islet. You can still see it from the shoreline from the Our Lady of Peace Chapel. I hope this helps 🙂

Hi Michelle, a great blog and an inspiring post. I’ve just added Sao Miguel to my to do list! Brava e complimenti!

Ciao Ciara! Grazie mille 🙂 Oh, I’m thrilled you’ve added Sao Miguel to your list. Please let me know if you have any questions when you start planning. 🙂

Thanks Michele. This is an amazing guide. I’ll be sure to use it when going to Sao Miguel.

My pleasure! thanks so much, Basil. I know you’ll have a great time! Any questions, let me know 🙂

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Wandering our World

Your Journey Begins Here

• by Wandering our World
• Posted on March 7, 2023

Azores vs Madeira: An Honest Comparison To Help You Decide!

Last updated on March 7, 2023 by Wandering our World

P icture this: a stunning natural landscape with refreshing waterfalls, pristine beaches and an inviting climate. We’re packing our bags and booking our next flight to Portugal already! With its two archipelagos in the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores and Madeira, Portugal is one exciting holiday destination that should be top of your bucket list.

But how do you decide which of these beautiful island clusters to go for? Well, look no further! Right here we’ll compare the two and help you pick the one that’s best suited for your travel style and preferences. That’s important, as Madeira and the Azores are actually quite different.

The Azores archipelago, set off the coast of Portugal in the Atlantic Ocean, is made up of nine volcanic islands and is characterized by gorgeous natural scenery, hot springs and beaches. It is eco-friendly, rugged, and feels more ‘local’ than Madeira, but it’s also less developed.

There are many serene and secluded spots to enjoy in the Azores too, so if you’re an adventure-seeker, hiker and explorer, you will have the time of your life island-hopping and trekking around the Azores.

Madeira is an archipelago comprising four islands, two of which are inhabited, Madeira and Porto Santo. If you like sunbathing on golden beaches with a side trip of hiking in the mountains, this island duo should be your pick. Traveling around Madeira is much easier than the Azores too, as the infrastructure is very good and the island is more touristy.

Of course that’s just the very beginning when it comes to how these two destinations differ from each other.

Luckily we delve deeper into the details of what makes each of these destinations unique and what they offer below.

By the end, we’re sure you’ll be able to pick the perfect island for your next vacation. Let’s get started!

Which Is Easier To Get To?

Which is easier to get around, which has the better beaches, which is best for hiking, which is best for water sports, which has better weather, which has better food, which has better sightseeing, where to stay according to your budget, which is best for a honeymoon, which is better for a family trip.

• Which Is Cheaper? 
• Which Is The Better Choice?

It is easier to get to Madeira, as the islands have more developed infrastructure than the Azores. Madeira has a busy airport serviced by major airlines such as TAP Portugal, BA, Condor, SATA, and EasyJet.

If you’re traveling from Europe, you can take one of these airlines to fly direct – or via Lisbon or Porto – to Funchal, the capital of Madeira. From Madeira to Porto Santo you can take a ferry or make a shorter plane trip.

In comparison, the Azores is more remote and has fewer direct flight options.

However you can fly to the Azores from some selected cities in Europe via mainland Portugal with a stopover in Lisbon or Porto.

If you’re traveling from the US however, you can fly direct from Boston or New York to the Azores with Azores Airlines, TAP Portugal and United.

Most of these flights will land you in Ponta Delgada, the capital of the Azores on Sao Miguel Island. There are actually three airports in the Azores, but Ponta Delgada is the better and more popular starting point from where you can then island-hop.

The Azores is connected to Madeira by air and ferry too, so you can opt to visit both on the same holiday as well!

Regular ferry services also operate from mainland Portugal to both of these island groups and are generally more affordable. But if you tend to get seasick, it would be wiser to opt for flying instead.

Madeira has been a vacation destination for a longer time, hence it has a better network of roads. It’s also smaller, and easier to get around in general

There are local taxi and bus services which you can choose from; there are also car, bike and scooter rental services available if you prefer to be more independent.

A local ferry line operates between Madeira and Porto Santo as well, so covering both the Madeira Islands is easy and a must!

In the Azores the public transportation is not as developed or as reliable for tourists as Madeira. The bus system is better suited for the commutes of locals, so the best way to get around for tourists is by rental car.

Be sure to book a rental car in advance, especially if you’re traveling during summer. Taxis are useful if you don’t want to drive, but keep an eye on the meter.

If you’re planning on island-hopping in the Azores, there are two options: by air or sea. If you’re not prone to getting seasick, you can take the ferry. It is fun and cost-effective. But if you want to travel quickly, you can also fly between the islands with Azores Airlines.

Schedules are set for both ferry and plane, especially during peak seasons, so plan accordingly. Flights are rather expensive, so if you’re traveling on a budget, go for the ferry.

While neither destination is know primarily as a beach destination in the way Mallorca or Corfu are, the Azores and Madeira still have some of the most popular and beautiful beaches in Portugal.

And the beach bums among you will have a hard time choosing which of these two island groups to go for: both Madeira and Azores offer varied beaches with different activities.

In general Madeira has fine sandy beaches with turquoise waters, and they tend to be more suited to sunbathing and swimming than the beaches in the Azores.

There are more than 20 beaches along Madeira’s shores and each has something different to offer.

For sunbathing and swimming, go to Formosa (pebble beach), Machico or Calheta (imported sand beaches).

Ribeira Brava and Seixal are unique in that they have beautiful black sand, a characteristic of the volcanic geological history of the region. Several of these beaches have active nightlife around them too – that’s not really the case in the Azores.

In general, the beaches in the Azores are more serene and secluded than those in Madeira, and have less crowds too. However they are usually covered with black sand or pebbles and this destination is definitely more famous for its dramatic landscape than its beaches.

The most famous beach in the Azores, Praia de Santa Bárbara , has volcanic sand that is perfect for sunbathers though. It is also a great spot for water sports and is frequented by surfers.

While beaches like Faja Grande , set against green hills and volcanic rocks, and Moisteros with its deep black sand, offer snorkeling and diving against gorgeous scenery.

All in all, beaches in the Azores offer many different water sports and activities, and tend to be more secluded and less busy than in Madeira.

However the beaches in Madeira are more likely to have the golden sand that holidaymakers prefer when thinking of a beach vacation. So if sunbathing is your priority on holiday, Madeira will likely be a better choice for you than the Azores.

One of the best ways to explore the tropical islands of both archipelagos is by hiking. And in that case, one destination definitely trumps the other.

Azores: The Hiking

That destination is the remote and rugged Azores , as the islands have more than 80 well-maintained hiking trails, plus countless more.

In fact the reality is that hiking in the Azores will be a dream come true for hikers and adventure lovers.

No wonder too, as the islands are mostly named after their characteristic features: Sao Miguel (Green Island), Pico (The Peak, hosting the highest point of Portugal), Corvo (Crow), Flores (Flower), Terceira (The Third), Graciosa (Graceful), then there’s Faial, Santa Maria and São Jorge.

All trails in the Azores lead to stunning natural scenery, landscapes or mystic waterfalls and offer spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The largest island, San Miguel, has around 30 official trails that are maintained and approved as safe by the Azores Tourism Board. The most popular trails are the one that leads to Pico , which is actually the highest peak in Portugal, and the one that leads to the stunning volcanic Sete Cidades Lake (see photo below).

The hiking trails in the Azores come with different levels of difficulties, altitudes and lengths too. So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, you’re sure to find one that suits you.

However, it’s always good to check the weather forecast before you set out for the day, as the Azores are known to have unpredictable weather – more unpredictable than Madeira.

You may also be tempted to go and enjoy some off-beaten tracks (and it sure would be exciting!) but remember that those tracks will not be maintained or approved as safe by the Azores Tourism Board. So it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Madeira: The Hiking

Hiking in Madeira is more challenging but still worth it. The island sits on a volcano and its mountains are covered with forests and waterfalls.

The scenery is breathtaking, but there is also the risk of landslides and rockfalls which may hinder your hiking and trekking plans. Again, it is advisable to check the conditions of the routes beforehand and go prepared and aware.

Madeira has more than 30 hiking trails to choose from. The most popular trails are the ones that lead to Pico Ruivo , Levada das 25 Fontes and Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço . These gorgeous trails alone may make you choose Madeira over the Azores.

The Levada das 25 Fontes is one of the most stunning hikes, taking you through lush forests and beautiful waterfalls. The Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenco is a definite bucket list item too as this hiking trail offers the most majestic views!

Both the Azores and Madeira offer excellent opportunities for many different water sports, so it depends on your interests and preferences.

There is surfing, diving, snorkeling, boating, fishing, whale-watching and swimming with dolphins all available at each.

But we think the Azores, in particular, is perfect if you love the ocean. You’ll have fun diving here as you’ll get to explore interesting marine life. There are also diving tours to discover and explore old shipwrecks and caves. The site near Vila Franca do Campo is probably the best choice for a diving expedition.

And if you love surfing, there are many great surfing spots in the Azores. Santa Barbara Beach on Sao Miguel Island and Cubres in Sao Jorge Island are our top picks.

And it doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or a pro at surfing because there are surf schools and great local instructors who will teach you what to do!

Madeira is a little different. There are opportunities for water sports but there tends to be not as many as in the Azores.

Madeira has amazing and varied sea life though, which you can see on a diving tour. The waters are clear and calm and make for excellent undersea viewing. The island is famous for fishing too, and the giant blue marlin is the most famous fish to catch in the island’s waters.

In addition to these water sports, perhaps the most fun and exciting one is whale and dolphin watching . Both Madeira and the Azores have plenty of tours for whale-watching and swimming with dolphins. Although the Azores is often regarded as the better whale watching spot.

If you’re traveling with your family and children, these tours will be the highlight of your trip. The best time for dolphin and whale-watching is from June to September, so note that in your travel plans!

Both Madeira and the Azores generally have a pleasant and tropical climate.

Madeira has sunshine and warm temperatures all year round. The summer and spring seasons are sunny and pleasant with low rainfall, while in autumn the chance of rain is higher.

Winter is cooler and makes Madeira a good option for a winter getaway.

The weather in the Azores can be very unpredictable, with frequent changes in temperature and humidity. So it could be a sunny day at one point, then unexpected patches of rain the next.

Still, the best time to travel is between May and September. Winters are moderate in the Azores, as in Madeira, with colder and rainier days.

This one’s for the foodies. Picture yourself having some traditional Portuguese food with a hint of the ocean. That’s what to expect at either as the cuisine of both Madeira and the Azores showcases the history and cultural influences of these islands alongside that of mainland Portugal.

Seafood, as you’d expect, features prominently in the cuisines of both Madeira and the Azores.

Food is produced, or rather ‘caught’ locally like tuna, swordfish, sardines, octopus, and Madeira’s famous marlin.

Tropical fruits grow in the islands’ warm climate too, such as mangoes, papayas, passion fruit, bananas, avocados and Azores’ pineapples, as well as a number of vegetables.

Plus a traditional meal in the Azores, for example, can even be cooked in hot holes created in volcanic soil, or boiled over natural geysers. Quirky, right? And definitely a unique travel experience to take home with you.

Madeira and the Azores are also known for their unique drinks and desserts.

Madeira is a producer of sugarcane which in turn produces some fine-quality rum. This rum is used to make “poncha” a traditional drink with rum, honey and lemon juice. 

On the other hand, the Azores produce their own tea, which is a must-have for tea lovers. In fact Azores’ tea plantations on Sao Miguel Island are the only ones of their kind in Europe.

Both islands produce their own wine too, with the Azores making fine quality white wine and Madeira making a liquor-type sweet wine.

Both island groups have some unique sights to see and enjoy.

But knowing the main ones in each destination can help you decide which will suit your holiday preferences the most. We show you those next:

The Azores: Sightseeing

The Azores has plenty of natural landmarks and cultural places to see and visit.

It’s home to the city of Angra do Heroismo , a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Terceira Island. Angra do Heroismo dates back to the 15th century and has preserved medieval architecture such as the Cathedral of Angra do Heroismo, an impressive Town Hall, a fortress, and a museum with many historical treasures.

Culture lovers and history buffs will certainly enjoy a trip to this city! Other small towns worth visiting include Horta, Ponta Delgada and Furnas.

Among the many natural landmarks in the Azores are the hot springs which should be on the top of your list to check out.

Most of the hot springs are on Sao Miguel Island and offer some stunning views of the mountainsides. These hot springs are said to have healing properties and have lovely warm temperatures for a relaxing soak.

Madeira: Sightseeing

Madeira also has some interesting sightseeing to enjoy.

The historical town of Funchal is the cultural capital of Madeira and it’s worth taking your time to explore the city with its many old churches, museums, palaces and gardens.

The town is full of cultural sights and history, but it’s better if you take a guided tour with a local to make the most of your trip.

Moving around in Madeira can be a fun experience too!

You can take a cable car ride over the hills and capital of Funchal and visit some remote villages on the island, or you can take the traditional Toboggan ride.

The Toboggan is a type of sledge that locals would use to move quickly through the hills. But now it’s a fun touristy experience that you’ll remember for a long time.

Budget: With stunning sea and mountain views, a wonderful garden, swimming pool and fantastic service, Sao Vicente Lodge – Atlantic Retreat is a fantastic choice which feels like luxury but is well within a budget price point. See photos and rates!

Luxury: White Exclusive Suites & Villas is a gorgeous five-star resort which sits right on the coast with exceptional sea views and a swimming pool worthy of a honeymoon.

It’s one of those resorts we should all stay in at least once in our lifetime. See photos and rates!

Budget: Just a few minutes walk from the beach, but right in the heart of the action, a stay at Apartments Madeira Old Town is perfect for those who want more than just sunbathing and swimming. The apartments come with balconies and great views too. See photos and rates!

Luxury : You can’t get more luxurious than the Royal Savoy in Funchal, a five-star resort with 2 heated lagoon-style pools and private Atlantic Ocean access.

With spa, tennis court, restaurants, spectacular sea views from your room and more, you’ll have everything you need when staying here. See photos and rates!

If you’re planning your honeymoon, both Madeira and the Azores have some beautiful beach locations and places to enjoy a peaceful vacation.

Which is best will therefore depend on your preferences, but if you’re looking for serene and secluded places, then Azores are a better option.

However if you’re looking for a more touristy and happening destination, then Madeira should be your choice.

Madeira is more developed than the Azores too, with proper resorts perfect for honeymoons and a nightlife scene. But there can also be crowds during peak season.

On the other hand, the Azores are quieter, and a little more romantic and atmospheric feeling than Madeira. And if you’re a couple that loves the outdoors, the trails are exceptional and will create a honeymoon to remember.

For a family trip, your best bet is going where the kids will be most entertained. Both islands are similar, yet slightly different in what they offer in that respect.

Madeira is busier than the Azores, with well-developed resorts and accompanying amenities and facilities for children like kids clubs.

However the activities on smaller Madeira can be a little limited compared to those in the Azores. So Madeira may be better for a short and quick getaway. Although shorter distances between activities, and easy access to facilities will likely suit families with smaller children.

In comparison, the Azores could be a better destination for a longer family vacation with older kids as you can island-hop and visit the many natural attractions such as thermal pools, hot springs and waterfalls.

The Azores also tends to have better opportunities for water sports. The islands have the best diving spots and expeditions for whale-watching and swimming with dolphins too, which older kids will definitely enjoy.

Which Is Cheaper?  

You can expect the Azores to be cheaper than Madeira, because the latter is more well-developed than the former as a tourist destination, whereas the Azores still has local prices.

Madeira also has several beach resorts with a varying range of facilities that attract a large number of tourists. Hence Madeira can also be a bit pricier than the Azores when it comes to hotels.

But the differences in cost regarding accommodation, transport and food between the two destinations is not that big. 

Ultimately, it depends on what you are willing to give up to offset the cost difference. For a short and easy vacation, Madeira is suited best. While for a longer, laid-back and more ‘local’ holiday, the Azores will be perfect.

Madeira vs Azores: Which Is The Better Choice?

In the end, it all depends on your vacation style and preference. Both Madeira and the Azores are wonderful holiday destinations, quite similar to one another, yet also a little different. 

Nature lovers and adventure-seekers will find the Azores a paradise, with plenty of stunning natural scenery and hiking trails to enjoy.

Kids will also love the Azores for its many water sports such as diving, surfing and whale-watching. 

For those looking for a quick summer getaway, Madeira may prove to be the perfect beach resort, complete with amenities and facilities. 

Ultimately, the final decision of where to go is yours. Regardless of where you choose, enjoy!

Hi and welcome to Wandering our World! This article was written by one of the Wandering our World team - a team of travel enthusiasts who live around the globe.

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Author: Wandering our World

Hi and welcome to Wandering our World! This article was written by one of the Wandering our World team - a team of travel enthusiasts who live around the globe. View all posts by Wandering our World

13 Reasons to Plan a Trip to the Azores

The Azores is one of my favourite spots in Europe.

I can’t believe such an incredible group of islands can be so rarely talked about by travellers. The Azores has everything you could need from a destination, from affordable prices to spectacular scenery, delicious food options to deserted beaches, from dozens of hikes to even more viewpoints.

The Azores are located right in the centre of the Atlantic Ocean, almost mid-way between the west coast of Europe and the east of the United States. There are nine islands altogether — all of them inhabited — and because they’re so compact, it makes perfect sense to work one or two of them into a layover between Europe and North America.

I spent four days on Sao Miguel — the main island — and it was enough to convince me to return in the future. It was one of the best trips I’ve ever taken!

It’s So Easy to Get Around

The island of Sao Miguel is made for road tripping.

Thanks to a trifecta of paved roads, sweeping curves, and little traffic, you’re practically guaranteed an incredible day out on your wheels. Criss-crossing the island on a scooter had me and Dave firmly back in our happy places, and we couldn’t stop commenting on the quality of the riding.

Whether you prefer your adventures to take place with cars or scooters, Sao Miguel is compact enough for you to get from the main city of Ponta Delgada to the east or west coast in a single day without spending the entire time on the tarmac.

We opted to spend one day exploring the west coast, one checking out the south east, and one heading out to the north east. By the end of our adventure, I felt as though we’d seen a significant chunk of what the island has to offer visitors.

The only downside? If you’re unable to drive yourself around, the public transport options aren’t great, and you’ll struggle to see the island if you’re relying on buses. There are two very highly-rated tours on GetYourGuide — one that takes you to the east side of the island and one that shows you the west — that I’d recommend going for if you don’t have an alternative. I book all of my tours on GetYourGuide and these two have some exceptionally great reviews. 

It’s Even Easy to Get To

Whenever I write about some of the lesser-known destinations of the world, one of the biggest issues that prevents my readers from replicating my trips is the fact that many of these places are simply too expensive and impractical to get to.

When it comes to the Azores, I’m happy to announce this isn’t the case.

SATA Airlines flies daily between Portugal and the east coast of the U.S. and allows you to stopover on the islands at no extra charge. Our flight from Boston to Lisbon cost $275, which also turned out to be the cheapest way for us to get to Europe from North America. Adding in a five-day layover made no different to the cost of the flights.

If you’re already based in Europe, SATA Airlines, TAP Portugal, Tui, and Ryanair have a ton of great deals and you can often fly there for as little as $100 return. I recommend using Skyscanner to compare prices.

Once you’re in Sao Miguel, getting to the other islands in the Azores is easy with SATA , who fly the routes displayed above. They run regular trips between every island in the archipelago, and they rarely cost more than around $50-$70. If you’re going to skip over Sao Miguel, SATA gives passengers a free flight to a different island instead!

You could also take the ferry  between islands to save money.

The Food is Divine

If there’s one thing my time in the South Pacific has taught me, it’s that eating on an island in the middle of the ocean is rarely going to be a great or affordable experience. Food is usually imported from the nearest major landmass, which leads to extortionate prices in restaurants, cafes, and supermarkets, making fresh food hard to find unless you’re friends with fishermen or keen to walk around the early morning markets.

In both Tonga and the Cook Islands , I spent several days living on canned food and crisps because that was all that was on offer to people who weren’t growing their own food or staying close to a restaurant.

I was so excited to discover this is far from the case in the Azores.

In fact, all over Lisbon, you’ll find supermarkets and restaurants proudly announcing their food is sourced from the Azores, and they advertise this for one simple reason: the food from these islands is gorgeous! It’s also surprisingly affordable.

The Azores has a fantastic climate and fertile land, which means the islands are all self-suficient and don’t need to import food from mainland Portugal in order to survive.

The most famous dish of the Azores — and one of my favourite meals — is cozido das furnas, a stew that’s cooked inside a volcano! Some of my other food highlights included sampling the tangy Azorean cheese, drinking as much high-quality Azorean wine as my body could handle, swooning over the juiciest pineapples of my life, and snacking on unusual seafood whenever I had the opportunity to.

We paid around €4 for breakfast, €12 euros for lunch, and €15 for dinner, which was amazing value for some of the best meals I’ve had all year.

It’s Surprisingly Inexpensive

Not only is the food cheap, but so is everything else.

Accommodation ranges from €17 a night for a dorm room at Azores Dream Hostel  (rated 8.6 on Booking), €75 a night for a private room with a double bed at Comercial Azores Guest House  (rated 9.1 on Booking), €45 a night for a double room with a beautiful view at Atlantic Home Azores  (rated 9.5 on Booking) and €60 a night for a double room at Azorean Urban Lodge  (rated 9.6 on Booking), which I highly recommend splurging for. I go into more details why at the end of this post!

Transportation-wise, we paid €17 a day for a scooter rental, with car hire coming to around €21 a day.

All in all, I averaged €63.50/$79 a day while not trying particularly hard to travel on a budget.

It Has Year-Round Perfect Weather

Talk about an ideal climate!

The temperature in the Azores ranges between 15°C and 30°C — that’s 60°F and 86°F — and rarely goes higher or lower at any time of year. That means that if you want to escape the cruise ship crowds of the summer, visiting in the shoulder or low season won’t mean having to freeze your ass off.

In mid-October, when we visited, temperatures were a perfect 23 degrees each and every day, and blue skies were a constant presence. I rarely needed more than shorts and a vest top.

There’s Some Seriously Impressive Architecture to Admire

No matter how much I researched, I couldn’t find a definitive answer as to why the buildings in the Azores are all about that black and white colour scheme.

So while I can’t tell you why  the churches and houses and stores and hotels look like the above photos, I can tell you that the uniformity is beautiful, and you’ll end up with so many photos of buildings. So much of the island looks like this, and I couldn’t get enough of the black basalt features.

As Well as an Abandoned Old Hotel to Explore

I was overjoyed to discover that there’s an abandoned hotel on Sao Miguel that you’re free to poke around and take photos.

The Monte Palace Hotel was built in the 80s in an isolated part of the island before tourism was really a thing in the Azores. Unsurprisingly, this five-star hotel quickly tripped into bankruptcy, and has been falling apart ever since.

These days, you’re able to explore the entire space, taking in some of the best views in Sao Miguel from the rooftop, dawdling through the bar, hair salon, and ballroom, clambering up staircases, and peering into bedrooms. There were only a dozen other people in the hotel while we were there, which only served to make the experience even more eerie.

The Villages are So Picturesque

One of the highlights of my time in Sao Miguel came on the third day, when we chose to meander along the northeastern parts of the coastline.

With close to no traffic on the roads, we wound our way through tiny villages comprising a hundred whitewashed buildings, stopping only to nurse a beer while overlooking a beautiful viewpoint or to take yet another photo of a scene that looked like it had come straight from a postcard.

I could have easily spent an entire week just slowly making my way around the small villages and towns of this island.

Lagoons are Everywhere

In Sao Miguel, the majority of your sightseeing will be based around lagoons, because they’re scattered all over the place.

My favourite was easily  Lagoa das Sete Cidades — the Lagoon of the Seven Cities — which is partially pictured above. It’s a twin lake of different colours in the crater of a now dormant volcano. In other words, it’s pretty freaking badass. Lagoa das Furna s was perfect for a peaceful walk along the water’s edge before checking out the volcanic stew being removed from the hot springs where it had been cooking all morning.  Lagoa do Fogo is a lake within a volcano that brought me some of the moodiest photos from the trip — it was shrouded in mist when we visited and we were only able to catch glimpses of it, usually when a particularly strong gust of wind threatened to hurl our motorbike over the edge.

The Hot Springs Provide Plenty of Opportunity for Relaxing

There are three active volcanoes on Sao Miguel alone, so it’s no wonder there’s a ton of geothermal activity to check out while you’re in town. There are four hot springs on the island, and my favourite was the one at Ponta da Ferraria, where there’s a natural thermal pool on the edge of the ocean.

The hot spring that’s most famous on the island is the one in Furnas, but let me tell you now: it looks awful! There’s a whole heap of iron in the water, which has turned the pool into an opaque rusty-colour that looks the exact opposite of appealing.

It’s Great for Hiking

Yes, the Azores has all of the above and fantastic hiking!

There are about a dozen hikes on the main island of Sao Miguel, but due to time constraints, we opted for just two of them. Both of them were easy-to-moderate difficulty and both ended with a spectacular waterfall. The Salto do Prego hike was almost entirely uphill for the 40-minute climb, but having such a stunning spot to ourselves at the end of it made the struggle worthwhile. The  Salto do Cabrito hike took us to one of the most beautiful waterfalls on the island and ended up being an easy walk, as we skipped the six-hour round-trip hike and settled for scootering to just 10 minutes from the falls.

You Can See Sao Miguel Over a Few Days

You can easily see the main island of the Azores in less than a week.

We gave ourselves four days to explore Sao Miguel and it turned out to be the perfect amount of time. We spent one day walking the island’s main city of Ponta Delgada, one day exploring the west side of the island, one day scootering the southeast coast, and one day out in the northeast. We drove practically every road on the island over this time and didn’t have to skip out on a single activity. If we’d had longer, we’d have likely spent a day relaxing in hot springs across the island.

If you had a full week to explore the archipelago, you could opt to spend four days on Sao Miguel and three days on one other island. You could choose Pico for volcano-climbing and wine-drinking, opt to go whale-watching on Faial, sign up for hiking and mountain biking on Flores, or go beach-hopping on Santa Maria.

If you had two weeks or more, you could see the majority of the nine islands, as they’re all fairly small. I know I’m already planning to do exactly that later this year.

Azorean Urban Lodge was Wonderful

The guesthouse we stayed at was great! There was a swimming pool! The staff were lovely! It’s not often that I’ll order you to stay in a specific hotel, because a hotel is a hotel is a hotel. But this one? This one is definitely worth checking in to.

Related Articles on Portugal 💰 The Cost of Travel in Portugal: A Detailed Budget Breakdown 🇵🇹 After 70 Countries, Why I Moved to Lisbon, Portugal 💚 The Best Things to Do in Lisbon, Portugal ❤️ 28 Best Things to Do in Porto, Portugal 🏚 Exploring the Abandoned Monte Palace Hotel in Sao Miguel, Azores

Have you been to the Azores? If not, has this post convinced you to add it to your list?

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Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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59 comments.

The Azores! Yes! I’m going in July and can’t waitttt!

Yay! You’re going to love it because I can’t imagine anyone not doing so.

I’m totally convinced to go to the Azores. I knew they existed but nothing else. Aaaaand now they are on my long list of places to visit.

Yaaaay! They’re SO worth visiting. Eventually :-)

I really want to visit the Azores now! I had never heard of them before! I was excited to see that SATA Airlines flies out of Salt Lake City, Utah, which is near where I am currently living!

Oh, yay! I hope you get to jump on one of their flights at some point :-)

Any recommendations on the beat whit sand beaches with turquoise waters?

Anywhere in the South Pacific: the Cook Islands, French Polynesia, Fiji, Tonga. I also love Koh Kood and Koh Kradan in Thailand. Boracay in the Philippines. Vilanculos in Mozambique. Cape Town. I have posts about most of these places on the site! :-)

So glad to see this post! I went a few years ago with some people and we are OBSESSED…, we still talk about what a hidden gem it is all the time. No tourists, easy to get around, we splurged a lot and it was still so affordable, we island hopped for about 10 days, with lots of hikes. I cannot say enough good things about it!

Right?! It has pretty much everything you could want from a destination!

Hi Eleanor, Curious about your island hoping experience. We are going for 10 days in September and are looking to spend time at two island. One is Sao Miguel, my peeps are from there, and another but we cannot decide which island we should see. Any thoughts given your experience?

The best you haven’t mentioned it’s Madeira Island in Portugal

Yes!!! I visited the Azores in 2014 and had one of the best trips of my life! It’s so underrated and beautiful. I hope you make it to the other islands on your next trip.

I hope so, too! They look amazing :-)

I visited last month – partly as a result of you raving about it in one of your monthly updates last year and partly because we managed to score return flights from London with Ryanair (via Secret Flying) for just £40!!! Absolutely loved São Miguel and now want to go back in Summer in order to explore some of the smaller islands :-)

Oh yay! That’s an amazing deal. And same! I can’t wait to go back and see what the other islands have to offer.

Are you still living in Lisbon?

No, I left last year.

This place looks absolutely amazing. A lake in the middle of a dormant volcano? Come on! Definitely getting added to the list of places to go, it sounds like you guys had a great time.

The quality of the photos you take is very good, the lighting and color of everything looks great. What camera are you using to capture all of this beauty?

Thanks so much! I use a Sony A7ii with the kit lens and edit in Lightroom.

Hi Lauren, great post! thanks to it I’ll probably visit Sao Miguel this summer and cannot wait!! :-) Just one question about car or scooter rental, did you rent it in the city or in the airport? from which company? I am checking the prices for cars on the web but it seems very expensive..maybe bacause it’s high season..thanks a lot! :-)

We rented from Rent-a-car Auto-ramalhense (R. 6 de Junho, 9500-089 Ponta Delgada) in the city, and just turned up on the day and asked to rent a scooter.

Are you looking for an automatic? That usually bumps up the price a lot. If not, you can ask at your hotel to rent one for you, as they usually can get better prices. I’ve seen trip reports from June last year when the people paid 24 Euros a day for car hire, so it shouldn’t be super expensive in high season.

This post inspired my partner and I to spend a week on Sao Miguel in May, thank-you! Sam x

Yay! I’m thrilled to hear that — I hope you have just as amazing a time as I did! :-)

We are going to Sao Miguel later this year! Do you have any safety tips to follow?

Not really! It felt really, really safe there. There’s close to no crime on the islands.

Hi! How did you book the flights on SATA with the 4 day layover in Sao Miguel included at no cost? I’ve been searching on their site and can’t figure it out. :) This is inspiring me for a trip later this summer/fall!

Just go here: https://www.azoresairlines.pt/en and select multi-city rather than one way or round trip. Then you can do the two flights, from the US to Ponta Delgada and then Ponte Delgada to Europe or vice versa.

Hi Lauren! Thanks for the great info. I’m planning a trip in June and really looking forward to it. 2 quick questions- 1) I love the idea of renting just a scooter for my whole stay on the island. Think it’s practical? Do people do that? and 2) I think I’m coming in on a Sunday and I read the island is really shut down on Sunday. Might not be the best day to come in? Did you have a Sunday there? Thanks for any help you can offer and be well!

1) Yep! That’s exactly what we did.

2) The local stores will be closed on a Sunday, but tourist stores and restaurants should still be open. Depends what you had planned for that day — if you wanted to spend it in Ponte Delgada, the museums will be closed so it might not be super interesting (I liked it and didn’t do any museum-hopping, etc — just wandered around and took photos), but if you wanted to head out to explore the island, it’s all about the nature so can’t be closed :-) I wouldn’t let it put you off arriving there unless there’s something specific you wanted to do that you couldn’t.

Can I ask where you rented your scooter from? :) thanks!

Hi Lauren! Planning a trip to the Azores in September! We are planning on flying into Terceira and spending two days there and then going to Faial for 3 days (hopefully with a day tour of Pico from there) and then to Sao Miguel for 4.5 days. Given your experience or what you know about the islands, does this seem reasonable or does it seem like too much?

I also noticed in one of your replies you mentioned a cancelled flight between the islands – does this happen frequently?

Hmmm, I can’t seem to find that comment. But no, as far as I’m aware it doesn’t happen often. Our flight was almost cancelled, but that was because of a hurricane, which only occurs in this part of the world around once every 20+ years. So definitely nothing to worry about!

Thanks for the inspiration! Planning to go in September. Can’t wait! Just one question – when you travel in the different areas of the island do you book a hotel in those areas too, for the night, or is the island small enough where you can go explore and come back to Ponta Delgada for the night? Azorean Urban Lodge looks like a fantastic option, is that the only hotel you stayed at? Thanks!

Hi Lauren-thank you for the awesome info. I’m definitely interested in the Azores now and staying at the accommodation you recommended. any thoughts on going in March? I’m wondering if it would be warm enough to swim in the pool? What do you think about bringing my 3.5 year old son- I wonder if the Azores would be family friendly?

Thanks again! Joanna

Lauren, My wife and I have been talking about visiting the Azores for over a decade. Having wandered around the world in that time we are finally ready to make the visit. Your description was wonderfully inviting and offered so much usable information. Thank you for taking the effort to make the post. Two questions. One – I could not find the extremely reasonable air fares you mentioned. The best I could come up with was $1285 per person out of the DC area. Can you direct me to finding better fares? Two – I am fascinated by the history of any area I visit and hoped you might touch on historical sites in the Azores.

Take a look at the Azores Airlines site directly , or look on Skyscanner at dates across an entire month to find the cheapest deals. We flew out of Boston, so it might be worth checking prices out of there, too.

After reading your post, we’re off to visit the Azores in March this year! I’ve always been a fan of shoulder-season travelling so excited to see what it’s got to offer! Also booked the Azorean Urban Lodge on your recommendation and they have been so sweet over email so far! Can’t wait to visit! Thank you so much!xo

Lauren, thanks for the great and detailed article. Any chance you still have that famous map and could share it with me? I’m planning a trip in early July. Thanks!

Sorry — you have to stay at the lodge to get it! The owner specifically asked us not to share it around, as they own the copyright to it and use it as a selling point for their hotel.

Did you get my message regarding few queries on the trip to Sao Miguel? I had messaged you through contacts me form.

Hi Lauren, Your post is so helpful! I am going to Azores in August- to Sao Miguel 4 days then Pico 4 days, We are staying at the Adegas do Pico houses you recommended! so excited…my question is did you rent a scooter when you were in Pico Island? are the roads easy to get around? how long does it take to circle pico on scooter? thank you!

Hey Amy, I think you’re commenting on the wrong blog post — I haven’t been to Pico!

This is so nice to see, Im an Azorean born and raised in Terceira island. Now living in Florida. The temperature, food, super inexpensive, most people speak English, nature the hikes its simply breath taking. If you enjoy fish all seafood!! Thank you for visiting our paradise!

I have recently visited Azores – it was a wonderful trip. The nature is gorgeous, seafood is fresh and the air is so clean, it is hard to believe coming from a city.

How about Azores in the winter? Getting married in Sintra next week and contemplating making Azores our honeymoon.

Glad you enjoyed. As for the architecture and the white/black. The black is lava stone and was abundantly found throughout the archipelago. Hence it’s use. My family is from Ribeira Quente, home to one of the small few beaches on São Miguel.

Ah, thanks for sharing! I loved the black stone so much :-)

I’ve been there quite a few years ago and I want to go back. I just thing that São Miguel deserves a full week. Some of the things just take more time. For example, the warm waterfalls… No point going there just to see them. You have to go in the water and spend a couple of hours having the shower of your life under a stunning warm waterfall. There is also a tiny isle close to Ponta Delgada called ilhéu de Vila Franca. Known for a cliff used for the Red Bull water jumping competitions, the other side of that isle is a stunning horseshoe shape beach with a beautiful crystal water bay. It’s the only white sand beach in São Miguel (all the other beaches in the island have dark volcanic sand). Again, you don’t go there just to see the beach, you have to spend a few hours in it. And I could say the same about Furnas, Lagoa do Fogo… So, one week is definitively not too much time for São Miguel!

Love this post! Thanks for sharing! We ventured to Sao Miguel Island in July 2018 for a week, and this post was great for reminiscing about some of the things we did and saw. I just came across your blog, and will definitely save for future planning.

Hi Lauren, Is it possible to obtain Azores residency and citizenship? If so, what is process? Via Portugal? Mack

Yeah, I imagine you’d need to obtain residency in Portugal.

Hi Lauren. I’m planning a trip to the Azores. I loved yhis guide; really great job! I was wondering… I looked at availability for the Azorean Urban Lodge you mentioned, but the dates we’ll be available to travel in August are already booked… I’d really like to get my eyes on that map. You don’t perchance still have it by any chance, do you? If so, would it be obnoxious to ask of you wouldn’t mind taking a couple pics of it, and email it or share a cloud link please? I really appreciate it! 🙏

Unfortunately I don’t have a copy with me right now as I’m travelling. It would likely be outdated by now anyway, as it was created in 2017.

Check with the SEF office. They can speak English and tell you what to do. It was not a difficult process.

I’m glad to hear that — thanks for sharing!

Went to Sao Miguel and Pico last year in August/September. Loved the islands, just incredible scenery, food and a delightful culture. Ran into much rainy weather and lots of folks on holiday in Sao Miguel, but still had a tremendous few days. Then, on to Pico, and that was the island for me – gorgeous, more remote, wonderful residents and seafood, swimming in natural ocean pools in the black lava rock – just incredible. Finished trip off with several days kicking around Lisbon with its sights, shopping, museums and food marketplaces. What a trip! Can’t wait to go back.

Azores are really a nature paradise in Portugal. :) I already visited 4 islands (São Miguel, Pico, Faial and Terceira) but want to visit the others soon. The archipelago has some of the nicest trails to walk on the whole country. Fantastic places to discover there!

And about portuguese islands, do you know Madeira Island already? :)

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Which is the Best Azores Island to Visit?

This detailed guide will help you decide which of the 9 islands is the best Azores island for you. We compare lodgings, activities, food and nightlife on each island. Because, every island is different, and you should find the best Azores island that matches your unique travel goals!

So before deciding on the best Azores island, you should know what Azores have to offer – a lot! Visit the islands for spectacular views. Wildflowers grow everywhere. There are scenic, well-marked hiking trails and amazing hot springs for soaking. Also, the food and wine are incredible (and affordable!). Enjoy the Gulf Stream climate where daily highs range between the 50s °F and 70s °F all year round. And did we mention the islands are within easy reach? Only a 4.5 hour flight from Boston once flights start back up after COVID travel bans!

Azores Islands Overview

Before jumping into the pros and cons of each island, and our “best of” lists, we wanted to give an overview of each island. The Azores are an archipelago of nine islands, which are a mix of the English countryside (the green hills dotted with cows), Iceland (all but one of the islands have active volcanoes), Costa Rica (palm trees and other tropical plants) and the Greek Islands (the black jagged coasts). Each island is distinct and has it’s own flavor. And spoiler alert, there is no “best” Azores island, they are all awesome.  The Azores are also a great socially distanced vacation option .  We’ve described them briefly below, and then go into more detailed below. So you can find the best Azores island for you!

The Eastern Islands: Sao Miguel and Santa Maria Island

Sao Miguel is one of the most eastern Azorean islands. It’s also the biggest (40 miles x 9 miles) and most populated (140,000) Azores island. Sao Miguel is known for its spectacular crater lakes, many hot springs  and beaches. You’ll also find Ponta Delgada, the biggest city in the Azores (60,000) with many tasty restaurants, some nightlife, museums, and winding streets.

Santa Maria is an eastern Azores island nearest Sao Miguel (about 55 miles). It is the third smallest with a surface area of 38 sq miles (97 km2) and a population of 5,500. Santa Maria is the most southern Azores island, so it’s the warmest and sunniest, and one of the few islands with white sandy beaches.

South Central Islands: Faial, Pico and Sao Jorge Islands

Faial, Sao Jorge and Pico make up a central grouping of Azores islands. You can easily get between these islands with a less than an hour ferry ride. Pico and Sao Jorge are about 11 miles apart, Pico and Faial are about 4.5 miles apart and Sao Jorge and Pico are about 16 miles apart.

Pico is the second largest island with a surface area of 167 square miles (433 km2). Pico is home to 15,000 inhabitants. It’s known for the 7,713 ft volcano that dominates its skyline and a crazy landscape of crisscrossing stone wall vineyards

Faial is the fourth largest island (surface area of 67 sq. miles or 173 km2 )and has about the same population as Pico.  It’s a popular pitstop for sailors crossing the Atlantic. So the harbor is its center and the restaurants and hotels are more concentrated in one area than on Pico or Sao Jorge.

Sao Jorge is a long, narrow, cliff-lined island that has a surface area of 95 sq. miles (246 km2) and known for its cheese. It’s the least populated of the three islands (6,000) and has the fewest ferries/flights/lodging options, so it’s most off the beaten path.

North Central Islands: Terceira and Graciosa Island

Terceira is the third largest island (148 sq. miles/382 km2) and the second most populated (60,000). Terceira is also known for its lava caves and has a few direct flights from the U.S., which makes it an easy stopover.

Graciosa is a Central Azores island that’s about 31 miles from Terceira island and has a surface area of about 24 square miles (61 km2). Graciosa is more flat than the other islands and is agriculturally focused.

Western Azores islands: Corvo and Flores

Flores and Corvo are the western most Azores islands and are about 15 miles apart. Corvo is the smallest island (surface area of 7 sq. miles/17.5 Km2) with the fewest inhabitants (only 400!).  It’s known for its bird watching and because it’s so remote, much of the island’s traditions have been preserved.

Flores is the most tropical of the Azores island with even greener and lush fauna and more frequent waterfalls than its neighbors. Flores has a surface area of 55 square miles/143 Km and about 4000 inhabitants.

The “Best of” List for the Azores Islands

If you’re looking for something in particular, these lists will help you decide on the best Azores island for you.

Best Azores Island for Beaches

If you’re looking purely for numbers, then Sao Miguel is the best Azores island for beaches, because  it has 20 plus beaches . But if you’re looking for white sand beaches, then Santa Maria Island should be your top choice. Finally, if you won’t have a car, then Faial and Terceira are great options. On Faial, Praia do Porto Pim  is an easy walk from Horta center. On Terceira, the town of  Praia da Vitória  has a beach close to the marina, so you can have access to beach and restaurants! For the full breakdown of Azores beaches, head here .

Best Azores Island for Hot Springs

There’s a clear winner here. Sao Miguel, hands down has the overwhelming majority of Azores hot springs. So, if you’re heading to Sao Miguel, know which of the eight hot springs to visit!

Best Azores Island for Your First Visit to the Azores

Our advice is typically to visit Sao Miguel if you’re a first time visitor to the Azores. In part, because most international flights fly into Sao Miguel, so you’re missing out on an easy opportunity if you don’t stop off for a visit. Or if you only have a long weekend, it’s usually the most safe option. That’s because inter-island flights are notorious for being delayed or canceled. Sao Miguel also has the most sights and activities , so you can easily spend a week there and not get to everything.

Best Azores Island for Hiking

Again, if you’re purely going to for quantity, Sao Miguel has the most hikes than any other Azores island. Sao Miguel is also the best Azores island for hiking crater lakes, because you have 3 amazing options. But if you want to get off the beaten path and find more difficult hikes, Sao George should be at the top of your list for hiking. Get the full breakdown of Azores hiking here .

Best Azores Islands if you Want to Visit More Than One Island

The best group of Azores islands to visit together are Pico, Faial and Sao George. You can travel between any two of these three islands by ferry in under an hour. So, you could decide to stay on one island and do day trips to the other islands, or spend a few nights on each island. The three islands also have very different feels. Head to Pico for the food and wine . Faial should be your top choice if you’re into boats. And Sao George is a favorite if you want to get more off the beaten path and/or your a cheese lover.

Best Azores Island for Restaurants and Night Life

Sao Miguel undoubtedly has the most restaurants and night life of any Azores island. Although every island has amazing traditional Portuguese food, Sao Miguel has really stepped up its game in terms of inventive cuisine. Pico island is your next best bet if you’re a foodie and want more creative cuisine.  If you want nightlife, Faial is the Best Azores island after Sao Miguel. Unlike other islands where lodging and restaurants are more spread out, everything is largely centered in Horta, Faial’s biggest city. Don’t miss the famous nautical themed Peter’s Cafe .

Best Azores Island for Outdoor Activities

All the Azores Islands have amazing outdoor activities, which makes them a great socially distanced destination .  But Sao Miguel has the most variety. In addition to amazing hikes, on Sao Miguel island, try kayaking, biking, climbing, canyoning, horseback riding, paragliding, whale watching and golfing.

Best Azores Island for Wine Enthusiasts

All of the Azores islands are great for delicious low cost Portuguese wines. But if you want to actually visit a vineyard, then Pico and Sao Miguel island are your only choices. Pico is best known for wines. Wine production began in the 1500s and peaked in the 1800s. Most of the grapes died . But wine production is making a comeback and the Landscape of the Pico Island Vineyard Culture were named a UNESCO World Heritage site .Sao Miguel also has vineyards, and you can actually tour the Quinta da Jardinete  vineyard.

Is Sao Miguel the Best Azores Island for You?

Sao Miguel is the best Azores island if you’re visiting the Azores for the first time. If you don’t have time to fly to other islands, Sao Miguel is also a good choice.  Finally, Sao Miguel should be your choice if you want to eat at the best and most varied restaurants or you’re interested in some form of nightlife. Sao Miguel also has the best selection of luxury villas in the Azores. See our guide, The 22 Best Villas in the Azores  to learn more.

Things to do on Sao Miguel if it’s the Best Azores Island for You

Because it’s the largest island, Sao Miguel has the most sights, hiking trails, vendors and activities. Our  three best days are as follows. First Day: Sete Cidades and Ponta da Ferraria if you time it right. Second Day: Lagoa do Fogo (plus Caldeira Velha  if it’s cool or Santa Barbara Beach if it’s hot). Third Day: Furnas and the tea plantations if it’s cool or the southeast coast if it’s warm.

Where to Stay on Sao Miguel?

Ponta Delgada is the vibrant center of Sao Miguel.  Stay at least a couple nights in Ponta Delgada if you want to be near restaurants and nightlife.  If you’re going for more than a long weekend in the winter, stay a night or two in Furnas, a smaller, quieter, and quainter version of Ponta Delgada, which is the mecca for hot springs and has 2 great hotels.   Or stay near a beach in the summer.

Just note that it’s significantly busier, so expect higher rates and book a few months in advance for the best selection. Check out our more detailed guide on where to stay on Sao Miguel or our guide to luxury accommodations . 

*Get the key to $, $$, $$$ and $$$$ in the  Travel Honey Pricing Guide .

Azor Hotel ($$$) Enjoy amazing Ponta Delgada harbor views from the pool and your smartly decorated room at this large design hotel with a responsive 24 hour front desk.

Grand Hotel ($$$) Having recently undergone a full refurbishment, the Grand Hotel is cozy, filled with historical maritime pieces, and colored in hues of gold and olive green.  The indoor pool is tranquil and a great spot to relax. The indoor pool space is quiet and the walls are lined with wood (almost like a sauna).

Terra Nostra Garden Hotel ($$$) An elegant hotel in Furnas with an art deco feel set in beautiful gardens and a natural hot spring. There’s a very good restaurant onsite.

Furnas Boutique Hotel  ($$) A hip Design Hotel in Furnas with small but stylishly decorated rooms and a super helpful staff.  There are thermal pools and a trendy bar and restaurant on-site.

Minuvida Orchard Lodge ($$) Stay in charming rooms on a traditional Azorean orchard just 10 minutes north of Ponta Delgada. Relax by the pool, take a yoga class and eat a delicious locally sourced meal.

Azores Luxury Rentals Newly renovated luxury apartments steps from the city center and amazing restaurants. Enjoy high ceilings, local handmade tiles and furniture, volcanic arches and an an amazing garden filled with avocado, fig, and guava trees. Full disclosure: these apartments are owned by Travel Honey co-founder.

Casa das Palmeiras  ($$) This charming B&B in the heart of Ponta Delgada is in an old mansion with small but bright rooms, a wonderful breakfast and helpful staff

Out of the Blue ($) This chic hostel in Ponta Delgada center feels more like a boutique hotel. Enjoy the awesome backyard with the mostly younger crowd and super friendly staff.

Where to Eat in Sao Miguel

Many of the best restaurants are in Ponta Delgada , but you’ll find tasty food throughout the island.  At most places, you’ll need reservations for dinner during the summer or if it’s the weekend.  Check out the Travel Honey map included with the Sao Miguel Itinerary to see where the restaurants are located and additional suggestions. 

*Get the key to $, $$, $$$ and $$$$ in the   Travel Honey Pricing Guide .

Ponta Delgada

Otaka  Asian inspired restaurant with emphasis on seafood (solid selection of sashimi) in city center, Ponta Delgada. Order the tasting menu, dessert is divine.

Tasquinha Vieira Modern dishes in minimalistic interior in Ponta Delgada. Order the cheese plate while you enjoy the view into the kitchen. Legendary risottos and steaks.

A Tasca ($$) A happening tapas restaurant that’s popular with locals and tourists alike. 

Rotas da Ilha Verde ($$) A small, funky, super delicious vegetarian restaurant.

Mane Cigano   ($) A casual, local lunch favorite with communal seating.

Around Sao Miguel Island

Cais 20 ($$$) The view and amazing seafood is worth the slightly higher than normal price tag. Consider sharing the enormous dishes.

Restaurante da Associacao Agricola de Sao Miguel ($$) An upscale stylish steak restaurant that is popular with both locals and tourists.  

Quinta dos Sabores Restaurant   Artisanal culinary experience on a farm north of Ponta Delgada. Sit down for the prix fixe menu focused on local, seasonal ingredients.

Bar Caloura One of the best places to get seafood on the island and oh the ocean views! Rich cakes and fish that is still flapping. Located on Sao Miguel’s south coast.

Where to go at Night in Sao Miguel

If you want to go out, make sure you’re in Ponta Delgada on a weekend or before a holiday.  Things don’t get started 12am.   

Raiz Bar ($) Great for live music, bar doesn’t open until 10pm and goes late.

Arco 8  ($) A cool space in an old warehouse with an art gallery and occasional live music.

Tasca Do Mário  ($) Live Fado music on Wednesdays and Fridays.

Are Pico, Faial and Sao George the Best Azores island for you? 

The central islands of Pico, Faial, and Sao George are the Best Azores islands to visit if you want to visit more than one island but you don’t have a lot of time.  You can travel between islands on a ferry that lasts less than an hour.

Is Faial the best Azores island for You?

Since Faial is a common pit stop for those crossing the Atlantic, it’s the best Azores island if you love boats. The harbor In Horta is the hub of the island and the restaurants and hotels are more concentrated in one area than on Pico or Sao Jorge. So it’s one of the better islands if you want to be able to walk to a variety of restaurants.

Faial island also boasts awesome hikes and has a breathtaking caldera. Finally, there are two great beaches options. One of which, Praia Porto Mim, is walking distance from town.

Where to Stay on Faial Island? 

The hotel options in Faial are not super spectacular but we’ve listed some decent options. They are all near the harbor so  walkable to all restaurants and nightlife.

Pousada Forte da Horta ($$) One of the few hotels in Faial, the rooms are small and look better in person than on the website. The lobby is a little old school, but the view is spectacular and the staff are helpful. Ask for harbor view.

Marina Apartments ($$) These apartments have separate bedrooms and a kitchen, so they are a good option if you want a little more room.  

Casa da Baia   ($) A great, affordable option with small, clean, minimalist rooms.

Where to Eat and Go Out on Faial Island if it’s the best Azores island for you? 

The food in Faial is mostly traditional Portuguese with an emphasis on fresh seafood.  There’s often music on the weekends, but it’s hard to find during the week, especially if it’s not the summer.  At various establishments, look for a monthly pamphlet that lists local events.   The places to go out are also where you eat, so you’ll find them both below. If you stay in town, you can walk to everything.

Casa Teahouse & Bar  ($) Great sandwiches, soup, fresh juices, baked treats and a huge selection of tea. Sit outside in wonderful garden. There’s also live music, usually on the weekends.

Taberna de Pim ($)  A simple, affordable menu and great outdoor seating.  Service isn’t super fast, so expect a leisurely meal. One of the best views in Horta.

Is Pico the best Azores Island for you?

Pico is the best Azores island if you’re interested in climbing Mt. Pico, you’re more of a foodie or you prefer standalone more resort-like accommodations. But don’t go to Pico Island if you’re looking for a beach. There is one tiny beach, but you can enjoy some awesome salt water swimming pools built into the ocean. Accommodations are more spread out and there are a number of charming resorts with restaurants onsite. Check out the Travel Honey Pico Itinerary  for more details.

Where to Stay on Pico Island

Accommodation options are more spread out in Pico, and a number of small resorts have their own restaurants.  If you plan to stay for 4+ days, consider staying on different sides of the island.

Pocinho Bay ($$$) Amazing resort with free standing stylishly decorated bungalows made of volcanic rock. There is a pool overlooking the ocean and a delicious restaurant.

Alma do Pico ($$) A charming affordable resort with free standing bungalow rooms, a pool, wonderful views of Pico and the ocean, helpful owners and a tasty restaurant.

O Zimbreiro ($$) A small, serene guesthouse with a few different rooms, a pool with an awesome view and phenomenal food.  

Where to Eat on Pico Island?

 Sao Jorge Cella Bar  ($$) An architecturally beautiful restaurant and rooftop bar right on the ocean.

Atmosfera ($$) Awesome homemade pastas and great salads.

Casa Âncora ($$) A stylish restaurant designed by a famous Portuguese architect with fresh dishes.

Ancoradouro  ($$) The best prawns on the island. Water-views galore.

Taberna do Canal ($$) A small cozy restaurant in Madalena with authentic Portuguese dishes.

Caffe 5  ($$) Small casual spot with a mix of traditional and non-traditional fare like gyros, falafel and smoothies.

Is Sao Jorge the best Azores Island for You?

Sao Jorge is the Best Azores island for you if you want to get off the beaten path, but still have some decent decent accommodation options. You’ll find more traditional restaurants and no beaches, but plenty of hiking, often up or down the Sao Jorge’s steep cliffs. So it’s also one of the best Azores islands for more advanced hikers.

Sao Jorge’s biggest town is Velas. In Velas, you’ll find the biggest selection of accommodations and restaurants. But unlike in Faial, the majority of Sao Jorge’s hotels and accommodations are distributed throughout the island.

Where to Stay on Sao Jorge Island

Sao Jorge is not the best Azores island for luxury accommodations.There is only one traditional hotel on Sao Jorge island. It’s simple and clean, but not much to write home about. So we suggest you try these other options, which offer more thoughtful touches and higher quality lodging.

Quinta da Magnolia ($$) The closest to luxury resort you’ll find on Sao Jorge. This old Quinta has a lovely stone facade. Enjoy amazing views from the pool and a tasty breakfast.

Terr’Alta Vista ($$)A one bedroom house on the northeast coast of Sao Jorge. You’ll find a simple but stylish interior and a spectacular view.

Hotel os Moinhos ($$) A charming resort in an old stone facade Quinta. There are great views of the pool and it’s one of the few accommodation options with a restaurant on site (see Fornos de Lava below)

Intact Farm Resort ($) A small resort with cozy wooden bungalows with amazing views. A little east of Velas. The furnishings are basic, but large windows and lovely decks facing the ocean make up for it

Where to Eat on Sao Jorge Island

Restaurants on Sao Jorge island largely serve traditional Portuguese food.  And like most Azores Islands, Sao Jorge offers amazing beef and sea food. But Sao Jorge is the Azores island best known for its cheeses and clams. We’ve listed our favorite restaurants here.

Fornos de Lava ($$) A little pricier than most restaurants on Sao Jorge. But the amazing view, lovely ambiance and more creative food options make it worth the added expense. Diners can choose from a selection of sea food, meat and vegetarian options. But if you want something unique for the Azores, try their homemade sausage.

O Almicar ($-$$) Come for the amazing view and tasty clams. Service can be so so.

Cafe Nunes ($) Drink coffee from coffee beans grown on site. Claiming to be the only coffee plantation in Europe, this unique and friendly cafe is a fun experience. The coffee is tasty and they also offer light snacks.

Is Terceira the best Azores Island for You?

Terceira is known as the Best Azores Island for culture, and boasts many festivals over the summer. Check out our month-to-month comparison , which includes a summary of festivals and holidays each month in the Azores.

Terceira is also known for its lava caves and has a few direct flights from the U.S., which makes it an easy stopover.  Terceira has two beaches, including one in Angra do Heroísmo , a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Is Graciosa, Corvo, Flores or Santa Maria the Best Azores Islands for You?

Graciosa, Corvo, Flores and Santa Maria are smaller, less populated, harder to reach, and less visited islands.  So all four of these islands are the  best islands in the Azores if you want to go off the beaten path.

Is Graciosa the Best Azores Island for You?

Graciosa is the flattest of the Azores islands, so it’s the best island if you want to hike without hills! It also has a coastline that is conducive to diving. Including, interesting under water terrain and an abundance of marine life. You can also enjoy two small beaches.

Is Santa Maria the Best Azores Island for You?

Santa Maria is the third smallest and most southern island, so it’s the warmest and sunniest, and one of the few islands with white sandy beaches.  Santa Maria also has a famous blues festival in the summer.

Is Corvo the best Azores island for You?

Corvo is the smallest island with the fewest inhabitants (only 400!).  It’s known for its bird watching and because it’s so remote, much of the island’s traditions have been preserved.

Is Flores the Best Azores Island for You?

Flores looks the most like a tropical island with even greener and lush fauna and more frequent waterfalls than its neighbors.

Best Instagram Accounts for the Best Azores Island?

Gorgeous shots of the islands @discover_azores

Sky high views of the islands @iloveazores

How to Arrive to Your Best Azores Island?

Now that you’ve decided the best Azores Island for you, how do you get there?! International flights from the U.S. to the Azores are on Azores Airlines (also called by it’s former name, SATA).  The flights are cheap, but you get what you pay for in that the flights are often delayed and sometimes cancelled.  Be prepared.  UPDATE: Direct TAP flights start summer 2020 from Boston!

Before Covid, direct flights flew from Sao Miguel to Boston every day in the summer and less frequently in the winter. It was a 4.5 overnight flight there and a late afternoon flight back to Boston. In the summer, there are also direct flights from Providence (Sao Miguel) and Oakland (Terceira).  UPDATE: Azores Airlines has begun offering a free layover in the Azores on flights from the U.S. to Europe for up to 7 Days. Read more here .

The most frequent inter-island flights are from Sao Miguel to Faial, Pico and Terceira.  There are fewer flights to Sao Jorge and even fewer to the remaining islands. You can also get between islands by ferry.  The ferries from Sao Miguel to the other islands are long (4-14 hours) and typically run from mid-May to mid-September.  Faial, Sao Jorge and Pico are connected by short ferry rides as are Flores and Corvo.

How to Get Around Your Best Azores Island? 

Regardless of the Azores Island that you choose, we recommend renting a car in the Azores.  Rental cars are relatively inexpensive.  You’ll pay between 20-40 euros a day for a small manual, depending on the season.  You’ll tend to get better service and more flexible policies (like no charge for an extra driver) from the smaller rental companies.  We’ve had great experiences with Azores Easy Rent , which has a very customer centric approach.

There are public buses, but their schedules are limited, erratic and often not on time.  Taxis are expensive and there are no Ubers.  If you really don’t want to rent a car, the airports are generally close to the main towns (Ponta Delgada is about a 10 euro taxi ride) and you could rely on taxis and tours.

Need to Work While in the Azores?

Hopefully you’re able to get off the clock on your visit to the Azores, but if you can’t, check out unOffice . A cool co-working space in Ponta Delgada on São Miguel island.

The complete guide to the Azores Islands

By: Author Kris

Posted on Last updated: February 21, 2024

Are you traveling to the Azores islands and looking for the best places to visit on each island? You have come to the right place. 

The Azores islands are an archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean with nine inhabited islands. In 2019 we visited five, and we were so charmed by them that we will certainly return to visit the remaining four Azores islands.

You will read all about the Azores in this Azores blog post.

We will share where they are, the easiest way to get there, the best time to visit, and the best things to do on each of the Açores Islands. 

I can already tell you that the Azores are a great place to go hiking and whale watching, 

This post will allow you to choose which islands to visit when you’re going island hopping in the Azores. Be sure to read on.

There  is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Where are the Azores Islands

The islands of the Azores are located in the Atlantic Ocean between Europe and America.

Roughly measured they lie about halfway between these two continents. It is 1,360km from the Azores to Portugal, and 1,925km to Newfoundland in Canada.

This location in the middle of the ocean makes it a popular mooring spot for sailing yachts that cross the Atlantic.

Azores climate

The seasons in the Azores are in line with those in Europe.

The temperatures rise to about 20 degrees Celsius in spring. During the day, it is at least 16 degrees, at night it cools down to approximately 10 degrees. The amount of rain gradually decreases.

The Azores are a very green destination, which means there is a year-round chance of rain. Most of it falls in autumn and winter and to a lesser extent at the start of spring.

We went in June, and although we had one completely sodden day, we mostly enjoyed dry weather, although it did often threaten.

Spring is also a great time to visit as there are many festivals (festas) at that time.

When you arrive on an island, be sure to pass by the tourist information office to check whether there is something special during the days of your visit.

The summer is the high season in the Azores. It is thus the busiest period but you shouldn’t expect tourist crowds, the Azores aren’t that touristy yet. 

July and August are the driest months, and during the summer, the temperature rises to 25 degrees.

13 wonderful things to do in the Azores.

August and September are the best months if you would like to join the locals in the natural swimming pools. 

There were already a lot of people swimming in those pools in June but the chilly water stopped us from joining them.

In August and September, the ocean water has warmed to about 23 degrees.

From October, the temperature starts to fall, and there is more precipitation. The temperature drops to between 18 degrees during the day, and 12 degrees at night.

The amount of rain makes this period less suitable for  island hopping in the Azores.

The end of summer also marks the end of the ferry’s seasonal routes.

Off-season, there are only boats between São Jorge, Pico, and Faial, although the ferry service between Flores and Corvo also keeps going throughout the year.

Azores Airlines provides year-round flights between the islands, but there is an increasing chance that flights are canceled or delayed because of the fickle weather.

Is this your first trip to the Azores and do you feel a bit overwhelmed by the travel preparations?

Creating a fantastic itinerary for the Azores will be much easier and much more enjoyable with our Azores Travel Planner .

The islands are pretty dead during the winter. Some residents will even leave the islands and winter elsewhere.

Others remain on the islands, but they told us that the winter on the Azores is a long period of binge-watching Netflix, as there is nothing, absolutely zero, to do.

To us, it seems that this would be the most unpleasant time for a vacation on the Azores.

Best time to visit the Azores

The weather in the Azores is very unpredictable. You can have four seasons in one day. The best time to travel to the Azores is in the spring and summer .

We were here in June.  We had mostly covered but dry days.

There were a few clear and sunny days and only one sodden day. 

The natural swimming pools were still a bit cold, if you like to go swimming, it might be best to wait until summer. 

Here you can read our full post about the best time to visit the Azores.

How to get to the Azores

Unless you’re traveling on your own yacht, the only way to reach the Azores is by air. TAP and Azores Airlines serve several flights from continental Portugal.

There are flights from Lisbon to the Azores, as well as departures from Porto.

Most flights head to Ponta Delgada on São Miguel but some other islands are served directly as well.

Here we share the best tips on finding cheap flights.

The Azores islands are gaining popularity and this is reflected by an increasing number of direct flights from other countries.

There are direct flights from Boston and New York in the USA, from Toronto in Canada and several other locations in the UK and continental Europe.

In this post we share how to get to the Azores ( FREE flight included)

Going independent or joining an organized tour

We found it easy and straightforward to create our own travel itinerary.  It was also fairly easy to travel through the Azores independently. 

Here you can find our Azores itineraries.

• 3 weeks in the Azores
• 1 week in the Azores

But if you want the company of a group, don’t have the time to create your own itinerary, or just don’t want to go independent, you could also join an organized tour.

Tourradar is a trustworthy company where you can book an organized tour to the Azores to make it easy on yourself. 

If you are looking for an overview of the best guided  Azores tours , have a look at this post in which we share Azores hiking trips, Azores island hopping tours, whale watching tours, and more.

Where to stay in the Azores? 

You will find plenty of hotels in the Azores. From high-end hotels to ecolodge and small boutique hotels. In this itinerary, we mention per island where we stayed. 

Here we share a list of the best places to stay in the Azores.

If you prefer staying in an Airbnbs, have a look at our  Azores Airbnb post  in which we share the best Airbnbs on each island.

Renting a car in the Azores

The easiest way to discover the Azores is with a rental car.

We used Rental Cars and were quite happy with our choice. 

Here you can find all info about renting a car in the Azores

Do I need travel insurance for the Azores?

Travel Insurance is something that can be overlooked when you prepare for your vacation.  Certainly when you’re traveling to a safe and civilized country. 

We didn’t get travel insurance for our first vacation. 

A few years later we both took out new credit cards that came with travel insurance and relied on those.  We know better now…

Overall, chances are slim that you will encounter any problems while traveling through a civilized country such as the Azores. But when things go wrong in civilized countries, the medical costs can be high. 

We learned it the hard way when we once had to visit a hospital in the United States. 

The medical care was excellent but we had high out-of-pocket expenses as it turned out the insurance that came with our credit cards didn’t cover these costs.  It turned out we were underinsured.

Drawing up a travel insurance policy may seem expensive at first but it can potentially save you a significant sum, significantly more than the small insurance fee. 

Good travel insurance, such as the one from World Nomads, covers things like medical expenses, trip cancellation, overseas medical costs, evacuation, baggage damage or loss, and theft.

If you still need travel insurance, check out HeyMondo and SafetyWing. Both companies offer good insurance for a competitive price.

Now that we covered all practical things, let us find out which Azores Islands are worth visiting.

Spoiler alert, they all have something unique to offer.

Which Azores islands to visit

The Azores consist of nine inhabited islands.

There are also eight tiny uninhabited islands, but you can’t visit those

São Miguel is the largest and most visited island.

It is a shame that many limit their visit to São Miguel because we loved how each island had its own treasures and charming spots.

We find it very difficult to say what’s the best Azores island to visit.

Therefore we share all the details about the different Azores islands below.  So you can choose which Azores island you want to discover. 

If you are planning to go hiking, read our Azores hiking guide full of practical tips.

Pico is located in the central part of the Azores.

It is the second-largest island of the archipelago.

Characteristic of this island is the impressive eponymous volcano.

Its height of 2,351 meters also makes it Portugal’s highest mountain.

Pico means “peak” in Portuguese.

Things to do on Pico Island

Here are a few of the main attractions of Pico.

UNESCO wine tasting

There are very special vineyards on the Azores. The fields are divided into very small compartments by walls made of black lava stone. This gives the vineyards a very special appearance. So special, in fact, that it was designated as UNESCO World Heritage.

PR5PIC  is a wonderful walk that winds through these vineyards.

To learn more about the Azorean wine culture you can visit the wine museum where you can also taste the local wines.

Admission : Free on Sunday

Open : The hike can be done 24/7, consult the museum website for its opening hours

Find the Cachorro

The Azores are volcanic islands, the lava rocks of the jagged coastlines clearly show this. When you drive around the island, you’re sure to come across some beautiful vistas.

The Cachorro is a beautiful piece of coastline where the ocean has carved into the lava rock and created several caves and natural bridges.

Cachorro means “dog” in Portuguese. As you walk along this coastline you can try to spot a rock that has the shape of a dog.   We didn’t see it. Maybe you’ll have more success.

Admission : Free

Open : 24/7

Discover the Gruta das Torres

Lava streams created this cave as they sought a way to the surface.  It’s called a cave but it’s really more of a tunnel.

The tunnels are huge and the fact that they are made by seething hot rivers of lava only makes it more impressive.

You visit the Gruta das Torras with a guide.  The tour takes you through a number of larger and smaller tunnels.  As you make your way through the cave the guide will provide more information about the different types of lava that you pass.   I honestly had no idea there were so many different kinds.

Admission : 8 € (only cash)

Open : Check the website

Climb Mount Pico

Mount Pico towers over the island. If you like a challenge, you can climb this volcano.

It is a tough climb to the summit, and the descent is certainly not easier. If you keep a steady pace, you’ll be at the top in three hours. The descent takes another four hours.

The hike starts at the “ mountain house ”.

Everyone is obliged to register at the house before they start the climb. You need to pay a fee which is determined by how far you want to climb.

If you want to go all the way to the top, the so-called Pico Pequeno, it will cost €20.

You can climb individually or with a guide. The price for a guide is about €50 to €60 per person.

Hiking up and down the mountain on the same day may seem a bit daunting.  If you prefer to take it easy you can choose to stay overnight on top of the mountain.  You won’t find any 5-star resorts on the crater edge but there’s plenty of space to put up your tent.

Another amazing experience is climbing Pico at night. Here you can find more info about this experience.

It means you can take your time going up and down the mountain and, in addition, you will increase your chances of good weather and breathtaking pictures.  With good weather, you also not only enjoy great views but also a wonderful sunset and sunrise.

Check prices and availability: Climbing Pico overnight stay

Admire Pico in the mountain lakes

At the center of the island are some fantastic mountain lakes.

They are very photogenic on a bright day, especially the Lagoa do Capitão, which will show a clear reflection of the towering Pico volcano.

Whale watching on the Azores

You can go whale or dolphin watching from several of the islands.

The islands of Pico and São Miguel are most highly regarded in this respect.

Pico has a long history of whale hunting (see below), and the residents of this island are supposed to be very good at spotting them.

Two organizations in Pico organize whale watching tours. One leaves from Madalena, the other from Lajes do Pico.  Both claim that Pico is the best island to spot whales but that’s what you’d say about yourself anyway, wouldn’t you?

We planned a trip from Lajes do Pico, but at the briefing, they said there were no whales in the area, and as the weather was not great either, we postponed it to São Miguel. 

Check prices and availability: Pico whale watching tour

Here you can find all the info about whale watching tours.  We also share our honest opinion about the tour we took.

Visit the whaling museums

Whales have always been an important source of income in Pico.  Today in the form of whale watching tours but before this, the residents of Pico took to the sea to hunt these giants.

Pico has a long history of whaling. At the start, hunting whales was a real goldmine. Whaling went on until 1986, at which point there was no real money in it anymore. But, as there was no immediate alternative source of income available, the inhabitants kept up what they knew best until the formal EU ban was introduced.

Fortunately, they no longer kill the animals, but they still use the old methods to find them.

From the coast, some people scan the water looking for blows or anything else that may betray the presence of whales. Once they spot the animals, they pass the coordinates to the boats so they know where to go.

Pico counts two museums that provide more info about the time when whaling was still very common.

The museum in Lajes do Pico focuses on the hunt. The museum isn’t very large, but you can watch an interesting film which shows how they used to catch whales. You can also see different boats they used to follow the whales, as well as the other materials they utilized.

The museum in São Roque is housed in a former whaling factory and explains more about the processing of fat into whale oil.

Both museums are free on Sundays. We thought the museum in Lajes do Pico was more interesting. Especially the film is worth watching.

For a full list of amazing things to do in Pico, click here. 

Where to stay in Pico

Although it is the second-largest island of the archipelago, you don’t need more than an hour to cross the 42 km from Madalena in the west to Manhenha in the east. That makes it easy to pick your base camp. 

Although most things to do on Pico are in the western part, there is no need to worry too much as it will take you max an hour to reach them.

The locals say that there is a better chance of good weather in the east, so if that is something you value, go there for a place to stay.

Alma do Pico

We stayed at the Alma do Pico hotel , which is run by Italians who moved to Pico a few years ago.

You stay in detached houses that also have a separate kitchenette.

Although the houses are not far from the main house, it feels like you are in the middle of nature.

When the weather is nice you can enjoy a beautiful view of Pico mountain.

Check prices and availability: Booking.com

Three days is plenty to explore Pico, even if you want to climb Mount Pico.

Terceira Island

Terceira is the third largest island and is also centrally located in the Azores.

In the high season, you can get here by ferry, but outside of that, you need to take an Azores Airlines flight.

Things to do on Terceira

Find out here what you can do on Terceira.

Admire the views from Serra Do Cume

Rarely do you see such a succession of colorful fields.

This viewpoint offers you a panoramic view of the undulating interior of Terceira.

Descend in Algor do Carvão

Algor do Carvão is one of the most beautiful caves we have ever seen. As you can guess, this is also the work of a volcano. The entrance to the cave is already spectacular, but it’s the lake at the bottom that really did it for us.

Every year a few concerts are organized in the cave because the acoustics are excellent. This is thanks to the porous lava stones which remove all echo. 

You can explore the cave at your own pace during the opening hours. There are two people inside the cave who regularly provide information, and can answer any questions you may have.

Admission : 8 € 

Open : daily from 2 PM

A combination ticket with Gruta do Natal costs €12. The Gruta do Natal is not a real cave, but rather a lava tunnel. It is less spectacular than the Algar do Carvão, but it is impressive to see the immense tunnels the lava has created.

Go exploring in Gruta do Natal

The Gruta do Natal has a somewhat misleading name as it is not actually a cave, but a lava tunnel. 

You visit the tunnel by yourself and follow a set route. It will take you through both large and small tunnels. En route, you will see different types of lava and there are some explanatory signs that give more details about what you see.

Admission : €8.

A combination ticket with Algor do Carvão costs €12.

Look for fairies in Furnas do Enxofre

Halfway between Algor do Carvão and Gruto do Natal lies Furnas do Enxofre, a fumarole field where you can clearly notice the volcanic activity.

The soil is warm, up to 95°C in some places, and sulfurous gases whirl upward from small craters in the earth’s crust.

The sulfurous vapors give the are a mystical atmosphere, and the colorful mosses that grow around the craters make the area look like a fairy tale.

You would think that every moment fairies could come out of the cracks in the soil.

Wander through Angra do Heroísmo

The ancient capital of the Azores is now recognized as World Heritage by UNESCO. When you walk through the narrow streets, you can marvel at the well-preserved colorful facades of the historic buildings.

This is one of the prettiest  small towns in Portugal. 

The two forts in the charming city also played an important role in the recognition by UNESCO. One fort is in the city itself. The second fortress, São João Baptista, can be found on the Monte Brasil, an extinct volcano that forms the peninsula of the city.

During sunny days, the peninsula attracts many visitors who come to hike, picnic or relax in this green environment

Go swimming in Biscoitos

All islands have loads of natural swimming pools but none of them come close to the ones at Biscoitos. They’re the most extensive ones in terms of facilities and probably also in size.

The pool features a bar, changing rooms, and several food outlets.

There was even a lifeguard on duty when we were there.

We went to the pool on a sunny day and there was a pleasant hustle and bustle.

Biscoitos is certainly recommended if you would like to enjoy a swim in a natural swimming pool.

Stroll along the Mistérios Negros

We did many hikes in the Azores.  Off all the walks we did PRC1TER was one of the best.

This walking trail starts at Lagoa do Negro, at the entrance of the Gruta do Natal. It is a five-kilometer loop through a forested area.  You also pass some lagoons and the Mistérios Negros, black lava mountains.

As you approach the end you can make a sidestep and climb the Pico Gaspar to enjoy a beautiful view.

If you are looking for more amazing things to do in Terceira, click here.

Hotels on Terceira

The alluar lodge.

The ALLuar Lodge is located in Porto Judeu. 

You stay in small but comfortable bungalows that overlook the ocean and the Ilhéus das Cabras. 

Breakfast is served in a charming breakfast basket.  Every morning we enjoyed our breakfast overlooking the pool which was an excellent way to start the day.

There’re a few restaurant options near the hotel but not a lot.  If you want to stay here we really advise hiring a rental car.

This is a great location for those looking for a relaxed stay.

We really loved Terceira, the highlights were definitely the many sights related to the volcanic activity that once shaped this island. 

• Three days is sufficient to see the major spots of Terceira.
• Make sure to visit the Algor do Carvão cave. We thought this was one of the absolute highlights of the Azores.

The best things to see in the Azores

Faial Island

Faial is another beautiful island in the center of the Azores.  

It is about 30 minutes by boat from Pico. There are daily ferry connections between Horta on Faial and Madalena on Pico.

On clear days, you have a nice view of Mount Pico from Faial.

Things to do on Faial

Admire the caldeira from the highest point of faial.

The Caldeira is both literally and figuratively the highlight of your visit to Faial.  The crater sits in the center of the island and towers above everything else.

He is about 1000 meters high, and the top is often shrouded in the clouds.

We went up on both a sunny and cloudy day and that makes a world of difference.  

The hike that leads you around the crater is a must-do but only on a sunny day.  

If it does not look like you will have good days, you can also drive to the viewing point at the edge of the crater.  It was an impressive view to see how the clouds first dropped into the crater on one side to then gradually glide over the edge at the opposite side.

Visit the lunar landscape of Capelinhos

This region offers a stark contrast with the lush rainforest that covers the remainder of the island.  This desolate moon landscape was created by a volcanic eruption.  The only building that survived the eruption was the lighthouse which now lonely towers above the region.

It is free to visit the area. Beneath the surface hides a futuristic visitor center that could well be copied straight from an old James Bond movie.

The visitor center houses a museum which gives you more information about the eruption and its consequences. The entrance to the lighthouse is also inside the visitor center.

Admission : Adults : € 10 / Children 7-14 and seniors 65+ : € 5 /

Open : The region can be visited 24/7.  The visitor center has the following opening hours: 1 November to 31 March Monday : closed / Tuesday – Friday : 10 AM – 5 PM / Weekend : 2 PM – 5h30 PM

1 April to 31 October Everyday: 10 AM – 6 PM 

Go bird watching at Morro de Castelo Branco

This peninsula is home to many different bird species.

A trail leads down from the primary road to this rock formation along the coast. 

The trail takes about 2 hours.

If you don’t have so much time you can also take your car, there’s a parking lot at the coastline.

It is a lovely spot to relax, gather your thoughts, and have some lunch.

Admission : free

Relax at Praia do Almoxarife

This black lava beach was one of the best we came across.

When the weather is nice, Mount Pico provides a great view while you can relax and listen to the sounds of the ocean.

Admire the boats and the mural paintings at Horta marina

The marina at Horta has always been the most popular of the Azores marinas. Throughout history, sailors crossing the Atlantic Ocean stopped here to break up the journey.

Stopping here used to be crucial to gather the latest weather forecasts. These days the weather forecasts are sent electronically but the harbor has retained its charm as a nice spot for some rest and recreation.

Sailors who stop at the harbor leave mural paintings with the name of their ship and their occupants on the breakwater or the jetties.  This is an old tradition that still continues up to today.  It makes for a very colorful place to visit.

Peter’s Café Sport is also located near the marina.

The cafe is nearly legendary among the sailors visiting the island, and this has been very profitable for the owners.

The original cafe was a modest townhouse on the dike. Now they own nearly the whole of the dike behind the marina. 

Besides the pub, they have a museum and they offer excursions.

The cafe itself is decorated with flags and other presents from the sailors that passed through here.

The pub is supposed to have some good food options on the menu but you better make reservations if you want to get a chance at trying them.

Get a tan in Porto Pim

Bordering Horta on the south-side is this picturesque bay with a very photogenic black sandy beach.

This is the most popular beach on the island.

It has all the facilities and it is within walking distance of Horta.

Best beaches on the Azores

Admire the view from Monte da Guia

Monte da Guia lies beside Porto Pim.

From here you have a great view of Porto Pim and Horta from the top of this mountain.

A former whaling factory at the foot of Monte da Guia has been transformed into a museum about whaling.

Enjoy the view from the Espalamaca lookout

This lookout offers a great view of Horta on one side, and you can see the beach of Almoxarife on the other side.

If you are looking for more amazing things to do on Faial, click here.

Hotels on Faial

It’s best to book a hotel in or at least nearby Horta.  This is the only city worth mentioning and the only location on the island where you have a choice of pubs and restaurants.

Lofts Azul Pastel

We stayed in Lofts Azul Pastel.   The hotel is slightly outside Horta. 

We had a spacious room with a sitting area and kitchenette. From our room, we could see the Caldeira on one side and the ocean on the other side. 

The restaurant had several cheap food options and was always crowded for lunch and dinner.

A great place to stay, not too far from Horta.

We really enjoyed the rugged landscape of Faial.

Especially the hike around the Caldeira and the rocky landscape of the Capelinhos are highly recommended.

Two to three days are perfect to discover Faial Island.

Here you can find more fun things to do on Faial island.

São Jorge Island

This long and narrow island is also part of the central islands of the Azores. It lies at about one-and-a-half hours by boat from Pico Island.

The north side of the island is characterized by rugged, steep mountainsides, which means that the largest cities if you can call them that way, are all located on the south side of the island.

Things to do on São Jorge

These are the best things to do in São Jorge.

Go bird watching in Fajã dos Cubres and Fajã da Caldeira de Santa Cristo

There are several lagoons on the north coast. It is a paradise for birdwatchers, but these serene locations are also great for just unwinding.

You can reach Fajã dos Cubres by car.

Getting to Fajã da Caldeira requires a bit more effort as it is only accessible on foot. This fajã is the only place in the Azores where they grow cockles. You can taste them in some of the restaurants on the island. For an overview of the best restaurants in São Jorge, click here.

The  PR1SJO trail  starts on the mountain ridge of Serra de Topo, and leads you past Fajã da Caldeira before ending at Fajã dos Cubres.

Taste some cheese

Besides the cockles, São Jorge is also famous because of its cheese. Belgians once started producing cheese near Topo. Nowadays, many different varieties are made.

You can order a cheese plate as an aperitif in most restaurants, and you’ll undoubtedly find this local specialty at the breakfast buffet in your hotel.

Swim in Fajã do Ouvidor

There is no shortage of natural swimming pools in the Azores, but this one at Fajã do Ouvidor is particularly nice because of its great location.

It has showers and toilets.

Bird watching on Ilhéu do Topo

Ilhéu do Topo lies off the coast at the eastern point of the island. This is a small island where you can spot a lot of seabirds.

It also has a beautiful natural swimming pool.

Hotels on São Jorge

We recommend staying in a hotel in Velas or Calheta or somewhere in between these two cities.

Make it happen farm

This accommodation is located on an organic farm and consists of 6 detached bungalows. 

The main house has a shared living area and a luxurious well-equipped kitchen.

Guests are free to pick everything on the farm and use it to prepare lunch or dinner in the kitchen or on the barbecue. 

There is no real breakfast provided but there is home-made bread and home-made jam available and you can also bake an egg.

Thanks to the shared kitchen and living area this is a great place for those who want to socialize with other travelers.

• You can see the highlights of São Jorge in two days.  There are some great hikes so if you’re into hiking you can also easily spend 3 days on the island.
• Our personal highlight of this island was its lagoons. 

São Miguel Island

São Miguel is the largest island and the most beautiful according to many.

I find it hard to choose, so I’ll leave that up to you. 

What I can say with certainty is that São Miguel is the island that attracts the most tourists. 

São Miguel also has hot springs , which you won’t find on the other islands, which is a great reason to make sure you do not miss São Miguel.

Things do on on São Miguel

Admire the crater lake of lagoa do fogo.

This beautiful crater lake is the highest on the island. We visited it at sunset on a clear day, and the glow of the setting sun made it a breathtakingly beautiful scene.

There’s a viewpoint that you can reach by car. 

It’s high up above the lake on the crater’s edge.

There’s also a hike which takes you to the lakeside from where you can walk around the lake.  This hike  starts near Praia.

If you are looking for more amazing São Miguel hikes, click here.

Enjoy the view of Sete Cidades

The image of the two-colored twin lakes is the most popular image of São Miguel, and by extension probably the entire Azores.

If you haven’t seen this, you haven’t really been to the Azores.

You’re best off visiting these viewpoints when the weather allows it. If the weather isn’t great, you’ll have your head in the clouds, and there’ll be nothing to see.

The website  http://www.spotazores.com  lists a raft of webcams, including one that shows images of the Sete Cidades. You can check beforehand whether it is worthwhile driving to the top.

There are two viewpoints worth visiting.

Vista do Rei

This spectacular viewpoint lies alongside the road.

You’ll also find the abandoned Monte Palace hotel here.

The owner thought this was a fantastic spot for a hotel, but apparently, his spatial planning was better than his financial planning as the hotel went bankrupt after a year.

The building has been empty for over 25 years, but apparently, there’s now a new owner who’s ready to give the building a new lease on life.

Boca do Inferno

While the views from Vista do Rei are already outstanding, they can’t compare with what you will see from Boca do Inferno. You don’t only see the lakes from this viewpoint, you can also see the ocean.

The viewpoint isn’t signposted, but it is not hard to find.

You head to Lagoa do Canário. You can stop in the car park along the main road, but you can also take your car down a dirt road opposite the car park until this road eventually terminates in another small car park.

It is a 10 to 15-minute walk from the main road to this car park at the end of the dirt road.  From here, steps lead up to the viewpoint.

Tea tasting at Chá Gorreana

The climate of the Azores is particularly suited for growing tea.  That you’re also a long way from the polluting industry of the mainland won’t harm either.

At 32 acres, the tea plantation is relatively small. Everything here is small-scale and the thee is really produced by loving hands. 

You can freely walk around the plantation, you’re even free to roam into the tea factory where you can observe the manual process.

You end your visit in the cafe where you can taste the tea and have some ice cream.

We personally really liked the green tea.

Go dolphin and whale watching

The Azores are the place to be to see the largest mammals on earth. Here you can spot whales all year round.

Some species stay around. Some other species are only around for certain months of the year when their migration brings them past the Azores.

The world’s largest whale, the blue whale, can be seen between February and April.

There are viewpoints on the island from where you can spot the whales, but if you want to see a whale up close, it is recommended you book an organized tour.

The organizations work with professional spotters and have the equipment to locate the animals.

The tours are canceled if the weather is bad. Due to the unpredictable weather in the Azores, we advise you not to wait until the last day to book a tour.

Check prices and availability: Overview Whale watching tours

Here you can read the review of the whale watching tour we booked. 

Take a bath in Caldeira Velha

Caldeira Velha is a collection of natural hot water springs nestled amidst the tropical vegetation on the hills of the Água de Pau stratovolcanic complex.

In the middle of the jungle-like nature, you can relax in the hot water while looking out on a waterfall.

It sounds really good, but unfortunately, they’ve become a victim of their own success.

We passed by here three times at different hours of the day, and it was incredibly busy every time.

As a busy pool full of other tourists is not our idea of relaxation, we went for a dive in the Terra Nostra baths in Furnas instead.

If you are planning to go to Caldeira Velha, it is easily combined with a visit to Lagoa do Fogo.

Discover Furnas

Furnas has a lot to offer. Therefore we recommend you stay here for at least a few days if you can.

First, there is the Lagoa das Furnas, a beautiful, stretched crater lake. Beside the lake is the Caldeiras da Lagoa das Furnas. This is where they prepare the local specialty Cozida das Furnas in pits in the gound.

You can taste this dish in several of the restaurants in town, but you need to order it in advance.

Furnas is known for its thermal baths. When you’re here you certainly have to test the pools heated with water coming from the natural hot springs.

There are several options. The ultimate comfort is to stay in a thermal spa hotel, such as the excellent Furnas Boutique Hotel . Not cheap, but we definitely think it was worth it.

Another option is to visit one of the public baths.  You have the Poça da Dona Beija and the baths in the Parque Terra Nostra.

The Parque Terra Nostra is a beautiful park where you can enjoy a wonderful walk before or after your bath.

There wouldn’t be any thermal baths if there wouldn’t be any volcanic activity.  Right outside Furnas, you can view a number of other geysers, the Recinto das Caldeiras.

To find them you can go by the white sulfur fumes and the sulfur smell.

For a wonderful view of Furnas, be sure to stop at Pico do Ferro.

We wrote a complete post about the best São Miguel and Azores hot springs. 

Walk to the Lagoa do Congro 

This is a small, but no less beautiful, lake that lies hidden in the deep forests of São Miguel.

Visit the rugged Nordeste

The village of Nordeste doesn’t have much to offer in itself, but it is situated in one of the most pristine and rugged nature areas of the island. You immediately notice this by the number of bends in the road as you’re making your way to the north-eastern coast.

The east coast of the island has two wonderful viewpoints, Ponta Da Sossega, and Ponta da Madrugada.

We will have to rely on what others say about this place, as the weather was dreadful and rainy when we were here.

So we didn’t get to enjoy the view, but we can tell you that the viewpoints themselves were very nicely landscaped.

If you are looking for an overview of the best things to do in Nordeste, Azores.

Go sunbathing at Mosteiros

There is a nice beach at Mosteiros in the northwest of São Miguel.

The horizon is dominated by rugged rocks that create a wonderful view when you’re sunbathing and these rocks make the sunset particularly special.

For more  São Miguel beaches, click here.

Hunt for waterfalls

Do you know the feeling of how a waterfall can completely take your breath away?

If so, São Miguel has everything your heart desires. There are several picturesque waterfalls waiting to be discovered.

Some of them are just next to the road. Others lie in the middle of lush nature and are the cherry on top of the cake of an already wonderful walk.

Here are a few beautiful waterfalls:

Cascata de Moinhos (Porto Formoso)

Our number 1 was this waterfall near the beach of Moinhos. We don’t actually know what it is called, so we called it after the nearby village.

There is no signpost, which adds to the charm, as it is not yet discovered by tourists. We were completely alone, and that gave us an opportunity to splash into the water, a unique experience!

Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeirões

It is not hard to find the park, as the entrance is marked by a beautiful waterfall right next to the road.

However, this is only one of three waterfalls inside this park. So if you have time, park the car, put on your hiking boots, and go see the other two cascades.

Salto do Prego

The Salto do Prego lies hidden in the woods, but the road there is nearly as pretty as the waterfall itself.

Another positive point is that the trail is a loop.

On the way back, you pass the fairytale abandoned village of Sanguinho, after which you are treated to a spectacular view of Faial da Terra, where the trail starts and ends.

Most definitely recommended.

Salto do Cabrito

This is a beautiful and well-known waterfall.

We were lucky to have the place to ourselves for the first minutes of our visit.   Afterward, there was a constant flow of tourists coming and going.  

The charm of this waterfall is somewhat diminished by the power station located at the foot of it.

In short, it is worthwhile to take a detour, but we prefer the other waterfalls on this list.

Here you can find our complete São Miguel itinerary for 3-7 days.

Hotels on São Miguel

We stayed in Furnas for the whole week, but we don’t recommend this.

As São Miguel is quite large, it takes about 90 minutes to drive from one side to the other, we suggest you split your stay between Furnas and Ponta Delgada.

In Furnas, you can relax in the hot water baths and it is a great base to explore the rough east coast of the island.

Ponta Delgada offers a wider choice of restaurants and is better positioned to visit other parts of the island.

If you are looking for great Ponta Delgada Airbnbs, click here . If you prefer hotels, take a look at our suggestions below.

Furnas Boutique Hotel

We stayed in the Furnas Boutique hotel . 

The rooms are nicely decorated and spacious.

You start the day with a delicious breakfast on the pleasant terrace.  After a long day, you can relax in the hotel thermal pools, the sauna, and the steam bath. 

The restaurant’s menu is rather limited but they have some delicious options.  It’s not just us who think so, as you can see by the excellent reviews on TripAdvisor .

Casa do Contador

Casa do Contador is right in the center of Ponta Delgada. 

From the hotel, it’s only a 10-minute walk to the boardwalk where you can enjoy drinks or snacks in one of the many trendy bars. 

All rooms come with a small kitchenette. 

Helpful and friendly staff

You can easily spend 5 to 7 days on São Miguel.

Be sure to visit Sete Cidades, the crater lake at Lagoa do Fogo, and the town of Furnas.

São Miguel is also the perfect place to spot whales if you have not done this elsewhere.

If you prefer visiting São Miguel with a guided tour, have a look at this blog post in which we share the best São Miguel tours.

The next islands we didn’t visit during our first visit to the Azores. You always have to choose and we decided to keep these for a future visit.

Was it the right choice? Or the wrong one? That is, of course, hard to say if you haven’t been there.

After all the beautiful things we saw on the other islands, we are planning to go back and visit these four islands.

So until that time, here is some information we found when we were planning our trip.

Flores Island

Flores is one of the smaller islands in the west of the archipelago. From what we have read about it, and from what the inhabitants of the other islands tell us, it is a green, undisturbed oasis.

We already said the same about the other islands, but apparently, Flores is even purer than what we’ve already seen.

In the high season, you can take the ferry from Faial to Flores. The trip takes several hours. There are flights to Flores throughout the year. They are regularly delayed and are canceled in case of bad weather.

Take this into consideration when you are traveling to Flores.

The highlight of this island is the Poço de Bacalhau, where you can swim at the foot of a 90-meter high waterfall.

The waterfalls at Ribeira Grande, which you see in the photograph above, are also impressive and another sight you don’t want to miss is the 7 splendid crater lakes at Sete Lagoas.

The island is a paradise for walkers, and bird spotters can find a large variety of local as well as migratory birds here.

Sporty people can enjoy canyoning, tours are organized for novices as well as for those that have done it before.

Hotels in Flores

There are not many hotels on Flores and the few hotels that are there are quickly fully booked.

Do not postpone your booking for too long.

Aldeia da Cuada

You stay in cozy houses with a view of the sea.

The hotel offers a nice breakfast and is run by very friendly staff.

The restaurant offers delicious meals.

Corvo Island

Corvo is Flores Island’s little brother. The island is as big as a needle head and it is nearly unknown to tourists.

Corvo is connected to Flores by ferry throughout the year, and although the island is tiny, it has its own airport.

The 720-meter high Caldeirão dominates the island. Only a small part of the island is relatively level, formed by the lava from the last eruption, and this is where the city of Corvo is located.

You have a great view of the island from the top of Caldeirão. You can also walk around the crater.

A boat trip around the island is also something we recommend. There are many sea birds, and if you’re lucky there will be some dolphins and whales too.  But even without these animals, the trip is still worth it to see the spectacular coastline with the steep cliffs

Corvo is the best island for bird watching. There is a bird interpretative center as well as a bird sanctuary.

Hotels on Corvo

The whole island has only around 400 inhabitants and about 48 beds for tourists. Don’t wait too long to book your accommodation, I only found 2 hotels on Booking.com.

Joe &Vera’s Vintage Place

This is a cheap place to stay in the center of Corvo.  It’s also only a 10-minute walk to the airport. 

The hostess is very hospitable and speaks fluent English.

The Pirates’ Nest

The Pirates’ Nest offers basic but clean rooms with a wonderful view overlooking the ocean. 

The host is very warm and friendly.

Graciosa Island

Graciosa is part of the central group of islands of the Azores.

In the high season, the ferry connects it to São Jorge and Terceira. In the low season, you can only reach it by air with flights from Azores Airlines.

There are many traces of volcanic activity on Graciosa, such as the Furna Do Enxorfre, a volcanic cave with a 130-meter-diameter lake at the bottom.

You can also find a thermal bath in Carapacho. You can first warm-up in the inside pool and then dive into the ocean water in the outside pool.

Like the other islands, the highest point is formed by an impressive Caldeira. An easy 11-kilometer hike you can visit Furna Do Enxofre and this Caldeira.

In the north of the island lies the Ponta da Barca, the highest lighthouse of the Azores. From here you have a wonderful view of the Ilhéu da Baleia, a rock in the shape of a whale.

Hotels on Graciosa

Graciosa hotel.

The Graciosa hotel is a modern and comfortable design hotel. 

It’s located along the coast with easy access to a beach but not too far from the center of Santa Cruz da Graciosa.

The hotel has a good kitchen and offers an excellent breakfast to start the day.  The hotel’s swimming pool is a lovely place to relax.

Santa Maria Island

Santa Maria is the eastern-most island of the Azores. It is one of the smaller islands, but it still has a lot to offer.

It is the only island in the Azores that has two white sandy beaches. It makes these beaches, São Lourenço and Praia Formosa, very popular. 

You won’t have to fight for a spot on the beach though, there’s no mass tourism, it mainly attracts the inhabitants of the other islands of the Azores.

Because of its location and the better climate, the island is also perfectly suited for all sorts of water sports. You can go windsurfing and sailing, but there are also underwater activities on offer. Diving is one of them, and if you want something different, you can go spearfishing.

The other thing that no doubt contributes to the success of the aforementioned beaches is the warmer climate.

The climate on Santa Maria is considerably dryer and warmer than on the other islands.

To that extent that it even has a bit of desert. Although technically, it’s not really a desert, its picturesquely red and barren landscape is nicknamed “the red desert”.

The nearly vertical rock formation with accompanying waterfall, Ribeira de Maloás, is likely the most spectacular view of the island.

Hotels in Santa Maria

Charming blue.

The Charming Blue hotel is a well-located and nicely decorated hotel. It has super friendly staff.

The hotel has pleasant rooms and an excellent restaurant. 

After a busy day, you can take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool.

A good choice for Santa Maria.

We were extremely charmed by the Acores islands. It is close to home, and yet you arrive in a different world.

One knows no stress on these islands. Everything here is “calmamente” and with this much nature around, there is no escaping the holiday mood.

Yet we’re not ones to sit down, not even on our holidays. We did not have time for that either on the Azores. It was easy to fill every day with walks or visits to one of the many beautiful locations.

In short, this is a great destination for an active nature holiday. We will be going back to explore the other islands.

In our Azores travel guide , you can find all our Azores posts.

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• Solar Eclipse 2024

Helpful Tips for Planning Your Solar Eclipse Trip

T here are few natural phenomena that can evoke the same emotion of a solar eclipse . Around the world, myths and legends have developed to explain the rare event, which happens when the shadow of the moon blocks the light from the sun, causing a period of temporary darkness in the middle of the day. In ancient China, eclipses were said to signal that the sun was being devoured by a dragon, while in South America, subjects of the Inca Empire believed it signaled the sun god’s anger at the world.

On April 8, 2024, those in Canada, the U.S., and Mexico will have the opportunity to view a total solar eclipse for themselves. TIME spoke to veteran solar eclipse travelers for tips, so that anyone planning a solar eclipse trip can get the most out of the experience.

What to consider before you embark on a solar eclipse trip  

Travel to the path of totality.

Most places on the eclipse path will only be able to experience a partial solar eclipse, where the sun is not completely covered by the moon. Many people assume that might be enough, but to really experience what a solar eclipse feels like, you should travel to the path of totality, where the sun is 100% covered. “A partial eclipse is not an eclipse. It really does not come close. You need to be in the path of totality to really experience it,” Paul Bryans, a project scientist at the National Center for Atmospheric Research, tells TIME.

To check if a location is in the line of totality, you can use this map . Places within the line of totality are shaded in the darkest shade of red.

Read More: How Cities Around the U.S. Are Celebrating the Eclipse

Weather conditions

Another thing to think about when considering where to travel for a solar eclipse is the weather conditions in different places along the line of totality. You might not get the full experience if it is cloudy outside. When there are clouds blocking the sun and the moon, the eclipse effects are much less dramatic. 

One way to avoid this problem is to choose a place along the line of totality with a high chance of sunny weather. For the eclipse in 2024, many of the places with the highest expected chances of sunny weather are in Mexico. If you would rather stay in the U.S. for the duration of the eclipse, many places in Texas are also expected to have good weather conditions. As a general rule for the 2024 eclipse, the further south along the eclipse line you go, the better your chances of good weather. “When you get to the northern parts, you have a much higher possibility of being disappointed,” Brian McGee, founder of Astro Trails , a company that leads solar eclipse tours, tells TIME.

Book accommodations and tickets in advance

Every expert TIME spoke with warned about how quickly accommodations and travel tickets sell out in places where the eclipse will happen. You can expect Airbnbs and hotel prices to go up dramatically for dates close to or during the eclipse. Transportation may also take way longer than usual. Traffic jams caused by tourists flocking into cities to catch the solar eclipse might make your travel time significantly longer so you should plan accordingly. During the 2017 solar eclipse, major traffic jams were recorded in Wyoming and Kentucky . The streets did not return to normal until approximately nine hours after the eclipse ended.

Whatever you do, make sure to arrive at your destination several hours before the eclipse starts. “It's going to be crazy on the day of the eclipse. So my advice to people is if they're going to travel, either by car or by airplane, do it early. Don't leave it until Monday, April 8,” John Gianforte, director of the observatory at the University of New Hampshire, tells TIME.

Read More : How Animals and Nature React to an Eclipse

What to consider during your solar eclipse trip

Protect your eyes.

During the build up towards the solar eclipse, many people like to observe the sun to watch as the moon slowly covers more and more of it. However, if you want to view this period of partial eclipse, it is critical to use proper eye protection. “The fact that there is an eclipse doesn't make it any more dangerous to look at the sun, but it makes people want to look at the sun,” says Gianforte. 

Regular sunglasses do not provide enough protection for observing the eclipse, but the American Astronomical Society has a list of eclipse eye protection suppliers that meet the international safety standards. If you already wear eyeglasses, make sure the solar filter is placed on the outside of your glasses. Similarly, if you are viewing the partial eclipse through a camera, you need to make sure there is a certified solar filter on top of your camera lens. These filters are designed to protect your camera and your eyes from the dangerous portions of the sun's radiation. Whatever lens you view the eclipse through, “the closest thing to the sun has to be the filter,” says Gianforte.

During totality, remove eye protection

A common misconception about solar eclipses is that you must keep your solar protection glasses on at all times. However, if you are in the path of totality and the sun is 100% covered by the moon, you can look directly at the eclipse without eye protection. The eclipse veterans TIME spoke with strongly recommended removing solar protection from both your eyes and camera equipment during the period of totality to truly take in the experience. “Once there's totality then you should absolutely take your glasses off and look directly at the sun,” says Bryans. “If you don’t do that you’ll miss a lot of the most interesting parts of it.” 

However, it is important to remember that for the 2024 eclipse, the period of totality will last for a maximum of four and a half minutes according to NASA . Make sure to check the exact timing of totality in the place where you are viewing the eclipse from, and immediately resume using solar filters right before the period of totality ends.

Read More : These Are All the Different Types of Eclipses

Observe your surroundings

One of the most fascinating things to observe during an eclipse is not just the eclipse itself, but also the way the environment around you changes. During the period of totality, you’ll be able to feel the temperature drop by about 10°F. Animals such as birds, cats, and dogs, may start to act differently as they grapple with the confusion of the sun suddenly disappearing in the middle of the day. You may even be able to see some brighter stars and planets when you look at the sky once the sun is covered up. 

What to consider after your solar eclipse trip

Journal about your experience.

After the eclipse, you may want to journal about your thoughts and feelings to help remember the experience and take in the beauty of what you just witnessed. Seeing an eclipse can sometimes cause people to feel overwhelmed with emotion, and journaling can be a good way to process those feelings. “It’s one of the most emotion-evoking natural events that you can see,” says Gianforte. “It’s like if you go to the Grand Canyon or Mount Everest… it's just hard to explain it. Everyone should, at least once in their life, see a total solar eclipse.”

Wait until the next day to travel back, if possible

Just as you may anticipate traffic jams on the way there, you should also expect similar delays on the way back. It’s a good idea to hang around an extra day since it could help you avoid congestion on the roads. 

More Must-Reads From TIME

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Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.