best islands to visit in the azores

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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.

Which Islands to Visit in Azores?

Deciding which are the best islands to visit in Azores? Confused about which ones to go and how to get around? Let me give you a hand and save you some precious time planning with my tips and itineraries I’ve crafted.

Any local would say all the islands in Azores are beautiful, each in its own way. That’s not a lie, the highlights and landscapes across each island are vastly different.

However, from a visitor point of view, some of them are indeed more interesting than others. No shade. Just being honest here.

This article will give you an overview of what each island is Azores is all about so you can decide which ones to visit.

I’ve also included sample first-time itineraries with several different durations: 7, 10, 14 and 21-day trips.No need to read extensive guides or spend days of planning.

Where are the Azores?

First of all, a quick intro. The Azores are a Portuguese group of 9 islands in the North Atlantic Ocean. They’re mostly known for its raw natural scenery and untouched landscapes of lakes, waterfalls, and green meadows.

You can get to Azores flying directly from mainland Portugal , United States, Canada, or a few other European countries like Germany, Sweden or the UK.

If it’s your first time visiting, I strongly recommend reading my intro guide to Azores as well as the main things you should know before your trip .

One of them is that getting around the islands can be costly and time-consuming .

It’s essential to plan efficiently and avoid FOMO (fear of missing out). If you’re always on the go rushing from point A to point B, it won’t be nearly as rewarding, trust me. Part of the true Azores experience is being able to chill and have time to take it all in.

What is the best island to visit in the Azores?

9 islands of Azores have an incredible range of stunning landscapes with a wide array of outdoor activities and things to do , so I highly recommend you visit at least 2-3 of them to have a good grasp of life in the islands.

That said, if your time is limited and/or don’t want to spend too much time in logistics, pick São Miguel island. Apart from being the easiest to fly to, it offers the largest amount of things to do and see.

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

Let’s start… small. With a population of only about 420 😱, Corvo is the tiniest island in Azores . The entire island is an extinct volcano and the product of its past eruption(s). Fun fact: only in 1973 (!) the inhabitants got electricity!

But don’t let its size fool you. This remote and peaceful island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with protected waters, making it a place of excellence for snorkeling and diving. It’s also a great option for birdwatching, but to be fair, most visitors are attracted simply by the novelty of exploring such a remote and tiny island.

Corvo Overview

• ⭐ Top Attraction: Caldeirão . The crater of the extinct Corvo ‘s old volcano. If weather collaborates, sunset here is incredible.
• ✈️ Getting there by plane: There is a small airfield in Corvo with flights to Faial and Flores.
• 🛥️ Getting there by boat: An Atlântico Line ferry to Flores runs daily in summer months (but only twice/week in winter). Takes about 45 minutes. Book your tickets ahead.
• 🏨 Where to stay: Pirates Nest (how cool is this name?).
• 🏌️ 3 activities to try: Birdwatching, diving, hiking.
• 👌 Go here if…: you want to experience what true remoteness feels like.

The westernmost territory in Europe, Flores is well off the beaten track. It’s raw, exotic and remote and a top-notch paradise for birdwatchers. I loved my time there because it allowed me to connect to nature even more.

In fact, the entire island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, with dozens of waterfalls, lakes, and massive rock formations. Flores is the place where your adventurous side takes over, powered by the dramatic landscapes, lush hills, and the charming roads embellished by vibrant hydrangeas. Read on more on my Flores guide .

Flores Overview

• ⭐ Top Attraction: Poço da Alagoinha . Many large waterfalls in an area with lush green mountains and rock formations, this one of the most breahtaking natural sceneries in the Azores.
• ✈️ Getting there by plane: There is a small airfield in Corvo with flights to other islands. It’s a 1h10 flight to Ponta Delgada .
• 🛥️ Getting there by boat: Flores is connected to Corvo (all-year round) and to Faial (summer months) via Atlântico Line ferry.
• 🏨 Where to stay: Sítio da Assumada .
• 🏌️ 3 activities to try: Birdwatching, canyoning, hiking.
• 👌 Go here if…: you like nature at its rawest form.

With the second-largest population after São Miguel , and known as the party island of the Azores, there is always something happening to keep you busy in Terceira . The highlight happens in June, where the massive street party of Sanjoaninas takes over the downtown of Angra do Heroísmo.

Terceira is much more than partying though. Make your way inland and you’ll find colorful architecture examples – look for impérios -, relaxing real-life desktop screensavers of meadows and forests, scenic lookouts like the pasture patchwork in Serra do Cume , and the volcanic chimney of Algar do Carvão .

Or perhaps take a dive underwater to explore the dozens of centuries-old shipwrecks that can be found around the island.

Also make sure you indulge in its famous food delicacies, a subset of Azorean food where the king dish is alcatra .

Terceira Overview

• ⭐ Top Attraction: Angra do Heroísmo . The pretty port city with colorful buildings is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• ✈️ Getting there by plane: Angra is decently connected to almost all the islands in the Azores, as well as the mainland Portugal (Lisbon and Porto). Azores Airlines also operates direct flights to the US.
• 🛥️ Getting there by boat: During summer months, Terceira is connected directly to Graciosa, São Jorge and São Miguel via Atlântico Line ferry.
• 🏨 Where to stay: Terceira Mar Hotel .
• 🏨 3 activities to try: Diving, speleology, paragliding.
• 👌 Go here if…: you’re looking to add a killer food&party break to your vacation.

Remember when I said in the beginning that not all islands in the Azores are equally as interesting for a first-time visitor? Unless you have a whole month to go around the islands, I’m afraid Graciosa would have to be your first one to go.

The island is roughly the same size as Manhattan and oh boy, could they be any more different!

For starters, it’s a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and exudes authenticity – food, people, culture, ways of living – and the fact it’s not changing anytime soon is reassuring. The kind of place where farmers still get around by donkey on their daily commute to their pastures.

Don’t get me wrong – there’s a special charm about such an off the beaten track like Graciosa. It’s just if we measure what to see and do vs the effort to get there, it would be a smart choice to pick other Azorean islands first.

Graciosa Overview

• ⭐ Top Attraction: Carapacho . Waters in this modern thermal spa reach 40°C allowing for a therapeutic and 100% natural thalassotherapy experience.
• ✈️ Getting there by plane: Graciosa is connected to Terceira island.
• 🛥️ Getting there by boat: During summer months, Graciosa has direct Atlântico Line ferries from both Terceira and São Jorge.
• 🏨 Where to stay: Casa da Beira Mar .
• 🏌️ 3 activities to try: Diving, fishing, speleology.
• 👌 Go here if…: you want to escape the crowds and experience te full authentic Azores.

São Jorge is very narrow island – with only 8km width! – but encapsulates an incredibly diverse cocktail of captivating sceneries. From cliffs and ravines to lakes and surfing spots, its main feature is the almost vertical coastline interrupted by small plains formed by lava flows called fajãs .

Apart from this rough landscape which potentiates all sorts of adventurous activities, it’s also known for its pastures, the birthplace of the famous unpasteurized cheese – Queijo de São Jorge . Don’t leave the Azores without trying it, it will ROCK YOUR WORLD.

São Jorge Overview

• ⭐ Top Attraction: Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo . Apart from the majestic scenario, the waves here are considered one of the best for surfing and body boarding in Europe.
• ✈️ Getting there by plane: SATA Air Açores has direct flights to São Jorge from Terceira and São Miguel airports.
• 🛥️ Getting there by boat: Decently connected to Faial and Pico all year round as well to Terceira and Graciosa in the peak season.
• 🏨 Where to stay: Intact Farm Resort .
• 🏌️ 3 activities to try: Apart from ingesting cheese in biblic amounts, surfing, mountain biking, hiking.
• 👌 Go here if…: you want some of most dramatic landscapes in Europe.

The landscape of Pico is undeniably dominated by Mount Pico , the highest peak in Portuguese territory. In fact is this unique combination of perfectly in-sync mountain and sea sceneries that makes Pico so special.

This island is home to unique vineyards that literally grow in lava rocks and stretch out all the way to the ocean, as well as century-old volcanic caves and tidal pools to refresh body and mind.

Last but definitely not least, Pico is a top whale-watching destination worldwide, an activity that (fortunately) has replaced the old whaling tradition in the 20th century. If you’re to do it anywhere in the islands do it here.

Pico Overview

• ⭐ Top Attraction: Mount Pico . With 2351m, it’s the highest mountain in Portugal. The hike to the top is deceptively tricky and takes at least 5 hours (in total). If weather cooperates, you’ll be rewarded with glorious views over the Atlantic Ocean and nearby islands. A guide is recommended and I recommend Atípico .
• ✈️ Getting there by plane: Pico is well-connected not only to other islands, but also has direct flights from Lisbon too.
• 🛥️ Getting there by boat: The Atlântico Line operation runs throughout the entire year connecting Faial, Pico and São Jorge.
• 🏨 Where to stay: Adegas do Pico . I stayed in this area for 4 days, stunning scenery!
• 🏌️ 3 activities to try: Whale-watching, hiking, wine tasting.
• 👌 Go here if…: you are up for a mountain climb challenge.

Some people say the best of Faial is the view of Pico (THE SHADE IS REAL 😈).

While you don’t want to spend more than 3 full days in the island, there are some quite interesting and diverse sights for at least 1/2 days. From the moon-ish volcanic landscapes in the Capelinhos area to the natural sea pools or even the impressive crater of Lagoa da Caldeira , Faial has some quite cool photo moments.

Plus, there’s the maritime connection. All the islands in Azores obviously have a strong connection with the ocean, but Faial takes it to a whole new level.

Horta has been a pivotal hub for yachts and sailboats in transatlantic journeys between Africa, America, and Europe. Pay a visit to the marina’s breakwater where the insignias of hundreds of sailors are displayed in all formats and shapes. Sort of a sailor’s guestbook.

Faial Overview

• ⭐ Top Attraction: Capelinhos . The last eruption in 1957 made Faial gain a land extension of about 3 square kilometers.
• ✈️ Getting there by plane: Faial has direct flights from some islands like São Jorge, São Miguel and Terceira and from Lisbon too.
• 🛥️ Getting there by boat: The Atlântico Line operation runs throughout the entire year connecting Faial, Pico and São Jorge. On summer there are also connections to Flores.
• 🏨 Where to stay: Casas da Fajã .
• 🏌️ 3 activities to try: Sailing, whale-watching, mountain biking.
• 👌 Go here if…: you’re looking for the most recent trace of a volcanic eruption.

My home island! (promise I won’t be biased).

The largest island of the archipelago has a LOT to do outdoors as well as a lot of different things to taste .

São Miguel is a trip by itself and a gateway to the Azores as it contains a little bit of everything the entire archipelago has to offer.

4 days is the bare minimum to scratch the surface of São Miguel , but there’s enough to keep you busy here for at least a week.

Beyond the maritime city of Ponta Delgada , there are majestic lakes reminiscent of ancient volcano craters, dark volcanic sandy beaches and outdoor hot springs to relax in. Pasture and herds of happy cows chilling on the lush hills are the most common scenery though – after all this is the “green island” for a reason.

The island is also a paradise for hikers, with dozens of official trails making their way across all kinds of landscapes in various shapes, sizes, and difficulty levels.

São Miguel Overview

• ⭐ Top Attraction: Sete Cidades . The twin lakes of Sete Cidades can’t always be seen on all its glory amongst the foggy weather up in the mountains, but if you’re lucky, it’s a breathtaking moment.
• ✈️ Getting there by plane: You can get to São Miguel from almost all the other islands, as well as from Madeira, Lisbon and Porto. International direct connections are gradually more common, with flights rom US, UK, Germany and Nordic countries. Besides Azores Airlines, companies flying direct to São Miguel include TAP, Delta, Ryanair and Primera Air.
• 🛥️ Getting there by boat: During the peak season, there are ferries to São Miguel from Santa Maria and Terceira.
• 🏨 Where to stay: Out of the Blue . Hotel Azor for a more premium experience.
• 🏌️ 3 activities to try: Hiking, surfing, paradliging.
• 👌 Go here if…: you don’t want to miss on some of the major highlights of Azores.

Santa Maria

While the rest of the islands are stuck in an endless unpredictable and ever-changing weather – locals call it the “4 seasons in a single day” weather -, Santa Maria laughs out loud from its warmest and sunniest southeastern spot.

Santa Maria emerged from the Atlantic 10 million years ago, way before than any other island in the Azores, so it’s geologically quite different. The highlights are the golden beaches and tidal pools allow great swimming spots, above water; and world-famous diving spots like Gruta Azul , underwater.

The island comes alive in August, during the music festival Maré de Agosto , but in the rest of the year remains faithful to its “chill getaway” vibe.

Santa Maria Overview

• ⭐ Top Attraction: Praia Formosa . One of the best beaches in Azores, located in a picturesque bay with crystal clear waters. Might very well be the best spot in the islands to relax and work on your tan!
• ✈️ Getting there by plane: Direct flights to Santa Maria are available exclusively from São Miguel.
• 🛥️ Getting there by boat: There is a ferry connecting São Miguel and Santa Maria during summer.
• 🏨 Where to stay: Casa da Boa Vista .
• 🏌️ 3 activities to try: Swimming, diving, paragliding.
• 👌 Go here if…: you want to add a bit of quality beach and swimming time to your trip.

Ready-made Azores itinerary for your trip

Here are some ready-to-go sample itineraries you can use as a template for your trip. Some might say you can cover a lot more, but I truly believe a place like Azores is not to be rushed. Embrace the opportunity to fully appreciate nature. Don’t spend your day on planes, cars and roads, you have enough stress on your daily life already.

The example itineraries blow are tailored for first-time visitors and are designed to give the best overview possible of Azores in each amount of time.

Less than 7 days

My advice here is stick to São Miguel . Don’t worry, there’s a lot to keep you busy – use my 4-day itinerary of São Miguel as a guide for your trip.

There’s no point in trying to squeeze in another island – basically, you’ll pay more to rush your experience in both islands.

7 days Azores Itinerary

• São Miguel (5 full days)
• Santa Maria OR Terceira OR Pico (2 full days)

With a week to spend in Azores, there are 2 options. You can either splurge your time in São Miguel only and have extra time to tour the main things to do as well as do outdoor activities such hiking trails, diving, or canyoning .

If you are keen on including more stops on your journey, be strategic: a week is not a lot of time.

Santa Maria makes more sense logistically as is just a 3-hour ferry away. Adding Terceira or Pico can also be convenient as you can book an open-jaw flight to mainland Portugal (saving time and money of a flight back to São Miguel).

For the latter option though, if you plan to climb Mount Pico , this might be too tight and rushed. You’ll want to make sure you have enough buffer time in Pico to 1) choose the day with the best weather to make the climb 2) RECOVER from the demanding climb.

10 days Azores Itinerary

• Faial (1/2 full days)
• Pico (3/4 full days)

This is where you can start to get ambitious guys.

With 10 days in the Azores, invest a big chunk of the time in São Miguel and Pico. There’s experiences not to miss in Pico , as well as many outdoor activities to try in São Miguel .

As for the remaining 1/2 days, stick to an island close to Pico . Faial is the obvious choice as there are frequent ferries between Horta (Faial) and Madalena (Pico).

This means a doable itinerary would be Lisbon ► São Miguel ► Faial ► Pico ► Lisbon . You can shuffle the order of the 3, as long as São Miguel is either in the beginning or at the end of the trip to take advantage of the ferry connection in the Triangle islands.

The first is that Flores is much more remote and may need an additional return flight to Lisbon, complicating the logistics. The other is that these 2 islands, despite breathtaking, are quite similar in terms of landscape. Faial and Pico add more contrast to your experience and gives you a more well-rounded overview of the islands.

14 days Azores Itinerary

• São Miguel (6 full days)
• Pico (3 full days)
• São Jorge (3/4 full days)

2 weeks is the perfect time to visit São Miguel as well as the three triangle islands – Faial, Pico and São Jorge. SATA Air Açores has frequent flights from São Miguel to any of these islands and once you’re there, it’s fairly easy and cheap to travel between them by ferry. Efficiency FTW.

This itinerary also combines some of the best features of Azores: the impressive lakes of São Miguel, the volcanic landscape of Faial, the unique mountain-and-wine combo scenery of Pico and finally the majestic cliffs and fajãs in São Jorge . It’s a lot to awe on a single trip!

So if you’re coming and returning from Lisbon, it’s perfectly doable to do a Lisbon ► São Miguel ► Faial ► São Jorge ► Pico ► Lisbon open-jaw trip. Again, shuffle as you like, just leave São Miguel for either the beginning or the end of the trip to optimize your logistics.

21 days Azores Itinerary

• Faial (2 full days)
• Flores (2/3 full days)
• Terceira (2/3 full days)

Ok, this is where we can go crazy!

Definitely use the previous 2-week itinerary of São Miguel, Faial, São Jorge and Pico and maybe even add a day or two in the first and the latter islands.

As for the rest of the days, it’s time to (finally) add Flores. This island is a smaller, greener and more remote version of São Miguel and has got some of the most incredible waterfalls and lakes in the Azores.

For the couple of days that are still left, including Terceira will give your trip a different side of Azorean food and if you got your time right, a bit of partying around too. The island is known as the party island of the archipelago!

Alternatively, you can replace Flores with Santa Maria for more chances of sunny weather and some beach bum time. It will also reduce travel time and overall costs a bit as you can hop on a ferry from São Miguel.

Azores itinerary summary

Here’s a quick summary of some example itineraries in Azores based off the number of days you have.

• Less than 7 days: São Miguel
• 7 days: São Miguel OR São Miguel + Pico OR São Miguel + Terceira
• 10 days: São Miguel + Faial + Pico
• 14 days: São Miguel + Faial + Pico + São Jorge
• 21 days: São Miguel + Faial + Pico + São Jorge + Flores + Terceira

Planning a trip to Azores independently

Booking your flight.

If you are not from the US or simply not into vacation packages, you’re better off by booking your flight independently.

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. From there you may be entitled to a FREE connecting flight to other islands – check this page for more info.

Booking a hotel

For hotels, you can start off with this pre-filtered list of hotels, guesthouses and villas in Azores . Or explore on your own:

Booking a car

Taxis and tours can be costly and public transportation is not reliable. Also local guides take away the fun factor. If you ask me, the best way to get around in Azores is definitely by renting a car .

Plus, an island road trip will add a sense of adventure to make your trip truly memorable!

Other useful resources when planning a trip to Azores

The ultimate itinerary of são miguel island (made by an azorean), 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
• The 13 Most Beautiful Azores Beaches
• When Is The Best Time to Go To Azores?
• Hiking in Azores: An Insider Guide
• São Miguel, Azores: Full Travel Guide by a Local
• The Best Hotels in São Miguel, Azores For All Kinds Of Travelers
• Azores: 20 Travel Tips To Know Before You Go
• Atlântico Line – the ferry company in Azores
• SATA/Azores Airlines – the regional airline company
• Visit Azores – official tourism board

My travel tips valid anywhere

• 🏨 To find the best deals and book your stay with free cancellation, I recommend Booking.com (from my experience, often cheaper than Airbnb)
• 🚗 Always compare car rental prices before you book anything (and if possible use local rental shops!)
• ☑️ Travel insurance is a must these days – don’t overlook it! I recommend Allianz or Safety Wing if you’re always on the go
• 💰 Use Revolut to save in exchange rates and payments abroad; it’s a game-changer!
• ⚙️ Amazon has the largest offer in travel gear, clothing, and accessories – check out my Travel Store !
• ✈️ Are you dealing with a delayed or cancelled flight? Airhelp may help you get a compensation for it!

Which islands in the Azores did you visit? How many days did you had? Share your itinerary!

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10 of the best things to do in the Azores

Now on the UK’s travel green list, the Portuguese archipelago offers stunning volcanic landscapes and its own delicious cuisine, wines and even coffee

T he Azores archipelago (Açores in Portuguese) lies about 1,000 miles west of mainland Europe and is made up of nine volcanic islands: São Miguel (the largest), São Jorge, Terceira, Pico, Faial, Ilha das Flores, Santa Maria, Graciosa and Corvo, which you can cross by ferry or plane.

Colonised by the Portuguese in 1432, the Azores is now an autonomous region. During the period known as the Discoveries, Portugal had the largest high-seas fleet in the world, with many of its ships stopping to replenish stocks in the Azores as they travelled back and forth to Brazil, India, Japan and elsewhere, bringing with them spices that changed Azorean cuisine from simple. plain dishes to ones spiced and flavoured with new-world produce, such as tomatoes, sweet potatoes and yams.

The weather can vary even across a day, with locals (about 245,000 residents) often calling each other to find out where on an island the sun is. Lots of rain makes for a lush landscape with many waterfalls and hot springs. Tea and coffee are grown here, as well as pineapples. The town of Angra do Heroísmo on Terceira and the landscape of Pico’s vineyard culture are Unesco world heritage-listed sites.

What the Azores produces is astonishing: not just for its quality but because the vines are grown in seemingly inhospitable cracks in rocks and hardened lava, buffeted by winds and storms. These conditions provide distinctive salty notes. The most famous Azorean wines are from Pico, an island dominated by Mount Pico. Try them at Pico Wines , a cooperative, or at the Azores Wine Company, which recently opened an architecturally impressive winery with views across the squares of dry-stone corrais that comprise the vineyards. Pico makes the more well-known wines but Biscoitos , on Terceira, has a similar landscape and also produces great stuff.

Beaches, swimming, dolphin- and whale-watching

There are beaches across the Azores, but since these are volcanic islands the sand is dark or the shore is rocky. Swimming “pools” dot the shoreline of all the islands: sometimes ladders hang on the edge of rocks, some can be accessed directly from the shore, and others are in little harbours. In August, the sea temperature can reach 23C, but given this is the Atlantic, the water is cold for much of the year. There are also waterfalls and volcanic springs to plunge under and into. Dolphin- and whale-watching trips are widely available.

Cakes and biscuits

The islands have their own cakes and biscuits, of which my favourites are Dona Amélia, small cakes made from melkana (like molasses, brought from Brazil), sugar, eggs, cornflour, cinnamon and raisins. Created to celebrate the visit of King Don Carlos and his wife, Dona Amélia, in 1901, try them at Pastelaria O Forno in Angra do Heroísmo . Pudim conde da praia is made from potatoes, sugar, butter, lemon, eggs and cinnamon. Esp é cies de São Jorge are horseshoe-shaped cookies stuffed with a spiced filling that includes fennel, black pepper, cinnamon and lemon – those made by Dulçores on São Jorge are good.

When the Portuguese discovered the Azores they shipped over livestock to the islands to see if the animals could survive. They did, especially the cows with abundant grass to graze on grazing. Butter, milk, cream and cheese produced across the Azores are likely to be some of the best you have ever tasted. Two cheeses have Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status: tangy Queijo São Jorge (try it at Queijaria Canada on São Jorge) and buttery Queijo do Pico, but every island produces wonderful ones (O Morro on Faial is incredible). The ice-cream, yoghurt and ghee (from Azorghee ) are also exceptional.

Drive, walk or cycle along the roads of the Azores and you will be greeted by banks of hydrangeas, often tall bushes full of large floral heads in shades of blue, pink, white and purple. Faial is also known as the blue island – a volcanic eruption in 1957 left behind a fertile soil full of acidity and aluminium, which makes the flowers blue. Hydrangeas are not an indigenous species – they were introduced by Portuguese settlers in the 17th century – but became invasive because of the conditions (the rain, the rich earth) and had a devastating effect on some of the local flora. They were used like walls to keep the cows to certain fields. Hydrangeas begin to bloom in late April and flower until early September.

Formed from lava flows that stopped at the sea, fajãs are mostly steep cliffs running down to the coast and are most concentrated on São Jorge. Being volcanic, fajãs are exceptionally fertile and were used by settlers to grow yams, maize and vegetables. These days coffee and tropical fruits are grown along the more gentle slopes. Take the spectacular walk from Fajã dos Cubres to Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo, the only place on the archipelago where clams are grown (it’s also a magnet for body boarders and surfers). Eat the clams at Restaurante O Borges before walking back to Fajã dos Cubres.

The cult of the holy spirit

The holy spirit (or holy ghost) festivals are the primary annual event for Azoreans, 90% of whom are Catholic. The festivities have common threads but the celebrations and traditions vary from island to island. They centre around impérios (empires) – small shrines to the holy spirit – highly decorated and maintained with care. Their architecture also varies: on Terceira, where there are 73, they are topped with an imperial crown. The festivals are also social and family celebrations, with singing, processions and eating and drinking. The “cult” arrived with the first settlers, with the Azorean people becoming more devoted as communities came together to worship, isolated from the mainland.

Seafood and fish

The Azores has fabulous tuna. Much of it is exported as well as canned, but eating it fresh on the islands is a must. Other species include blue jack mackerel, chub mackerel, forkbeard, red porgy and swordfish, while lobsters, slipper lobsters, crabs and spider crabs are abundant. But there are two types of seafood that are particular to the Azores. The first, more widely available, are lapas , limpets which are usually grilled (try them at Sabores Sopranos on São Jorge, which often has la pa branco , which is more orange, and lapa mansa more black). The other is cracas , barnacles that look like rocks, but have small holes inside that are home to sweet, almost lobster-like meat, which has to be picked out. Cracas are more easily found on Terceira – try them at Beira Mar de São Mateus .

Tea and coffee

Tea is grown on two plantations on São Miguel – Gorreana and Porto Formoso , both on the north coast, producing black (primarily orange pekoe, pekoe, moinha, oolong and broken leaf) and green tea. You can visit the plantations and factories to learn about their teas. Tea is thought to have been introduced to the islands at the beginning of the 19th century, when it was realised that the climate was good for its cultivation. High-quality, fruity coffee is grown on fajã slopes on São Jorge – sample that produced by the Nunes family at Café Nunes at Fajã dos Vimes.

Nine islands, one geopark. There are 121 geosites across the archipelago’s land and the sea bed. There are dry caldeiras , lakes in craters, fumarolic fields, hot springs, caves, grottoes and crevices, many of which are the result of the volcanic nature of the islands. The sites include Mount Pico, which you can climb to the top of. Capelinhos volcano, on the westernmost point of Faial, resulting from an eruption between 1957 and 1958, has a 2km-wide surface caldeira around the crater, which is a nature reserve. On Ilha das Flores, the walking trail at Fajã de Lopo Vaz , probably one of the first places to be settled on the islands, is also a geosite.

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An Island-by-Island Guide to Portugal's Azores

By Mary Lussiana

The Portuguese discovered this remote archipelago, scattered 800 miles west of their mainland in the swirling mists of the Atlantic Ocean in the early 1500s. The Azores comprise nine islands, each a mythical, magical land of volcanoes, bubbling thermal waters, geysers of rising steam, turquoise-toned lagoons, and bottle-green lakes . With a landscape that seemed alive, it is no wonder that the population turned to the Holy Spirit for protection—an allegiance they still have today, as witnessed in the many shrines and chapels that dot the towns and villages. More than anything, devotion to the Holy Spirit is a defining element of being Azorean.

That authenticity makes the Azores, some 400 miles apart, such a pleasure to visit, on top of their extraordinary and diverse landscapes, different gastronomic strengths and excellent wines. Increasingly sophisticated contemporary hotels are opening, old manors are being converted into hotels, and eco-lodges are launching for the walker and nature seeker for whom the frequent rain is no obstacle. But it is thanks to this climate that the  islands  are so green. That they have  Europe ’s only tea plantation, that the tiny pineapples are so intensely sweet and that the cows who graze all year round in fields bordered by rows of blue hydrangeas give us milk, butter, and cheese that is worth the journey alone.

Nicknamed the Ilha Verde (Green Island),  São Miguel  is the largest island and home to the regional capital, Ponte Delgada, making it a good starting point. Its cobbled streets are lined with imposing white-washed and basalt facades, allowing you to imagine when the port here was a crucial staging post between Europe and the New World. Now the Ponta Delgada has a thriving culinary scene, but for traditional fare, head across the island to Lagoa das Furnas, where cozido is cooked, a rich meat and vegetable stew which simmers underground for five hours. Across the lake are steaming geysers and bubbling springs, and beyond that, the impressive Parque Terra Nostra begun in the 18th century by a prosperous Bostonian. Surrounded by hibiscus, Japanese cedars and giant water lilies are warm, mustard-colored water holes where locals bathe to absorb the rich minerals.

Nearby is Lagoa das Sete Cidades (Lagoon of Seven Cities), a lake in a crater at the bottom of a dormant  volcano . It is split in two, connected by a narrow straight, with one side a brilliant turquoise and the other a deep bottle green.

Santa Maria

Lying 34 miles south of São Miguel, Santa Maria was the first island to be discovered by the Portuguese in 1427. It boasts the warmest climate in the archipelago and, although only 11 miles long, has wonderful sandy beaches  and crystal clear waters due to its temperate climate. This and its proximity to the natural reserve of Formigas and Dollabart Bank are why it is considered one of the best diving destinations in Europe.

The most developed of the central islands, largely because of the American-run air base there – it does, however, still have twice as many cattle as inhabitants. Its gentle green interior is reminiscent of  Ireland , whilst its coast has barren areas of black lava. The historic main city, Angra do Heroismo, is a UNESCO World Heritage site in recognition of its port has a strategic role in the Atlantic, a stopover point on the routes between Europe, America, and Africa for over 300 years. The island is known for its unusual form of bull running, ‘tourada à corda’ or bullfight with a rope, and the Algar do Carvão, a volcanic blast hole now home to some of the world’s largest stalactites.

CNT Editors

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

One of the most peaceful islands in the Azores, its name translates as Enchanting, but it is also called ‘The White Island’ due to its coastline of white rocks, above which red turreted windmills stand. It is known for its adorable dwarf donkeys and traditional artisanal cheesecakes, but its main attraction is the Furna do Enxofre, where you can descend into the bowels of a volcanic crater. The island’s geothermal waters are popular for treatments, and the deep waters around the island make it ideal for dolphin or whale-watching expeditions.

Nicknamed ‘The Dragon’ due to its lengthy and mountainous shape, many  villages  on this lesser-visited island lie on flat areas, once debris fields or lava flows, and are tucked under steep slopes offering dramatic scenery. A favorite for outdoor enthusiasts, you can try canyoning,  hiking , canoeing, and spelunking here. But allow time to savor the famous São Jorge cheese, the main production on the island. It is made exclusively with raw dairy milk and aged to have a spicy, tangy flavour. There is a certain amount of ongoing seismic activity, so check the situation before going.

Home to Pico, the highest mountain in Portugal, many people come here to climb that. Others come for whale watching in summer (the history of Azorean whaling can be studied at the Museum dos Baleeiros in Lajes) or some serious wine tasting. The island is covered by black basalt-lined vineyards, which are Unesco World Heritage sites. The Azores Wine Company, which is putting Pico on the oenological map with its new excellent wines, offers lovely accommodation in its sleek minimalist winery.

Fertile Faial Island is famous as a yachting destination.

Famous as a yachting destination, this fertile island has an impressive carpet of blue hydrangeas in the summer months. It was the site of the last volcanic eruption in 1957-8, the story of which you can see in the nearby Museu dos Capelinhos. Another museum worth dipping into is The Scrimshaw Museum exhibiting centuries-old engraved whale bones and teeth.

The island of Flores or flowers, which gets its name from the goldenrods, and pink and blue hydrangeas, used to be a notorious hideout for pirates waiting to raid treasure-laden Spanish galleons on their return to Europe. Classified as a Unesco Biosphere Reserve, its landscape attracts walkers keen to marvel at its waterfalls, lagoons, and deep blue crater lake.

Corvo Island, the smallest in the Azores, is the blown top of a marine volcano.

The smallest island in the Azores is the blown top of the marine volcano, Monte Gordo. It is remarkably undeveloped, with just some 400 inhabitants, whose houses are built from the black basalt rock in the island’s one settlement, Vila Nova. Corvo, or Crow Island, popular with bird watchers , is a stopping point for many migratory birds.

This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK .

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Azores Island Hopping: Which Islands to Visit?

Imagine a warm Iceland covered head-to-toe with ridiculously vivid greenery – and broken up into 9 islands. That’s the best way I can describe the jaw-droppingly stunning Portuguese archipelago of Azores, seemingly isolated in the middle of the Atlantic.

Yet the Azores have so far avoided Iceland’s exponential tourist boom, remaining a true hidden gem destination. An even amongst those that venture out, few choose to explore much beyond the main island of São Miguel, the starting point for most arrivals on the archipelago. Hey – you’ve made it this far to the middle of Atlantic – wouldn’t it be a shame you only saw a small part of what the Azores have on offer? Unless you’re staying for a weekend or are on a budget, I really invite you to explore at least a couple more of the smaller, less-known islands.

Imagine a warm Iceland covered head-to-toe with ridiculously vivid greenery – and broken up into 9 islands.

But which islands to visit? There is no one simple answer as each has its own flavour and much will depend on what you enjoy. As a good starting point: the 9 islands can be grouped into Eastern / Central / Western, each group combining well with each other as they’re close enough for quick ferry hops. As for the rest, I hope this guide and suggested itineraries will help you figure it out!

Eastern Azores Islands

São miguel island.

Perfect for: An intro to the Azores, crater lakes, volcano-cooked food

Your likely entry point to the Azores, São Miguel will naturally feature on your itinerary Both the Azores’ biggest and most developed (that’s a very relative term!), it’s a beautiful green island with plenty to explore.

The capital, Ponta Delgada has a pretty enough Old Town with its black-and-white mosaic artwork lining its streets – but that’s probably note what you came to the Azores for. So stay the night if you like, but I suggest prioritising the other parts of the island. As far as towns go, the town of Ribeira Grande across the island offers a quieter, more charming base.

So what to visit? Let’s get the obvious out of the way – the majestic Sete Cidades . The twin blue & green lakes set in an ancient crater are the islands’ postcard picture and certainly live up to it. On a clear day. As you’ll discover in the Azores, the weather changes all the time so you might arrive at the viewpoint only to find yourself in a cloud. There are plenty of view options, but I’d recommend Miradouro da Vista do Rei. Why? Because you’ll also find an abandoned, overgrown hotel Monte Palace, which you can explore (at your own risk!) and get that ultimate view of the lakes as the hoteliers once envisioned.

My favourite memory of São Miguel was at the other end, at Furnas. There, in beautiful crater lake surroundings, Iceland-like views prevail. Clouds of vapour steam away amongs the bubbling geothermal springs, and amongst all this someone’s lunch is slowly cooking away in the volcanic heat. That’s right, local restaurants specialise in Cozido das Furnas – a slow-cooked mixed meat & veg stew placed in underground cells and cooked by nothing but the steam from the Earth’s. The result is a hearty, tender dish served in the pretty town of Furnas, but its really more about the one-of-a-kind experience! Make sure to book your Cozido ahead. 

Also in Furnas is the magnificent Parque Terra Nostra . The word “park” undersells it – for me it blows the normal parks out of the water. With myriads of paths, a huge variety of flora, jungle-like scenery and public thermal baths, you can probably spend the best part of the day here.  Talking of thermal baths, São Miguel’s other highlight is surely enjoying some of the outdoor hot springs dotted across the island – many surrounded by forest. Take your pick, but book ahead to avoid disappointment!

Amongst the other places that stand out are Europe’s only tea plantations . Spread along the Northern coast high above the cliffs, its views from Miradouro de Santa Iria are some of the most impressive even for the Azores. Once brought over by traders from India, The Tea Porto Formosso and Gorreana Tea Factory are now the only two remaining tea factories, both offering tours.

N.B. I’ve excluded the Southernmost island of Santa Maria from the review as it’s mostly all about beaches. So if you feel like a beach holiday, Santa Maria is your best bet.

Central Azores Islands

Pico island.

Perfect for: wine lovers, volcano hiking, whale watching

Home to Portugal’s tallest mountain of the same name, Pico has that classic volcano shape that you’d sketch in a drawing. Fun fact: if you drained the ocean, it would be nearly as tall as Mount Everest. But back above the water, the 2,351m peak makes for the “must-do” activities on the island – climbing Mount Pico . It’s a fairly steep hike on often-loose volcanic surface and like with everything else on the Azores, heavily depends on weather. We were unlucky to miss out after the hike was cancelled due to weather conditions on the day – so can’t share my experience. Pico’s peak, sporting its near-constant chapeau of clouds, remains a mysterious character until next time.

On the more relaxing end of the Pico activity spectrum, it’s all about the wine . The Azores’ youngest island is covered in seemingly endless labyrinths of stone walls, all with the aim of protecting its short vines from the brutal and harsh Atlantic winds. The vineyards here are so unique that UNESCO called it a World Heritage Region. Of course, where there’s wine there are wine tasting tours, and Pico has a few to choose from. So take your pick and be sure to try the fortified licoroso wines, a local specialty. 

Then there’s whale watching. With ~20 species of whales and dolphins in the local waters, you might just spot some with a little luck. Boats can be arranged from the ferry town of Madalena or Lajes do Pico.

As for everything in between these activities, just driving across and around Pico is almost constantly spectacular. So definitely rent a car if you can!

Getting there: direct flights to Ponta Delgada as well as easy ferry connections to Faial and São Jorge

Faial Island

Perfect for: sailing heritage, whale watching, crater hikes, abandoned settlements

Faial is an easy 30-minute ferry hop from Pico, combining perfectly with its neighbour in your itinerary. The Picoense joke that the best thing about Faial is the view of Pico, but in seriousness the island impresses as the one with the most variety for its size. From the Azores’ prettiest town on one end to Mars-like scenery at the other and with Jurassic-like crater vistas inbetween, there is plenty to see.

Unlike the Azorean “metropolis” of Ponta Delgada, Faial’s main town of Horta is high on charm, history and a certain sense of luxury. Its biggest draw is the sailing heritage. Horta is known as the Atlantic sailing capital – a welcome safe harbour for yachtsmen making the testing Transatlantic journey between Europe and the Americas. This legacy is everywhere: from the iconic Peter Cafe Sport (probably the most famous yachting cafe in the world), to the harbour itself. Every yacht passing through Horta draws a ‘postcard’ on the harbour floor and walls, resulting in what is now over 10,000 drawings all along the marina. This makes for a fascinating walk through time.

Like Pico, Horta is a fantastic base for whale watching . We took a trip with Azores Experiences and got lucky to spend time observing a family of sperm whales just a few meters away from the boat (actually seeing whales on the day is by no means guaranteed!).

At its centre the island features a huge, deep crater simply named the Caldeira . If the weather allows, take a walk along the rim for the incredible views of Faial and its neighbour islands. Or better still hike down to the lake at the bottom. The trail is a little slippery when wet but worth it for the time-travel to another era.

Up North in Capelinhos , you’ll experience some of Faial’s more sorrowful history. This barren, Mars-like area contrasts so much to the floral, vividly-green centre of the island. It’s a brand new part of the island, formed by a 1957 eruption that destroyed 2 villages and led to mass migration away from the island. The sole structure still standing is the abandoned lighthouse – an iconic symbol of the event. Once built on the cliff-edge, the charred Ponta dos Capelinhos looks out of place surrounded by new land created in the eruption. This certainly doesn’t take away from the dramatic landscapes you will enjoy in this landscape.

Getting there: Besides the ferries, The island’s airport (with a gorgeous rooftop cafe view of the runway) has direct connections to Ponta Delgada and Lisbon.

Graciosa Island

Perfect for: tranquil, rural off-the-beaten path travel, dramatic coastal views, volcanic caves, star-shaped pastries

While the Azores are hardly “on the beaten path” as it is, if you really want to venture away from the typical itineraries into simple, quiet life then Graciosa is your island. One of the archipelago’s smallest, the “graceful” island even has its own answer to Portugal’s famous “Pastel de nata” custard cakes. The delicate, star-shaped “Queijadas de Graciosa” are now one of Azores most famed exports.

As you munch away on pastries, there’s plenty to do on the island for a couple days. On the North end you have the uncannily whale-shaped Ilhea da Baleia islet, right next to the Azores’ highest tower – the lighthouse Farol da Ponta da Barca. The South is dominated by a forest-covered crater. Here you can enjoy a scenic walk along its rim, before exploring the lava tunnels back down in the Caldeira’s heart. Just driving along the circular coastal road reveals countless “Miradouros” – explore, enjoy, walk around!

Azores may not be known for sandy beaches, but there are exceptions. Praia de São Mateus in the town of Praia (which literally means beach) offers fine dark sand, pleasant views of the white-washed houses and surprisingly calm warm Atlantic waters – at least in August.

Graciosa is reachable by plane from the capital Ponta Delgada typically with a quick stopover in Terceira.

Western Azores Islands

Flores island.

Perfect for: Outstandingly beautiful scenery, complete getaway from the world, swimming in waterfalls

Flores is without doubt my personal favourite of the Azores islands.

The Western-most point of Europe, you’d be hard-pressed to find so much beauty compressed into this modestly-sized island just about anywhere on Earth. Crater lakes, jaw-droppingly beautiful waterfalls, stunning cliffs, endless green hills covered in flowers – Flores is special.

Flores is named after the abundant floral scapes across the island to complement its unthinkably vivid green beauty. It felt like the greenest island of the Azores although this does mean it rains a little more often here than on most other islands. I mean, something has to keep all those waterfalls going right? Talking of waterfalls, the signature Flores scenery are surely the Avatar-esque waterfalls in the West of the island – like those at Poco do Ribeira do Ferreiro . You can even swim in the rockpools of some waterfalls, like the Cascata do Poco do Bacalhau near the beach on Faja Grande. 

In the island’s centre are the two contrasting natural crater lakes of Lagoa Negra (actually green rather than black as the name would suggest) and Lagoa Comprida. The views here are surreal, and a circular trail gives an option to enjoy the area for longer.

Flores is sparsely-populated – there are probably 3 cows for every person – so while this means there isn’t much going on, it makes for a perfect remote getaway from the busy urban world. And as far as somewhere to stay, it’s hard to beat an abandoned settler village converted into a hotel at the one-of-a-kind Aldeia da Cuada . With the dreamy waterfalls in the background and cows grazing outside your cottage, it’s hard to top the setting.

Getting there is a little longer, meaning plane is by far the best option with connections to Ponta Delgada and the central islands.

Corvo Island

Perfect for: Sleepy village vibes, day trip to a stunning crater lake

If the sea is friendly, definitely get on a boat trip to the smallest of the Azorean family – Corvo. You can take the Altanticoline ferry from Flores, but I recommend the private speedboat. The captain took us on an exhilarating trip right along the Northern cliffs of Flores on the way there, and sped along a giant pod of dolphins on the way back. Probably the best €35 I spent on the trip. 

Corvo itself is basically the tip of a volcano. The picturesque Vila Do Corvo , nestled on the volcano’s slope and Corvo’s only village, is as laidback as it gets. Population under 400, it still manages to have its own airport, a couple hotels and a little museum telling its story.

But the big draw is the Caldeira – an incredible crater just a 5-minute drive up to the rim (arrange with Corvo Travel, or otherwise it’s also walkable if you’re up for it). Azores isn’t short of craters, but Corvo’s is probably the finest. Let the picture say the rest. 

Azores Itinerary Suggestions:

The following suggestions assume you’ll be entering and leaving through Ponta Delgada, as most do. However it’s possible to start in Faial or Pico with a Lisbon connection using SATA/Azores Airlines.

Itinerary 1: 7 days – craters, waterfalls & edge of the world

• São Miguel: 4 days
• Flores & Corvo: 3 days

Itinerary 2: 7 days – wines, volcanoes & whales 

• São Miguel: 3 days
• Pico: 2 days
• Faial: 2 days

Itinerary 3: 10-days island hopping (fairly intense!)

Itinerary 4: 2-week proper island hopping.

• Graciosa: 2 days

Tips for Visiting Azores

Weather writes the script.

In Azores, you and most of your activities are at the weather’s mercy. Like Scotland, a place so green is green for a reason and regardless of season it can rain or cloud up any time. This can mean cancelled hikes, whale watching trips, ferries, flights. The latter is less likely in the summer months, so visit then – ideally between June and September . The ever-changing weather also means that a very short stay on an island increases the risk of missing out on the activity if you don’t have a ‘reserve day’ for it.

When the low clouds roll in, most of the epic views turn into little more than a wall of grey. For this, get the Spotazores app : this lets you see live cam views across the different islands so you can save the effort of getting to one just to see nothing.

Given this turbulent weather, always bring waterproofs, sunnies, sunscreen and the right footwear. There isn’t much point in umbrellas as the rain can get horizontal and you might just end up getting blown onto another island.

Book Ahead!

If visiting in summer, last minute doesn’t work well in the Azores. This is no mass tourism destination so with limited accommodation, venues and flights on smallish planes, planning and booking ahead is often essential. Especially in light of Covid restrictions we endured at the time, and if coming in August.

Besides the flights, hotels and ferries, this applies to thermal springs, popular restaurants (like those in Furnas offering volcano-cooked meals) and hikes that have entry limits like the Pico ascent.

Get an Azores Air Pass for Island Hopping

If you’re visiting a few of the islands, buying tickets separately quickly adds up as Air Azores are no low-cost carrier. The best option for this is the Azores Air Pass, which essentially allows you to travel to unlimited destinations provided you follow a few rules set out here . This can well come in cheaper than buying tickets individually, and comes with a few perks. Keep in mind you still need to book the specific flights ahead of time.

Public transport on the islands is minimal, especially outside of São Miguel. This means a car (or at least a moped) is pretty much essential. Traffic is minimal, roads are mostly in good conditions, although the ascends can get a little steep for the tiny-engine cars you’re likely to get. So ask for one with a reasonably-sized engine, preferably diesel.

So there you have it – hopefully it’s now a little easier for you to plan a trip to this incredible, under-the-radar destination. Enjoy it! If you have any questions or hidden gem suggestions, leave a comment below!

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We were a bit lost deciding which Azores islands to choose so the itinerary suggestions are super helpful. Flores looks unreal and is now definitely on our list!

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Azores islands travel: best island to visit and things to do in the portuguese paradise

We traveled through the entire archipelago of the Azores for 2 months , getting to know its 9 islands, and still it was not enough. We tried to soak up as much as possible of the culture and beauty of each island, we understood how different they are from each other and the idiosyncrasies that make it seem more and more absurd to speak of “the Azores” as one and the same, especially when we were there. They are different loves and together they form a paradise that deserves to be unveiled slowly, without haste and with respect , and if possible from east to west, leaving, in our opinion, the best for last.

In this guide we try to summarize everything to see in each of the nine Azorean islands , with practical recommendations for those who are organizing the trip before arriving (from things to do, accommodations and even restaurants) and useful tips for those who are already setting foot on this paradise in the middle of the Atlantic.

Basic facts about the Azores

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The Azores islands are an archipelago of the Macaronesia (also formed by the Canary Islands, Cape Verde, Madeira and Salvajes islands) and a curiosity is that although geographically the Azorean islands are in Europe, geologically this is not true for the 9 islands of the archipelago. The islands of the western group, Flores and Corvo, are geologically in America since they are located on the tectonic plate of the American continent. Number of islands : The Azores islands are 9 islands divided into 3 groups. The Eastern group is made up of 2 islands (São Miguel and Santa Maria); the Central group is made up of 5 islands (Terceira, Graciosa, Faial, Pico and São Jorge) and the last 3 – Faial, Pico and São Jorge – are known as “the triangle of the Azores” due to their proximity (they are usually visited together on the same trip); the Western group is made up of 2 islands (Flores and Corvo) Currency : Euro (EUR). There are ATMs on all islands Daily budget : It’s best to book everything in advance: rental car , accommodation and flights-boats between islands (in this order because cars are usually sold out). Here we give you all the transport info on how to travel from one island to another. The price of the rental cars rarely goes below 25€/day (we tell you more here ). One night accommodation for 2 people is between 50€ – 60€/night for a room with private bathroom (and, in some cases with personal or shared kitchen) or apartment . We recommend specific accommodations inside the section of each island. A meal at a restaurant usually cost an average of 20€/person. So the daily budget is around 90€-100€/day for two people approximately. Climate : Quite unpredictable although if you want to enjoy the highest probability of sunny days and enjoy its natural pools, the best time to visit the Azores is in summer, here we tell you better why. Language : Portuguese (the Azores are part of Portugal). Population : 237 000 (in 2021). The most populated island is São Miguel (half of the entire Azorean population lives in São Miguel) and the least populated is Corvo (about 400 people). Time zone : UTC + 0. The time difference with Portugal (continental) is 1 hour.

In order to visit the 9 islands and get to know them moderately well, you need at least one month, so if your trip is for a few days or weeks, you will have to choose which of the Azorean islands to visit .

As always, this is very subjective and depends greatly on the tastes and ways of traveling of each person, but here are some tips to help you:

• If it is your first time in the archipelago and your trip is 7 days or less , we believe that São Miguel is an excellent first contact and deserves those 7 days to get to know it well and calmly.
• Triangle islands: Faial, Pico and São Jorge .
• Islands of the western group: Flores and Corvo
• Each island is unique and different from the others, they all have something that makes them special and worth a visit. Based on your tastes, you may have more interest in some or others, so to help you, in the following section you have the best places in various categories (swimming spots, landscapes, volcanoes, restaurants, etc.) that we chose after much debate in our RandomAzores Oscars.

If you want to get inspired, in this post we did the exercise of choosing those that are the jewels that you can not miss on your trip to the Azores: The 9 Wonders of the Azorean World .

And further down in this same post you will find our particular Oscars RandomAzores with our favorite places of the 9 islands in various categories.

Also as a guideline, we leave you the number of days we consider “ideal” to visit each island:

• São Miguel: 7 days
• Santa Maria: 3-4 days
• Terceira: 5 days
• Graciosa: 2-3 days
• São Jorge: 5 days
• Pico: 5 days
• Faial: 3 days
• Flores: 5 days
• Corvo: 2 days

Undoubtedly, the best time to go to the Azores is during the summer , June to September, although it is also the time with the highest influx of tourism. In any case, the weather in the Azores varies greatly (it is always said that you can have the 4 seasons in the same day, and we can confirm it), so there is no guarantee of good weather. July and August are the more touristic months, so we recommend you to go in May, June, September or October.

We traveled around the islands for 2 months (mid-May to mid-July) and had all kinds of weather on all the islands.

In summer it is easier to move between islands (more frequencies of flights and boats, in fact there are boat connections that only exist during the summer) although it is necessary to book everything well in advance (accommodation, flights, rental car…) because they are sold out quickly and consequently prices increase a lot.

There are several flights  from Portugal and also some options from other European countries and the US and Canada

• From Lisbon  to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel), to Lajes (Terceira), to Pico or to Horta (Faial)
• From Oporto  to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel) and Lajes (Terceira)
• From Madrid  to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel) but, for the moment, only in summer.
• From Boston (US)  to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel) and Lajes (Terceira)
• From Toronto (CA)  to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel) and Lajes (Terceira)
• From London (UK)  to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel)
• From Paris (FR)  to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel)

Ideally you should be flexible with dates and use price comparators such as Skyscanner and Kiwi.com . Once in the archipelago, you can fly with Sata to any Azorean island

Travel with Iati insurance with a 5% discount here

Things to do in the Azores

The Azores Islands are divided into 3 groups:

• Eastern Group : São Miguel and Santa Maria
• Central Group : Faial, Pico, São Jorge, Graciosa and Terceira
• Western Group : Flores and Corvo

In the central group, the islands of Faial, Pico and São Jorge are also known as “the islands of the triangle” and are connected by boat throughout the year.

Here are the main places to visit on each island.

São Miguel is the largest and main island of the Azorean archipelago , and also the most touristic. It is an excellent gateway to the Azores, with lots of things to see and do and incredible gastronomic and sleeping options. Take a look at our Complete Guide to São Miguel which will surely be useful to organize your trip. Also below we leave you the most popular spots on the island and our featured Instagram stories where you can see in detail our passage through the green island.

Here is our free complete guide to travel to São Miguel:

Sao Miguel (Azores) Travel Guide: things to see and do in 3, 5 or 7 days (a week)

Stories featured on our Instagram: São Miguel I , São Miguel II and São Miguel III.

Main places to visit in São Miguel (organized by areas)

• Lagoa das Furnas
• Terra Nostra Park
• Poça Dona Beija
• Eating cocido das Furnas
• Miradouros (Pico do Ferro, Salto do Cavalo…)
• Praia do Fogo (Ribeira Quente)
• Lagoa das Sete Cidades and miradouros (Vista do Rei, Cerrado das Freiras…)
• Monte Palace Hotel Ruins
• Lagoa de Santiago
• Miradouro da boca do inferno
• Lagoa do Canario
• Serra Devassa Trail (Lagoa das Eguas, Lagoa das Empadadas…)
• Sete Cidades
• Miradouro Ponta do Escalvado
• Ponta da Ferraria
• Praia dos Mosteiros
• Mosteiros natural pools
• Caldeira Velha
• Salto do Cabrito
• Lagoa do Fogo and miradouros
• Lagoa do Congro
• Lagoa São Bras
• Tea plantations (Gorreana / Porto Formoso)
• Praia dos Moinhos
• Miradouro Santa Iria
• Ribeira Grande
• Santa Barbara Beach
• Ponta Delgada (Portas da Cidade, Portas do Mar, Mercado da Graça, …)
• Ilheu de Vila Franca do Campo
• Beaches (Milicias, Populo, Amora, Baixa D’Areia…)
• Pineapple plantations
• Farinha Falls
• Ribeira dos Caldeirões
• Miradouros Nordeste (Ponta do Arnel, Vista dos barcos, Ponta do Sossego, Ponta da Madrugada…)
• Priolo Environmental Center
• Salto do Prego
• Miradouro Pico dos Bodes

These are our favorite restaurants on the island of São Miguel. More info in our complete guide to São Miguel

• Botequim Açoriano
• Villa da Tia Merces
• Tuka Tulá (where to enjoy the sunset)
• Tasquinha Vieira
• Associação Agricola

Although it is not our favorite Azorean city, Ponta Delgada is the most strategic point where to stay to explore the island. In addition, with the gastronomic offer it offers, it is perfect for not having to take the car and go far away after a good dinner. We stayed at Ladeira Loft (from 80€/night), a very spacious one-bedroom apartment, in the center (very close to Mercado da Graça) and overlooking the Atlantic.

With more affordable prices, the Nook Hostel (from 40€/night), in the historic center, has apartments with 2 rooms, private rooms and dorm beds. Also among the cheapest options is the Holy Cow (from 50€/night) a hostel with rooms with private bathrooms and dormitories. The Hotel do Colegio (55€/night), a nice hotel in a 19th century building, with swimming pool, in the center of Ponta Delgada, was the hotel where my mother, my sister and I stayed the first time we visited the island and we loved it.

The other suggested option is Ribeira Grande , also well located and connected. Here you can indulge yourself and stay in front of the sea in the surf capital (and with the option, of course, to have surf lessons) in the Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort (120 € / night). If you want a more economical option in this area , take a look at the Mitós Vila (a villa for two people for 33€/night) or the Central House , a house that you can enjoy from 2 people (at 55€/night) to 6 people (at 75€/night). Find more accommodations in Ribeira Grande here

More info on where to sleep in São Miguel in our island guide.

Santa Maria

Santa Maria  tastes like  summer, vacations, and the sea . We bathed in  breathtaking beaches , walked through a  red desert  that seemed to be on Mars, listened to  jazz in an open-air festival , toasted at  sunset in the sea , and even had one of the  most incredible scuba diving experiences ever . This island was undoubtedly one of the biggest surprises of the 2-month trip through the nine Azorean islands. Here is our free travel guide about Santa Maria

Here is our free travel guide about Santa Maria . Featured stories on our Instagram: Santa Maria

Santa Maria (Azores): a guide to visit the island [with map] on your own (things to do, where to eat and sleep…)

Main places to visit in Santa Maria:

• Vila do Porto (Forte de São Bras, Casa dos Fosseis, …)
• Praia Formosa
• Ribeira de Maloás
• Ponta do Castelo (miradouros and Gonçalo Velho Lighthouse)
• Maia (Cascata do Aveiro and Maia swimming pool)
• Poço da Pedreira
• São Lourenço Bay
• Barreiro da Faneca (Red Desert)
• Anjos (swimming pools, Christopher Columbus statue, sunset)

Recommended restaurants in Santa Maria:

• Bar dos Anjos (where you can enjoy the sunset)
• Ponta Negra
• Mesa D’Oito
• Central Pub

Santa Maria is not very big but, in our opinion, it’s best to stay in Vila do Porto (its capital, for example in the Azorean Stone Houses where we stayed) or, if you are two people, indulge yourself in the Casa da Fajãzinha .

Find accommodations in Vila do Porto , Santa Maria

While we write the Faial travel guide, we leave you the most popular places on the island and our featured Instagram stories where you can see in detail our passage through the blue island.

Featured stories on our Instagram: Faial I and Faial II.

Main places to visit in Faial:

• Horta (Marina, Porto Pim, Monte da Guía, Miradouros, Peter Cafe Sport…)
• Caldeira (trail around the crater)
• Levadas (trail)
• Vulcão dos Capelinhos (Interpretation Center, Lighthouse, miradouros)
• Porto Comprido
• Praia da Fajã (Rocha da Fajã trail)
• Miradouro Ribeira das Cabras
• Ribeirinha (earthquake remains: Lighthouse and Church)
• Almoxarife Beach
• Nossa Senhora da Conceição Viewpoint
• Poça da Rainha
• Ponta do Morro
• Varadouro Swimming Pools

Our favorite restaurants in Faial:

• Atletico (meat and fish in wood-fired oven)
• Ah Boca Santa! (the best hamburger of our life)
• Peters: the mythical bar-meeting-point for sailors to have a gin and tonic at the end of the day.
• Porto Pim Café, to end the day in front of the sea

The best area to stay is Porto Pim , right in front of the beach, or in the capital Horta . They are very close walking distance from each other and there are several accommodations (and restaurants) in the area so you just have to choose. We stayed at Monte da Guia and loved it: comfortable rooms with the sea as soundtrack and views to Pico, common kitchen and living room and friendliness and professionalism assured.

Find accommodations in Horta , Faial

The island of Pico is perhaps  the most curious  of the nine islands of the Azores archipelago and for this reason, it has stolen our hearts. It is  the youngest  of all the Azores and the  black lava that covers 80% of the island  contrasts with the  blue of the sea where whales and dolphins live  (whom you can greet from a boat) and the  green of the vineyards, whose landscape is a Unesco heritage site , where you can taste a glass of delicious white wine. It hides the  highest point of Portugal  in its homonymous mountain and climbing the Piquinho attracts many travelers to contemplate the views (and the blanket of stars). The  magnetism of the mountain  is such that, whether or not you venture up and down it, while on the island your gaze will always be drawn that way. Pico Island also boasts the  largest lava tube  in Portugal, Gruta das Torres, which we can enter and thanks to which it is possible to understand everything we see on the surface throughout the Azores, with  lava  fields and  mysteries  of recent volcanic eruptions. And, of course, Pico has a sea where you can dive (with or without a bottle) and refresh yourself in wonderful  natural pools .

In our Pico travel guide , we try to reflect all that Pico has to offer with practical proposals,  itineraries from 2 to 7 days , where  to sleep,  and even where to  eat  so that your trip around the island is as incredible as ours has been.

Pico island (Azores): a guide to visit the island [with map] on your own (things to do, where to eat and sleep…)

Check out our free Pico travel guide . Featured stories on our Instagram: Pico I , Pico II and Pico III.

Main places to visit in Pico

• Climb Pico Mountain (with Atipico )
• Longitudinal road (EN3)
• Madalena (municipal swimming pool, Cella Bar…)
• Paisagem da Vinha de Criação Velha (trail from Madalena, Moinho do Frade)
• Gruta das Torres
• MiratecArts Costa Gallery
• Lajes do Pico (Whale Watching)
• Calheta de Nesquim (natural pools)
• Ponta da Ilha (Faro, Oleiro)
• Santo Amaro (walk and Magma restaurant)
• Prainha (natural pools, Ponta do Misterio)
• Sao Roque (natural pools)
• Lajido and Cachorro

Recommended restaurants in Pico:

• Ancoradouro
• Taberna do Canal
• Fonte Tavern
• Aldeia da Fonte

Our favorite area is between vineyards, in Lajido , where we stayed at Baco’s and next to where one of the most beautiful trails of the island starts and the photogenic mill: Vinhas do Calhau , where we enjoyed 4 incredible nights. If you stay at Madalena or nearby you will also be in a strategic point, although not as nice.

Find accommodations in Lajido or Madalena or surroundings, Pico

São Jorge is an island that concentrates an  imposing natural beauty  in its narrow, elongated and mountainous silhouette, which looks like a dragon. It hides some of the  most beautiful trails in the archipelago , incredible  natural pools  and is highly addictive for  cheese lovers . And yet, the best of São Jorge is impossible to convey in pictures or words.

In our São Jorge travel guide, we try to reflect all that São Jorge has to offer with practical suggestions,  itineraries from 2 to 7 days , where  to sleep , and even where to  eat  so that your trip to the dragon island is as incredible as ours was.

São Jorge island (Azores) travel guide: a guide to visit the island [with map] on your own (things to do, where to eat and sleep)…

Check out our São Jorge island travel guide . Featured stories on our Instagram: São Jorge I and São Jorge II.

Main places to visit in São Jorge:

• Fajã do Ouvidor (Poça Simão Dias, natural pool, Miradouro)
• Fajã da Ribeira da areia (Natural Arch)
• Fajã dos Cubres
• Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo (trail from Serra do Topo)
• Pico da Esperança
• Urzelina (natural swimming pool, windmills, craftsmen’s workshop)
• Fajã das Almas (natural pool, miradouros)
• Fajã Grande (natural pools)
• Fajã dos Vimes (coffee plantation, miradouros)
• Fajã de São Joao
• Topo (natural pool, ilheu do Topo, Faro)
• Velas (natural pools, jardim municipal)
• Sete Fontes Forest Park
• Ponta dos Rosais (Farol, Vigia da Baleia)

Recommended restaurants where to eat in São Jorge:

• Fornos de Lava
• Calhetense (ideal for watching the sunset)

If you want to sleep some night(s) in the Caldeira de Santo Cristo itself, book in advance at Casa da Caldeira , Casa da Fajã or Casa da Lagoa . To explore the island, we recommend staying at Fajã do Ouvidor where we stayed or around Velas , the capital. For something different, the Intact Farm , 10 bungalows between the sea and the mountains where you can recharge your batteries.

Find accommodations in Fajã do Ouvidor or surroundings of Velas , São Jorge

While we prepare the Graciosa travel guide, we leave you the most popular places on the island and our featured Instagram stories where you can see in detail our passage through the white island.

Featured stories on our Instagram: Graciosa

Main places to visit in Graciosa:

• Furna do Enxofre
• Caldeira (Furna do Abel, Furna da Maria Encantada, Miradouros…)
• Termas do Carapacho (natural pool)
• Caldeirinha
• Associação de Criadores do Burro Anão
• Porto Afonso
• Poceirões (natural pool)
• Ponta da Barca (ilheu da baleia)
• Barro Vermelho (beach and natural pools)
• Santa Cruz (Museu da Graciosa, Ermida da Nossa Senhora da Ajuda)
• Beach (Praia de São Mateus, Molinos, Miradouro do Ilheu)

Recommended restaurants in Graciosa:

• Costa do Sol
• Estrela do Mar
• Grafil (for breakfast or a drink at the end of the day)

Unless you stay overnight in one of its mills (an experience that has to be incredible) like Boina do Vento or Moinho Mó da Praia , it is best to stay in Santa Cruz de Graciosa . We stayed at the Boa Nova Hostel , a modern hostel that we wouldn’t miss in a cosmopolitan city but that was a pleasant surprise on the white Azorean island.

Find accommodations in Santa Cruz , Graciosa

A capital that is a  Unesco heritage site  (Angra do Heroísmo), a blanket   of green-grass patchwork woven inside the  largest crater of the Azores  (Serra do Cume) and a  unique volcano in the world that we can enter and look at the sky from inside  (Algar do Carvão). Just because of these three attractions it is worth visiting the third largest island of the archipelago, but Terceira offers much more to those who visit it. There are dips in  clear waters between lava flows  in Biscoitos,  biodiverse trails  between  mistérios negros , steaming cauldrons and the  largest  areas of  endemic vegetation of the whole archipelago , and all these plans are combined with delicious  gastronomy , good wine and  festivities , lots of festivities.

In our complete Terceira travel guide we try to reflect all that Terceira has to offer with practical tips,  itineraries from 2 to 7 days , where  to sleep  and even where to  eat  to make your trip as incredible as ours was.

Here is our complete and free guide about Terceira:

Terceira island (Azores): a guide to visit the island [with map] on your own (things to do, where to eat and sleep…)

Featured stories on our Instagram: Terceira I and Terceira II.

Main places to visit in Terceira (divided into two zones):

• Angra do Heroismo (historic center, Marina, Monte Brasil, …).
• Serra do Cume viewpoint
• Algar do Carvão
• Furnas do Enxofre
• Cave of Natal
• Mistérios Negros Trail
• Serra de Santa Barbara Viewpoint
• Porto Judeu (Miradouro da Cruz do Canario, natural pool)
• Gruta das Agulhas
• Ponta das Contendas
• Mata da Serreta (Miradouros and Faro).
• Biscoitos (natural pools, vineyards, trenches)
• Escaleiras natural pools
• Miradouro Humberto Delgado and Base das Lajes
• Praia da Vitoria
• Porto Martins

Recommended restaurants in Terceira. More info in our complete Terceira travel guide

• Caneta (meat alcatra)
• Boca Negra (fish alcatra)
• Garoupinha Wine Bar
• Taberna do Teatro
• Tasca das Tias

The island’s capital, Angra do Heroísmo , is a Unesco World Heritage Site for a reason, look no further. Stay among colorful alleys at the My Angra Boutique Hostel . If you prefer rural tourism, book in advance at Quinta do Martelo and if you want to stay closer to the incredible natural pools of Biscoitos, at the Caparica Azores Eco Lodge you will find tree houses but with comfort.

Find accommodations in Angra do Heroísmo , Terceira

The days on  Flores island  are of  constant amazement . It starts from the moment you get in the car and want to stop every few minutes to enjoy the green and flowery roads (yes, Flores – flowers in portuguese – lives up to its name) and continues when you get into some part of that green and you expect a tyrannosaurus rex to appear anywhere. If we tell you that Flores is the  Portuguese Jurassic Park , we would not be completely honest because it is all that together with  natural pools with turquoise waters  where you can greet fish of a thousand colors with imposing  waterfalls  in the background,  colorful lagoons  surrounded by a thousand shades of green and orange sunsets with an Azorean gin&tonic in hand saying goodbye to the sun in the sea.

In our Flores travel guide we try to reflect all that Flores has to offer with practical tips,  itineraries from 2 to 7 days ,  where to stay  and the  best restaurants  so that your trip through this “Portuguese Jurassic Park” is as incredible as ours was.

Here is our free and complete Flores travel guide:

Flores island (Azores): a guide to visit the island [with map] on your own (things to do, where to eat and sleep)…

Stories featured on our Instagram: Flores I and Flores II.

Main places to visit in Flores:

• Natural pools Fajã Grande
• Poço do Bacalhau
• Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro
• Its 7 Lagoas (lagoons)
• Rocha dos Bordões
• Fajã de Lopo Vaz
• Lajes das Flores
• Santa Cruz das Flores and its natural pools
• Ponta Delgada

These are our favorite restaurants on the island of Flores:

• Maresia (more than a restaurant, an experience. We recommend a local Rocha Negra gin while the sun says goodbye).
• Papadiamandis (good grilled fish)
• Aldeia da Cuada
• Casa do Rei
• Pôr do Sol (typical tapas but especially ideal for a glass of wine at sunset)

More information on Where to Eat on the island of Flores in our island guide .

The best area to look for accommodation on the island is in or around Fajã Grande since, apart from being the most beautiful area (in our opinion), it is where some of the best restaurants and accommodations are located. We highlight the Aldeia da Cuada accommodation (from 70€/night), an old abandoned village converted into a rural complex of several stone houses. As they tend to sell out quickly, there are other options such as Palheiro da Assomada /55€/night) or Casa Via d’Água (from 80€/night). Find more accommodations in Fajã Grande, Flores

If, like us, you can’t find accommodation in Fajã Grande due to lack of availability, remember that everything in Flores is about half an hour away by car so it’s ok. We finally stayed in the capital of the island, Santa Cruz , very close to the amazing Piscinas Naturales and Poça das Salemas, and we loved it. Here we recommend Casa da Cruz (62€/night), Casas da Quinta (from 75€/night) or Casa Vicente (from 120€/night).

Finally, Lajes das Flores is another very good option to stay and base, with excellent restaurants nearby. Both Casa das Pedras Brancas (from 62€/night), Vivenda Joaquim (from 70€/night) and Casa das Flores (from 110€/night) offer terraces with sea views. The point that seems to us to be more remote for you to look for accommodation on the island of Flores is Ponta Delgada.

More information about where to stay in Flores Island in our guide .

While we prepare the Corvo travel guide, we leave you the most popular places on the island and our featured Instagram stories where you can see in detail our passage through the smallest and most isolated island.

Corvo’s featured stories on our Instagram: Corvo

Places to visit in Corvo:

• Caldeirão (views from the lookout point and trail inside the crater)
• Cara do Indio Trail
• Areia Beach
• Artesanato do Corvo
• Moinhos do Corvo

Restaurants where to eat in Corvo:

• BBC (Bar dos Bombeiros do Corvo)

The only hotel there is the Comodoro Guest House , where we stayed and loved it. You also have the option of local lodging, the Joe & Vera’s Place .

Here we leave you our route through the Azores we did for 2 months and during which we visited the 9 islands. We will soon update this guide to include suggested itineraries for 4-5 days, one week, and two weeks.

Our 2-month route through the 9 Azorean islands

• Days 1 to 5: Faial
• Days 6 to 17: Pico
• Days 18 to 23: São Jorge
• Days 24 to 26: Graciosa
• Days 27 to 36: Terceira
• Days 37 to 42: Flores
• Days 43 to 44: Corvo
• Days 45 to 57: São Miguel
• Days 57 to 60: Santa Maria

How to travel between the Azorean islands

To move between islands, there are two options: boat and plane, although not all islands are connected to each other and frequencies are limited.

Inter-island flights with SATA

The 9 islands of the Azores archipelago have airports , ensuring the flight connection between them. The frequency of flights is higher in summer, and for some islands it is necessary to make a stopover (usually in São Miguel or Faial). All flights can be bought in SATA official site

The free flights between islands are no longer available to tourists since November 2021. Check the updated terms for free flights here . If you live in the Azores or are studying in the Azores (and have your official residence in the archipelago), we have good news for you: if fly from Portugal (either from the mainland or from Madeira) to any of the Azores islands, you can get free connecting flights from the island you enter the archipelago (or from which you depart) to any of the other islands, as long as there is no more than 24h difference between the flight you enter (or the flight you depart) and the connecting flight.

For example, if you want to visit Flores, you can buy a flight to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel) (for example from Lisbon) and get round-trip flights between Ponta Delgada and Flores if you choose any flight within 24h after your arrival (and 24h before your return) to/from Ponta Delgada. If you do that, you will have only a few hours in São Miguel. If you want to combine São Miguel and Flores in your trip, ideally you should choose one of the flights between Ponta Delgada and Flores in that 24h range upon arrival/before your return and then you will only pay for one of the flights.

How to apply for the free SATA “encaminhamento” flight? You have two ways:

• By phone, by calling +351 296 20 97 20 (they attend in Portuguese or English). This is the fastest option and the one we recommend.
• By internet, on this website: https://encaminhamentos.sata.pt/ . There you can fill in the form with the requested information and request the desired flight.

Advice based on our experience:

• Check the availability of SATA inter-island flights before buying your flight to the Azores: if there is no “encaminhamento” flight available in those 24h windows, you will not be able to enjoy the free flight.
• Organize your flights in advance, especially if you are visiting the Azores in summer.
• If you are fluent in Portuguese or English, do it by phone , it is faster and they will send you your reservation immediately.

The other option to travel between islands is by boat. All the existing boats are managed by the company Atlânticoline and you can buy tickets in advance online at their website: https://www.atlanticoline.pt/ .

Boat connections are limited and since the beginning of the pandemic some of them have been cancelled, so for some islands you will depend on air travel. Currently (2022), the existing boat connections are:

• Islands of the triangle (Faial, Pico and São Jorge) : they have connections all year round, with more frequencies during the summer.
• The purple line connects Terceira with the triangle, from 06/15 to 09/15, two days a week (Tuesdays and Saturdays).
• The white line connects Terceira and Graciosa with the triangle, from 11/06 to 04/10 two days a week (Monday and Friday).

Please note that frequencies and schedules are subject to change, you can check and confirm schedules here: https://www.atlanticoline.pt/horario-2/ . Sometimes schedules are updated only for a certain period, so if your trip is going to be in some months it is possible that there may not be schedules yet and you won’t be able to buy your tickets until the new schedules are announced.

Travel with the Iati travel insurance. With this link you get a 5% discount when hiring the insurance.

The best option to explore the islands is to rent a car . We did it with Autatlantis and we loved it: cars in good state, the best excess policy we found in the islands, no small print to stick to and everything was great throughout the 2 months we traveled around the 9 islands. Find the best price for car rental within your dates here.

Car rental prices in the Azores are somewhat more expensive than average, and it is difficult to find something for less than 25€ per day. It is very important to book as soon as possible because prices go up as the date approaches and demand increases, especially during the summer (in some summers due to the demand it becomes very difficult to find a car with less than a month in advance and prices reached 100€ per day).

During our trip (May to July 2021) the price of gasoline was 1,50€/liter.

We recommend some applications that will be useful for your trip to the Azores:

• SpotAzores : (Android / iOS / Web ): here you can see all the existing webcams in different points of the islands to see how the weather is. Because the weather is very changeable and it can be raining in one area of the island and sunny in another, this app is the fastest way to make sure and avoid unnecessary trips.
• Windy (Android / iOS / Web ): essential app in our trips, even more so in the Azores. It allows you to see forecasts for rain, clouds, wind, etc. to help you plan your days based on the weather (as there are places that lose a lot depending on the weather). Obviously the forecasts are not 100% reliable. It also shows the available webcams
• Google Maps (Android / iOS ): is the one we use to save / classify all the places we want to go / have gone and as GPS in rental cars. You can see other people’s opinions of the places, photos, restaurant menus, telephone numbers to contact them, etc.
• Maps.me (Android / iOS ): application similar to Google Maps but that works offline (although Google Maps can also work online) and in many cases has information that Google Maps does not have, especially trails. Useful whenever you are going to do a trail, to orient yourself, download the route from the official Azores trails website (click on Downloads->GPS), etc.

• In the whalewatching activity, respect the conduct and orientations given by the center and be suspicious if it does not involve measures such as: prohibition of swimming with dolphins; reduced and constant speed of the boat and a minimum distance of 50 meters from the animal; avoid the presence of several boats within a radius of 150 meters around the group of cetaceans and do not stay more than 10 minutes with the same animal.
• Do not allow the disturbance, pollution and destruction of the nesting habitats of seabirds. The “ cagarros ” (shearwaters) are a migratory bird that nests in the Azores that will part of the soundtrack on your trip (more appreciated by some than by others, especially in the middle of the night) for its particular sound of “awa awa” as if they were singing the chorus of the song Video Killed the Radio Star. In order to avoid situations of capture or runover of young shearwaters on the road, the Government of the Azores annually promotes the SOS Cagarro Campaign which we advise you to know when you arrive in the archipelago.
• Never try to touch or feed an animal – don’t be an accomplice to animal abuse!
• Do not buy handicrafts made from sea animals or extracted from the sea (e.g. dolphin teeth, turtle shells, shark jaws, sperm whale ivory, …). The ivory trade, currently the only valuable product of the sperm whale, is still an argument for hunters. Buy local handicrafts made from alternative materials such as wood, stone or vegetable ivory.
• If you visit the island in summer and enjoy the sea, remember that sometimes you may encounter a jellyfish (aquaviva ) or a jellyfish whose sting is painful and dangerous. Portuguese Man O’war whose sting is painful and dangerous. The good thing is that these last ones float and are easily detectable, but in case you see one, get out of the water immediately and warn other people of their presence. In case you have been stung by either of them, it is very important that you follow these official recommendations : do not scratch the area of the sting (to prevent the venom from spreading); do not clean with fresh water or alcohol, clean only with sea water and very carefully; and in case the sting is a Portuguese Carabela , seek medical attention as soon as possible.
• Respect other people and the island : don’t play your music loudly on the beach or natural pool (if you want to listen to music, wear headphones), don’t leave trash, don’t throw cigarette butts, etc. Leave the beach better than you found it (if you find plastic, pick it up).
• In some areas bathing can be dangerous due to strong currents . Don’t be brave.
• Learn how to play Marralhinha , the typical game of Terceira and you will see how easy it is to meet people and make friends. Apparently, marralhinha is a very popular game in the USA and, taking into account the number of emigrants from the Azores and 2nd and 3rd generation Portuguese descendants living in the USA, it was introduced in the island until it is currently the most famous game on the island. If you see a wooden game with marbles on a table and you feel like playing, here are the rules of the game.
• Always travel with travel insurance : medical expenses, theft or problems with your plane on a trip can mean a lot of money, so the ideal is to take out travel insurance. We always use IATI and recommend it. If you purchase your insurance through this link you have a 5% discount.

Oscars RandomAzores: our favorite places in the Azores

After our 2 months traveling around the 9 Azorean islands, we set ourselves the exercise of choosing the places that for us were the most incredible, the ones that surprised us the most or where we enjoyed the most. We have divided them into several categories, and although the selection is completely subjective, we believe it can help you organize your trip and decide which islands to visit based on your tastes and preferences:

• Poça Simão Dias (São Jorge)
• Natural swimming pool Fajã Grande (Flores)
• Poceirões (Graciosa)
• PR01 SJO – Caldeira de Santo Cristo (São Jorge)
• Climbing Pico Mountain (Pico)
• PRC04 FLO – Fajã de Lopo Vaz (Flores)
• Ah Boca Santa! (Faial)
• Botequim Açoriano (São Miguel)
• Beira Mar (Terceira)
• Caldeirão (Corvo)
• Poço Ribeira do Ferreiro (Flores)
• Vulcão dos Capelinhos (Faial)
• Tie among the other 7

• Vulcão dos Capelinhos Interpretation Center (Faial)
• Gruta das Torres (Pico)
• Arquipélago (São Miguel)
• Lagoa do Fogo (São Miguel)
• Lagoa das Sete Cidades (São Miguel)
• Lagoa Funda (Flores)

• Road to Fajã Grande (Flores)
• Longitudinal Road (Pico)
• Road to Fajã dos Cubres (São Jorge)
• Maresia (Flores)
• Calhetense (São Jorge)
• Tuka Tulá (São Miguel)
• Miradouro do Portal (Flores)
• Miradouro Baia de São Lourenço (Santa Maria)
• Miradouro da Serra do Cume (Terceira)
• Poço do Bacalhau (Flores)
• Salto do Prego (São Miguel)
• Cascata do Aveiro (Santa Maria)
• Casa da Serretinha (Terceira)
• Perola de Lava (São Jorge)
• Vinhas do Calhau (Pico)
• Night climb to Pico Mountain (Pico) – With Atipico
• Diving with manta rays (Santa Maria) – With Mantamaria
• Whale watching (Pico) – With Espaço Talassa

• Caldeira (Faial)
• Algar do Carvão (Terceira)
• Tie between Corvo and Santa Maria

Obrigada Açores. You gave us more adventure, more beauty and more smiles than we could imagine. You made us very happy. And since we like to return to the places where we were happy, you know what to do….

Disclaimer: Autatlantis helped us explore six of the nine Azorean islands with one of their vehicles but all opinions and information expressed in this post are our own.

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12 Awesome Things To Do in the Azores – Green Island Gems!

My name is Joao Santos and I am a resident of the Azores ( Terceira ). During my free time and when I have vacations, I love to explore the other islands of the Azores archipelago – taking with me my camera equipment to photograph the green and unique landscapes of these islands.

My taste for photography was born in 2017 when I bought my first drone. From the different perspectives offered with photography and drones, and the incredible landscapes of the Azores, I was fascinated and this led me to exploring this part of Portugal a little bit more with every passing year.

The Azores are an archipelago home to some of the most diverse and unique landscapes not only in Portugal but on the entire planet – from green pastures and fantastic forests, to majestic lagoons and towering volcanoes! This diversity inspires me to get outside and explore nature.

Living in the Azores is truly wonderful because it gives me the chance to explore the most stunning landscapes in the world and at the same time enjoy the calm of small cities/towns without being in a bustling metropolis. Additionally, the gastronomy here is fantastic with a rich array of dishes and the people of these islands are amazing too – they are always very friendly!

The people of the Azores are notorious for their welcoming attitude when it comes to tourists. Being small islands, the pace they live life at on a day-to-day basis is slow and peaceful – without the hustle and bustle of large urban centers. The atmosphere is calmer than the Portuguese mainland.

Nine Islands of the Azores

The Azores consists of nine islands: Sao Miguel , Santa Maria, Terceira, Graciosa, Sao Jorge, Pico, Faial, Flores and Corvo. I have visited six of the nine so far. My goal is to visit all nine of the islands and explore them as much as humanly possible, creating a photographic record along the way.

Each island has its own beauty but my favorites are Sao Jorge with its unique “fajas”, Sao Miguel due to its diversity from large lagoons to green pastures to dormant volcanoes, and finally Terceira island home to the fantastic city of Angra do Heroismo (classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and green patchwork pastures surrounded by stone walls.

12 Best Things To Do in the Azores

There are endless adventures to be experienced in the Azores – whether you enjoy hikes up towering volcanoes or around colorful lakes, or if you prefer to get in the water and go sailing, diving or surfing. Knowing where to go and what to do can be difficult for first-time visitors. So I have put together this list of 12 things to do in the Azores to help you plan your trip.

1. Spot Whales and Dolphins in the Azores Islands

The Azores are one of the world’s largest whale sanctuaries and you would be mad not to go whale watching on your vacation here! Among the resident and migrant species are more than 20 different types of cetaceans that you can spot on the islands. By booking a boat tour you will be able to see everything from dolphins to sperm whales, and even killer whales!

The best time to go whale watching in the Azores is between April and October. Nothing is guaranteed, like any wildlife adventure, but these months will give you the best chance of seeing these sea creatures. All nine islands offer this experience but normally people flock to Pico, Terceira and Sao Miguel to tick this activity off their bucket list.

2. Climb Mount Pico, the Highest Point in Portugal

This is a unique experience where you can watch the sunrise or sunset on one of the most incredible volcanoes in the world. There are two different mountains at Pico: one is called Pico (which is the volcano itself) and the other is a tiny mountain situated inside the crater called Piquinho. At 2,351 meters above sea level, the views from up here are simply breathtaking!

You shouldn’t let the small height fool you though – this is a difficult hike. Almost a third of hikers don’t make it to the top! So Mount Pico is definitely not to be underestimated. I recommend going with a guide in order to have the best climb possible. Most of the hike is uphill (of course) and it’s very steep in parts, so your guide will help you make it to the summit.

One of my best experiences in the Azores was when I climbed Mount Pico in 2021. Although it was tiring, it was well worth it to spend time watching the sunset. It’s an incredibly rewarding experience to witness a 360-degree view at the summit of Mount Pico (the highest point in Portugal).

3. Visit the Beautiful City of Angra do Heroismo

Angra do Heroismo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and that fact alone should motivate you to visit! The city is full of cultural and religious heritage, and colorful streets and buildings. Being a port city means you can feel the history around every corner and how it all related to trade. There is a mix of old and new here, combining both the Discoveries and Renaissance eras.

How you spend your time in the city depends on what you enjoy doing. The restaurants and cafes are fantastic for foodies, the sea views are amazing for photographers, and the churches, monuments and fortress walls make for great learning for those history-buffs out there! Angra do Heroismo is a must-visit destination when exploring the beautiful island of Terceira.

4. Experience the Epic Walking Trails of the Azores

Head along the spectacular walking trails across all nine islands where (through walking) you can enjoy the green landscapes and beautiful nature all around you. This network of trails was established by the Regional Government of the Azores to promote safety and resources for avid walkers.

Walking has a rich history in these islands. Centuries ago, before the advent of cars and land transport, the easiest way to get around was by walking. Footpaths have been used by Azores residents for generations and were normally accompanied by horses. Boats have always been a big part of the Azores too but land transport only came decades later.

These old paths were restored by the Azores Government in an effort to give locals and tourists access to remote corners of the islands. The landscapes that you come across on these walks are stunning and you can go for days and days without ever getting bored of the vistas.

5. Discover Lagoa das Sete Cidades, Sao Miguel

Lagoa das Sete Cidades on Sao Miguel is home to two beautiful lagoons with two enchanting colors (blue and green), situated in the crater of a dormant volcano. It’s been called “One of the Seven Natural Wonders of Portugal” and when you visit yourself it would be hard to argue with that summary! Head to Miradouro da Vista do Rei for the best lookout point.

6. Marvel at the Jaw-Dropping “Fajas” of Sao Jorge

Visit the “fajas” on the island of Sao Jorge where you can take in the nature of this remarkable Azores paradise. Fajas are steep island cliffs that lead down to flat bits of earth. Seeing them in person will take your breath away, especially if you enjoy drone photography as the pictures you can take are very unique and can’t really be found anywhere else on earth.

Sao Jorge is the best island to experience fajas because this island is long and narrow – 53 kilometers long and eight kilometers wide – and it has a high plateau of volcanoes that run along the middle of the island, eventually leading down to fajas. These natural phenomena were caused by lava flows many thousands of years ago that went down the cliffs.

If seeing these fajas tickles your fancy then head to the northern coast of Sao Jorge where you can discover no more than 46 of them! Some fajas can be accessed on foot by hiking the trails while others can only be experienced by boat. One unique way to see as many fajas as possible is to book a boat trip where you can navigate the coast and stop as you please.

7. Go Swimming and Surfing at the Best Beaches

For bathing lovers, the beaches of Santa Barbara (Sao Miguel) and Praia Grande (Terceira) are the best choices. Both of these beaches have the biggest sands in the Azores. Other notable beaches worth visiting are Agua de Alto Beach (Sao Miguel) and Caldeira do Santo Cristo Beach (Sao Jorge).

8. Relax in the Gardens of Parque Terra Nostra

Home to peaceful gardens, geothermal pools and amazing views throughout – this park is a must-visit for a day of rest and relaxation while visiting Sao Miguel. The park has two major areas: the upper area with its beautiful woods and gardens and the lower part with its lake, stream, pools and fountains. Here you can find palm trees, ferns and camellias.

9. Travel to the “Triangle Islands” of the Azores

The “Triangle Islands” represent Pico, Sao Jorge and Faial. Visiting all three makes for a unique experience as you get the feeling that you are truly in the middle of an archipelago, with epic views of the neighboring islands every day. The proximity of these three islands is quite the sight!

Each of these islands are unique in their own way, but all three combine to create the “Triangle” effect. Taking the ferry between Faial and Pico takes 30 minutes and there are numerous crossings per day. Another alternative route is to go from Sao Miguel to Pico. Travelers can even book a cruise to visit all three islands in an easy and all-inclusive travel package.

10. Explore Algar do Carvao Natural Reserve, Terceira

Visiting Algar do Carvao gives you the opportunity to enter the interior of a volcano! A series of massive volcanic eruptions occurred here thousands (if not millions) of years ago and it set the stage for this one-of-a-kind attraction. Visitors can go inside the volcano and marvel at the natural processes that led to this earth opening. A must-do in Terceira!

11. Taste the Delicious Local Cuisine of the Azores

The gastronomy of the Azores is very rich and there are excellent dishes wherever you go – always prepared with fresh ingredients. Proof of this can be found in the following dishes and delicacies: Sopa do Espirito Santo, Alcatra de Carne, Cozido das Furnas, Morcela and Lapas Grelhadas.

There is a wide range of restaurants in the Azores where you can taste these amazing local dishes, some of which include: Taberna Roberto (Terceira), Restaurante Beira Mar (Terceira), Tasca Das Tias (Terceira), Restaurante Miroma (Sao Miguel), Bar Caloura (Sao Miguel), Caffe 5 “Cinq” (Pico), Restaurante Ponta da Ilha (Pico) and Restaurante Magma (Pico).

12. Stay at the Best Hotels/Airbnbs of the Azores

Just like with the restaurants, there is fantastic choice when it comes to accommodation. From my experiences I can recommend the following: Azoris Royal Garden (Sao Miguel), Villa Da Madalena (Pico), Terceira Mar Hotel (Terceira), Hotel Caracol (Terceira), Barcelo Marina Hotel (Terceira), Caloura Hotel Resort (Sao Miguel) and Hotel Verde Mar & Spa (Sao Miguel).

Travel Tips for Visiting the Azores

For those who want to visit the Azores, I suggest that you plan for a few weeks of travel. Anything less won’t give you enough time. There is so much to see and you need to set aside a good amount of time! Another tip is to bring appropriate clothing because the weather in the Azores is unpredictable and you can have four seasons in a day.

Finally, if you want to visit all nine islands I recommend going by boat. The majority of the islands have some sort of boat connection and this way of travel can be a lot cheaper than going by plane. That being said, there are a couple of airports on the islands. Thanks for reading everyone! If you would like more tips on what to do in the Azores feel free to reach out to me.

BY JOAO SANTOS IG: @_JOAOPSANTOS_

Author:  Joao Santos

Joao Santos is a resident of the Azores, specifically Terceira island. During his free time he loves to explore the other islands of the Azores – taking his camera equipment with him to photograph the green and unique landscapes of these Portuguese islands.

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• Miranda do Douro
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• Faial, The Blue Island of Azores
• Flores, The Yellow Island of Azores
• Graciosa, The White Island of the Azores
• Pico, The Black Island of Azores
• Santa Maria, The Sunshine Island of the Azores
• São Jorge, The Brown Island of Azores
• São Miguel, The Green Island of Azores
• Terceira Island, The Festive Island of Azores
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What Are Conventual Sweets? A Guide to Portugal’s Delicious Desserts

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Between Lisbon and New York lies an archipelago called the Azores , made up of 9 islands. The Azores are a part of Portugal and are located 850 miles west of what the Portuguese call the “mainland”. Millions from all around the globe travel to the Azores every year to discover the beautiful landscapes and unique cultural heritage of each island. While visiting every island would make the perfect long vacation, many online have time to visit a few. To figure out which one best fits your budget and taste, you need to learn a bit about what makes each island special. You are in luck, as we have a travel guide for every island of the Azores:

• Santa Maria

See Tours & Activities in the Azores

The 9 azorean islands.

If you are short on time and cannot look through each guide at the moment, take a look at an overview of each Azorean island.

1. Corvo, Azores

Corvo is the smallest island of the  Azores and has less than 400 inhabitants. The most remote island of the archipelago, Corvo provides an isolated getaway with astonishing green landscapes, narrow streets with black stone, and sea views. Together with Flores , a few kilometers away, Corvo is considered a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. The top activities in Corvo are bird watching, hiking, swimming in natural pools and beaches, as well as visiting the 300-meter deep volcanic crater.

2. Faial, Azores

This 67 square mile island is home to 15,000 locals and is the westernmost point of Europe. Faial  is nicknamed the Blue Island because of the hydrangeas in different shades of blue that span the landscapes of the island. Located 4.5 miles from Pico and 11 miles from São Jorge ,   Faial is a cosmopolitan island that still features activities for nature lovers. From hiking the 400-meter deep volcanic crater, exploring the city center of Horta, and visiting the Capelinos, a volcano that erupted in 1958, this island has so much to offer.

3. Flores, Azores

Less than 4,000 people live on this island, making it a quaint destination to experience the Azorean way of life. The island’s name, Flores , translates to “flowers” because, during the summer, it is covered with thousands of blue and pink hydrangeas, as well as yellow goldenrods. These cover the sides of the roads that cross the green landscapes. Flores offers an astonishing landscape of green rolling hills and blue lakes, waterfalls, and sea views. Flores might not be the island that every tourist visits when traveling to the Azores, but this is also what makes it so special. Flores has some of the best natural pools in Santa Cruz das Flores and is known for the seven lakes, blue and green lakes that span the volcanic crater.

4. Graciosa, Azores

Graciosa , a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve has a unique landscape and a strong architectural heritage that makes it a top Azorean island to discover. Graciosa is 12.5 KM in length and has around 4,000 inhabitants. Part of the Central Groups of the Azores Archipelago, its closest neighbor is São Jorge , making it a great spot for island hopping. The nickname for this island, the White Island, comes from the white characteristics of Graciosa seen in Pedras Brancas (White Stones) and Serra Branca (White Hills). Our favorite things to do in Graciosa are swimming in the iconic thermal baths and visiting the Caldeira da Graciosa, a large crater that is classified as a Regional Natural Monument.

5. Pico, Azores

The Hawaii of Portugal, Pico is home to Portugal’s highest mountain, Pico mount at over 2,000 meters high which you can hike . Pico is the most recently formed island of the Azores at only 300,000 years old. Pico island is 46 kilometers long and is filled with exotic vegetation and astonishing sea views. Pico is known as the Ilha Preta (“Black Island”) because of its black volcanic soils which nourish the UNESCO-designated vineyards. Pico island’s history has been built around its wine and whaling culture. Since whale hunting was made illegal in 1986, Pico has ever since been leading a movement of fair treatment study of whales, as well as other sea animals. It is one of the top places in the world for whale-watching , as well as hiking and wine tasting.

6. Santa Maria, Azores

Santa Maria is one of the warmest and driest islands in the archipelago, as this island is the most southern of the Azores. The island of Santa Maria is the home of 6,000 Azoreans and is around 96.87 km². Along with São Miguel  81 KM away, Santa Maria is part of the Eastern Group of the Azores. Santa Maria is unique from the other islands, with yellow beaches and even a “red desert”. From exploring the town center Vila do Porto and swimming in some of the best natural pools in the Azores, Santa Maria is an island to not miss.

7. São Jorge, Azores

São Jorge is a volcanic island that features astonishing views of Pico  and  Faial island. The island is known for its beautiful contrasting views of a green landscape and dark blue ocean. Around 9,000 people live on the island that spans 243.9 sq. km. A part of the “triangle islands” with Faial and Pico, this island features f ajãs  that make up quaint villages and natural pools. We recommend visiting the coffee plantation, the only one in Europe, as well as the cheese factory.

8. São Miguel, Azores

São Miguel is the most famous island in the Azores and is the most populated island of the Azores with 140,000 inhabitants. 45,000 people reside in Ponta Delgada, the island’s largest city. The island is part of the Eastern Group of the Archipelago with the island of Santa Maria that is 80 kilometers away.  From the São Miguel iconic pineapple plantations to the  cozido das furnas , the island has a rich culture and Azorean cuisine. The island has so much to offer. From diving, hiking, surfing, and biking, São Miguel is great for the whole family

9. Terceira, Azores

The name Terceira means “third”, as this island was the third to be discovered in the Azores in the 15th century. It is the second most inhabited island of the Azores, with around 60,000 people living there. The island’s beauty is a consequence of the contrast between the natural landscapes of the volcanic island and the human-built historic center. You must visit the capital of the island, Angra do Heroísmo. It was founded in 1534 and was the first place in the Azores to be classified as a city. It was made a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1983. There is so much to experience on this island, from water sports to visiting an extinct volcano called Algar do Carvão. Terceira island is nicknamed “the festive island” because it’s known for its local festivals that are full of life and represent Azorean culture. Visiting during these festivities is a great option.

Azores: When to Go & Weather

Average temperature in the azores by month.

Azores Weather in January

• Average temperature 14.5 °C (58.1 °F)
• High temperature 17 °C (62 °F )
• Low temperature 12 °C (54 °F )
• Rainfall days 17 days

Azores Weather in February

• Average temperature 14 °C (57.3 °F)

Azores Weather in March

• Rainfall days 15 days

Azores Weather in April

• Average temperature 15 °C (59 °F)
• High temperature 18 °C (64 °F )
• Rainfall days 12 days

Azores Weather in May

• Average temperature 16.4 °C (57.3 °F)
• High temperature 19 °C (62 °F )
• Low temperature 14 °C (54 °F )
• Rainfall days 10 days

Azores Weather in June

• Average temperature 18.7 °C (61.4 °F)
• High temperature 21 °C (71 °F )
• Low temperature 16 °C (60 °F )
• Rainfall days 9 days

Azores Weather in July

• Average temperature 20.8 °C (69.5 °F)
• High temperature 24 °C (75 °F )
• Low temperature 18 °C (64 °F )
• Rainfall days 8 days

Azores Weather in August

• Average temperature 22.2 °C (71.9 °F)
• High temperature 25 °C (78 °F )
• Low temperature 19 °C (66 °F )

Azores Weather in September

• Average temperature 21.4 °C (76 °F)
• High temperature 24 °C (65 °F )
• Low temperature 18 °C (66.6 °F )
• Rainfall days 13 days

Azores Weather in October

• Average temperature 19.2 °C (66.6 °F)
• High temperature 22 °C (71 °F )
• Low temperature 16 °C (62 °F )
• Rainfall days 14 days

Azores Weather in November

• Average temperature 16.8 °C (62.3 °F)
• High temperature 19 °C (67 °F )
• Low temperature 14 °C (58 °F )

Azores Weather in December

• Average temperature 15.4 °C (63.5 °F)
• Low temperature 13 °C (55 °F )
• Rainfall days 18 days

The best times to travel to the Azores are between May and September. Temperatures are the most moderate at this time, rarely getting higher than 30ºC. During the winter, it usually doesn’t get colder than 7ºC. The Azores rarely get heat waves in summer or cold waves in winter so you can also travel all year long. However, it does rain a lot less between May and September, making it a better time to enjoy all of the outdoor activities that the Azores have to offer.

Best Hotels Azores: 9 Best Hotels in the Azores

1. sensi azores nature and spa, são miguel.

If you are looking for a five-star experience, SENSI is the place to go. This place has an astonishing view of the ocean and is decorated in a boho-chic style. SENSI features an indoor and outdoor pool, a garden, and a spa. Ponta Delgada is a 30-minute drive away, which is not uncommon on the island. A large room with a sea view costs around €120 a night.

2. Azul Singular, Faial

This place feels like a tropical oasis.  Azul Singular  offers a sustainable tented experience. You will sleep in your own little wooden hut or yurt tent, in the middle of gorgeous palm trees. This is truly a one of a kind experience. Every unit comes with an equipped chicken, a dining table, and a gorgeous bathroom. You get a continental or vegetarian breakfast, brought to your unit every morning. A yurt tent costs €70 a night and a superior wooden tent costs €75 a night.

3. Cabanas da Viscondessa, São Jorge

Cabanas da Viscondessa  offers private wooden cabins with a view of the ocean and Pico Island. A luxurious experience, each cabin has been decorated in an elevated style by a renowned interior designer and a private terrace with a garden view. Each unit also comes with a modern kitchen, dining area, and bathroom. This property has a restaurant, bar, and a shared garden, as well as an outdoor terrace where you can enjoy a meal or drink. Every morning, a continental breakfast is served from local products. The studio cabins cost between    € 80 and    € 100 a night depending on the season.

4. The Shipyard, Terceira

The Shipyard  is located in the historical center, a 10-minute walk from Praiana Beach, one of the best beaches on the island. This place has a restaurant called Oficina da Esquina, a high-end restaurant serving Portuguese food. The property consists of a series of modern studios and apartments, perfect for any kind of tourist, from solo travelers to families. A studio with breakfast included costs €70 and a one-bedroom apartment is €85. They also have larger apartments at a higher price.

5. Charming Blue, Santa Maria

Charming Blue  is a modern hotel that has 15 rooms in Vila do Porto, Santa Maria. Each room is elegantly decorated and comes with a view of the sea or pool, a TV, and a luxurious bathroom. The hotel has a large pool for guests to enjoy as well as its own restaurant called Mesa d’Oito where you can enjoy delicious dishes. You can also enjoy a highly rated breakfast at this place. You can get large rooms here for €80 a night.

6. Casa da Barra, Graciosa

Casa da Barra , located in Santa Cruz da Graciosa is a large holiday hope surrounded by green landscapes. The three-bedroom home sleeps up to five people, has a living room and two bathrooms. The home has a large garden and a barbecue, great for a sunset dinner. You can also rent a car at the property to get around the island. This home costs €100 a night.

7. Adega do Xelica, Pico

What better place to stay than your very own Azorean cottage? Built out of black lava rock, Adega do Xelica is only 5 minutes away from a wonderful natural pool. This place is in Arcos and features a terrace with a view of Mount Pico. It has 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, a balcony, private terraces, a dining area, as well as free private parking. All of this for only €100 a night.

8. Casa da Boa Onda, Flores

Located in the quaint Lajes das Flores,  Casa da Boa Onda  is an entire home that you can rent. The property has 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom, as well as a kitchen and dining area.  The best part of this place is that you can enjoy the view from the house’s terrace. You also have free parking in front of the house. This place can sleep up to 3 people as it also has an extra single bed if necessary. It’s also located near many hiking trails, perfect for a morning stroll. The whole house only costs €50 to €70 a night depending on the season.

9. Joe & Vera’s Vintage, Corvo

Joe & Vera’s Vintage  is a quaint guest house with cozy rooms that feature a private bathroom, a desk, and a patio. This place also offers a delicious continental breakfast at an affordable price. A 15-minute walk from Praia da Areia, this guesthouse also offers an airport shuttle service, as well as free parking. You can get a room here for €70.

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Best Things To Do in the Azores for Adventures and Relaxation

Home » Destinations » Europe » Portugal » Best Things To Do in the Azores for Adventures and Relaxation

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Updated: 21st September 2023

Near halfway between Europe and Canada, a cluster of tussled, rugged, lush, and windswept isles form Portugal’s far-flung Eden-like archipelago – the Azores. Piercing the Atlantic Ocean, these nine lush yet volcanic specks show off some of Mother Nature’s finest work, and the best things to do in the Azores are as adrenaline-pumping as they are effortlessly soothing.

Long a port of call for those sailing – and smuggling – between the two continents, the archipelago has been scripting seafaring stories for centuries. More recently, however, the isles have become an in-the-know sanctuary from the modern world – something I can testify to since I made Portugal my home.

This is a world where whales and dolphins dance in uninterrupted waters, geysers and geothermal activity tease from the underworld, hot springs alleviate, hydrangea-lined trails lure, and epic hikes to lofty peaks elate. Panoramic from all angles, patchworks of pastures spill down mountainsides towards the ocean, occasionally interrupted by charcoal-hued vineyards, basalt stone churches, and whitewashed rural villages. The Azores don’t warrant any Hawaii comparisons; they more than stand on their own nine feet.

So whether you want to walk through lava tubes, ascend Portugal’s loftiest peak, or recharge in an eco-resort after surfing the Atlantic’s snarling swell, these top ten things to do in the Azores will leave you under the archipelago’s spell.

100% yes. The Azores’ rugged and mystical charm, incredible natural attractions – such as volcanic craters and geothermal activity – and the chance to spot dolphins and whales are just the tip of the iceberg. Thanks to the island’s remote location, they have remained pristine, and the Azores are not only the perfect adventure destination but also ideal as a get-away-from-it-all retreat.

If you only want to visit São Miguel, you could ‘tick off’ the main things to do in the Azores in three days, as the island is compact and easy to get around. I believe that The Azores deserve at least a week so you can ‘switch off’ and appreciate the laid-back landscapes. If you want to hop between all of the islands, then allow at least a fortnight and if you plan to travel between multiple islands, allow spare time in case of delays or cancellation of flights or ferries due to adverse weather.

São Miguel is the best option to experience a bit of everything, especially as it has the most international connections. If you want to effortlessly island hop, pick Pico, Faial and São Jorge as a three-island adventure, as the ferries between them are more regular. Pico has incredible vineyards chiselled from volcanic rock and Portugal’s highest peak, while the more remote islands of Flores (famed for its waterfalls) and tiny Corvo are best for serene rambles far from the crowds.

Sadly, there isn’t a ferry from the mainland to the Azores. Therefore, to get to the Azores, you’ll need to take a domestic flight from Lisbon or Porto (there are no flights from the Algarve ) or an international flight from one of the connected cities in Europe and North America (TAP sell direct flights from New York’s JFK ). Alternatively, visiting the Azores on a cruise or a yacht charter is possible.

While there are short internal flights between all the islands – the frequency varies depending on their size – the more sustainable tip to travel between the nine isles and complete all the things to do in the Azores is by ferry. Sadly, this isn’t possible on all the routes as the distance between some islands does mean a flight is necessary. The Atlantico line ferries vary by season, with only short local connections in winter, while summer has more routes.

While it is possible to visit the Azores by public transport – I’ve done it twice – you need a little patience due to plenty of long walks, bike rides or waits for sporadic buses. As such, you might want to rent a car to reach the best spots on the island easily. Alternatively, group tours are a good option – especially if you want to do some adventure activities. I like the local operator Futurismo, as they also include whale and dolphin spotting and greatly respect the environment. They offer a fair-priced one-week adventure tour which covers all the highlights.

Delve deep underground in lava tubes

While Madeira , Portugal’s second archipelago, might have its unique levada (irrigation channel) walking trails, the Azores can boast of something even more special: lava tubes.

Given these beautiful islands have volcanic origins, it’s unsurprising that many of the best things to do in the Azores were shaped by seismic activity and magma eruptions. But, for me, this is one of the most remarkable volcanic-related experiences across the archipelago.

Thankfully, more than one island has accessible lava tubes , and you can visit this fascinating phenomenon on Pico, São Miguel or Terceira . The longest of the three is the Gruta das Torres on Pico, and although you can’t explore the full depth of the cave, it is my favourite. On São Miguel, you’ll find the Gruta do Carvão on the outskirts of Ponta Delgada, and Terceira’s tubes are called Gruta do Natal.

While you can’t just wander in freely anymore – once you could, keep an eye out for graffiti in some of the tunnels – the experience is still incredible. At Pico’s Gruta das Torres for example, you’ll be given a briefing and quick video overview of the tunnels’ history before being kitted out with a hard hat and being led into the dark depths of the tube. However, only a certain amount is open to the public.

Not only is the experience seriously cool, but it’s also informative. Along the cavity, you can see the markings on the dark walls, which show the scars of the different temperatures and outbursts. By the time you come back into the light, you’ll be more than in awe at the power of nature.

GETTING TO THE AZORES Many people assume that Ponta Delgada on São Miguel is the only gateway to the Azores. However, TAP Airlin e s (in conjunction with Azores Airlines) also offer direct flights from the mainland to Terceira, Faial, Pico, Graciosa and Santa Maria, meaning you could start and end your trip on different islands. If you’re travelling from further afield, TAP’s stopover programme , which includes beautiful Lisbon or Porto’s food scene , is worth considering, as it will also give you a 25% discount on all domestic flights.

Hike to epic viewpoints 

With numerous impressive trails across all the islands, the best free thing to do in the Azores is go hiking. Thankfully, complimentary doesn’t mean missing out here, as the spectacular panoramas are genuinely priceless.

My favourite place for hiking is São Jorge, a long and thin ridge-like island that dramatically spills downwards into the Atlantic Ocean. Azoreans have a specific word for these – fajã – which describes the flat part of the land which meets the ocean, usually formed by lava spill cooling on contact with the water.

The most famous and impressive of these is the Fajã dos Cubres, which has a lake-like area separated from the ocean by a slight stretch of land. Reachable on the PR1 trail, which starts in Serra do Topo, it’s one of many fantastic routes you’ll find on this lush isle.

On São Miguel , the showstoppers are the trails around the Sete Cidades crater lake. Often mistaken for two different lakes due to one being blue and the other green, they are, in fact, the same body of water – the different hues are caused by the light’s refraction. The relatively easy trail to Boca do Inferno is perhaps the best known, but the whole island has plenty of well-marked routes. For a close-up of the lake, allow an hour for some serene kayaking .

If you want the Azores’ outdoor activity with the most alien-like landscape, hike across Capelinhos on Faial Island. While the island’s capital is called Horta, which translates as ‘vegetable garden’ due to its greenery, this side of the island is dark dust, red rock, and decidedly bleaker. Caused by an intense 13-month-long eruption in 1957 – which in turn saw 1000s of Azoreans relocate to the USA – this side of the island was wholly re-shaped and expanded.

If hiking is one of the things to do in the Azores you’re most keen to do but are travelling solo, fear not, there are many well-traversed and non-dangerous hikes to do. Alternatively, consider booking a group hiking tour .

Whale watching and dolphin spotting

When the navy waters of the Atlantic surround you, there’s no question that you’ll want to include a boat excursion when planning your Azores’ outdoor activities. Luckily, all of the islands offer trips out into the deep blue, as one of the most popular things to do in the Azores is to try to spot marine mammals.

With four resident species – sperm, fin and sei can often be sighted – and plenty of dolphins, you’ll be in good hands on a marine-biologist-led boat tour. Most companies take their responsibility to the environment and wildlife seriously – sustainability is revered in the Azores, both with tourism and in day-to-day life – and companies such as Futurismo also offer responsible wild dolphin swims from Ponta Delgada.

Still, it doesn’t matter which island you’re based on; you’ll be able to find companies offering whale-watching trips across the archipelago, including regular departures from Pico Island , Horta on Faial Island , and on glass-bottom boats from Terceira.

Prime whale-watching season kicks off in Spring, making this one of the best European destinations in April , as you’ll hopefully not be jostling with any cruise ship crowds by this point.

Descend wine terraces to golden sands and discover currais

While sipping wine is certainly not an adventure activity, the art of growing them very much is in the Azores. Not only is this one of the most extreme places to cultivate wine, but it’s also one of the most visually impressive.

One of the most tranquil things to do in the Azores is to explore the vineyards on the island of Pico, which are one of Portugal’s UNESCO sites in their own right. Weathered vines rise from the basalt volcanic rock, telling the back-breaking story of creating viniculture in such an adverse setting.

Growers would have to – and sometimes still do – chisel into the harsh volcanic rock to plant their grapevines, using the hacked-out stone to build the currais (stone-walled areas, sing. curral ) which protect the plants from the sometimes fierce Atlantic gales.

Close to Pico’s vineyards, you’ll find a wine museum (Museu do Vinho do Pico), but I’d also suggest a visit to the Wine Interpretation Centre on the other side of the airport. Here, you can enjoy sampling the unique wines while learning the history of the vines. Afterwards, visit the Casa dos Vulcões next door to stand on an earthquake simulator and learn about the volcanic nature of the island, including a breakdown of what makes each one unique.

While Pico has the most famous vineyards of the Azores, I also found the terraced vines on Santa Maria island – where you’ll find the Azores’ only golden sand beaches – just as impressive and dramatic. The descent down through the steeply stacked growing area of Maia is not for the faint-hearted, but this corner of the island, complete with a waterfall, is captivating. 

Unlike Pico, Santa Maria’s wines are not exported due to legal reasons. Therefore the wines are only fermented for local consumption. So, if you can find a glass of it during your visit, you’ll taste something impossible to find elsewhere.

Bathe in the thermal waters

Not all adventures and outdoor activities in the Azores need to get your heart thumping, and sometimes you’ll want to give yourself over to the natural state of flow these islands boast by bathing in the healing waters.

São Miguel island is home to nearly all the Azores’ hot springs and thermal pools, and one of the most popular things to do in the Azores is to visit the Terra Nostra Hot Springs in Furnas. This large, round, and paid-access bathing pool is a murky brown due to the minerals, yet the botanical gardens which envelop it are far prettier.

I prefer the other nearby option at Poça da Dona Beija – which has some manicured landscapes around the handful of pools. Better still are the springs at Centro de Interpretação Ambiental da Caldeira Velha, which are a little further out. Still, you’ll want to arrive early to avoid summer crowds and book in advance if you’d like to stay in one of the popular spa resorts here.

São Miguel also has a thermal pool overlooking the ocean at Termas da Ferraria. Just around the corner from there, you’ll find Ponta da Ferraria, a no-charge bathing location in the ocean itself, warmed by thermal vents below. While other islands have more incredible natural pools – such as the Piscina Natural Simão Dias on São Jorge – they don’t have the thermal springs and hot waters that São Miguel offers.

On Graciosa Island, you’ll find a less attractive hot spring option – it’s more like a traditional pool – at Carapacho.

Snorkel on a protected islet inside an exposed volcanic crater

If you find yourself on São Miguel Island between June and early October, be sure to take the short boat trip from Vila Franca do Campo to Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo.

Idyllic and tranquil, this small islet is a protected nature reserve and one of the world’s most unique swimming and snorkelling spots. The island’s circular ‘swimming pool’ is actually the crater of a submerged volcano, and while the beach is compact, the calm waters and epic location make this a place not to miss.

Fair warning, this is one of the most popular things to do in the Azores during summer. With visitor numbers capped at around 400 people daily, you should absolutely book your tickets in advance.

Summit Portugal’s highest peak

While Torre in the Serra da Estrela claims the title of mainland Portugal’s loftiest point, the country’s actual highest pinnacle is on the island of Pico .

Towering up to the heavens and often piercing the clouds, Mount Pico – which literally translates to peak and gives the island its name – offers one of the Azores’ best adventure activities. 

From afar, it might seem like more of a steep hike than a climb due to the lower slopes’ less intense ascent, but once you start heading up, you’ll quickly realise that it’s a slog due to the challenging terrain. Still, once you’ve reached the top (2,351 metres) and taken in the far-reaching vistas, you’ll likely agree it’s one of the ultimate things to do in the Azores.

New restrictions have come into force in 2023 to protect the fragile landscape, and a guide is highly recommended, especially on a night hike . As the weather can change quickly in the Azores, you should always check in at the hiking centre beforehand or register your plan to hike without a guide on the new online portal before heading up.

Marvel at majestic waterfalls (while canyoning)

One of the most extraordinary outdoor adventures in the Azores is chasing, swimming in and canyoning around the waterfalls. From small scenic tumbles to vertical falls, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to cascades.

Flores Island – which translates to flowers – should be called Cascata Island, as this true hidden gem in Europe is the best destination for waterfalls. There are numerous cascades littered across the dense vegetation of the island, with Poço Ribeira do Ferreiro and Poço Ribeira do Ferreiro and perhaps the most impressive.

Seek out Cascata do Aveiro in Santa Maria, while São Jorge’s Cascata do Cruzal is a more tame affair. São Miguel also shines in waterfalls, with various impressive tumbles to be found.

For those who want to embrace these fast-running waters, one of the best things to do in the Azores is to go canyoning. You can do this on Flores Island or in Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park on São Miguel, where the rappel adventures are fairly priced, open to all levels, and can be booked in advance .

Embrace the geothermal activity 

No trip to São Miguel would be complete without visiting Furnas, the fiery heart of the island. As well as the previously mentioned thermal springs, there are plenty more chances to embrace geothermal activity.

In the town itself, you’ll find smoke billowing and geysers bubbling in the open-to-all public areas. Then, settle into one of the local restaurants and order Cozido das Furnas. This typical dish is a mixture of meat and some vegetables, but what makes it special is the cooking method as it’s placed underground and cooked by volcanic activity, similar to a hāngī in New Zealand .

Another place you can visit – although there is a small entrance charge – is the Antigo Pomar das Caldeiras, where boardwalks pass atop the hive of geothermal activity bubbling below. While it’s a bit out of the way and more artificial due to the wooden walkways, the lakeside setting and hive of action make it more impressive than the spots in town.

If you’re based in Ponta Delgada, you might find it easier to book a day tour – which also includes a stop at the island’s beautiful tea plantations – to experience it all.

Surf or sunbathe

You can’t talk about all the things to do in the Azores without mentioning the beaches; these are islands, after all. No matter what kind of beach day you’re craving, you’ll surely find the perfect slice of sand along these shorelines. 

Surfers especially are spoilt for choice, with swell favourites including the Praia do Areal de Santa Bárbara on São Miguel or the Fajã de Santo Cristo on São Jorge – although the latter will involve lugging your board.

For golden sands and dazzling bays, you’ll want to head to Santa Maria Island. Here, São Lourenço Bay shines with the stone-walled vineyards behind it, while Praia Formosa is equally inviting.

Family-friendly beaches can also be found at the sheltered Praia de Porto Pim on Faial or Praia Grande on Terceira. For something a little different, venture to Praia do Fogo on São Miguel, where, if you bury your feet far enough into the sand, they will be warmed by the hydrothermal vents below. 

Sure, these aren’t the typical holiday sands you’d get in Spain’s islands , but that doesn’t make them any less beautiful!

GETTING TO THE AZORES Many people assume that Ponta Delgada on São Miguel is the only gateway to the Azores. However, TAP Airlin e s (in conjunction with Azores Airlines) also offers direct flights from the mainland to Terceira, Faial, Pico, Graciosa and Santa Maria, meaning you could start and end your trip on different islands. If you’re travelling from further afield, TAP’s stopover programme , which includes Lisbon and Porto, is worth considering, as it will also give you a 25% discount on all domestic flights.

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Island hopping in the Azores (2024 guide)

By: Author Sylvia

Posted on Last updated: February 20, 2024

Welcome to the ultimate guide to island hopping in the Azores. The paradise islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.

The archipelago consists of 9 islands and a trip to the Azores is not complete if you haven’t at least visited a few of them.

If you want to see the highlights, you need on average 3 days per island with the exception of São Miguel where you can easily spend a week.

That means that you can combine a few islands in one trip. Traveling from island to island, either by plane or by boat, is part of the charm of a trip to the Azores islands.

Below, we share everything you need to know about island hopping in the Azores.

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

How to travel between Azores islands

There are two ways to travel between the  Azores Islands .

You can fly or you can use the Azores inter-island ferries.

Azores Airlines has year-round flights between the islands and planes are often the fastest, but of course also the most expensive, solution.

Azores Airlines doesn’t have any competition on these routes and you will notice that when looking at their prices. You’ll often pay around € 100 or more for a ticket.

Below, we will share a tip to help you save on this expense, though.

Taking a ferry to the Azores

The one alternative to flying between the Azores is taking an Azores ferry.

A boat ride is a pleasant and relaxed way to travel between the islands.

It’s also the fastest option when you’re traveling between the central islands of São Jorge, Pico, and Faial.

How to go whale watching in the Azores.

But the ferries don’t connect all islands. They operate in the central island group and there’s a ferry going in between Corvo and Flores.

The bigger ship that connected São Miguel with the central islands is no longer in service. As a result, you can’t use the ferry system to go to São Miguel or Santa Maria.

It’s also important to know that the ferries do not operate all year round. There is absolutely no service in winter. Out of the 6 ferry routes that exist, the first boats will sail from April and everything will come to a standstill again at the end of December.

Not all routes start at the same time. Some routes start operating in May and others are only there in the peak season.

If you visit the Azores in summer you will be able to choose from a good selection of ferries.

We do recommend always checking the schedule. There’re daily boats in summer, but outside the peak season, you may need to play a little with your itinerary so that it aligns with the ferry schedule.

We will discuss in detail the 2 options you have below, but first, let’s talk about the location of the Azores Islands.

After all, it’s their location that determines whether your best option is the ferry or plane when island hopping in the Azores.

If you are looking for information on how to get to the Azores from the mainland, click here.

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 .

Location of the Azores Islands

The Azores Islands can roughly be divided into 3 groups.

Centrally located are Graciosa, Terceira, São Jorge, Faial and Pico.

In the west are the islands of Corvo and Flores. They’re pretty close to one another but are far from the central islands.

And then there are the 2 islands in the east: São Miguel and Santa Maria.

Transport between those different groups of islands is very time-consuming by Azores ferry and, moreover, is not possible all year round.

Azores island hopping by plane

Below, you’ll find an overview of the flights offered by Azores Airlines, between the different islands.

Each island, even tiny Corvo, has its own airport.

Here is an overview of the airports:

Flights that require connections are time-consuming.  Azores airlines operate many flights and with a little bit of planning, you should be able to fly direct each time you switch islands.

Below is how you can book those flights.

Looking for Air Azores flights

Searching for flights is very simple. They have split the process into two steps. On the first screen (shown above) you can only enter the origin and destination for your desired flight.

I’ve shared the airport codes of all the Azorean airports above. You can enter these, or the name of the city. You can also click the arrow to get a list of all the destinations that are served by Azores Airlines (and their partners). Unfortunately, this list is only partly arranged alphabetically.

By default, the system is set to search for a return flight.

When island hopping in the Azores, you’ll typically have to change this to one-way.

This can be done on the second screen. Click on next and you will arrive on the screen shown below.

On this screen you can adjust the number of passengers. You can opt for a one-way flight instead of a roundtrip, or choose for a multi-city trip.

If you will be taking multiple flights you can save money by booking them all together with the multi-city option. We’ll talk about this in more detail below.

When you’ve entered your travel dates and the number of passengers, you can click on the blue arrows to see the results.

Above is how the available flights are shown. This screenshot is particularly interesting because it shows a combination of direct flights, flights with a layover, and flights with an intermediate stop.

The first result is flight SP 544, a non-stop flight.

The second result is flight SP 564, which has an intermediate stop in Horta. Because of the layover it takes a bit longer to arrive in Flores, but you don’t have to change planes.

  A practical guide to the Azores hiking trails.

The third result does require you to change planes.

This is a combination of 2 flights, SP 401 and SP 564 with, in total, 3 stops.

When looking at the details, you’ll see that you fly to Ponta Delgada with flight SP 401.  There you will need to change planes.

The second flight leaves for Flores but before arriving there it makes an intermediate stop in Terceira.

What you need to know before booking a flight to the Azores

The plane tickets are relatively expensive, but in exchange for that you get flexible tickets with the following perks:

• 23kg of luggage is always included . At least, that was the case for all flights we researched. And in all honesty, that’s the least they could do for that price. To be sure, we recommend checking this. You can do that by clicking the arrow below the price.

• As you can see above, exchanging and canceling the ticket are included as well (also double-check this). Note, however, that when you cancel your ticket, you’ll lose the service fee. If you exchange your ticket for a more expensive ticket, you have to pay a supplement fee that covers the price difference.
• Delays and cancelations . Flights can occasionally get canceled, the flight schedule is regularly changed, and you should also take into account some delays. Out of our 4 inter-island flights, 1 was canceled. We were rebooked to a flight that left a few hours later. 2 other flights were delayed by more than 1 hour.

So, it’s important to adapt to the relaxed lifestyle of the Azores Islands, where it doesn’t matter whether you arrive an hour earlier or later.

It’s also best to not fill up your travel schedule too much so that it’s not a total disaster if you have to spend a few more hours at the airport than you expected.

We haven’t yet visited Flores and Corvo ourselves, but we heard that flights to those islands are canceled even more often than other flights. It’s best to foresee a spare day when you’re traveling to or from these islands.

• The flight schedule is not necessarily the same every day or every week. So, while planning your trip, don’t just assume that a flight you find on a Monday will also occur on Monday the next week. Always check the specific days you’d like to fly.
• Azores Airlines recommends being at the airport one and a half hours before your flight if you’re traveling with luggage. Our experience tells us that the check-in often doesn’t open before that, but it’s of course always better to be too early than too late.

The airports are small and, with the exception of the airport in Ponta Delgada, getting from the entrance to the gate will take 10 minutes.

If you arrive more than one and a half-hour in advance you’ll arrive at a deserted terminal where you won’t even see any personnel. We’re talking from experience…

This does not apply to the airport in Ponta Delgada which is larger and serves international flights. We noticed how this airport can become busy at times and to be safe you better arrive a bit earlier.

On the website of Azores Airlines , you can find more info about this.

• The flights between the islands are done with relatively small propeller planes . There are 2 planes that can accommodate 37 passengers and 4 planes that can transport 80 passengers. The flights were usually pretty full and they always had open seating , which means there were no specific seats assigned. 

How you can book cheaper flights to the Azores

If you’re booking more than 1 inter-island flight with Azores Airlines, you can save a lot of money by booking them together as a multi-city trip.

The flights you book together don’t have to be related in any way.

So, they can be on completely different days and they can also be between totally different Azores Islands.

To do this, you start by entering an origin and destination on the homepage. When you click next it will take you to the page shown in the image above. There you can choose “Multicity” in the booking form (see the screenshot above). You will then get 2 lines where each line represents 1 flight. To add a third flight you click on the plus icon on the 2 nd line.

Below, you can see an example of how much you can save. These are some of the flights we took during our Azores vacation. This example is based on the actual flights we took during our first trip to the Azores.  We saved a lot back then and as you can see in these screenshots, which I took in May 2023, you still save a lot today.

The price of the individual flights remained exactly what is was in 2019.

First, we flew from São Jorge to Terceira. As you can see, this flight costs € 60.72 if it’s booked separately.

A few days later, we continued from Terceira to São Miguel. For this separate flight, we would’ve had to pay € 84.

By booking the flights together as a Multi-city trip you would pay only € 91,58. As you can see on the left, these are the exact same flights on the same days. You save € 50 when you book the two flights together as a multicity trip.

The savings are not always that big. I made another booking where the difference was only € 5.

How much money you save seems to depend on which flights you combine, and maybe also on which days you fly, but it’s certainly something that can keep some money in your pockets.

Enough about Azores Airlines, let’s now look at how you can go island hopping in the Azores by ferry.

Azores island hopping by ferry

Just like there’s only 1 airline that flies between the Azores Islands, there’s also only 1 company that operates Azores inter-island ferries.

In comparison, the prices of ferries are much lower. It appears they take less advantage of their monopoly.

A ferry ride is a much more charming way to travel between the beautiful Azores Islands.

Don’t forget, though, that the islands are located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. The ride can sometimes be a bit bumpy.

Below is an overview of the different ferry routes.

The different Azores ferry routes

The central island group.

These islands are relatively close together and Faial, São Jorge, and Pico are connected to one another by ferry throughout the entire year.

This island group is where the ferry is the most useful means of transportation.

The blue route

This route is available from April to December. The ferry travels up and down between Horta on Faial and Madalena on Pico. There are daily departures in each direction.

The ferry ride takes 30 minutes.

Here you can find a schedule of the departures.

Remember that these schedules are subject to change. Azores ferry Atlânticoline advises simulating a booking on the website to ensure that you get the most accurate info.

The green route

This route is also in operation from April to December.

It connects to the islands of Faial, Pico, and São Jorge. 

The ferry stops alternately at the São Roque and Madelena ports in Pico.

Depending on the port of call in Pico the trip from Faial to Pico lasts either 30 minutes or slightly over an hour. From there the ship sets sail to the port of Velas on São Jorge. From Madalena trip takes 1 hour 20 minutes, from São Roque it is just under an hour.

Here you can find a  schedule of the departures.

These schedules are also subject to change. Azores ferry Atlânticoline advises simulating a booking on the website so you can see the most accurate info.

The orange route

The orange line sails up and down between Pico and São Jorge. The trip takes 60 minutes.

This orange route operates from June to September (not on Wednesday and Thursday). Outside these months you can use the green line.

Note that the orange line always leaves from the port of São Roque on Madalena. The green line alternates between São Roque and Madalena.

Here is the schedule.

The white route

If you’d like to take the ferry to Graciosa you’ll have to use the white route. This is the only ferry that calls on this island.

This ferry operates only from June to September.

The boat starts in Faial from where it first calls at São Roque (Pico) and Velas (São Jorge) to then set sail to Graciosa. Before heading back to Faial it makes a last stop in Terceira.

Sailing from São Jorge to Graciosa takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes. The trip to Terceira takes 3 hours and 30 minutes.

There is only 1 departure per day and only on Monday and Friday.

The purple route

The purple line offers a faster connection between São Jorge and Terceira.

This route is very much similar to the white line. It starts in Faial and ends in Terceira. The only difference is that this ferry doesn’t call in Graciose, it heads straight for Terceira from São Jorge.

That, and the ports of call. The purple line stops in São Roque on Pico, and Calheta on São Jorge.

The trip from São Jorge to Terceira takes just under 3 hours.

This ferry operates from June to September and there is one departure per day. (only on Tuesday and Saturday)

The western island group

It’s also quite likely that your vacation will include a trip by ferry if you’re going to visit the islands of Flores and Corvo. 

The ferry route between the two islands is operational from May to December and takes just 40 minutes.  Flores and Corvo are, however, further away from the other Azores islands, and traveling there from the central island group can only be done by plane.

The pink route

The pink route connects to the islands of Flores and Corvo. There’s a ferry going in the morning and one in the late afternoon.

The service starts in May with boats on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. From June to August the route is serviced daily with the exception of Wednesday. In September we’re back to a limited schedule of Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays and from October onwards there are only ferries on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

The ferry is a small boat that can accommodate only 12 passengers.

Here is the ferry schedule.

Just like all the other routes, these schedules are also subject to change. Azores Ferry Atlânticoline advises simulating a booking on the website so you can see the most accurate info.

The eastern island group

There is no ferry service to the eastern island group and the islands of Santa Maria and São Miguel aren’t connected with a ferry either.

There used to be a ferry connecting these islands during the summer months but that hasn’t returned after Covid-19.

If you are looking for a São Miguel itinerary, click here. 

Ferry to Graciosa and Terceira

If you have little time to visit the Azores, I would definitely recommend taking a plane to travel to these islands.

A trip by plane is faster and unlike at major international airports, you don’t spend hours queueing for check-in and security at the Azores. From check-in to boarding, it is a very swift and painless process.

For lovers of slow travel, taking ferries in the summer months is, however, a great alternative.

Planning your Azores Islands ferry routes

The schedules that we shared above are sometimes a little complex to decipher and are also subject to change. Atlânticoline posts a new update every month . 

It’s easier and better to simulate bookings while planning your route. This is also what Atlânticoline advises. It will also be the fastest solution, much quicker than puzzling your route together by using all those different schedules.

When planning your  Azores itinerary  take into account that the schedules aren’t necessarily the same every week. If you found a ferry on a Monday, don’t assume that it will also operate on Monday the next week. Check all departures on your exact dates!

Simulating and booking routes online is child’s play. You can choose between single, return, or multiple trips.

Make sure to switch the language of the website to English. (with the language selector in the menu at the top of the page) If Chrome auto-translates the website the search function will not work.

You will always see an overview of 5 days. You can compare prices, between the different days but they’ll generally be the same.

If there are no departures on your chosen date, you can immediately choose 1 of the surrounding dates that do have departures.

You have to search for ferries from specific ports.  Pico and São Jorge both have two ports that are just 30 minutes apart.  If you’re looking for ferries from these islands make sure to look for departures from both ports.

On certain weekdays, ferries may depart from one port but not the other.

If there are multiple departures on one day, you can select the one you prefer from the list.

You can buy multiple ferries in one booking with the multiple trips option.

You will then book the ferries step by step. Once you’ve picked your first ferry, this route will appear on the right side of the screen. Then, you can change the form and to fields in the search bar, as well as the date, and search again for the second ferry.

Pricewise, there are no benefits related to this method. The price of the ferries remains the same whether you book them separately or together.

Booking Azores inter-island ferries

You can book your tickets online or you can buy them at ticket counters at the ports.

The price remains the same, so if you’re sure about your travel schedule, you can absolutely buy your tickets online in advance. Changes are free in most cases (see below).

When booking, you have to enter the passport information for each traveler.

You can also purchase your tickets at the port terminal if you want to keep your schedule flexible. Some routes have multiple departures per day, while other ferries operate only once or twice a week.

Definitely take that into account. The longer you wait to purchase your ticket, the higher the chance the ferry will be full. Especially in the peak season.

If you’d like to take your vehicle with you on the ferry, it’s definitely recommended to get your tickets well in advance.

There’re only 2 boats that take cars. One has room for 12 cars, the other for 15 cars.

Below , you can find more information about taking the ferry with your car.

You can take your luggage on the boat for free. Two suitcases of 25 kilos are included per paying customer.

Exchanging and canceling your ferry tickets

Passenger tickets can be exchanged for free before your departure.

In case of cancellations within 24 hours after booking, you are eligible for a 100% refund. After that, you still get 90% back. If the ticket is issued within 3 days prior to departure you’re only eligible for a 90% refund.

If your ticket costs less than € 10, you will get the full amount back, minus an administrative fee of € 1.

When you’re traveling with a vehicle , other rules apply:

Cancellations within 24 hours after booking will still be eligible for a complete refund. After that, and until 5 days before your departure, you can get 90% of your money back. For changes within 5 days before departure, an administrative fee  is charged.

If you made a mistake in your booking and you have to change your name or vehicle license plate it will cost you €10.

You can find all details about changes and cancellations here .

Car on the ferry

It’s also possible to sail from island to island with your (rental) car. The Gilberto Mariano, 1 of the Atlânticoline ferries, has room for 12 vehicles.

In 2019 a second car ferry, the Master Jaime Feijó, was added to the fleet. This ferry can take 15 cars.

Both ferries operate between the islands of the central island group.

In some cases, it may be beneficial to take your rental car on the ferry. By renting a car for a longer period, the actual day costs are usually cheaper. On the other hand, the ferry will be more expensive.

However, it is not always obvious to map out a good itinerary. First of all, only 2 out of 5 ships can take cars. This means you will be able to choose from fewer departures.

But that isn’t the main drawback of traveling with your car from island to island. The biggest disadvantage is that you usually will have to return the car to the place you rented it.

This means that you have to allow time to sail back to your first island. It is an extra boat trip that you otherwise wouldn’t need to do.

The price of a ferry transfer with a car comes close to the price of a plane ticket (and in some cases, it is even more expensive). It is therefore not often economical to do this. We have never found a scenario where it made sense, but it’s worth checking anyway.

Be sure to check your rental contract first though. It’s not always permitted to take your car to another island.

If you’re taking the ferry with your car, it’s best to reserve your ferry ticket and spot well in advance because of the limited capacity. 

Here you can read everything about car rental in the Azores. 

The screenshot below shows how you can add a vehicle to your reservation.

You’ll start by making a regular reservation like we’ve shown above.

Once you’ve selected a sailing you click on the “Add products” button. If you can take cars on the ferry, you will see the form below. There, you can add your car to your reservation. (a regular car is P3)

If you can’t take a car on the ferry (this can be because it is a ship that doesn’t take cars or because it is at capacity) you will only be able to select bicycles and pets as add-on products.

As you can see, there are different types of vehicles that you can add.

Below, you see what these different codes mean.

Boarding the ferry

Atlânticoline recommends arriving at the terminal about 60 minutes before the planned departure time.

You have to leave your luggage at the luggage counters, where you must show your tickets so that they can label the luggage and send it to the correct destination.

Additionally, you must also have your passport ready because you have to show it together with your tickets when boarding.

The fleet of Atlânticoline consists of 5 ships. 

The latest additions is the Mestre Jaime Feijó which joined the fleet in 2019. This ship is able to accommodate 333 passengers and 15 vehicles.

This is the smallest ship. It looks more like a large dinghy, and it operates all year round on the pink route between Corvo and Flores. It has room for 12 passengers.

Gilberto Mariano

This was until recently the largest ship owned by the ferry company. It can accommodate 287 passengers and 12 cars. This ship operates on all the routes in the central Azores Islands group.

Boarding the Cruzeiro Das Ilhas

Cruzeiro Das Ilhas & Cruzeiro Do Canal

Both ships can accommodate 193 passengers and they mainly operate on the green and blue route between the islands of São Jorge, Pico, and Faial.

Island hopping is exactly what makes an Azores holiday so much fun.

Even though the different islands look quite alike, each individual island has its own distinct features and characteristics.

Pico is home to the volcano, São Miguel has its hot springs and Terceira has some stunning caves.

Here you can find all our Azores posts.

This is where you can find an overview of the most beautiful attractions on the Azores. If you are looking for an Airbnb in the Azores, click here. If you are looking for a good hotel or vacation home in the Azores, click here.

In this island-hopping Azores guide, we showed you that booking plane tickets and ferry tickets is pretty easy. However, if you don’t feel at ease traveling on your own around the Azores, you could always opt for a guided Azores vacation package.  

Have a great vacation on these beautiful islands!

The Azores   Travel Guide

Courtesy of cinoby | Getty Images

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

Find Flight and Hotel Deals

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The Best Time to Visit the Azores: The Ultimate Seasonal Guide

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT THE AZORES

Right off the bat, I’m going to give you an easy answer: May or September are the best months to visit the Azores! My opinion is based solely on my desire for warm days, mostly-dry hiking trails, and smaller crowds of tourists.

With that said, there are perks to visiting the Azores at different times of the year, depending on what you’re looking to do. I’ve broken this post up into different sections, so let the table of contents guide you to the information you’re looking for.

Renting a car is the best way to experience the Azores!

No matter the time of year you visit the Azores, renting a car is the best way to see all the islands have to offer.

I use Discover Cars when I book, because they include the local rental agencies, in addition to the big international car rental brands.

🚘 Click to Search Rental Cars in the Azores

OK: Let’s Find Your Best Time to Visit the Azores!

Seasons in the azores.

Let’s break down the weather by season in the Azores. 

KEY INFO : It never snows in the Azores!

Spring in the Azores

March, April, and May are popular months to visit the Azores. The weather is mild, and the islands’ landscapes come to life with colorful flowers and lush greenery. It’s a great time for hiking and exploring nature.

Summer in the Azores

The summer months of June, July, and August are the peak tourist season. The weather is warm, and perfect for hiking and spending time at the beaches . Some of the trails can get pretty crowded, and you might pay a premium for lodging and rental cars.

Fall in the Azores

September, October, and even November are still pretty mild months in the Azores. The summer crowds are gone. While it might be too cold for the beaches, you can still enjoy hiking and other outdoor activities in autumn.

Winter in the Azores

Winters in the Azores are mild compared to many other regions, with temperatures rarely falling below 10°C (50°F). It’s a great time for travelers who prefer smaller crowds, and pay lower prices for lodging. 

Azores Tours in Any Season

These tour options all come highly recommended!

➡️ Click to Book: Private Tour: Sao Miguel

• Full Day from Ponta Delgada

➡️ Click to Book: Azores Canyoneering

• Waterfall Adventure

➡️ Click to Book: Sunset Sail

• For a group off Ponta Delgada

➡️ Click to Book: Fishing Trip

• Off Sao Miguel

➡️ Click to Book: Azores Wine & Cheese

• Tastings in Ponta Delgada

➡️ Click to Book: Sao Miguel Day Tour

• Sete Cidades & More

➡️ Click to Book: Food Tour

• Ponta Delgada

Rainfall in the Azores

It’s important to note that these are average rainfall amounts, and actual weather conditions can vary from year-to-year. Rainfall is largely driven by the oceanic climate, which seems to be in flux these days.

Plus, parts of Sao Miguel and the other Azores Islands have their own microclimates, so different regions will experience different rainfall patterns.

Consider this a general guide to the average rainfall amounts in the Azores by season:

Spring Rainfall in the Azores

• Spring is generally a wet season on Sao Miguel Island.
• Average rainfall: Around 4-6 inches per month.
• March and April tend to be rainier, with showers and occasional thunderstorms, while May starts to see a decrease in rainfall.

Summer Rainfall in the Azores

• Summer is the driest season on the islands, but rainfall is still possible.
• Average rainfall: Around 2-4 inches per month.
• July and August are typically the driest months in the Azores, with fewer rainy days and more sunshine.

Fall Rainfall in the Azores

• Fall experiences a gradual increase in rainfall as the season progresses.
• Average rainfall: Around 4-6 inches per month in September and October, increasing to 6-8 inches in November.

Winter Rainfall in the Azores

• Winter is the wettest season on Sao Miguel Island.
• Average rainfall: Around 6-8 inches per month.
• December and January tend to be the wettest months in the Azores.

The Best Time to Hike in the Azores

The best time to go hiking on Sao Miguel and the other Azores Islands is a matter of personal opinion. For me, it would be May or September. The weather is mild and dryer, the days are longer, and the island’s vegetation is lush and vibrant.

During the summer months (June, July, and August), hiking is still amazing in the Azores, but you’ll have to be prepared for some crowded trailheads.

I’d recommend these tour options for hikes on Sao Miguel:

➡️ Click to Book: Sao Miguel Hike

• Volcanic lakes

➡️ Click to Book: Sete Cidades Hike

• Sete Cidades

➡️ Click to Book: Azores Waterfall Hike

• Salto do Prego.

The Best Time for Flowers in the Azores

The best time to visit Sao Miguel for flower blooms is from mid-to-late May, through June. The island’s flowers reach their peak during that period, but from April through the summer, you’ll always find something beautiful and in bloom!

By late March and early April, you can witness the early spring blooms, including azaleas, camellias, and other wildflowers. As the season progresses into May and early June, the landscapes become even more stunning, with hydrangeas, rhododendrons, and other flowering plants in full bloom.

Sao Miguel is famous for its huge hydrangea plants, seemingly growing like weeds along hiking trails and highways!

The Best Time to Visit the Azores on a Budget

With patience and planning, you can usually find decent deals for a budget-friendly trip to the Azores. 

Flight prices usually start dropping after the summer high season, in September. They can fall even lower, deeper into the winter and early spring months.

You’ll find amazing hotel deals in December and January. Rooms that can run $500 a night, drop down into the $100s at some of the top Azores resorts and hotels, including the tranquil Sensi Azores Natural and Spa on the west coast of Sao Miguel.

Flight Deals to the Azores

When it comes to finding the best deals on flights to the Azores, you’ll have to search around. During the off-season (October through March) some airlines have been known to cut back their service to the Azores. While you might have fewer flight options, the fares will be lower.

Start searching for flights around the dates you’re looking to visit the Azores several months in advance. If you see a deal for your dates, snag it.

There are usually direct flights to Ponta Delgada’s airport (PDL) from Boston, Newark, New York’s JFK, and Toronto. In addition to searching those options on United and Azores Airlines, search for lower-cost flights to Lisbon. From Lisbon, you can usually find cheap hopper flights to the Azores on Ryanair, TAP, and Azores Airlines.

Aside from Lisbon, check for deals to major European hubs, like Paris, London, and Madrid. You’ll be able to find cheap hopper fares to the Azores from those big cities, too.

The Best Time to Visit the Beaches in the Azores

While the Azores resemble the volcanic Hawaiian Islands in many ways, you won’t find many pristine white sand beaches here in the North Atlantic. The swimming season is short, and the coastline is largely made of black volcanic rocks.

Still, the Azores’ beaches offer stunning views, and are often surrounded by jagged cliffs. 

The ocean water temperature off the coast of Sao Miguel and the other Azores islands might be too cold to enjoy, depending on what you’re used to:

Spring Water Temperature

• Average water temperature: 16°C to 18°C (61°F to 64°F)
• The ocean temperature around the Azores starts to warm up during the spring, but is still cool.

Summer Water Temperature

• Average water temperature: 19°C to 22°C (66°F to 72°F)
• Of course, summer is the warmest season for the ocean water around the Azores. The water is almost pleasant for swimming and water activities.

Fall Water Temperature

• Average water temperature: 19°C to 22°C (66°F to 72°F) in September, gradually decreasing to 17°C to 19°C (63°F to 66°F) in November.
• The water remains relatively warm during the early fall but starts to cool down as the season progresses.

Winter Water Temperature

• Winter brings cooler ocean temperatures, but it’s still relatively mild compared to other regions. A wetsuit is recommended!

The Best Time for Surfing in the Azores

The best time to surf in the Azores is during the fall and winter months, when the Atlantic Ocean produces larger swells. The Azores Islands experience more consistent and powerful waves during the winter.

Fall is great for both intermediate and experienced surfers, as the waves are generally more manageable.

It goes without saying, but: make sure to bring a wetsuit to stay comfortable while surfing!

If you’re are a beginner, or prefer more relaxed surfing conditions, you can still enjoy surfing in the Azores during the spring and summer months when the water temperatures are warmer

If you’re really into surfing, you likely already know to check out Nazare on mainland Portugal. It’s an easy drive from Lisbon, and home to some of the biggest, record-setting waves on the planet!

The Best Time for Whale Watching in the Azores

The best time to go whale watching in the Azores is during the spring and summer months, from April to September. During this period, several whale species migrate through or inhabit the surrounding waters. 

➡️ Click to Book: Azores Whale Watching

• Full-Day Tour
• Half-Day Tour

➡️ Click to Book: Pico Island Whale Watching

The island of Pico is one of the best places in the world to see sperm whales. The underwater geography creates a nutrient-rich environment that sustains a diverse marine ecosystem, making it an excellent feeding ground for the whales.

When visiting Pico Island for sperm whale watching, you’ll likely depart from the town of Lajes do Pico, which is renowned for its whale-watching tours and experienced guides.

Some of the most commonly spotted whales off the Azores include:

• Sperm Whales : The Azores are one of the best places in the world to see sperm whales year-round. Their sightings are more frequent from April through September.
• Blue Whales : The largest animals on Earth, blue whales, can be seen in the Azores during the spring and summer months, particularly in May and June.
• Humpback Whales : Humpback whales are typically seen in the Azores during their migration from April to June.
• Fin Whales : Fin whales are also seen during the migration season, with higher chances of spotting them from April to June.
• Sei Whales and Minke Whales : These whales are present in the Azores during the spring and summer months, providing additional opportunities for whale watching.

The Azores Weather by the Month

The azores in january.

Be prepared for rain and cooler temperatures if you’re visiting the Azores in January. The weather can be messy and unpredictable, but remember: it never snows in the Azores!

As for some of the perks of visiting the Azores in January, you’ll find far fewer tourists, since it’s the off-season. The hiking trails and viewpoints will be mostly empty, so it’ll be a quieter experience (but also probably rainier).

January is also a great time to visit the Azores on a budget! You’ll find great discounted rates at beautiful hotels, like Sensi Azores Natural and Spa .

Plus, let’s face it: January in much of the world is cold and miserable. It’s at least still relatively mild in the Azores!

Plus, the hot springs and thermal baths are still pumping out hot water. January is a great time to relax and rejuvenate in the warm waters.

The Azores in Feburary

Visiting the Azores in February comes with a few perks. 

It’s still off-peak tourist season, so you’ll find smaller crowds at the viewpoints and on the hiking trails. Plus, the deals on off-peak accommodations continue, and you’ll have an abundance of rental car options . It’s a great time for budget travel to the Azores.

While the weather is cooler and rainier in February, you’ll still find lush green landscapes to explore, and thermal baths and hot springs to warm up in.

I have no experience bird-watching, but I’m told February is an excellent time for birdwatching in the Azores. The islands serve as an essential stopover for migratory birds, providing opportunities to observe a variety of species. 

The Azores in March

Visiting the Azores in March can be a mixed bag. It marks the beginning of the spring season, meaning: more mild weather. Keep in mind: it can still be unpredictable and rainy. As always, pack layers and waterproof clothing to be prepared for a variety of conditions.

The lush landscaping in the Azores starts to come alive in March, but it’s still considered off-peak season for tourism. That translates to small crowds and deals at hotels.

The Azores in April

Visiting the Azores in April, you’ll find the landscapes starting to bloom and the weather starting to warm.

While temperatures become more mild, you’re still likely to experience a mix of sunny days and rain showers.

For photographers, April is a great month to visit the Azores. You’re likely to see sunny days, cloudy days, and fog. The changing weather conditions will create different experiences to shoot. Plus, more of the flowers will start to bloom.

Whale watching also picks up in April, as the migratory season for sperm whales and other species begins.

The Azores in May

May is one of the best months to visit the Azores.

It marks the transition from spring to summer, offering milder and more stable weather compared to the earlier spring months. Temperatures range, on average, from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). The chances of rain decrease, and you can expect more sunshine.

The lush vegetation blooms even more in May, making the scenery even more beautiful. It’s ideal for hiking, and exploring the volcanic landscapes and coastlines.

May is also a good time for whale watching in the Azores. Various species, including humpback whales, blue whales, and fin whales, pass through the Azores during their migration. Besides whales, May also provides opportunities to see other marine life, such as dolphins and sea turtles.

While May marks the start of the peak tourist season, it’s still not as crowded as the summer months. You can enjoy popular attractions and sites without large crowds.

The Azores in June

June marks the beginning of the peak tourist season in the Azores. While the islands are more vibrant and lively, you’ll find larger crowds at popular attractions, and hotels will be in high-demand.

The Azores Islands will be in full-bloom in June! The hydrangeas will be bushy and blooming along the highways and trails.

The daily temperatures will rise into the 70s (Fahrenheit), and rain showers will become less likely. June offers perfect weather for outdoor activities, especially hiking around the volcanic landscapes. 

Plus, you’ll have more time to experience it all, since the days are long, with hours of extra sunlight in June!

If you’re visiting the Azores in June, search for flights months in advance if you’re looking for a deal. Plus, be sure to book a hotel in advance, and a rental car in advance, especially if you’re looking for an automatic transmission.

The Azores in July

Visiting the Azores in July offers amazing outdoor experiences. The weather is warm, with average daily temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). It’s the month that draws the largest crowds to the islands, and it’s easy to understand.

July is still an excellent month for whale watching in the Azores. You can spot various whale species, including sperm whales, as well as dolphins and other marine life. Plus, the temperature of the Atlantic Ocean pops up into the 70s (Fahrenheit), making it the best time of year to go swimming and snorkeling.

The flowers are still blooming, and the views are stunning in July.

On the downside, you’ll find bigger crowds at the trailheads and on the beaches. Plus, hotels are bound to cost more and you’ll need to reserve your rental car in advance.

The Azores in August

Visiting the Azores in August is enjoyable, though possibly less green (weather-dependent). It’s still the peak of the summer tourist season, and the weather is still generally warm, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 26°C (70°F to 79°F). It’s a perfect time for enjoying the hikes and beaches.

The water temperature in the ocean remains mild, so it’s the best time for swimming and snorkeling in the Azores.

As is the case in June and July, you’ll want to book flights, hotels, and rental cars in advance, if possible.

August can sometimes be drier, so parts of the islands may have less greenery compared to the spring and early summer months. Still, the viewpoints will be stunning!

You might also be able to be there for the grape harvest at the Azores vineyards. Sao Miguel is home to Quinta da Jardinette , a family-run winery which offers tours and tastings of a variety of wines.

The Azores in September

September is one of the best times to visit the Azores for two main reasons:

• The weather is still mild.
• The crowds are smaller.

The average temperatures in September range from 19°C to 24°C (66°F to 75°F), making it a perfect time to explore the Azores hiking trails, waterfalls, and beaches.

The Atlantic Ocean around the Azores is still relatively warm, so it’s still a good time for swimming and snorkeling. The waves won’t be as large as they are in the winter, but you’ll still be able to surf on some of the beaches, like Santa Barbara on Sao Miguel.

While September is still a popular time to visit the Azores, kids are back in school and European summer vacations are over. The crowds will be much smaller at the trailheads, and flight prices from the USA will start to drop.

The Azores in October

You’ll still have a good time visiting the Azores in October, but expect the temperatures to drop and the number of daylight hours start to restrict the time you spend outside.

It’ll be a more tranquil experience, since tourist crowds will be reduced. 

The weather can be more unpredictable, with a mix of sunny and rainy days. Average temperatures range from 17°C to 22°C (63°F to 72°F) in October, so it’ll still be mild during the daytime.

October brings changing colors to the Azores’ landscapes, so it’ll be the best time to check out the fall foliage on parts of the islands.

Plus, it’s still a good time to hike the trails, though they might be wetter and muddier in October.

The Azores in November

November marks the beginning of the winter season in the Azores. The weather can be cooler and wetter, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). 

Some years, the fall foliage will extend into November, and the weather is still mild enough to enjoy the viewpoints and hiking trails. While the weather is unpredictable, you can always count on the Azores hot springs to be full of warm geothermal water.

The main perks of visiting the Azores in November are the same for any of the winter months: smaller tourist crowds and discounts on lodging. 

The Azores in December

Visiting the Azores in December offers a unique and enjoyable experience, as long as you’re aware of the challenges. It never snows in the Azores, but the weather will be much cooler and rainier.

During the winter, average temperatures range from 12°C to 17°C (54°F to 63°F). Plus, keep in mind, the daylight is limited in December, so you’ll have fewer hours to explore the natural scenery.

On the “plus” side, December is the off-peak tourist season, so you’ll have smaller crowds at the trailheads, and lower prices at the hotels. 

Plus, the hot springs and thermal spas remain hot year-round!

FAQs on When to Visit the Azores

Let’s tackle some of the frequently-asked-questions about visiting the Azores. Many of these are already answered up above.

Is there a rainy season in the Azores?

There’s no defined rainy season in the Azores, but the months from October through February tend to be wetter compared to the rest of the year. You can expect more frequent rain showers from the late fall through early spring, but even during these months, you’ll have many sunny days.

Does it snow in the Azores?

I asked several longtime residents of Sao Miguel if it ever snows, and all of them said: no! Several laughed at the question!

The Azores’ higher peaks, like Pico Mountain on Pico Island, are the most likely areas to see snow, but it would likely just be a rare dusting at higher elevations.

Is there a hurricane season in the Azores?

The Azores are rarely impacted by hurricanes, even though they’re in the Atlantic Ocean, where hurricane season peaks in August and September. At times, the storms have followed paths which have taken them close to the Azores.

What’s the cheapest time to visit the Azores?

If you’re looking for the best deals on flights, fares start to drop (usually) by mid-September. They remain lower, especially if you fly midweek rather than on the weekends, through the spring.

Hotel prices dip late in the fall, and remain low through the winter months.

Wrap: Best Time to Visit the Azores

This is a lot of information and statistics about everything from air temperature to water temperature to rainfall. Keep in mind: the weather is unpredictable, so the expectations and averages are never guaranteed.

In general, you’ll be able to get the most out of a visit to the Azores in the late spring, before the summer travel season, and the early fall, after most tourists have gone back to work and school.

If you’re already in Europe on a trip, the Azores are about a two-hour flight away. I’d still consider taking a weekend trip in the winter to relax in the hot springs or spend a peaceful couple of days at a spa!

CHECK OUT OUR OTHER GUIDES TO THE AZORES:

Azores Beaches

Azores hot springs, renting a car in the azores, ponta delgada airport, sensi azores resort & spa.

Move over Hawaii, The Azores Islands also bring vibrant beauty (with fewer crowds)

Destinations can be too crowded. Discover the antidote to overcrowded and overpriced vacation spots in " Here Not There: 100 Unexpected Travel Destinations " by National Geographic. The guide unveils imaginative and budget-friendly locales sure to inspire your next adventure, curated by longtime travel writer Andrew Nelson .

If you're looking for warmth, culture and beauty, try The Azores in Portugal instead of Hawaii.

What’s the perfect island chain? The default has always been Hawaii: Its eight principal islands rising from the Pacific’s deep are verdant and vibrant. But if you switch your gaze to the Atlantic, you will find a nine-island archipelago that’s equally lush, with flowering landscapes, cascading waterfalls, black sand beaches, volcanoes, and marine wildlife refuges swarming with animals. Like the Aloha State, the Portuguese Azores are islands where the locals both nurture and protect their unique culture, determined to keep the natural beauty safe from overdevelopment.

And there’s a lot in the Azores worth protecting. The islands are located in the North Atlantic, 2,390 miles (3,850 km) east of Boston and 870 miles (1,400 km) west of Lisbon. Colonized by Portugal in the early 15th century (the Vikings were rumored to have stopped by, too), today the Azores are an autonomous territory with a population of 242,796 (about two-thirds that of Honolulu). Thanks to the warm Gulf Stream and the archipelago’s latitude, the temperature is usually mild throughout the year, ranging in the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit (midteens to 20s Celsius), though it does rain. The islands’ many volcanoes are active, but so far fairly quiet this century. The last big eruption occurred in 1958.

Like in Hawaii, each of the islands of the Azores offers a distinct experience.

◾ The eastern part of the chain is home to Santa Maria, with its numerous vineyards and white-sand beaches. São Miguel is equivalent to the Big Island. Like the island of Hawaii, it exerts a strong influence over the rest of the archipelago and is a dynamic and geologically active place. Its landscape features geysers, volcanic lakes and thermal hot springs.

◾ The central Azores consist of the islands of Terceira, São Jorge, Pico, Faial, and Graciosa. Terceira is home to the oldest city in the Azores, Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its fertile soil supports numerous vineyards. On Faial, visitors can hike to the extinct Capelinhos volcano. São Jorge is celebrated for its cheese. Rugged, rough-hewn Pico Island is home to the highest mountain in Portugal, 7,713-foot-tall (2,351 m) Mount Pico. Graciosa is known for its iconic star-shaped pastries and red-peaked, Flemish-style windmills, brought by immigrants from Belgium.

◾ The western islands are Flores and Corvo. The former, known as the Island of Flowers, offers a rugged coastline, high cliffs marked by waterfalls (Poço Ribeira do Ferreiro (Alagoinha) being the most famous to see), and seven crater lakes. Flores’s dramatic, verdant landscape and the surrounding turquoise waters often spark comparisons to Kauai.

As more travelers discover the Azores’ allure, the future looks both bright and worrying. Luckily the islands have begun the task to ensure their biodiversity will be safeguarded for the future. In 2019 the Azores became the world’s first archipelago to be named a sustainable tourism destination by EarthCheck, an Australia-based international advisory board. Four of the islands – Flores, Corvo, Gracioso, and São Jorge – are UNESCO biosphere reserves, and the government has established several marine reserves to protect seabirds, fish, sea turtles, whales, and dolphins. The fight to protect paradise is only just getting started.

The Amazing Flora of the Azores

Indigenous or imported, the flowering plants of the Azores play an important role in giving the islands their iconic Instagrammable look. Being one of the world’s most isolated archipelagos, the Azores harbor many unique species, including one of the world’s rarest flowers, Myosotis azorica. Called não-meesqueças , or forget-me-nots, the purple flowers were considered extinct before a cluster of plants was discovered growing on Corvo, the Azores’ smallest island, in 2014. Despite Corvo being a protected UNESCO biosphere reserve, these tiny flowers remain endangered thanks to the appetites of the island’s insatiable goats and sheep.

 In contrast, colorful hydrangeas are not native to the island chain. They are an invasive species believed to have been brought to the island by the Japanese in the late 19th century as decorative plants. Though they’re imported, the flowers have become a symbol of the Azores and grow throughout the archipelago. Faial Island is often called the Blue Island for the azure hydrangeas that blanket its fields and roadsides. Their hue is due to the island’s acidic soil, which deepens the hydrangeas’ rich color. Volcanic eruptions in 1957 and 1958 only added to the fertility. It was Azorean immigrants to the United States who are credited with popularizing the flower in America, especially in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, where many of these immigrants settled in the mid-20th century.

This is an excerpt from “ Here Not There: 100 Unexpected Travel Destinations ,”   published on April 2 by Disney Publishing Group. Author Andrew Nelson is an award-winning writer and editor for National Geographic Traveler, who has roamed all 50 states as well as numerous countries for the magazine and website, based in Washington, D.C.

How to island-hop around the Azores

Apr 24, 2024 • 5 min read

You'll need to hire a car (or organise a taxi for the day) to watch the sunset over Sete Cidades on São Miguel Island © Maya Karkalicheva / Getty Images

The Azoreans travel frequently between islands all year, so the archipelago has a reasonable network of inter-island flights and ferry routes, making it easy to navigate all nine islands. Weather is the only thing that might cause a sudden change of plans, but as locals put it, that's just a part of the Azorean experience.

On the islands of the Azores , buses are not the most reliable option, so renting a car or hiring a taxi is often the better alternative – except in Corvo where the island is so small you can walk everywhere.

Explore the Azores on your own time by driving

Renting a car is the most practical way to travel around the Azores at your own pace – signs for major sights are clear, the traffic is often low and most of the main roads are well-maintained.

However, during peak season, especially in smaller islands with fewer resources, a scarcity of cars sees an increase in prices, and parking spaces can be hard to find near restaurants, top attractions, and beaches. 

Some rural roads are so narrow they appear to be one-lane when, in fact, they're two-way streets – unless a traffic sign states otherwise, always expect cars coming in the opposite direction. And it’s not a myth that most of the countryside traffic jams are caused by farmers leading herds of cows between grasslands. Get as close to the side of the road as possible, turn off your engine, and wait it out.

Want to explore the Azores without hiring a car? Find out how to do it .

Non-drivers can hire a taxi to visit must-see attractions

For non-drivers, or if you couldn’t rent a car due to peak season scarcity, hiring a taxi to cover the highlights is a practical way of getting around in the Azores. Taxis aren’t metered, so they’ll either charge a fixed fee based on the area or destinations you want to cover, or charge you by the hour (plan for around €20 per hour). 

Taxi drivers often speak English, although sometimes only well enough for basic communication. Those who are a little more fluent will be happy to answer your questions about the island and the sights to the best of their knowledge. Also expect no-strings-attached local tips on where to eat and must-sees, especially on the smaller islands. 

 Finding a cab that offers round-the-island tours or sightseeing trips is as easy as asking the person driving the taxi from the airport to the hotel – it's typically a service they offer, and if they don't, they'll know someone who does. 

Negotiation is usually between you and the driver, but prices generally don’t vary much between taxi companies. Prices are usually quoted as a fixed fees per trip, rather than per passenger, but always check before agreeing to a rate.

Island-hop comfortably by flying

Government-owned SATA Air Açores is the only airline operating all inter-island flights and locals use it pretty much like a bus system, travelling between islands for shopping, doctor's appointments, and business trips. That said, not all routes are convenient, and for neighbouring islands, it's usually easier to take the ferry.

Keep in mind, especially when travelling with small children, that flying between islands is sometimes an exercise in patience. Some flights will make one or two stops before you reach your final destination, which means disembarking for every layover even if it’s no longer than 15 or 20 minutes – this is very common when flying from São Miguel to smaller islands in the Central and West groups.

Some planes are small, with limited space in the overhead compartment and under the front seat. Most passengers only discover which plane they're boarding at the gate or on the tarmac. If the flight is full, you can ask the crew if they can accommodate your luggage in the cargo hold.

See more islands for the price of one by taking the ferry

One ferry ride between close islands can take up to 60 minutes – making it faster, cheaper, and more convenient than a flight. Islanders use it frequently, especially between Faial and Pico, to commute to work. Purchase tickets online, at the Atlântico Line website, or before your trip at the boat station.

The routes with the most frequent trips are the Blue Line, which connects Pico and Faial (a 30-minute ride) and the Green Line, which goes all the way to São Jorge (close to a one-hour ride). The Pink Line connects Flores and Corvo twice a day (40-minute trip), from two times a week in the winter to six days a week in the peak season.

From June to September, the ferry company increases the trips' frequency with three seasonal routes operating two to three days a week. The Orange Line connects Pico and São Jorge at least twice a day, travellers on the White Line can visit all five islands in the Central Group (twice a week), and the Purple Line connects Terceira to São Jorge, Pico, and Faial two times a week. 

A local’s tip for riding the ferry

Take it from a local with motion sickness, ferry trips between the “triangle islands” (Faial, Pico, and São Jorge) are a breeze in the summer and a little rougher in the winter but not impossible to make it with the help of preventive motion sickness medication. Ferries are big and stable, and the weather is usually good enough for passengers to sit outside on the top tier. Between Flores and Corvo, though, frequent choppy waters and a small boat can make trips a bit more uncomfortable. 

The Azores transportation FAQs and things to consider 

Is uber in the azores .

A few years ago, there was a short-lived attempt at implementing ride-share services on the larger island of São Miguel, but it never truly took off. For the time being, Uber is not available in the Azores.

Is the public transport in the Azores reliable?

Each island (except Corvo) has its own public bus system, but schedules and frequency are not the most reliable for travellers. Typically, there's one bus in the morning and another at the end of the day, mainly serving schools and workplaces. São Miguel is the island with the best options to travel by bus to top sites, but it takes some planning and flexibility.  

Accessible travel in the Azores

Unfortunately, regarding accessibility, the Azores have not quite hit the mark yet. For now, only Azores For All, a São Miguel-based private tour operator, has transportation options for travellers living with a disability.  

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The best places to travel in 2024

Posted: March 20, 2024 | Last updated: March 20, 2024

Make 2024 your year to visit someplace you’ve never been. If you love adventure, then the untamed beauty of Iceland or vast wilderness of Montana should be top of your list, while foodies need to book it stat to the gastronomic hubs of Lima, Peru or Saimaa, Finland. From cities celebrating milestone years to destinations welcoming exciting new hotels and museums, these are the 20 best places to travel in 2024.

1 – Paris, France

One of the most visited cities in the world, Paris draws in millions of tourists every year in search of world-class art, food, and fashion, from the Louvre to the Champs-Élysées. The French capital is gearing up to host the 2024 Summer Olympics and making the city more environmentally friendly, including creating more cycle paths and cleaning up the Seine River. Whether you go during the Games or not, the City of Light offers incredible sights with must-see spots such as the iconic Eiffel Tower , the Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Jardin des Tuileries.

2 – Iceland

Known as the “ land of fire and ice ,” Iceland is Europe’s second-largest island after Great Britain and is home to magnificent glaciers and 32 active volcanoes. Recognized as one of Europe’s “it” destinations by Travel + Leisure , this island boasts untamed landscapes, famous hot springs, and mesmerizing northern lights (the best time to spot this elusive natural phenomenon is from mid-October through March). A must-visit for first-timers is the Blue Lagoon , a geothermal spa known for its milky-blue waters and remarkable healing powers.

3 - Sardinia, Italy

Among its many charms, what makes Sardinia so appealing is its stunning coastline, white sandy beaches, ancient archaeological sites, and tranquil villages. Sardinia is not only the second-largest island in Italy, but is home to the famous Costa Smeralda coastline, the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Su Nuraxi di Barumini , and a two-million-year-old cave in Capo Caccia. Plus, the island has also been identified as a Blue Zones region , an area known for health and longevity thanks to the diet, work habits, and traditions of its residents.

Voted one of the best countries in the world in the Cond é Nast Traveller 2022 Readers’ Choice Awards, Japan recently reopened its borders to international travel after the pandemic, making 2024 the perfect year to take that trip. Japan’s former capital Kyoto is a must-visit, and recently developed a code of conduct for sustainable tourism to encourage visitors to follow local customs and consider the environment. Tokyo is teeming with excitement from its historic temples to soaring skyscrapers, while Okinawa offers stunning white sand beaches and numerous UNESCO heritage sites.

5 – Prince Edward Island, Canada

The maritime province of Prince Edward Island is home to charming small towns, red sandy beaches, and the fictional setting found in Lucy Maud Montgomery’s beloved novel, Anne of Green Gables . In 2024, the province will be celebrating the 150 th birthday of author Montgomery, and the 60 th anniversary of the Confederation Centre of the Arts , where the Anne of Green Gables musical will be hitting the stage. Other musts while in P.E.I. include biking or hiking the Confederation Trail, spotting one of the islands’ 63 lighthouses, and dining on the local catch of lobster, mussels, and oysters.

6 – São Miguel, Portugal

The biggest island in the Azores archipelago, São Miguel is nicknamed “The Green Island” (it’s also been called the “ Hawaii of Europe ”) because of its lush and dramatic landscape featuring black sand beaches. The volcanic crater lake Lagoa do Fogo, at the centre of the island, is considered a must-see because of its beautiful vistas and hiking opportunities. Whale watching is also a popular activity to book, as the Azores is one of the world’s largest whale sanctuaries, with more than 20 different cetacean species swimming in the waters.

7 – Luxor, Egypt

With its rich history and ancient monuments, Egypt is a bucket list destination that should be on your radar for 2024. Aside from Cairo, the obvious choice, you should consider heading to Luxor , offering a more relaxed vibe than the capital, but with plenty of adventure. Located on the Nile River, Luxor is often referred to as an “open-air museum” because of its famous ruins, including the Valley of the Kings , the Karnak Temple complex, and the Luxor Temple.

8 – Lima, Peru

Deemed South America’s culinary capital by National Geographic , Lima is a city bursting with flavour and excitement. For many travellers, Lima is merely a pitstop on the way to Machu Picchu, but there is a lot to see and taste in this Peruvian capital. It’s home to some of the best restaurants and bars in the world, including Central, run by Michelin-star chef Pía León , named the best female chef in the world in 2021. When you’re not eating, wander the Miraflores district for shopping, visit the ancient ruins of Huaca Pucllana, or pop into the Museum of Art (MALI) .

9 – Seville, Spain

The capital of Andalusia and the largest city in southern Spain , Seville is famous for its Moorish buildings, flamenco dancing, and fascinating history. It’s home to not one, but three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the impressive Catedral de Sevilla, the largest Gothic building in the world. Other must-see wonders include the picturesque Plaza de España , the Setas de Sevilla (the largest wooden structure in the world), and the Real Maestranza, the oldest bullring in the world. With over 3,000 tapas bars across the city, it’s the only way to dine out.

10 – Maui, Hawaii, USA

In 2023, devastating wildfires swept across Lahaina, displacing thousands and killing almost 100 people. It can be confusing to know what to do as a traveller, but Maui residents are saying it’s okay to visit as long as guests come respectfully and with compassion. Because Maui relies on tourism to fuel its economy, the Hawaiian Tourism Authority is encouraging tourists to buy local, eat local, and enjoy the island’s many incredible attractions. Driving the Hana Highway, watching the sunrise at Haleakala, and relaxing on one of its stunning beaches should all be on your itinerary.

11 – Montana, USA

With its pristine lakes, eight national parks, and scenic mountain ranges, Montana is a world-class destination that’s perfect to visit any time of year. The U.S. News & World Report even named Glacier National Park the No. 1 spot on their Best Places to Visit in the USA for 2023-2024. At this destination made for outdoor enthusiasts, you can hit the slopes at Montana’s Big Sky Resort , stay up late and gaze at the Milky Way or take a scenic hike to catch a glimpse of wildlife.

12 – Nordland, Norway

Northern Norway’s Nordland region is home to some of the most dramatic landscapes in the country, filled with majestic glaciers, spectacular fjords and breathtaking coastlines. Set to open in 2024, the luxurious Six Senses Svart located just above the Arctic Circle, will be the world’s first energy-positive hotel, running entirely off-grid. Also in the region is the town of Bodø, which is one of three European Capitals of Culture for 2024 , known for its annual Parken musical festival, street art, and boutique shops.

13 – Tainan, Taiwan

As the oldest city on the island, the ancient capital of Tainan is known for its temples, traditions, and vibrant food scene . In 2024, the city will be celebrating its 400 th anniversary, marked by the annual Taiwan Lantern Festival , making it the perfect year to go. Things to do in Tainan include visiting the Tainan Art Museum, shopping and eating at the famed Hua Yuan Night Market , and exploring the historic sites in the Anping District.

14 – Saimaa, Finland

Finland’s Saimaa region was awarded the title of European Region of Gastronomy 2024 to celebrate the area’s unique food culture. Saimaa is Finland’s largest lake, has the world’s longest lake coastline, and boasts an incredible 13,710 islands. When it comes to food, the freshwater vendace fish is a specialty in the region, while the sweet or savoury l örtsy pastries are best enjoyed from the Savonlinna Market Square. From kayaking through the maze-like island chains to experiencing a traditional wood-heated sauna, there’s plenty to do in this enchanting destination.

15 – San Diego, California, USA

The sunny city of San Diego has more than just pristine beaches and perfect weather—in 2024 the city will be designated as the World Design Capital (along with Tijuana, Mexico). Recently welcoming the newly completed Horton Campus, an adaptive reuse space with shops, offices, and dining, the city is also revamping numerous hotels including the iconic Hotel del Coronado, and reopened the historic The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe after a multimillion-dollar renovation. Foodies will be pleased to know about the newly Michelin-star appointed Valle , and the soon-to-open, farm-to-table restaurant Cellar Hand.

16 – Costa Rica

Tropical rainforests, beautiful beaches, diverse wildlife, and thrilling activities are just some of the many reasons that make Costa Rica an amazing place to visit. Considered one of the planet’s prime ecotourism destinations , the country protects 25% of its territory with national parks, wildlife refuges, and reserves. In 2024, there will be a handful of new hotels opening, including the exclusive Ritz-Carlton Reserve, but there are tons of boutique and all-inclusive options for every type of traveller.

17 – Seoul, South Korea

From K-pop to critically acclaimed TV dramas and movies (like the Oscar-winning Parasite ), the world is loving the Korean wave of pop culture, food, and tech coming out of this Asian country. Seoul merges the past with the present with futuristic buildings sitting beside ancient Buddhist temples. Immerse yourself in local culture at the impressive Gyeongbokgung Palace or the National Museum of Korea. And Korea is all about food, which is why you can’t leave without trying many of their delicious dishes , from cold noodles to savoury Pajeon (green onion pancakes).

18 – Quito, Ecuador

Making Condé Nast Traveller ’s Best Places to Go in 2024, the capital of Ecuador sits on the Andean foothills, atop the ruins of an Inca city. The first city to receive a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation , Quito has a well-preserved historic centre with must-see sites including the Basílica del Voto Nacional, the Plaza de la Independencia, and the renowned Plaza de San Francisco. The culinary scene in Quito is heating up with buzzy restaurants like Nuema , home to Pía Salazar, who was crowned The World’s Best Pastry Chef in 2023.

19 – New York City, USA

When isn’t a good time to visit the Big Apple? New York City was ranked the No. 3 city in the world by Resonance , which looks at not just what it’s like for visitors but factors including livability (like walkability) and lovability (think Instagram hashtags). Whether it’s your first or fifth visit, there’s always something new to see and do in NYC, so head to The Met , take a stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge, ride the elevator up the Empire State Building or dine out at one of the city’s best restaurants .

20 – Mauritius

A small African island in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius draws in visitors searching for sun, sand, and relaxation. But there’s more to this idyllic destination than its stunning beaches and turquoise waters, including newly opened cultural spots like the Intercontinental Slavery Museum and the House of Digital Art (HODA) . Adventure seekers should consider hiking the Black River Gorges National Park or the majestic Le Morne Brabant. Snorkelling is also top-notch here, with dozens of incredible locations to swim amongst the majestic sea life.

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Where to Stay in São Miguel Island: Best Hotels & Accomodations

Discover the best hotels in são miguel island for your perfect stay.

 The Azores' crown jewel awaits. But where do you begin your adventure? This guide unlocks the perfect place to call home in São Miguel. We will explore the best hotels in São Miguel Island, from luxurious oceanfront resorts to charming eco-lodges nestled amidst nature. Whether you crave relaxation in thermal pools, proximity to adventure activities, or a vibrant city center, we'll help you find the ideal place to unwind and experience the magic of the Azores.

Before diving into our incredible accommodation options , let's talk about the best areas to stay on São Miguel Island .

- Ponta Delgada: Main City of São Miguel Island

Thrilling city vibes or a convenient base for exploration? Look no further than Ponta Delgada, the island's vibrant capital. Here, you'll be spoiled for choice with an abundance of restaurants, bars, and cafes. Don't have a car? No problem! Ponta Delgada is the heart of activity, with tours and excursions often picking you up directly. Plus, some tours even start right in the city, saving you any transportation stress.

Beyond convenience, Ponta Delgada boasts a dazzling array of hotels, from luxurious five-star havens to budget-friendly hostels and Airbnbs. Immerse yourself in authentic experiences without leaving the city limits. Embark on a whale-watching adventure from the Ponta Delgada Marina, savor local flavors with a food and city tour, or take a refreshing dip in the Pesqueiro natural pools. After dark, explore the city's vibrant nightlife scene or unwind in the unique thermal waters within a pineapple greenhouse. Ponta Delgada offers something for everyone, so even if you're car-free or just want a taste of urban life during your vacation, this captivating city won't disappoint.

- Seeking Serenity? Furnas Awaits

Craving an escape from the city bustle? Yearning for nature's embrace and the tranquility it offers? Furnas beckons. This haven within São Miguel Island feels like paradise on earth, no matter where you choose to stay.

Although further from the airport, the rewards of Furnas are immeasurable. Here, you'll find two inviting thermal pools to soothe your soul. Indulge in the legendary cozido das furnas, a local stew cooked by volcanic heat, and savor the melt-in-your-mouth bolo levedo, a sweet Azorean bread. Just a 10-minute drive away, discover Ribeira Quente, boasting Praia do Fogo – one of the island's most stunning beaches. If cultural and natural treasures hold more allure than cityscapes, Furnas is your ideal sanctuary on São Miguel Island.

Important Tip: To fully unlock the magic of Furnas and explore its surrounding gems like Ribeira Quente, we strongly advise renting a car. This will give you the freedom to explore at your own pace and maximize your experience in this natural paradise.

- Ribeira Grande: Beachside Adventure Hub in São Miguel Island

Craving a blend of beach life, city vibes, and outdoor adventures? Look no further than Ribeira Grande, São Miguel's second-largest city. Strategically located, Ribeira Grande serves as a perfect base for exploring the island's north. With a car, it becomes your central hub, granting easy access to all corners of São Miguel. Ribeira Grande boasts the island's largest beach, Areal de Santa Bárbara, a haven for surfers with its epic swells and renowned competitions. Craving geothermal wonders? Lagoa do Fogo and the Caldeira Velha thermal pools are within easy reach, offering a chance to soak in nature's therapeutic waters. So, if your ideal vacation combines city energy with beach bliss and outdoor adventures, Ribeira Grande is your perfect match.

Discover Our Top 10 Recommended Accommodations in São Miguel Island

Best Accomodations in Ponta Delgada

Hotel Marina Atlântico , situated in the heart of Ponta Delgada along the scenic oceanfront, epitomizes modern comfort infused with a maritime theme. This elegant hotel offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, ensuring a tranquil retreat. Guests can indulge in a variety of amenities including a heated indoor pool, a full-service spa, and a fitness center, enhancing the relaxation experience.

Learn more about Hotel Marina Atlântico, here !

Grand Hotel Açores Atlântico is a premier luxury destination located on the main ocean-front avenue of Ponta Delgada, São Miguel. Reflecting the rich maritime history of the Azores, this hotel combines classic charm with contemporary elegance. It features beautifully appointed rooms and suites with panoramic views of the harbor, making it a perfect spot for those who appreciate scenic beauty and refined comfort.

Learn more about Grand Hotel Açores Atlântico, here !

Octant Ponta Delgada , formerly known as Azor Hotel, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and contemporary luxury in the vibrant heart of São Miguel, Azores. This stylish hotel is renowned for its modern architecture and eco-friendly design, seamlessly integrating the indoor spaces with the stunning natural surroundings. Each room and suite provides guests with comfort and panoramic views, often extending out to the ocean or over the cityscape. Guests at Octant Ponta Delgada can indulge in a range of experiences tailored to enhance their stay. The hotel's rooftop offers an exceptional setting with a pool and bar, perfect for enjoying sunsets.

Learn more about Octant Ponta Delgada, here !

Best Accomodations in Furnas

Octant Furnas , nestled in the verdant, geothermal heart of São Miguel in the Azores, is a sanctuary for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. This unique hotel is deeply connected to its extraordinary surroundings, located just minutes away from the Furnas hot springs and Terra Nostra Park, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and wellness seekers. Guests can enjoy the hotel's thermal facilities, which include outdoor and indoor pools fed by natural hot springs, a complete spa offering a variety of volcanic stone treatments, and a sauna. 

Learn more about Octant Furnas, here !

Tip: If you're interested in staying at both Octant hotels, Furnas and Ponta Delgada, we've prepared a special package for you. This option allows you to explore both the rural and urban sides of São Miguel Island during your visit. Learn more here !

Terra Nostra Garden Hotel , located in the enchanting valley of Furnas on São Miguel Island, is one of the Azores' most iconic accommodations. This hotel is famously integrated within the Terra Nostra Botanical Park, a renowned garden that spans over 12 hectares and features a diverse collection of flora from around the world, as well as thermal springs and a natural pool. The hotel is particularly famous for its thermal pool, rich in iron and other minerals, which is acclaimed for its healing properties. Guests have exclusive access to this pool and the extensive gardens, providing a serene and healthful retreat. Book your stay here!

Did you know: Terra Nostra Garden Hotel is set within what has been recognized as one of the world's best "Green Retreats" by Condé Nast Traveler.

Top Accomodations in Ribeira Grande & North Coast

Pedras do Mar Resort & SPA , situated on the picturesque north coast of São Miguel, Azores, offers guests a unique blend of contemporary luxury and natural beauty. This five-star resort stands atop a cliff, providing stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and access to a private natural swimming area.Designed with modern aesthetics and comfort in mind, the accommodations at Pedras do Mar range from elegantly appointed rooms to luxurious suites, all featuring balconies or terraces that overlook the sea or the lush landscapes of the island.

Learn more about Pedras do Mar Resort & Spa, here !

Verde Mar & Spa Hotel , located in Ribeira Grande on São Miguel Island, Azores, stands out for its modern design and exceptional positioning along the northern coastline, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. This hotel combines the charm of a beachfront location with contemporary amenities and design, making it a popular choice for travelers looking for both relaxation and adventure.

Learn more about Hotel Verde Mar & Spa, here !

Other notable mentions of Accomodations and Hotels in São Miguel Island include:

SENSI Azores Nature and SPA , located on the enchanting São Miguel Island in the Azores, is a luxury retreat designed to provide an immersive experience in the heart of nature. Situated amidst lush greenery with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, this eco-friendly resort combines modern luxury with environmental consciousness. One of the highlights of SENSI Azores is its comprehensive spa and wellness center. The spa specializes in treatments that utilize organic and locally sourced products, reflecting the resort's commitment to sustainability.

Ready to fall in love with Sensi Azores Nature and Spa? Book your stay here!

White Exclusive Suites & Villas is a luxurious boutique hotel located on the picturesque south coast of São Miguel Island in the Azores. This exclusive property is set atop a cliff, offering stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. It combines the charm of a historic building with modern, sophisticated design to create an atmosphere of tranquil luxury. The accommodations at White Exclusive Suites & Villas are elegantly designed, featuring a blend of contemporary and traditional elements. Each suite and villa is uniquely decorated, emphasizing comfort and exclusivity, with private terraces or balconies that overlook the sea. The interiors are spacious and bathed in natural light, creating a peaceful and inviting environment for guests.

Enhance your experience in São Miguel Island by booking your stay at White Exclusive Suite & Villas. Learn more here!

If you're finding it difficult to choose but still desire the luxury of a 5-star hotel, our perfect package ensures you don't have to compromise. Enjoy the best without the stress of deciding.

São Miguel Island offers a diverse range of accommodations that cater to every preference and budget. From luxurious 5-star resorts to charming boutique hotels, each property provides a unique experience that enhances your stay in this Azorean paradise. Whether you prefer the hustle and bustle of Ponta Delgada, the tranquility of Furnas, or the stunning coastal views of Ribeira Grande,São Miguel has something special for every traveler. Remember to book early, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your perfect spot. Explore the best hotels in São Miguel Island and prepare for an unforgettable island getaway.

Are you already in love with the Azores? Please take a look at our stress-free packages that allow you to book your ultimate island adventure. All our packages are carefully curated by our team of local Azorean Experts so that you don’t need to worry about any details – just enjoy your trip! 

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These Are The Best Airlines To Fly This Year

WalletHub's report on the best airlines in 2024 makes it easier to choose which airlines to fly with on that next vacation!

• SkyWest Airlines ranks second overall in the US among the best airlines, known for exceptional service, reliability, and an extensive route network for major carriers.
• Spirit Airlines is recognized as one of the safest low-cost airlines, making advancements in safety while still offering reasonable prices.
• Alaska Airlines has reclaimed the top spot as the best airline in the US, excelling in affordability, in-flight comfort, safety, and overall performance metrics.

Getting ready for that next trip but indecisive about which airline to take? No worries! A report by WalletHub is ready to help. It evaluated major US airlines based on 13 criteria divided into three major categories: in-flight comfort and cost, baggage and departures, and safety. As for the metrics, they include cancelation rates, delays, mishandled baggage, denied boarding, in-flight amenities, price, and safety records.

Airlines were scored based on specific criteria for each metric. The detailed scoring framework is provided, emphasizing factors like flight cancelations, legroom, entertainment options, Wi-Fi availability, complimentary refreshments, price competitiveness, and others.

In a time when airlines will now owe money to passengers for mistakes , such as cancelations, delays, and lost baggage, among others, there's never been a better time for them to improve their services and impress. According to WalletHub's findings, these are the best airlines to fly this year that have done precisely that and more, having flown above and beyond.

These Are The Airlines With The Happiest Pilots

7 hawaiian airlines, score: 48.30.

Hawaiian Airlines has won several awards throughout the years, including being recognized by the US Department of Transportation as the airline with the best punctuality every year since 2004 .

This airline is well-known in Hawaii for having a significant impact on the development and current history of the state. It is the biggest and most established airline in the state , and in 2029 it will celebrate its centenary.

Hawaiian Airlines provides nonstop service to ten overseas locations in Asia and the South Pacific, in addition to several cities in North America and all the major Hawaiian Islands. Island-hopping travelers will board a Boeing 717, which is intended for short-haul travel.

6 JetBlue Airways

Score: 51.60.

JetBlue Airlines, one of the best airlines in the US, offers three classes of service: economy, Even More Space, and Mint, each with various amenities. Boarding occurs in 10 groups, prioritizing disabilities and loyalty status. Its loyalty program, TrueBlue, offers multiple tiers for frequent flyers. JetBlue primarily serves the U.S., Caribbean, and Latin America, with some transatlantic routes.

While it's not part of a major alliance, it partners with several airlines. Pricing is competitive, and points can be earned through flights and partners. Safety ratings are high, but operational reliability varies. Travelers are recommended to consider JetBlue if they prioritize affordability, comfort, and connectivity, but they should note its route limitations and operational performance.

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5 united airlines, score: 51.96.

Offering an extensive and constantly expanding network of worldwide destinations, the Chicago-based carrier, United Airlines, has eight hubs around the United States and connects travelers to hundreds of international destinations.

In fact, three island locations that have historically proven difficult to reach from the United States are among the recent additions to its destination roster. These are the Azores, Mallorca, and the Canary Islands.

In recent years, the airline has added 270 more Boeing and Airbus aircraft to its fleet. In addition to being more luxurious and technologically advanced, the new aircraft is anticipated to save carbon emissions by 17 to 20 percent per seat when compared to earlier models, making it more appealing and one of the best airlines to fly with this year.

Environmentally focused travelers may be interested in knowing more about going green when traveling .

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4 delta air lines, score: 61.56.

High honors are still given to Delta for the caliber of its in-flight services and its on-ground amenities, which include luxurious Sky Clubs at major American airports. An example of this can be found at the airline's magnificent new $4 billion terminal at the renovated LaGuardia Airport in New York , which features high ceilings, wood and marble accents, and eye-catching works by regional artists.

Additionally, Delta is attempting to make flying as easy as possible with its high-tech advances during boarding and check-in. Additionally, free text messaging and comfortable Delta One business class suites on its new Airbus A350 jetliners and other wide-body aircraft are appreciated by passengers as in-flight amenities.

Travelers will be able to take advantage of these benefits on travels to even farther-flung locations, such as Tahiti and Cape Town, because of an increasing route map.

3 Spirit Airlines

Score: 65.69.

Spirit Airlines has the third position among the top-rated airlines in the US to fly this year in WalletHub's report. Spirit Airlines is typically seen as low-cost travel and might not always be seen as a competitor when it comes to overall service quality. However, it appears that Spirit has advanced significantly in areas like safety that go beyond price.

Travelers are beginning to value the airline more and more, as seen by its ranking as one of the safest low-cost airlines in 2024 . Spirit Airlines' exceptional record in several safety criteria, such as incident and accident rates, has earned it the title of the safest airline . Additionally, Spirit Airlines is said to be the least expensive airline in 2024 , providing flights at reasonable prices.

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2 skywest airlines, score: 65.96.

SkyWest Airlines is the second-best airline in the United States according to WalletHub , renowned for its exceptional service and reliability. Operating as a regional airline for major carriers like Delta, United, American, and Alaska Airlines, SkyWest maintains an impressive fleet and an extensive route network across North America. It is known for its safety record and consistently earns high marks for on-time performance and customer satisfaction.

SkyWest's commitment to quality extends to its fleet, featuring modern aircraft equipped with the latest amenities and technology. Moreover, its professional and courteous staff ensures passengers receive top-notch service throughout their journey. With a focus on safety, reliability, and customer service, SkyWest Airlines continues to excel as one of the best airlines in the US, earning the trust and loyalty of travelers nationwide.

1 Alaska Airlines

Score: 68.07.

Alaska Airlines knocked over Delta Air Lines, which was placed first as the best airline in 2023 and 2022 , to be named the top airline in the United States according to this year's study, which had the highest WalletHub score. Alaska Airlines has been named #1 in several previous WalletHub rankings, including those from 2021, 2019, 2018, and 2017 .

Relentless performance and a dedication to customer satisfaction vaulted Alaska Airlines back to the top of the rankings. The best airline has reclaimed the number one spot because of its outstanding and steady performance on several different criteria. The airline has surpassed expectations in terms of affordability and comfort for in-flight entertainment, offering free beverages, lots of legroom, and a variety of entertainment selections.

It has also shown to have strong safety protocols, as seen by its top position in safety-related metrics, including the number of injuries sustained in aviation mishaps and incidents.

The airline's return to the top spot has been facilitated by its balanced performance across many aviation-related metrics. Furthermore, it is not unexpected that its route map, which stretches from Hawaii to New York and from the Pacific Northwest to Mexico and Latin America, has surpassed the geographical boundaries of its name.