The Azores are a group of 9 islands right in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, but still within the borders of Europe. A perfect destination if you’re looking for a warm climate year-round. And there’s so much to see! But where do you even start? I spent 10 days traveling across 4 different islands of the Azores, and I’m excited to share my itinerary with you so you can know exactly where to go. Ready?
Note: this blog post was partly sponsored by Visit Portugal. However, all opinions and experiences are entirely my own. Additionally, some links might be affiliate links where I earn a small commission from bookings at no extra cost to you. Enjoy!
How to Get to the Azores
If you’re planning a vacation to the Azores, flying is pretty much your only option. The islands are accessible by direct flights from all over the world. From Lisbon, you’ll be there in just a few hours, while from the east coast of Canada or the United States, it’s only about a 6-hour flight. From Belgium, there are direct flights that take around 4 to 5 hours.
Once you’re in the Azores, it’s often best to fly between islands. Each island has a small airport with plenty of connecting flights. If the islands you’re visiting (like Pico and Faial) are close to each other, you can hop on a ferry, which takes about 30 minutes. Flights between the islands are operated by Azores Airlines, and you can book ferries through AtlanticoLine.
Caution! The weather in the Azores can be very unpredictable, so make sure to check the actual flight or ferry times on the day of your departure.
Which Islands to Visit in the Azores
Now, here’s probably the hardest question: Which islands should you visit? With 9 islands in total, it’s impossible to see them all in one trip. Each island has its own unique characteristics. São Miguel is the most cosmopolitan island, Flores boasts the most stunning nature, and Pico is the place where you can actually climb a volcano.
If you want to make the most out of your 10 day itinerary in the Azores, the key is to combine islands that are close to each other to keep travel time to a minimum. During my 10-day trip, I visited the islands of Terceira, Faial, Pico, and São Miguel. It was the perfect mix!
My 10 day Azores itinerary
Day 1 – 3: Terceira
I started my journey on Terceira, one of the larger islands in the Azores. It’s a place where you’ll want to spend a few days, especially if you want to explore the entire island. The largest town on Terceira is Angra, making it the perfect base for discovering the island. Here, you’ll find stunning caves, refreshing natural pools, and breathtaking viewpoints. From the air, Terceira is one of the most beautiful islands, with fields bordered by characteristic stone walls that create a patchwork of green across the island.
Watch the sunrise or sunset at Miradouro da Serra do Cume
This is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful viewpoints on the island. From here, you can see Praia da Vitória and the ocean on one side, and on the other, the island itself with its patchwork fields shaped by volcanic hills. Simply drive up to the viewpoint and enjoy the view from the Miradouro or viewing platform.
Drive Along the Coastline
It may sound simple, but one of the best things you can do here is to drive along the coastline. Along the way, you’ll pass many beautiful viewpoints and charming little villages that you definitely don’t want to miss.
Just outside of Angra, for example, you’ll find gorgeous viewpoints overlooking the two small islands off the coast of Terceira: Ilhéus das Cabras. Each village is decorated with brightly colored chapels, and you’ll often come across places where you can dip into the ocean at one of the Piscinas Naturais or Natural Pools.
Visit the Caves of Algar do Carvão
Have you ever visited a volcanic cave? If not, you’re in the right place! Algar do Carvão is located in the heart of the island, tucked away in a nature reserve. The caves were formed by volcanic eruptions hundreds of years ago, and today they remain as hollowed-out structures. It’s like walking into a massive volcanic crater!
For a small entrance fee, you can explore the caves on your own. There’s a large free parking lot where you can park your rental car. It’s worth leaving your car there for a while, as there’s also a great hike to Furnas do Enxofre, a fumarolic field where you can still see steam rising from the ground.
On the 6.2 km loop trail, you’ll visit this fascinating site and also explore the volcanic landscape that’s now protected as a nature reserve. It’s a beautiful hike that takes about 2.5 hours, or you can simply drive there if you prefer not to hike.
Book a Buggy Tour of Westside Terceira
One of my personal highlights on the island was a buggy tour along the west coast. In a small 4×4, you go off-road from Angra around Mount Santa Barbara. It’s an adventurous ride with incredible views of the island’s west coast. Before heading up the mountain, make sure to stop at Queijo Vaquinha to taste some local cheese. The tour lasts about 3 hours.
Tip: Be sure to wear a windproof and waterproof jacket and bring sunglasses. If it’s wet, you’ll be covered in mud, and if it’s dry, you’ll be covered in sand. I speak from experience. 😉
Go Swimming in the Natural Pools of Biscoitos
When you’re on an island, one of the best things to do is swim, right? In addition to beaches, Terceira also has many natural pools. These coves, formed by volcanic rock, serve as a shelter from the rough ocean waves. Every summer, locals love coming here to relax and swim.
The most famous natural pools on the island are in Biscoitos. You can swim, sunbathe, and even shower there. Just be aware that the ocean can be tricky, and it’s only safe to swim when the weather is calm.
Tip: Did you know you can also go wine tasting in Biscoitos? There’s one of the only vineyards on the Azores here. The owner grows wine using traditional methods, with the vines planted between the lava rocks. You can easily book a delightful wine-tasting session here.
Explore Angra
Last but not least, you can’t leave Terceira without visiting Angra. Stroll through the historic town center, visit the small harbor, and climb Monte Brasil, where you’ll get the best views of the town. The town is full of beautiful buildings in traditional Portuguese style, decorated with lovely bright colors. And in the evening, enjoy a great meal out.
Tip: Hike up Monte Brasil. During a 7.4 km walk, you’ll not only enjoy fantastic views of Angra do Heroísmo but also walk around the crater of an extinct volcano and pass by the São João Baptista fort.
Hotel Tip: I stayed at the brand-new The Shipyard Angra, just a short walk from the center of Angra do Heroísmo. With easy access to major roads, it’s the perfect base for exploring. The rooms were gorgeous and spacious, the breakfast was delicious, and the receptionist was incredibly friendly.
Restaurant Tips:
- Quinta dos Açores: A great spot for lunch with a top view over Angra. They offer a lot of local products.
- Taberna do Teatro: A super cute restaurant in the center of Angra. They serve delicious tapas. Be sure to make a reservation in advance.
- Sabores Sopranos Terceira: A local restaurant in Lajes where the true locals go to eat. Simple but incredibly fresh and tasty!
- QB Restaurant: Located just outside the city center of Angra, the menu here was fantastic.
- Quinta do Martelo: A must-visit during your trip! They cook and serve food in the traditional Azorean way with authentic, locally grown ingredients. Not just the restaurant, but the entire estate takes you back in time.
- Tasca das Tias: Another authentic restaurant in the historic center of Angra. Delicious food and a super cozy atmosphere.
Day 3 – 4: Faial
The second island on my trip was Faial. To get there, I hopped over São Jorge and along Pico. The quickest way is definitely by plane. In just half an hour, you’ll arrive on Faial, and you’ll be treated to an incredible show as the plane flies close to Pico’s giant volcano.
Faial is smaller than Terceira, so you won’t need as much time to explore the whole island. I recommend staying in Horta, the island’s city center, though you could still call it a village. From Horta’s harbor, you’ll find ferries to São Jorge and Pico, with an amazing view of Mount Pico, the enormous stratovolcano on the island.
Wander Through the Harbor and the Center of Horta
Horta is the bustling heart of the island, and there are plenty of charming spots to explore. Start with the beautiful, colorful Portuguese architecture. You’ll find churches, the Horta Museum, the tourist office, and a lovely boulevard to stroll along by the water. Be sure to stop by Peter Café Sport. Not only is this a fantastic place to eat, but you also have to try their gin and check out the museum inside. Everything here revolves around sailing, and it’s been helping sailors and seafarers for decades.
Admire the View from Espalamaca Lookout & Monte da Guia
Horta is surrounded by hills, and from these hills, you’ll get a stunning view of the town and its surroundings. Make sure to drive (walking works too, but driving is better) up to Espalamaca Lookout. You’ll recognize it by the statue at the Miradouro da Nossa Senhora da Conceição, which watches over the town.
Another amazing view can be found from Monte da Guia. This hill with a volcanic crater is on the other side of Horta, surrounded by the ocean. From the top, you’ll have a perfect view of Praia do Porto Pim, Horta’s most popular beach, with Horta itself in the background. On the other side, you’ll see the sunken volcanic crater and the ocean.
Tip: Bring a windproof jacket, as it can get really windy at both viewpoints.
Visit the Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Center
Faial, like all the other Azorean islands, was formed by volcanic activity. The Azores sit on the boundary of three tectonic plates, which means it’s always rumbling beneath the surface. While most volcanoes are underground, some have made their way above the water. You can see this best on Pico Island, but it’s also quite evident on Faial.
The last volcanic eruption occurred in 1958 on Faial. Just off the island, volcanic ash rose up from the ocean, eventually forming a new piece of land next to the island’s old lighthouse. The lighthouse, which was mostly destroyed during the eruption, has now been turned into an underground museum. The Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Center teaches you all about the volcanic history of the Azores and the unexpected eruption in 1958.
Personally, I found this to be the highlight of the island—something you absolutely have to do! It was also awarded the title of Best European Museum in 2012 for good reason.
Hike Around Caldeira
The most iconic volcanic crater on the island is Caldeira do Cabeço Gordo, located roughly in the middle of the island. You can either simply visit the crater or hike the PRC04FAI route. The 6.8 km trail takes you around the crater, and the hike takes about 2.5 hours.
The crater still sparks my imagination. Although I planned to hike around the crater, a storm interfered with my plans. The crater was filled with mist, and the wind almost blew me off the edge. No crater seen and absolutely no hiking weather! Make sure to check the weather before planning your activities, as it can be very unpredictable on the islands.
The Alternative? A scenic drive around the island! I stopped at Igreja de São Mateus, an impressive church ruin, and Praia do Almoxarife, one of Faial’s most beautiful beaches. The beach is black due to the volcanic rock, and it’s a popular spot for surfers.
Hotel Tip: I stayed at Hotel do Canal, right by the harbor in Horta. While it’s not the most modern hotel, it has all the facilities you could need, such as a wellness center, fitness room, and restaurant.
Restaurant Tips:
- Canto da Doca: This restaurant may not look great from the outside, but they serve the best grills on volcanic stones. Whether it’s fish, meat, or vegetarian, just order a mix of everything!
- Genuino Restaurant: The owner, once a sailing champion, has gathered items from all over the world for the restaurant. Dining here feels like stepping into a place full of memories. Definitely try the house specialty: a fish stew—absolutely delicious!
- Peter Café Sport: Another gem with a sailing history. This restaurant is the go-to stop for sailors passing through the Azores. The food is great, and you can also try their homemade gin.
Day 5 – 7: Pico
Pico is the closest island to Faial. From Horta, you can’t miss the impressive Pico Volcano. It’s a quick ferry ride, only 30 minutes, and several ferries run daily. However, keep an eye on the schedules, as storms sometimes cancel crossings. You can book your ferry ride via AtlanticoLine.
Once on Pico, you can’t escape the island’s main attraction: Mount Pico. It towers over the entire island. No matter where you are, you’ll get incredible panoramic views. And the best part? You can climb to the top!
Climb Pico Mountain with Tripix
If you’re in good shape and up for a challenge, you can climb the volcano to the top, either with or without a guide. It’s about 1,200 meters of elevation gain in just a few kilometers. Needless to say, it’s a tough climb! You start at the base camp, Casa da Montanha, and from there, it’s a steep hike to the top.
I did a guided hike with Tripix. Our guide, Matteo, kept us motivated as we made our way to the top. That motivation came in handy, as we couldn’t see anything due to thick fog and rain. Normally, there are breathtaking views at the top, but we were just soaked through.
Despite the weather, it was still an experience I’d love to repeat. Who can say they’ve climbed a volcano? I can! Up there, you can even feel the warmth rising from the volcano. The volcano is not as quiet as you’d expect.
Visit the Wine Museum
Speaking of Pico, it’s famous for its wine! The island is known for its vineyards, where the vines grow between volcanic rocks, protecting the crops from the unpredictable weather. If you want to learn more about the island’s winemaking process, head to the Museu do Vinho da Ilha do Pico (Pico Island Wine Museum). Here, you can explore traditional installations, learn about the grape varieties they grow, and wander through the beautiful grounds.
Go Wine Tasting at Azores Wine Company
Unfortunately, you can’t taste wine at the Wine Museum, but you can visit Azores Wine Company, one of the island’s most renowned wine producers. It’s best to book a wine tasting in advance via their website, but if you don’t, you can always walk in and enjoy a glass. Be sure to order a cheese platter with local cheeses to pair with your wine.
Tip: I tried the Terrantez do Pico 2023—a delicious white wine made from a mix of local grape varieties.
Here, not only do you enjoy the wine, but also the stunning views of the rugged ocean, the vineyards, and, of course, Mount Pico. You can even book a night’s stay and enjoy this unique location!
Visit Gruta das Torres
This cave is similar to Algar do Carvão on Terceira Island, formed from volcanic eruptions. Here, you can descend into the largest lava tube in Portugal. A visit lasts about an hour as you walk through the lava tube.
Tip: The road to Gruta das Torres can be quite challenging, so make sure you have a sturdy rental car that can handle the bumpy paths. I had to turn around because my car couldn’t handle the road.
Take a Mini Road Trip Around the Coast
This applies to almost every island, but you really should take a trip around the small coastal villages. On Pico, especially, you’ll see how villages like Lajido are built entirely from volcanic rock, with black houses and colorful doors. You’ll also see how lava flows from the peak of Pico to the ocean, leaving behind unique coastal features. Along the way, you’ll also encounter many iconic windmills.
Hotel Tip: I stayed at Hotel Aldeia da Fonte on the south side of the island. It’s a cozy hotel with its own access to the sea, a sauna, and even a whale-watching tower. Be sure to book a table at the restaurant in the evening— the food is fantastic!
Restaurant Tips:
- Fonte Tavern: Recommended to us, though I didn’t find it amazing. It’s fine for a quick lunch.
- O Magma Restaurant at Lava Homes: I had an amazing lunch here in a unique location with beautiful views of the ocean and coastline. Highly recommended!
- Hotel Aldeia da Fonte: Eating at the hotel is easy, and the food is top-notch!
Day 7 – 10: São Miguel
After leaving Pico, I flew to São Miguel since taking the ferry would have taken quite a while. With a quick flight, you’ll land on the next island in no time—weather permitting, of course.
São Miguel is one of the largest and undoubtedly the most well-known islands in the Azores. Since it has the best connections to the mainland, it also attracts the most tourists. While Pico had mainly adventure seekers, São Miguel brings in all kinds of visitors, and there’s a good reason for that—it has so much to offer!
So, don’t skip this island when traveling to the Azores! Stay in the largest city, Ponta Delgada, and use it as your base to explore everything else.
Enjoy the sunrise or sunset at Sete Cidades
The most famous spot in São Miguel—and perhaps in the entire Azorean archipelago—is Sete Cidades. This massive crater lake offers a range of walks with panoramic views. But even if you’re not into hiking, you can still enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
The most spectacular viewpoint starts at the parking lot of Lagoa do Canário. From there, cross the road onto an unpaved path that leads toward Sete Cidades. After about a 15-minute walk, you’ll climb up to a viewpoint. Follow a narrow trail along a high ridge, leading you to Miradouro da Boca do Inferno, with a stunning view over Sete Cidades lake!
Tip: From here, follow the marked 11.8 km trail that will take you to the village of Sete Cidades.
Another viewpoint you definitely shouldn’t miss is Vista do Rei. You can park your car right by the side of the road and immediately enjoy the view. Hiking isn’t necessary, but if you want, you can follow the 7.7 km trail to Sete Cidades.
Right across from the viewpoint is an abandoned hotel, a favorite spot for urbex enthusiasts. Yes, I visited it too. You can simply walk in through the main entrance. Once inside, wander around the neglected hotel and climb up to the roof. The view from the top is even more spectacular than Vista do Rei below! But be cautious—enter at your own risk.
Visit the Gorreana Tea Plantation
Did you know that the oldest tea plantation in Europe is located here? And it’s absolutely beautiful to visit! Head over to the Gorreana Tea Plantation to learn about tea production on the island and take a stroll through the tea fields. You can freely walk through the fields, which you must see! There’s an easy 3.4 km walk that takes you through the plantation.
Afterward, enjoy a free cup of green tea on the plantation’s terrace. You can also buy some tea to take home and enjoy a tea-flavored cookie (highly recommended!).
Relax at the Caldeira Velha Environmental Interpretation Centre
Occasionally, some leftover volcanic heat bubbles up on the Azores, like at the Caldeira Velha hot springs. Here, you can relax in the natural hot springs while learning about volcanic activity. During your visit, you’ll feel like you’re in a rainforest—except it’s a bit busier than your typical rainforest.
Due to its popularity, it’s best to plan your visit in advance. You can always take a walk through the park, but if you want to enjoy the water, be sure to reserve a time slot. You’ll need to stick to it, as after about 90 minutes, the next group comes in.
Tip: Avoid wearing jewelry and make sure to bring older swimwear. The minerals in the water can damage your clothing.
Wander Through Mata Jardim José do Canto
Another park that’s definitely worth a visit is Mata Jardim José do Canto. You might not have heard of it until now, but it’s absolutely worth stopping by. Pair a visit here with a trip to Furnas, which is nearby.
You’ll find the Capela de Nossa Senhora das Vitórias chapel and the Cascada do Rosal waterfall here. A massive Sequoia tree is another highlight, and while walking, you’ll pass many other plants. The walk to the waterfall takes about half an hour, so be sure to set aside enough time to explore the park.
Visit Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo from the Air or Underwater
Another well-known spot on São Miguel is Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo. This small island with a sunken crater near Vila Franca do Campo is a favorite location for drone photographers—it’s most spectacular from the air. Don’t have a drone? Climb up to the Miradouro da Nossa Senhora da Paz viewpoint for an excellent view of the island.
If you want to get a closer look at the island, check the ferry schedule, as boats run regularly during peak season. Alternatively, you can visit the island underwater on a diving tour. Admittedly, there’s not a ton of marine life to see, but you can explore the remnants of the volcanic eruption that formed the island.
Tip: I went diving with Azores Sub Dive Center and was able to do a Refresher Dive after not diving for seven years.
Chase the Waterfalls
One of the best things about São Miguel are the waterfalls you’ll find all over the island. I already mentioned Cascada do Rosal in Mata Jardim José do Canto, but there are at least two more you should see!
Cascata da Ribeira Quente is a bit of a challenge. You’ll find it on your way to the village of Ribeira Quente, right between two tunnels along a highway. In the second tunnel, turn left into an improvised parking lot. From there, it’s a bit crazy walking back on the road to reach the waterfall. Honestly, it’s a dangerous venture and probably not recommended, but the waterfall is worth it. 😉
Cascata do Salto do Prego is a bit further along the east coast of the island. You can reach it via a 4.5 km walk that begins in Faial da Terra. Unfortunately, I didn’t make it there myself, but I’m sure it’s worth the hike! You can easily extend your walk by connecting to one of the nearby routes.
Hike Around Lagoa do Fogo
No trip to São Miguel is complete without seeing Lagoa do Fogo. This lake offers incredibly beautiful views at both sunrise and sunset. On AllTrials, you’ll find several routes that take you from one of the viewpoints down to the water or around the lake.
Tip: The best viewpoint? That’s Miradouro da Lagoa do Fogo.
Try the Local Stew in Furnas
Earlier, I mentioned that the Azores aren’t exactly known for their culinary specialties, but Furnas is an exception. The local specialty here is a stew that’s slowly cooked in the volcanic ground. They bury the pot, and the heat rising from the earth does the rest. The stew is a mix of different meats, potatoes, and vegetables. It’s a must-try!
Hotel Tip: I stayed at Hotel The Farm in Ponta Delgada. It’s a beautiful boutique hotel with a pool right in the center of town. The staff was incredibly friendly, the rooms were gorgeous, and the breakfast was absolutely delicious! I’ll definitely be back. Tip: Stay for lunch too because the food here is so good!
Restaurant Tips:
- Jewel of India: This is the best Indian restaurant in Ponta Delgada. Be sure to make a reservation in advance, as it can get incredibly busy, even on a regular weekday!
- Terra Nostra Garden Hotel: The ideal spot to try the Furnas stew! It’s a refined dining experience in a lovely setting.
Q&A
How much time do I need per island?
It really depends on the island. For larger islands like Sao Miguel, you can easily spend 4-5 days exploring. For smaller islands like Faial or Pico 3 days would be enough.
How is the weather in the Azores?
The weather in the Azores can be very unpredictable. You have to be lucky as it can be very sunny and warm but it can also be stormy and foggy. In general, it’s always quite warm with temperatures between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius.
What is the best period of the year to visit the Azores?
The best period to visit the Azores is May to October. Then you have the highest chance of good weather. Temperatures in winter are also still very nice (around 20 degrees Celsius) but you have more risk of storms and rainy days.
Where to rent a car in the Azores?
At each airport or ferry harbor, you can find several renting opportunities. I rented with Angracar Rent on Terceira, Ilha Verder on Faial, and Autatlantis on Pico and Sao Miguel. With all of them, I had very good experiences.
