The Azores, a stunning Portuguese archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, is renowned for its natural beauty, from volcanic craters and lush forests to dramatic coastlines and hot springs.
With just a week to explore, you can experience a taste of what each island offers while savoring the unique character and breathtaking landscapes of these volcanic isles. Here’s a day-by-day guide to help you make the most of seven days in the Azores!
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Day 1: Arrival and Exploring São Miguel Island
Arrive in Ponta Delgada on São Miguel, the largest and most accessible island in the Azores. This island serves as the perfect starting point, as it combines natural wonders with easy travel routes.
- Sete Cidades: Kick off your trip by heading to Sete Cidades, one of the Azores’ most famous sites. Here, you’ll find two lakes – Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde – nestled in a volcanic crater, offering mesmerizing views.
- Miradouro da Boca do Inferno: For one of the best panoramic viewpoints, visit Miradouro da Boca do Inferno nearby.
- Dinner in Ponta Delgada: End your day with dinner in the capital, where you can sample local Azorean dishes like cozido das Furnas, a delicious stew cooked underground using geothermal heat.
Day 2: Thermal Springs and Lagoa do Fogo
São Miguel is home to numerous geothermal sites and hot springs, perfect for relaxation.
- Lagoa do Fogo: Start with a visit to Lagoa do Fogo, or “Lake of Fire,” which sits inside a volcanic crater. The view from the top is stunning, and there are trails that lead down to the lake’s shoreline.
- Furnas Valley: Head to Furnas, a valley famous for its hot springs and geysers. Visit the Terra Nostra Gardens, where you can soak in warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by lush greenery.
- Poça da Dona Beija: For an evening relaxation spot, Poça da Dona Beija offers a series of thermal pools that stay open into the evening. The mineral-rich waters are incredibly soothing.
Day 3: Fly to Terceira Island and Explore Angra do Heroísmo
Terceira Island is known for its history, colorful architecture, and vibrant culture.
- Flight to Terceira: Take an early flight from São Miguel to Terceira (flights are short, typically around 30 minutes).
- Angra do Heroísmo: Start by exploring Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the Azores’ most historic town. Wander through the charming cobblestone streets, admire pastel-colored buildings, and visit the 16th-century São João Baptista Castle.
- Algar do Carvão: After lunch, head to Algar do Carvão, a unique volcanic vent you can explore on foot. With its moss-covered interior and underground lakes, it feels like stepping into another world.
- Local Cuisine: Try traditional Terceira cuisine, such as Alcatra, a slow-cooked beef dish, at a local restaurant.
Day 4: Adventure in Pico Island
Known as the “Mountain Island,” Pico is home to Portugal’s highest peak and offers incredible hiking and scenery.
- Fly to Pico Island: Start your day with a quick flight from Terceira to Pico.
- Mount Pico: If you’re up for it, tackle the climb up Mount Pico, a challenging but rewarding hike. Standing at 7,713 feet, the views from the top are phenomenal. This hike takes about 6-8 hours round trip, so plan accordingly.
- Pico’s Vineyards: If hiking isn’t your thing, explore Pico’s UNESCO-listed vineyards, where grapevines grow between volcanic rock walls. The landscape is both unique and beautiful, and local wineries offer tastings of the island’s distinctive wines.
Day 5: Faial Island’s Coast and the Caldeira
Just a short ferry ride from Pico, Faial Island offers impressive volcanic landscapes, including the Caldeira and the Capelinhos Volcano.
- Ferry to Faial: Take the ferry to Faial, which only takes about 30 minutes.
- Caldeira do Faial: This massive volcanic crater in the center of the island offers stunning views of the lush landscape. You can take a gentle walk around the crater’s rim or simply enjoy the lookout points.
- Capelinhos Volcano: Head to the western side of Faial to see Capelinhos, a relatively young volcano formed in the 1950s. Visit the nearby Capelinhos Interpretation Center to learn about the eruption’s impact on the island.
- Horta: Spend your evening in Horta, Faial’s main town, and visit the famous Peter Café Sport for dinner. Travelers and sailors from around the world gather here, and the café is full of fascinating stories and memorabilia.
Day 6: Flores Island – Waterfalls and Natural Pools
Flores is known for its stunning natural beauty, including countless waterfalls and rugged cliffs.
- Flight to Flores: Take an early flight to Flores for a day of nature exploration.
- Poço do Bacalhau: Start by visiting Poço do Bacalhau, one of the island’s most beautiful waterfalls. The lush landscape and crystal-clear waters make it an ideal place for a scenic break.
- Fajã Grande: Continue to Fajã Grande, a picturesque village known for its coastal pools and numerous waterfalls. You can swim in the natural pools while surrounded by beautiful, towering cliffs.
- Back to São Miguel: In the evening, fly back to São Miguel to prepare for your final day in the Azores.
Day 7: Whale Watching and Relaxation in Ponta Delgada
End your Azores adventure with a day dedicated to the ocean.
- Whale Watching Tour: The Azores are one of the best places in the world for whale watching, as 24 different whale and dolphin species visit these waters. Join a morning whale watching tour for a chance to see sperm whales, blue whales, and dolphins.
- Local Markets: After your tour, spend some time shopping for souvenirs and local products at the Mercado da Graça in Ponta Delgada.
- Sunset and Dinner: End your week with a sunset view from Ponta Delgada’s waterfront, followed by a final meal featuring fresh seafood and traditional Azorean dishes.
Travel Tips for Visiting the Azores
- Getting Around: While São Miguel has public transportation, renting a car is the best way to explore each island, especially for remote areas.
- Weather: The Azores weather can be unpredictable, with rain showers popping up unexpectedly. Bring layers and waterproof clothing.
- Packing Essentials: Don’t forget hiking shoes, a swimsuit for hot springs, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
Conclusion
Spending a week in the Azores provides the perfect balance of exploration, relaxation, and cultural immersion. From hiking volcanic peaks and exploring lush valleys to soaking in hot springs and tasting local cuisine, this seven-day itinerary ensures you see the best of what the Azores has to offer.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or an adventure seeker, the Azores will captivate you and leave you dreaming of your next trip back to these magical islands.