The Ultimate 7-Day Adventure in the Azores: A Hidden Gem in the Atlantic
Matt - August 17, 2023
The Azores, a Portuguese archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With lush landscapes, volcanic craters, and crystal-clear waters, this European hidden gem offers an unforgettable escape from the crowd. This Azores travel guide will take you through a 7-day itinerary that showcases the best of São Miguel, Faial, and Pico islands.
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Day 1: Arrival in São Miguel Island
Morning: Arrive at João Paulo II Airport in Ponta Delgada, São Miguel. Renting a car in the Azores is essential for flexibility during your trip.
Afternoon: Check into your hotel (recommendation: Azor Hotel) and explore Ponta Delgada’s historical sites, including the beautiful Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião.
Evening: Try Azorean cuisine at A Tasca, which is known for its delicious local seafood dishes.
Day 2: Sete Cidades & Thermal Pools
Morning: Embark on the Sete Cidades hiking trail. Vista do Rei viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the iconic twin lakes.
Afternoon: Head to Ponta da Ferraria’s thermal pools for a natural spa experience. The ocean waters here are geothermally heated!
Evening: Return to Ponta Delgada and savor fresh fish at Restaurante São Pedro.
Day 3: Furnas Valley
Morning: Head east to Furnas Valley, known for its hot springs. Take a thermal bath in Terra Nostra Garden.
Afternoon: Indulge in Cozido das Furnas, a geothermal-cooked stew. Take a stroll around Lagoa das Furnas.
Evening: Return to Ponta Delgada for a cozy night’s sleep.
Day 4: Travel to Faial Island
Morning: Take a flight or ferry from São Miguel to Faial Island.
Afternoon: Check into Hotel do Canal in Horta. Take a walk along the marina and see the paintings left by visiting sailors.
Evening: Dine at Genuino, savoring dishes inspired by Azorean land and sea.
Day 5: Capelinhos Volcano & Whale Watching
Morning: Explore the lunar landscape of Capelinhos Volcano. Visit the Capelinhos Interpretation Centre.
Afternoon: Embark on a whale-watching tour in Faial, a top location for spotting diverse marine life.
Evening: Relax at your hotel or explore Horta's vibrant nightlife.
Day 6: Pico Island Day Trip
Morning: Take the ferry from Faial to Pico Island. Visit Mount Pico, Portugal's highest mountain.
Afternoon: Discover the UNESCO-listed Pico Island Vineyards and visit the Pico Wine Museum.
Evening: Take a ferry back to Faial.
Day 7: Return to São Miguel and Departure
Morning: Travel back to São Miguel.
Afternoon: Buy souvenirs in Ponta Delgada; Azorean pineapples and locally-produced cheeses are must-buys.
Evening: Depart from João Paulo II Airport.
Tips for Traveling in the Azores
- Best time to visit the Azores: May to September
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Language: Portuguese (English widely spoken in the tourism sector)
- Driving: Right-hand side
Ready to visit?
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