Itinerary #1: Experience the Azores: Nature & Adventure on São Miguel Island

Hikers and nature lovers will enjoy this highlights adventure of the Azores. With one overnight location, this itinerary offers travelers a deep dive into São Miguel Island with plenty of activities and excursions. You’ll explore volcanic landscapes, sail along the coast to observe marine life, snorkel through hidden coves and underwater caverns, and spend two days hiking to beauty spots like Lagoa do Fogo and Sete Ciudades. 

Welcome to the Azores! On São Miguel Island, discover the charming town of Ponta Delgada. Its convent, fortress, and natural history museum provide the perfect starting point for learning about this area’s culture. Day 2 brings a whale watching boat trip—the Azores are among the best whale watching destinations in the world! Next, tour around the islet of Vila Franca do Campo for a closer look at wildlife. The following day, take a dip in the thermal springs at Terra Nostra Botanical Gardens in the Furnas Valley before making a final stop at the Gorreana Tea Factory.

On Day 4, dive into a panorama of lava formations and underwater caves, some of the island’s best snorkeling spots and home to diverse and rare marine life. Later, enjoy one of the island’s beaches, like Praia de Santa Bárbara, during your free afternoon. Experience an invigorating hike to Lagoa do Fogo, a crater lake reachable only on foot. Celebrate your penultimate day in the Azores by hiking on the lush hillsides of Sete Cidades (Seven Cities) before continuing along the iconic Cumeeiras Trail, which follows the volcano’s rim. Learn more

Itinerary #2: Natural Wonders of the Azores: São Miguel & Terceira

Hike and kayak among the Sete Cidades’ crater lakes, discover geothermal wonders in the Furnas Valley, and explore Terceira Island’s temples and natural rock pools on this road trip of two Azorean islands’ natural wonders. It’s an excellent sequence for travelers wanting to explore multiple regions and landscapes, including two nights in the UNESCO-listed city of Angra do Heroísmo. 

After touching down in São Miguel, you’ll pick up your rental car and begin your road trip to admire the architecture around Ponta Delgada, visit the famous Azorean pineapple plantations, or tour the Gruta do Carvão Cave. On the western side of São Miguel, hike in Sete Cidades or get in the water with a kayak or canoe; then stop in the Ponta da Ferraria, a warm pool amid volcanic rocks. In the island’s central region, see panoramic views of Lagoa do Fogo and relish a dip in the balmy pools of Caldeira Velha. At Ribeira Grande, wander the Jardim do Paraíso (Paradise Garden), continuing to stunning stretches of shoreline and through tea plantations.

The following day, experience geothermal landscapes in the Furnas Valley, from the steamy pools of Terra Nostra Garden to canyoning among the crashing waterfalls of Ribeira dos Caldeirões Park. Fly to the UNESCO-listed city Angra do Heroísmo (Angra)  on Day 5 and discover its colonial-style buildings, picturesque streets, and Monte Brasil Hill, which overlooks the city. On your last full day, explore the island of Terceira at your own pace with your rental. Consider a swim in the Biscoitos natural rock pools and notice the impressive structures and vibrant colors of various impérios temples against the island landscape. Learn more

Itinerary #3: Culture & Adventure in the Azores

This culture and adventure itinerary will attract foodies and intrepid travelers with a culinary trail around Ponta Delgada’s trendy downtown eateries, an off-road adventure with a 4WD excursion, a hike on the iconic Cumeeiras Trail, and a horseback outing on secondary paths away from the city’s buzz. Take to the waters for whale watching, explore waterfalls and cliffsides on a canyoning excursion, and try a traditional meal cooked underground using geothermal heat. 

Upon arrival in Ponta Delgada on São Miguel Island, explore the striking Convento de Nossa Senhora da Esperança and the Forte de São Bras, an imposing fortress; then tuck into delicious food in the city’s trendiest eateries. Day 2 brings an exciting off-road excursion to Sete Cidades. Take in spectacular views of Carvão and Vista da Princesa and hike along the iconic Cumeeiras Trail. The following day, ride horseback through verdant landscapes before hitting the beach at Praia de Santa Bárbara or Praia de Água D’Alto. For lunch, try Tuka Tulá Bar, which also holds nighttime concerts during summer.

On Day 4, hike to Vista do Rei (King’s View) lookout point or take to the waters for whale watching. Explore waterfalls and cliffsides on a canyoning excursion before some beach time; choose Vila Franca do Campo Islet for snorkeling; Praia do Fogo for warmth from hot springs; Praia dos Moinhos for a peaceful spot; or Praia dos Mosteiros for photo-ops. Explore the volcanic scenery of the Furnas Valley via Pico do Ferro walking trail, which offers views of nearby Furnas Lake, then dip in the botanical garden’s thermal pools. For lunch, try traditional cozido, a stew cooked underground using geothermal heat. Learn more

More Great Azores Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to the Azores? Check out these other Azores itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.