Azores

I got this scoop from a local. What could be better? Its a great start for your itinerary. Happy planning!


Tip: In Azores, there are 9 islands. To catch the best weather, the best time to go is June to September.

Where to Stay

  • There were no specific recommendations but Airbnb is a good bet.

What to Do

Terceira

  • Terceira is known as the party island. Apparently, the party goes from May 1 to October 16. Every day each town has something going on; bullfights on the streets, parades and concerts. There are beautiful caves as well as sand and rock beaches.
  • A bullfight on the street is a must (any town has it and it happens every day from May to October as mentioned above).
  • Algar do Carvao caves.
  • Monte Brasil and Miradouro da Serra do Cume for beautiful views of the island.
  • Biscoitos Beach for clear water of rock beaches.
  • Beautiful island for views. There are many lookout areas with picnic tables.
  • Poca da Dona Beija hot natural saunas
  • Parque Terra Nostra - serene picturesque park and botanical garden. It's best known for its thermal baths.
  • Furnas - active volcanic crater. Known to cook great food under the hot soil.
  • Lagoa das Sete Cidades - cross the bridge in the direction to Sete Cidades. On the left side you can park the car. There is a road that takes you near the green lake. The other side is blue lake. Drive to the top of the hill to see the lake from above.

Other Islands

  • Ilheu de Vila Franca do Campo - a tiny island that you take a boat to. There is a beach that is worth to visit for a couple of hours.
  • Pico - has the biggest mountain in Portugal if you are interested in hiking. It takes 4.5 hours to climb up and another 4 hours to climb down. You can sleep overnight in a tent at the top to view the sunrise and sunset. You can do this with a tour guide.
  • Flores - has amazing variety of flowers and waterfalls.
Note: If you are traveling between islands, there is a ferry available. Click here for schedules and prices. The Azores airline (Sata) is the airline that flies between the islands.

Where to Eat

Terceira

Sao Miguel

Faial
You can combine this trip with the rest of Portugal. See the itinerary here.