Azores, Portugal: 1-Week Itinerary
Açores is a stunning Portuguese archipelago known for its amazing landscapes, volcanic craters, and breathtaking coastlines. São Miguel, the largest island, is a nature lover’s paradise and offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. As Portuguese natives, we couldn’t resist the call of these islands any longer and spent an incredible week exploring São Miguel.
JUMP TO A CATEGORY
Best Time to Go
When is the best time to visit the Açores? Well, we chose late August and early September, which was a sweet spot for pleasant weather. The temperatures here are moderate year-round, typically between 16°C and 25°C (61°F to 77°F). However, the island's weather can be unpredictable, with occasional rain showers even on sunny days, so pack for all seasons. Lightweight rain gear and layers will be your best friends!
Renting a Car?
Is renting a car worth it in São Miguel? Absolutely, yes. The island is full of hidden gems and scenic routes that are best explored at your own pace. Public transport is limited, and while bus tours are an option, having your own wheels gives you the flexibility to discover lesser-known spots. Plus, it can actually be a budget-friendly choice when compared to multiple guided tours.
Car Rental Costs: Expect to pay around €300 to €450 for a week-long rental, depending on the type of car and the rental company. Prices can fluctuate, so booking in advance is a good idea. Also, keep in mind that gas prices are a bit higher than on the mainland, but distances are relatively short, so fuel costs won’t break the bank.
Driving Tips: Roads on São Miguel are generally well-maintained, but be prepared for some narrow and winding routes, especially when venturing into more remote areas. Parking is usually easy to find, though it can get busier around popular tourist spots.
Where to Rent?
Auto Europe: A trusted option for comparing car rental deals from various companies.
Ilha Verde Rent-a-Car: A popular local company with multiple pick-up points across the island.
Sixt Rent a Car: Known for excellent service and a good selection of cars.
Budget
The Açores can be as affordable or as luxurious as you make it. Here’s a rough budget breakdown for a week in São Miguel:
Accommodation:
Budget: Azores Youth Hostels – São Miguel (€50-€80 per night) or City's Hostel Ponta Delgada (€50-€70 per night)
Mid-Range: Hotel Talisman ( €80-€120 per night) or Hotel do Colégio (€100-€130 per night)
Splurge: Azor Hotel (€150-€200 per night) or Grand Hotel Açores Atlântico (€140-€180 per night)
Food: €10-€25 per meal per person. You can dine out at local “tascas” (traditional food) for around €10-€15, while more upscale restaurants will be closer to €20-€25.
Activities: Many natural attractions are free, but budget for guided tours, entrance fees to places like Terra Nostra Gardens (€8), and any adventure activities like whale watching (€50-€80).
How to Prepare
Here’s what to pack and prep before heading to the Açores:
Clothing: Pack layers—t-shirts, light sweaters, and a good waterproof jacket. Comfortable hiking shoes are essential for exploring the island’s trails. Don’t forget swimwear, even if it’s not peak summer, as there are plenty of natural hot springs to enjoy.
Travel Insurance: Given the island’s rugged nature, travel insurance that covers outdoor activities is recommended.
Cash and Cards: Most places accept cards, but it’s wise to carry some cash for small towns and local markets.
What to Eat and Drink for a Local Experience?
São Miguel offers a unique culinary experience. Here’s what to try:
Cozido das Furnas: A traditional stew slow-cooked underground using volcanic heat. It’s a must-try!
Bolos Lêvedos: These sweet, fluffy yeast cakes are perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
Queijadas da Vila: A type of sweet cheese tart that’s a local favorite.
Lapas Grelhadas: Grilled limpets, a seafood delicacy in the Açores.
Pineapple: The island is famous for its incredibly sweet, small pineapples—don’t leave without tasting one.
Local Wines and Liqueurs: Try the regional wines and passionfruit liqueur for a true taste of the islands.
Tours to Consider
1. Whale Watching and Dolphin Tour
Duration: 3 hours
Price: Approximately €55-€80 per person
Why it’s worth it: The Açores are a top destination for whale watching, with species like sperm whales, blue whales, and various dolphins frequently spotted.
2. Furnas Valley and Hot Springs Tour
Duration: Full-day
Price: Around €70-€90 per person
Why it’s worth it: This tour combines natural beauty with cultural immersion, giving you a taste of the island’s unique geothermal cuisine.
Duration: 4-5 hours
Price: Approximately €45-€60 per person
Why it’s worth it: Hiking around Lagoa do Fogo is one of the best ways to experience São Miguel’s rugged landscape. The views are spectacular, and the trails offer a good mix of challenge and accessibility.
4. Gorreana Tea Plantation and Nordeste Tour
Duration: Full-day
Price: Around €70 per person
Why it’s worth it: It’s a unique opportunity to see the traditional tea-making process and explore one of the island’s most picturesque regions.
Itinerary
Day 1: Ponta Delgada & Caldeira Velha
Morning: Start your adventure in Ponta Delgada, the capital of São Miguel. Explore the historic center, including the Portas da Cidade and the São Sebastião Church. Also visit the Carlos Machado Museum to gain a deeper understanding of the island’s culture and history.
Lunch: Enjoy a local meal in Ponta Delgada at Restaurante Nacional (€15-€25 per person), which has a traditional Azorean cuisine.
Afternoon: Drive to Caldeira Velha, a natural park with thermal waterfalls. Enjoy a relaxing soak in the warm mineral-rich pools surrounded beautiful views.
Dinner: Head back to Ponta Delgada for dinner at Cais 20, (€20-€35 per person) which specializes in fresh seafood and has some amazing ocean views.
Day 2: Sete Cidades
Morning: Visit Sete Cidades, home to the iconic twin lakes, Lagoa Azul (Blue Lake) and Lagoa Verde (Green Lake), which are located in a massive volcanic crater. Drive to Miradouro da Vista do Rei for the best panoramic views of the lakes and surrounding landscape. If you are up for it, hike the Sete Cidades Trail (around 12 km, moderate) or rent a bike to explore the trails around the lakes.
Lunch: Have lunch at Lagoa Azul Restaurant (€15-€25 per person), a cozy place near the lake with views of the crater.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon exploring more of Sete Cidades. Take a scenic drive around the caldera or visit the nearby Miradouro do Cerrado das Freiras for another amazing view.
Dinner: Return to Ponta Delgada and enjoy dinner at A Tasca (€15-€30 per person), a popular restaurant serving local dishes.
Day 3: Lagoa do Fogo
Morning: Drive to Lagoa do Fogo (Lake of Fire), one of the island’s most beautiful lakes. If you are a hiker, go on the trail to the lake, offering amazing views of the lake, volcanic landscape, and local wildlife. The hike is moderately challenging but super rewarding!
Lunch: Head to Lagoa for lunch at Bar Caloura (€25-€40 per person), a restaurant with ocean views and a reputation for its fresh seafood.
Afternoon: Visit the nearby Caloura Beach for a relaxing afternoon by the sea (with warm water).
Dinner: Head back to Ponta Delgada for dinner at Rotas da Ilha Verde (€15-€25 per person), known for its vegetarian dishes and fresh ingredients.
Day 4: Furnas
Morning: Drive to Furnas, one of São Miguel's geothermal hotspots. Start with a visit to the Terra Nostra Gardens, a botanical garden with a large thermal pool perfect for a morning dip (so bring your swimsuits ready!).
Lunch: Have lunch at Restaurante Tony's (€20-€30 per person), a traditional restaurant where you can try the famous Cozido das Furnas, a stew cooked underground by geothermal heat.
Afternoon: Visit the Poça da Dona Beija, a series of thermal pools surrounded by nature, for a relaxing soak. Afterwards, take a stroll around the Furnas Lake and explore the fumaroles and geysers.
Dinner: Enjoy dinner at À Terra (€25-€40 per person), located in Furnas.
Day 5: Vila Franca do Campo
Morning: Take a boat trip to Vila Franca Islet, a natural reserve perfect for snorkeling and swimming in its crystal-clear waters. (Optional)
Lunch: After returning to the mainland, have lunch at Cantinho da Vila (€15-€25 per person), a local favorite with traditional Portuguese dishes.
Afternoon: Visit the Nossa Senhora da Paz Chapel, which also has some stunning panoramic views of Vila Franca and the Atlantic Ocean. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the local markets and beaches.
Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Queijadas da Vila (€20-€30 per person), a cozy restaurant in Vila Franca do Campo, known for its traditional Azorean dishes.
Day 6: Nordeste & Gorreana Tea Plantation
Morning: Head to Nordeste, the island’s most scenic region. Start with the viewpoints of Ponta do Sossego and Ponta da Madrugada, which have (again!) amazing views of cliffs and the ocean. Then, visit Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park to see beautiful waterfalls and traditional water mills.
Lunch: Have lunch at Casa de Pasto O Cardoso (€10-€20 per person).
Afternoon: Drive to the Gorreana Tea Plantation, Europe’s only tea plantation. Take a tour of the tea factory, stroll through the tea fields, and sample a variety of teas while learning about the traditional tea-making process.
Dinner: Drive back to Ponta Delgada for dinner at Colmeia (€25-€40 per person).
Day 7: Ponta da Ferraria & Relaxation
Morning: Drive to Ponta da Ferraria, a natural swimming pool where hot thermal waters mix with the cold Atlantic Ocean. The best time to visit is during low tide when you can enjoy the warm waters.
Lunch: Have lunch at O Roberto (€15-€25 per person) in Ginetes, a small village near Ferraria.
Afternoon: Spend your final afternoon exploring any parts of the island you might have missed, or return to your favorite spots. You could also visit Mosteiros for a peaceful walk along the rocky coastline.
Dinner: Celebrate your last evening with a special dinner at Tuká Tulá (€25-€40 per person), located on the coast just outside Ponta Delgada.
And there you have it—your ultimate 1-week adventure through São Miguel, the crown jewel of the Açores! From the Sete Cidades to the thermal waters of Furnas, this island offers a blend of breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences that promise to make your trip unforgettable.
São Miguel might be just one of the many beautiful islands in the Açores, but its a must-visit.
We hope this guide has inspired you and provided you with everything you need to make the most of your time on this incredible island. If you have any more questions or need further recommendations, don’t hesitate to drop us an email.
Até logo!
