The Ultimate 7-Day Adventure in the Azores: A Hidden Gem in the Atlantic

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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7 Day Adventure in the Azores

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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

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