Classic São Miguel & Lisbon

Suggestion for the day: Day Trip to Fairytale Sintra

A short 28-kilometer drive whisks you away from the bustling capital and into a world of enchanting palaces, captivating gardens, and romantic charm. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts a mesmerizing cultural landscape, characterized by winding mountains, lush forests, and remarkable architectural wonders. In the 19th century, Sintra emerged as the epicenter of Romantic architecture in Europe, renowned for its distinctive palaces and whimsical designs that could easily inspire fairytales.

Don’t Miss:

• Early Start & Pena Palace: Start your exploration with the iconic Pena National Palace, a vibrant masterpiece perched atop a hill. Marvel at its eclectic architectural styles, ranging from Romanticism to Moorish Revival.
• Quinta da Regaleira: If you have time and a taste for adventure, delve into the mysteries of Quinta da Regaleira. This enigmatic estate features a labyrinth of hidden grottoes, tunnels, and secret passages waiting to be discovered.
• Moorish Castle: For history buffs, the Moorish Castle offers a glimpse into Sintra's medieval past.
• Sintra Village & Lunch: Head back to the charming village of Sintra. Wander through the narrow cobbled streets lined with colorful houses and quaint shops. Explore the Sintra National Palace, the former summer residence of the Portuguese royal family.
• Monserrate Palace: For those seeking a different architectural style, consider visiting Monserrate Palace. This 19th-century palace boasts a captivating blend of Gothic, Moorish, and Indian influences. 

Tips for Your Trip:

• Consider booking a guided tour to Sintra ahead of time to ensure you don’t miss out on the top sights—we can help arrange this for you.
• Purchase your tickets to Sintra attractions in advance, especially during peak season.
• Consider purchasing the Sintra Card for discounted entry to several attractions and public transportation within Sintra.
• Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking.
• The drive from Lisbon to Sintra takes about 30 to 40 minutes, while the train journey takes approximately 40 minutes.

Welcome to the Azores! Relax and unwind from the moment you arrive. We'll handle your airport transfers on arrival and departure, ensuring your adventure's seamless start and finish.

*Want to maximize your time in paradise? Consider pre-booking an early check-in during the booking process. This way, you can hit the ground running and start exploring sooner! Don't hesitate to contact our booking agents if you have any questions or need assistance setting this up.

Suggestion for the day: Explore Downtown Ponta Delgada

It’s time to explore Ponta Delgada, the main city, that beckons not only with its charming streets and vibrant atmosphere but also with its status as the economic heart of the archipelago. Ponta Delgada evokes all the charms of Europe with cobbled streets, sidewalk cafes, and a thriving culinary scene. 

Don’t Miss:

• Simply Stroll Through Ponta Delgada’s Cobblestone Streets: Start your São Miguel discovery with a stroll along Ponta Delgada's charming city streets. Admire the architecture, from historical buildings to colorful houses. Peek into local shops and soak in the atmosphere.
• Portas da Cidade: Standing proudly at the entrance to Ponta Delgada, the Portas da Cidade (City Gates) serves as a symbolic gateway to the city's rich history and vibrant culture.
• Matriz Church: Visit the impressive Matriz Church, a beautiful example of Azorean religious architecture right in the city center.
• Pineapple Paradise: Embark on a unique adventure to a nearby pineapple plantation. Learn about the island's pineapple production, witness these fascinating plants, and perhaps even enjoy a refreshing pineapple treat.

Suggestion for the day: Sete Cidades 

São Miguel Island, the largest in the Azores archipelago, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, and Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo are two of its most captivating gems. Today, embark on a journey through volcanic landscapes, serene lakes, and charming villages, and discover the essence of this enchanting island.

• Sete Cidades (A Realm of Twin Lakes): Begin your adventure in Sete Cidades, a village nestled within a vast volcanic crater. As you descend into the caldera, prepare to be awestruck by the sight of Lagoa das Sete Cidades a mesmerizing twin-lake complex. One of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal, this show-stopping crater full of lakes has become one of the signature and most famous images of the Azores.
• Mosteiros & Ferraria: Venture to the neighboring village of Mosteiros, a photographer's paradise known for its breathtaking sunsets. As you explore the western region, don't miss the chance to rejuvenate at Ferraria's unique ocean thermal baths. Remember, these thermal pools are best enjoyed during low tide when warm spring water mixes with the ocean for a truly luxurious experience. 

Suggestion for the day: Lagoa do Fogo Lake

Explore the stunning Lagoa do Fogo, one of the most breathtaking lakes in the Azores. For the best experience, visit on a clear day, as the views are most spectacular when the skies are cloud-free. Be sure to check the weather forecast before heading up the mountain.

• Lagoa do Fogo (A Crater Lake of Tranquility): Lagoa do Fogo, which translates roughly into "Lagoon of Fire", is a crater lake at the center of São Miguel Island. This Protected Natural Reserve sits tucked away atop the impressive Pico da Barrosa, far from the whir, hum, and hurry of civilization below.
• Caldeira Velha Hot Springs: Caldeira Velha is an official natural monument, and the best thing about this lovely locale is not even the thermal pools (although they are divine), but rather the verdant vegetation. Visitors will find that Caldeira Velha is so lush and tropical, that you’ll almost find it hard to believe you are even in Portugal.
• Ribeira Grande: Discover the charm of Ribeira Grande, a vibrant town nestled on the north part of São Miguel Island. Explore its historic center, relax on the stunning Santa Bárbara Beach, known for its black sand and impressive waves, or embark on a hiking adventure through the lush countryside. Immerse yourself in the local culture, savor fresh seafood, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of this coastal paradise.

Suggestion for the day: Furnas & Tea Plantations

The thermal hot spot of the Azores! Furnas Valley is the center of São Miguel's unique geothermal activity. Here you can visit two active volcanic sites to see the boiling calderas in action, as well as the gorgeous Terra Nostra Park and so much more.

Don’t Miss:

• Lagoa das Furnas: Visitors can enjoy several hiking trails around the lake, as well as several beautiful parks and the iconic Neo-Gothic Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitórias.
• Cozido das Furnas Lunch: A longstanding tradition among the locals, this beloved popular dish is a Portuguese stew (cozido) cooked in holes known as fumaroles that are dug in the hot volcanic soil in Furnas.
• Caldeiras das Furnas: In the center of town, Furnas boasts close to 30 bubbling, steaming calderas and fumaroles of different temperatures and biological compositions, the strong smell of sulfur wafting through the air at every turn.
• Terra Nostra Park: Terra Nostra Park is one of the Azores’ main attractions and with good reason. From its super cool thermal pools to its lavish and rich botanical gardens, Terra Nostra is at the top of every tourist’s itinerary.
• Poça da Dona Beija: Also located in Furnas is the lovely Poça da Dona Beija, which offers visitors an exotic and unique array of six natural thermal pools. Each of Poça da Dona Beija’s pools rests at different temperatures, making it possible for every single person to find their perfect fit. 
• Gorreana Tea Plantations: Immerse yourself in history and nature at Gorreana Tea Plantations, Europe's oldest still-operating tea farm (established in 1883). Explore verdant fields, breathe in the fresh scent of tea leaves, and learn the secrets behind Azores' world-renowned tea.

We've arranged your hotel transfer to ensure a smooth journey to the airport.

Thank you for choosing us to be your travel companions on this adventure! It's been a pleasure assisting you in creating unforgettable memories. We wish you happy travels and until next time!