The Azores: São Miguel, Faial & Terceira

Island hop between the volcanic lush landscapes of Faial, Terceira and São Miguel in a single trip! 

What's Included?

Why we love this deal:

• For those looking to explore natural beauty while enjoying excellent food, wine and culture then this Azores Islands travel package offers an unforgettable experience that's sure to create memories that will last a lifetime!
• São Miguel is the largest island in the chain and is known for its picturesque views. Visitors can explore crater lakes, take a boat tour around Vila Franca do Campo Islet, visit hot springs and enjoy delicious regional cuisine.
• Next, Faial is home to the world-famous Capelinhos Volcano (the last volcanic eruption of the Azores). Here you’ll find a slower pace of life perfect for unwinding and taking in all the beauty that surrounds you.
• And lastly, Terceira is home to an incredible UNESCO World Heritage site - its capital city of Angra do Heroísmo.
• Customizable: Add additional nights to your stay, car rental, or some other experience to make your itinerary even more unique and special.

Itinerary

1

Day 1

Arrival in Faial Island

Welcome to the Azores! Upon arrival and departure, enjoy seamless airport transfers. For a smooth start to your stay, we recommend pre-booking an early check-in to make the most of your time in this charming destination.

Suggestion for the day:

• Explore Downtown Horta. Stroll around Horta’s historical streets and behold the beauty of the old-world architecture of the Azores. Horta, the capital of Faial Island, offers superb views over the neighboring island of Pico from where Mount Pico magnificently stands out. 

Highlights:

• Peter Café Sport
• Porto Pim
• Genuíno Restaurant
• Monte da Guia
• Nossa Senhora da Conceição Viewpoint
• Horta’s Marine

Day 2

Free Day for Personal Activities (Faial Island)

Suggestion for the day:

• Take the day to explore Faial’s Volcanic Landscapes

Highlights:

• Ribeirinha Village
• Windmills
• Almoxarife Beach
• Capelinhos Volcano
• Norte Beach
• Caldeira 

2

Day 3

Flight to Terceira Island

Welcome to Terceira Island! Upon arrival and departure, enjoy seamless airport transfers. For a smooth start to your stay, we recommend pre-booking an early check-in to make the most of your time in this charming destination.

Suggestion for the day:

• Lose yourself in the charm of Angra do Heroísmo! With a stroll around downtown, let your senses be tantalized by uncovering exciting new secrets – while you take a pit stop and savor Portuguese scrumptious treats at one of its cozy seaside cafes. You'll discover Angra's secrets later during your trip on a guided walking tour. 

Highlights: 

• Capitães-Generais Palace
• Angra do Heroísmo City Streets 
• Garden Duque da Bragança
• Alto da Memória Viewpoint
• Misericórdia Church
• Prainha
• Monte Brasil
• Duque de Bragança Farmers Market
• Silveira Natural Pools
• Bordados dos Açores
• São Bento Pottery 

Day 4

Free Day for Personal Activities (Terceira Island)

Suggestion for the day:

• Terceira Volcano Experience: Explore the island in style and uncover its magnificent volcanic origins! Immerse yourself in the unique experience of visiting one of the only volcanoes that you can visit on Earth from the inside out. Discover Algar do Carvão, a lava tube cave plus spots like Gruta do Natal, Furnas do Enxofre's sulfuric fumaroles, and Serra da Ribeirinha viewpoint boasting outstanding views over countryside landscapes.

Day 5

Free Day for Personal Activities (Terceira Island)

Suggestion for the day:

• Explore Terceira's Landscapes: Visit the Biscoitos natural swimming pools and the Biscoitos Wine Museum. Next, move on to Praia da Vitória and don’t skip a nice walk on its calm-water beaches, along with the Facho Viewpoint and the Império da Caridade. We highly recommend that you head to Serra do Cume for sunset (it is even more magical at this time of the day). Book here your Terceira Full-day Guided Tour.

3

Day 6

Flight to São Miguel Island

Welcome to São Miguel Island! Upon arrival and departure, enjoy seamless airport transfers. For a smooth start to your stay, we recommend pre-booking an early check-in to make the most of your time in this charming destination.

Suggestion for the day:

• Take the afternoon to stroll around Ponta Delgada’s city streets. Ponta Delgada, the main city, is not only the hub of the island but the capital of the Azores. Ponta Delgada evokes all the charms of Europe with cobbled streets, sidewalk cafes, and a thriving culinary scene. 

Not to miss:

• Portas da Cidade
• Louvre Michaelense
• Pineapple Plantations
• Matriz Church

Day 7

Free Day for Personal Activities (São Miguel Island)

Suggestion for the day:

• Explore the wonders of Sete Cidades, including Lagoa das Sete Cidades, Lagoa de Santiago, Lagoa do Canário, and the captivating Boca do Inferno Viewpoint. Don't miss the chance to venture to the neighboring village of Mosteiros, a perfect spot for a picturesque sunset. While in the western part of the island, treat yourself to the rejuvenating experience of an ocean thermal bath at Ferraria.

Day 8

Free Day for Personal Activities (São Miguel Island)

Suggestion for the day:

• Embark on a Whale and Dolphin-watching Experience: The Azores Islands are known for their unparalleled beauty and biodiversity, adored by outdoor adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. But what people may not know is that the Azores is also one of the fastest-growing whale-watching destinations in the world. Located in the Atlantic Ocean between Portugal and North America, the Azores are a permanent home and natural point of passage to more than 20 different types of whale and dolphin species, making the islands one of the world’s largest whale sanctuaries.

Day 9

Free Day for Personal Activities (São Miguel Island)

Suggestion for the day:

• Visit Lagoa do Fogo & Furnas: Venture to the island's northern expanse, where you'll encounter the untouched charm of the Protected Natural Reserve of Lagoa do Fogo. Relax in the rejuvenating thermal pools of Caldeira Velha, then marvel at the Salto do Cabrito waterfall. Journey to Furnas and immerse yourself in its myriad attractions, from the serene lake and Pico do Ferro Viewpoint to the unique caldeiras and Terra Nostra Park. Relish local flavors like cozido das Furnas and bolos lêvedos, and experience a fusion of nature and culture that's truly Azorean.

Day 10

Return Flight Home

Thank you for choosing Azores Getaways! We sincerely hope you had an incredible time during your stay. We look forward to welcoming you back again in the future for more unforgettable adventures.

*itinerary presented is a suggestion and the length of stay may vary. All tours are suggestions unless specifically stated.

Flexibility Policy

No Amendment Fees on Our End

We don’t charge for our work in changing the initial itinerary.

Full flexibility on Land Arrangements

Change the initial itinerary or cancel your land arrangements for any reason until 14 days before the trip, without penalty*.

Travel Support Anytime, Anywhere

Our experienced travel agents are available 7 days a week to help with any questions, requests, or issues from when you book until after you return from your trip.

About the Destination:

"The Azores Islands are an unexpected pleasure and a stepping stone into Europe" says the New York Times. They are indeed a real pleasure and a pristine destination unspoiled by mass tourism. 

Often referred to as Europe's “Best Kept Secret”, the Azores have become an increasingly popular destination offering year-round appeal for travelers. Just four hours from Boston, the Azores are now easier to access and explore than ever before. Striking the perfect balance between lush volcanic landscapes and seaside cities with charming European vibes, Terceira island will pleasantly surprise you.

Faial Island

Faial Island is also the site of the most recent volcanic eruption in the Azores, which took place along the coast of Capelinhos village in 1957 and almost completely buried the nearby lighthouse. Many people lost their homes and livelihoods as a result of the eruption, a dire situation which prompted the Azorean Refugee Act to be signed in 1958 by JFK, authorizing the emigration of those affected. Simply put: The Capelinhos volcano left behind one of the most emblematic landscapes in the whole world!

Most famous as a port, Faial historically has been (and remains to this day) a popular stopping point for sailors crossing the Atlantic. The island’s main city, Horta, although small, has a modern, cosmopolitan feel, with travelers from all over the globe gathering at the restaurants and bars along the harbor to swap stories and take in stunning views of Pico Island across the bay. In downtown Horta, you’ll find the Azores’ most famous sailing bar,  Peter’s Café Sport, which is a must-visit, whether you’re a sailing soul or not! Make sure you try the signature gin as you sit back and enjoy the authentic and rustic vibe of the city surrounding you.

Terceira Island

Classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Terceira's capital city of Angra do Heroísmo is dotted by historical buildings, colorful houses, restaurants, shops and cafes you'll love to discover. Head across the island to visit the seaside town of Praia da Vitória to take in the sights, among which include a beautiful black sandy bay, picturesque cobblestone streets, and the breathtaking Serra do Cume, which offers one of the best views on the entire island.

São Miguel Island

If you’re looking for an idyllic Azores Island that is surrounded by unparalleled beauty and unspoiled nature, but still has that slight touch of the modern world for comfort and class, put São Miguel, Azores, on the top of your bucket list! The island offers a great array of tourist attractions to choose among, such as great hotels, delicious local restaurants, and expert guided tours for every preference and budget. And regarding that modern touch we mentioned before, São Miguel, Azores, has the perfect mix of old world charm and modern world comforts and style! You’ll find just the right amount of everything to make for your perfect Azores vacation. You will also never get bored during your stay in this Azores island, as there is so much to do, from outdoor adventures for the active types to delicious tea plantation and pineapple plantation tours, and much more. And whether you prefer staying in the lap of luxury or are planning to be on a more strict budget, São Miguel, Azores, has the perfect fit for any traveler! 

Check out our Azores Travel Guide for more informations and tips.