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 boat tours 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 São Miguel island

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 2

Free Day for Personal Activities (São Miguel Island)

Suggestion for the day:

• Visit Sete Cidades (Lagoa das Sete Cidades, Lagoa de Santiago, Lagoa do Canário and Boca do Inferno Viewpoint) and take this opportunity to visit the neighboring village of Mosteiros - ideal for sunset! Once you’re in the west part of the island you can also indulge in an ocean thermal bath at Ferraria. 

Book here a guided tour around the central and western parts of the island that will have you discovering this and much more in the company of a local guide. 

• Or take the day for a hiking adventure. 

Recommended hikes:

• Lagoa do Fogo
• Moinhos do Félix 
• Serra Devassa
• Sanguinho

Day 3

Free Day for Personal Activities (São Miguel Island)

Suggestion for the day:

• Head to the north side of the island to visit the Protected Natural Reserve of Lagoa do Fogo and take this chance to visit (and maybe bath) the thermal pools of Caldeira Velha. Once you’re here you can also visit the Salto do Cabrito waterfall! On your way to Furnas, we recommend that you stop at Porto Formoso and Gorreana Tea Plantations (the only ones in Europe). In Furnas there’s just so much to explore, such as the lake, the Pico do Ferro Viewpoint, the Grená Park, the caldeiras, the fumaroles, the Terra Nostra Park, the Dona Beija hot springs and so much more. Make sure to try out the local delicacies: the cozido das Furnas and the bolos lêvedos! 

Book a Furnas guided tour here

2

Day 4

Flight to Faial Island

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. Most of Faial’s hotels are located in downtown Horta, so if you choose to stay there you’ll be gifted with this incredible view every morning. From the historical buildings in town, we highlight the São Salvador Church and the Nossa Senhora do Rosário Church, easily recognizable by their iconic architectural features.

Highlights:

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

 

Day 5

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 

Book here your Faial guided tour!

3

Day 6

Flight to Terceira island

Suggestion for the day:

• Explore downtown Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO Site. 

Highlights: 

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

 

Day 7

Free Day for Personal Activities (Terceira Island)

Suggestion for the day:

• 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 in 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!

Day 8

Free Day for Personal Activities (Terceira Island)

Suggestion for the day:

• The Azores Islands are an epicurean delight for foodies. The archipelago’s many unique microclimates, abundant water supply, and the volcanic nature of the islands make it possible to offer a large variety of delicious dishes. Based on a rich and hearty, peasant style of cooking, Azorean cuisine is so scrumptious, it will leave you asking for seconds.

Recommended Experiences:

• Gastronomy Experiences: Cook in a Wood Oven with a Local Family
• Historical Food Tour

Day 9

Return flight home

*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.