Furnas is a village located in the eastern part of Sao Miguel Island. It is known for its geothermal activity, particularly in the form of boiling hot springs and bubbling mud pools. Here, you can visit Terra Nostra Park, which is home to a botanical garden and a large, warm-water pool. Additionally, you can visit Furnas Lake, a picturesque lake that offers boat tours and a chance to see the hot springs up close.
Ponta Delgada is the largest city on Sao Miguel Island and is located on the western side of the island. Here, you can visit the Portas da Cidade, which is a trio of arches that serve as the main entrance into the city. Also, you can visit the Igreja Matriz de Sao Sebastiao, which is one of the oldest churches on the island and contains a number of beautiful murals and sculptures. Afterwards, take a stroll along the Marina for stunning views of the ocean and the city promenade.
To get around Sao Miguel Island, it is recommended to rent a car. This will allow you to visit different locations at your own pace and avoid any tour bus crowds. The average cost for car rentals is about CAD 60-80 per day, and the driving distance between Furnas Village and Ponta Delgada is about 9 miles. However, if you prefer not to drive, there are also taxis available for around CAD 30-40 for a one-way trip between Furnas and Ponta Delgada.
If you have more time, consider visiting other locations on the island such as Lagoa do Fogo or Sete Cidades. If you have less time, prioritize a visit to Furnas for Day 1 as it is a unique location that cannot be found elsewhere on the island. Also, make sure to bring comfortable shoes and clothing as some areas may require a bit of hiking or walking.
João Paulo II Airport (PDL) is the main airport on Sao Miguel Island and is located just 3 miles from Ponta Delgada. The airport is well-served by a number of airlines, including low-cost carriers such as Ryanair and EasyJet. Taxis are readily available outside of the airport and cost around CAD 20-25 for a one-way trip to or from Ponta Delgada. Alternatively, car rentals are available at the airport starting at around CAD 60 per day.