Wake up refreshed and take a gentle introduction to São Miguel with a stroll along Avenida Infante Dom Henrique, stopping at the lively Mercado da Graça for local cheeses, fresh pineapple and strong Azorean coffee. Follow this with a scenic drive to Miradouro da Vista do Rei for panoramic views over the twin lakes of Sete Cidades, then pause at a local café in Sete Cidades village to savor a light lunch and plan the afternoon's explorations.
Head inland for a relaxed afternoon exploring the geothermal and cultural side of the island, beginning with a soak in the mineral-rich pools at Caldeira Velha where warm waterfalls and lush vegetation make for a restorative stop. Continue to the historic village of Ribeira Grande to wander the cobbled streets, visit the striking Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Estrela, and finish at Praia do Areal de Santa Bárbara for a scenic late-afternoon stroll or a surf-watching break before returning to Ponta Delgada.
As twilight falls, wander the atmospheric streets to Portas da Cidade and linger by the waterfront as lights shimmer on the marina, then head to Rua do Mercado for a relaxed dinner of octopus and limpets at a family-run tasca. Finish with a digestif at the cozy rooftop bar of Hotel Açor (or a similar local spot) to soak in views over São Sebastião Church while planning tomorrow's inland adventures.
Begin with a peaceful drive into the greener north-eastern interior and stretch your legs with a walk through the mossy trails and waterfalls of Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, pausing to cross its charming wooden watermills and photograph cascades framed by ferns. After the hike, head to Parque Terra Nostra for a late-morning soak in the iron-rich thermal pool and a stroll among exotic trees, then stop at Fábrica de Chá Gorreana on the way back for a tasting of locally grown black and green tea and a taste of freshly baked bolo lêvedo.
Spend a leisurely afternoon wandering the steam-scented streets of Furnas Village, watching locals prepare the traditional cozido at the geothermal calderas and visiting the informative displays at the Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeirões visitor point. Afterwards, relax at the soothing outdoor pools of Poça da Dona Beija, then take a short drive to the tranquil lakeside viewpoint at Lagoa das Furnas to photograph the steam rising from the water and enjoy a late tea at a nearby café.
As dusk settles, take a gentle drive to the peaceful village of Furnas do Enxofre to watch the sunset light the steam vents and enjoy the scent of sulfur mingling with island air; follow this with a restorative soak at the atmospheric thermal baths of Termas da Ferraria (outdoor pools warmed by geothermal vents) for a warm, star-lit dip. Afterward, dine at Restaurante Terra Nostra Garden Hotel or a nearby family-run restaurant to sample a freshly served dish of cozido prepared earlier in the day, then finish with a short riverside stroll to the illuminated gardens of Parque das Furnas for quiet evening reflections before returning to your accommodation.
Start early with a brisk harbor walk to Marina de Ponta Delgada before boarding a certified whale-watching boat for a guided pelagic search where naturalists point out dolphins, sperm whales and seabirds; bring binoculars and waterproof layers for close-up viewing. After disembarking, drive east to Ponta da Galera for dramatic cliffside panoramas, then linger at the sheltered Baía dos Moinhos cove for a seaside coffee and a pebble-strewn stroll while scanning the sea for lingering pods and photo opportunities.
After a morning at sea, take a scenic drive to the sheltered bay of Ribeira Quente for a relaxed seafood lunch at a seaside tasca, then follow the coast road to the dramatic basalt cliffs at Ponta do Sossego where footpaths lead to panoramic views and seabird colonies. Finish the afternoon with a calm swim or snorkel in the volcanic lagoon of Ilhéu de Vila Franca, exploring its sheltered waters and snapping photos of the circular islet before returning to town for an evening meal.
As the sun softens, wander the historic fishing quarter of Ribeira Seca to watch local boats return and sample grilled limpets and espada at a waterfront tasca; follow this with a sunset stroll along the black-sand stretch at Praia de Pópulo, where basalt cliffs catch the last light. Finish the evening with a relaxed drink at Miradouro do Carvão, taking in panoramic views of the coastline and planning tomorrow's inland thermal adventures while listening for seabirds settling on the headlands.
Arrive in Terceira and start with a relaxed breakfast at Praça Velha, then wander the nearby lanes to admire the pastel façades before heading to Museu de Angra do Heroísmo to learn about the island's maritime history and UNESCO-listed urban layout. From there take a coastal drive to Monte Brasil for a short crater rim walk with sweeping views over the bay and a visit to the historic Forte de São Sebastião, where cannons and ramparts frame panoramic photo opportunities and set the tone for an afternoon exploring Angra's plazas and churches.
Spend a leisurely afternoon driving to the island's verdant interior to explore the volcanic caverns of Algar do Carvão, descending into its cool, fern-lined chamber and admiring the dramatic stalactites and subterranean lake. Afterwards visit the picturesque coastal village of Sé, stroll along the cliffside promenade to Miradouro da Facho for sweeping sea views, then stop at a family-run quinta to sample local queijo and honey while watching the light shift across Terceira's patchwork pastures.
As twilight deepens, wander the charming lanes toward Casa do Espírito Santo to catch small local performances and learn about traditional festas before settling at Cais 20 for a casual seafood meal with views of the harbor. Afterwards, climb the gently lit path to Miradouro das Portas da Cidade for a panoramic night view over Angra's UNESCO layout, then finish with a nightcap at Bar do Adão, where island wines and stories from local fishermen make for a convivial end to your first Terceira day.
After an early ferry arrival or overnight in Madalena, drive past lava fields to begin with a tasting and guided vineyard walk at Mãe de Água Winery, where dry Verdelho and verdant vineyards trained on black basalt reveal the island's UNESCO-listed viticulture; sample vinho verde and learn the unique planting techniques from a local enologist. Continue with a short stop at the dramatic coastal viewpoint of Lajido da Criação Velha to photograph stone-walled plots and the Atlantic beyond, then head to Museu do Vinho do Pico for a compact exhibit on wine-making traditions before a seaside café lunch in Madalena's harbor.
After lunch in Madalena, drive toward the coastal parish of São Roque do Pico to visit the atmospheric Adega da Casa de Botes, where you can tour subterranean cellars and taste aromatic Verdelho alongside bruschetta-style regional snacks. Continue inland to the lower slopes of Montanha do Pico for a guided walk from Mistério da Prainha through lava fields to see ancient vine walls up close, finishing at Miradouro do Cachorro for sweeping views of the cone and the neighbouring island of São Jorge as the light softens.
As dusk falls, wander the narrow lanes of Cais do Pico to watch fishing boats glide home, then head to Restaurante Ancoradouro for a seafood-focused dinner paired with local Verdelho while enjoying views across the harbour. After dinner, take a short drive to the coastal viewpoint at Miradouro da Vigia da Baleia to photograph the island cone in fading light, then finish with a relaxed tasting of artisanal cheeses and fortified wines at Adega A Buraca while swapping stories with the winemakers - a calm, convivial close that flows naturally from your day's vineyard and mountain explorations.
Disembark in Funchal and start the morning with a stroll through Mercado dos Lavradores, sampling fresh Madeira bananas, passionfruit and local espetada skewers, then follow with a guided tasting of Madeira wines at Blandy's Wine Lodge to learn about the island's fortified vintages. Afterward take the scenic Funchal to Câmara de Lobos coastal walk (or a short hop on the local bus to the trailhead) to admire sea cliffs and stop for a mid-morning coffee at the picturesque fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, watching traditional boats and practicing your new wine vocabulary over pastries.
After arriving and settling in, wander the hillside neighbourhood of Monte via the scenic Rua da Casa Branca, visiting the tranquil Jardim Tropical Monte Palace to admire exotic plants and tiled Azulejo panels before taking the charming Monte Cable Car back toward the city for sweeping bay views. Continue with a late-afternoon visit to CR7 Museum for a quick cultural pit-stop, then relax at Praia Formosa for a seaside walk and a drink at a beachfront café as the light softens over Funchal's volcanic shore.
As twilight falls, wander the restored waterfront to Avenida do Mar and pause at the contemporary sculptures before boarding a short boat cruise from Marina do Funchal for a golden-hour view of the cliffs and maybe a passing pod of dolphins. After the cruise, dine on grilled limpets and espetada at the lively harbour-side Restaurante Vila do Peixe, then finish the night with a nightcap and live fado at the intimate Armazém do Sal cultural space or a roof terrace bar overlooking Funchal Bay, soaking in the sea breeze and the day's island-to-island travel.
Set out early for a classic levada walk along the verdant Levada dos 25 Fontes, descending through laurel forest to photograph waterfalls and sip fresh spring water at the namesake fountains, then continue a short drive to the tranquil Ribeiro Frio to try a freshly grilled espetada at the rustic restaurant and watch trout in the crystal-clear stream. Before returning to Funchal, pause at the elegant hillside Quinta das Cruzes to stroll its manicured gardens and view historic Azulejos and antique collections - a calm, botanical counterpoint that flows naturally from yesterday's market and cable-car experiences.
After your morning levada walk and botanical stop, drive to the cooler north slopes for a refreshing hike along Levada do Caldeirão Verde, passing fern-lined tunnels and culminating at the mossy cascade of Caldeirão Verde waterfall-bring a rain jacket for spray and pho tography stops. Later, return toward Monte and pause at Jardim do Monte Palace to wander its oriental sculptures and koi ponds as the late light softens, finishing with a cable-car descent to Funchal and a relaxed drink at Praça do Povo to watch the harbor activity and plan tomorrow's island ventures.
As dusk falls, take a gentle stroll through the historic lanes of Zona Velha to discover painted doors and small art galleries, then stop for a relaxed seafood tapas dinner at the lively Taberna da Casa Velha where local tuna conservas and octopus salads pair well with a glass of Madeira. Finish the night with a short funicular ride up to Miradouro do Pico dos Barcelos for panoramic city-and-bay views under the stars and a final sip of poncha at a nearby bar while reflecting on the day's levada walks and garden discoveries.
After your morning flight from Madeira, settle into sunny Costa Adeje with a relaxed beachfront breakfast at Playa del Duque promenade, sampling local churros and coffee while watching surfers. Then head to Barranco del Infierno Visitor Centre for a guided coastal gorge walk to a waterfall (book in advance), or choose the easier cliff-top stroll along Paseo Marítimo de Torviscas to spot seabirds and pause at a waterside café before an afternoon of relaxation or a boat excursion.
Spend a sun-drenched afternoon exploring the dramatic coast: start with a glass-bottom boat trip from Puerto Colón to spot rays and local fish, then stretch your legs on the cliff-top walk to Mirador de la Centinela for sweeping views of the Atlantic and nearby cliffs. Finish with a refreshing swim or paddle at the sheltered Playa de la Enramada, followed by a seaside paella at a beachside chiringuito while watching the light shift toward evening.
As the sun lowers, head to Playa del Bobo for a leisurely shoreline stroll followed by tapas at the lively El Callejón de La Noria where local goat cheese croquettes and fresh pescaito fritos pair perfectly with a cold Canarian beer. After dinner, wander the illuminated promenade to Mirador de La Enramada for night views of the Atlantic, then finish with cocktails and live music at the chic rooftop bar Papagayo Beach Club, soaking in the island warmth and planning tomorrow's Teide ascent.
Set out early from Costa Adeje for a dramatic sunrise drive up the winding TF-21 to Parador de las Cañadas del Teide, pausing at the lava fields near Montaña Blanca for first-light photos of the volcanic landscape. Continue with a guided walk along the lunar trails to Roques de García, where sculpted rock formations and sweeping views of Mount Teide make an ideal spot for a picnic breakfast and an interpretive chat with a park ranger about the island's geology and endemic flora.
After the morning's Roques de García exploration, descend toward the pine-lined slopes and take the scenic cable car from Teleférico del Teide partway up for sweeping panoramas; follow with a guided short trek along the Sendero Telesforo Bravo viewpoint trails to study the volcanic pumice and spot endemic tajinastes in bloom. Finish the afternoon with a visit to the interactive exhibits at Centro de Visitantes El Portillo, where informative displays and a short nature walk explain the park's geology before you return toward Costa Adeje as the light softens.
As the sun drops, meander down to the fragrant pine slopes and pause for a twilight picnic at Mirador de La Ruleta, where views of layered lava flows and distant coastal lights offer a tranquil contrast to the day's high-mountain panoramas. Afterwards, join a guided stargazing session at Parador de Las Cañadas's observation area to learn constellations and the island's astronomical history while sipping a warm drink, then head back toward Costa Adeje feeling the day's volcanic drama settle into a serene island night.
Catch an early ferry or short flight to La Gomera and head straight for a brisk, panoramic hike along the ridge from Mirador de Abrante, enjoying floor-to-ceiling glass viewpoints before descending into the lush laurel forest of Parque Nacional de Garajonay to follow the shadowed trails toward Risco de Famara (note: local trail names vary; ask at the park centre for the best morning route). Pause mid-hike at the atmospheric hamlet of Agulo for a coffee on a sun-drenched terrace and sample local honey cake before continuing to Mirador de Igualero for sweeping valley-and-sea vistas that neatly continue the island-to-island exploration you've been enjoying.
After your morning ridge walk, descend toward the coast for a relaxed afternoon exploring Vallehermoso, starting with a visit to the craggy Roque Cano viewpoint for sweeping sea-and-valley photos, then wander the village to sample homemade palm honey and local cheeses at Casa de la Miel. Continue with a gentle coastal stroll along the pebble beaches to Playa de la Calera where you can paddle or rent a kayak to explore hidden coves, finishing at the waterfront Mirador de las Playas to watch the light shift over the ocean before an evening ferry or drive back toward your next island stop.
As the day's hikes wind down, head to Mirador de los Órganos for golden-hour views of the basalt cliffs carved like organ pipes, then descend to the coastal terraces of La Calera to watch fishing boats return while sampling freshly grilled pescado at a seaside chiringuito. Finish with a leisurely sunset stroll along Playa de Vueltas, sip a local Gomeran herbal liqueur at a beach bar and let the sound of the waves and the island's laurel-scented air stitch together the day's ridge-to-shore journey.
Drive up the winding road to the high-altitude trails and start with a crisp walk through the endemic pine and heath at Parque Natural de las Nieves, pausing at Mirador de La Cumbrecita for sweeping caldera views and a short interpretive chat about the island's volcanic geology. Continue with a gentle, guided ramble along the fragrant trails toward Los Tilos de Moya-stopping to photograph moss-draped laurel groves and small waterfalls-and finish at a mountain café near Mirador de los Andenes for a late-morning coffee and a slice of local bienmesabe before the afternoon descent to the coast.
Drive higher into the island's caldera and wander the windswept trails around Caldera de Taburiente National Park, pausing at Mirador de La Cumbrecita for close-up views of the crater rim before descending to the peaceful hamlet of El Paso for a picnic of local cheeses and almond pastries. Later, explore the fragrant pine-lined lanes to Refugio del Pilar for an easy nature walk through endemic flora and finish with a visit to the atmospheric viewpoint at Mirador de los Brecitos, where the late light reveals distant ocean vistas and sets the scene for tonight's ascent to the observatory.
As dusk deepens, wander the cobbled waterfront of Santa Cruz de La Palma to enjoy tapas at a cozy harbour-side tavern and catch a live local guitarra performance, then stroll up to the historic Bajada de la Virgen steps for sweeping night views of the illuminated bay. Later, drive slowly toward the summit and pause at Mirador del Llano del Jable for clear low-light views before arriving at Roque de los Muchachos Observatory to join a guided astronomy session-telescopes, expert commentary and a thermos of warm local tea make for an unforgettable stargazing finale to your island odyssey.
Ease into your final island morning with a seaside breakfast at Plaza de España lining cafés, followed by a gentle promenade to Parque Marítimo César Manrique where you can dip in volcanic-rock pools and soak up ocean views without haste. After a leisurely swim, stroll the nearby Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre courtyard for a brief cultural stop, then collect luggage-saving souvenirs at the boutique stalls of Mercado Nuestra Señora de África before returning to your accommodation to finalize bags and transfers.
Spend a calm, unhurried afternoon wandering the palm-lined promenade to Playa de Las Teresitas, where golden sand and calm waters invite a restorative swim or a shaded siesta under a rented umbrella, then stroll the nearby artisan stalls for last-minute crafts and smoked mojo sauces. Follow with a light seaside lunch at Restaurante El Cangrejo on the waterfront, then take a slow scenic taxi up to Mirador de Jardina for final panoramic photos of the island and a quiet moment to double-check transfers and enjoy a coffee before heading to the airport.
As daylight fades, enjoy a slow seafood dinner at La Hierbita, sampling local vieja and papas arrugadas while seated in its traditional Canary-Island dining room, then wander the nearby promenade to catch the sunset from Plaza de España's lesser-known eastern jetty for a final sea-scented view. Afterwards, sip a calming herbal tea or a last glass of Canarian malvasía at Café 7, pack any last-minute items on a quiet terrace, and take a short taxi ride to the airport while listening to the gentle hush of waves-an easy, reflective close to your island odyssey.
| Place / Activity | Cost |
|---|---|
| Avenida Infante Dom Henrique (stroll) | Free |
| Mercado da Graça (Ponta Delgada) - sampling local cheeses, pineapple, coffee | €8 |
| Miradouro da Vista do Rei (Sete Cidades viewpoint) | Free |
| Sete Cidades village - light lunch at a café | €12 |
| Caldeira Velha (entrance & pools) | €4 |
| Ribeira Grande - Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Estrela (visit) | Free |
| Praia do Areal de Santa Bárbara (stroll / surf watching) | Free |
| Portas da Cidade (Ponta Delgada) | Free |
| Dinner at a family-run tasca (Rua do Mercado) - octopus & limpets | €25 |
| Rooftop drink at Hotel Açor (or similar) - digestif | €8 |
| Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park (walks & mills) | Free |
| Parque Terra Nostra (entrance & thermal pool) | €8 |
| Fábrica de Chá Gorreana - tea tasting & visit | €5 |
| Furnas Village - watching cozido at calderas (viewing) | Free |
| Poça da Dona Beija (thermal baths entrance) | €8 |
| Lagoa das Furnas viewpoint & café tea | €3 |
| Furnas do Enxofre (visit/viewpoint) | Free |
| Termas da Ferraria (thermal sea pool) - entrance & transfer by boat less common | €6 |
| Dinner at Restaurante Terra Nostra Garden Hotel (cozido) | €25 |
| Marina de Ponta Delgada (harbor walk) | Free |
| Whale-watching boat tour (certified operator, per person) | €60 |
| Ponta da Galera (cliff panoramas) | Free |
| Baía dos Moinhos (cove visit / coffee) | €4 |
| Ribeira Quente - seafood lunch at a tasca | €18 |
| Ponta do Sossego (viewpoints & footpaths) | Free |
| Ilhéu de Vila Franca - volcanic lagoon entry (boat fee/swim; visitor tax varies) | €10 |
| Ribeira Seca (fishing quarter visit) | Free |
| Praia de Pópulo (sunset stroll) | Free |
| Miradouro do Carvão (evening view) | Free |
| Museu de Angra do Heroísmo (entrance) | €3 |
| Monte Brasil / Forte de São Sebastião (walk & fort visit) | Free |
| Algar do Carvão (entrance & guided visit) | €8 |
| Miradouro da Facho (viewpoint) | Free |
| Local quinta tasting (queijo & honey) at family-run farm | €10 |
| Casa do Espírito Santo (cultural visit / performances) | Free |
| Dinner at Cais 20 (seafood) | €25 |
| Miradouro das Portas da Cidade (night view) | Free |
| Bar do Adão (nightcap) | €6 |
| Mãe de Água Winery - tasting & guided vineyard walk | €18 |
| Lajido da Criação Velha (viewpoint & UNESCO vineyards) | Free |
| Museu do Vinho do Pico (entrance) | €3 |
| Seaside lunch in Madalena (harbour) | €15 |
| Adega da Casa de Botes - cellar tour & tasting | €12 |
| Mistério da Prainha walk (guided) & Miradouro do Cachorro | €10 |
| Dinner at Restaurante Ancoradouro (seafood & wine) | €28 |
| Miradouro da Vigia da Baleia (viewpoint) | Free |
| Adega A Buraca - cheese & fortified wine tasting | €12 |
| Mercado dos Lavradores (Funchal) - market sampling | €6 |
| Blandy's Wine Lodge - guided tasting | €20 |
| Câmara de Lobos coastal walk / coffee | €4 |
| Jardim Tropical Monte Palace (entrance) | €12 |
| Monte Cable Car (one-way fare) | €16 |
| CR7 Museum (entrance) | €6 |
| Praia Formosa (beach visit) | Free |
| Marina do Funchal - golden-hour boat cruise (short) | €25 |
| Restaurante Vila do Peixe (harbour dinner) | €28 |
| Armazém do Sal (fado / cultural space - drink) | €10 |
| Levada dos 25 Fontes (walk - levada access & optional guide) | Free |
| Ribeiro Frio - espetada lunch | €14 |
| Quinta das Cruzes (garden & museum entrance) | €4 |
| Levada do Caldeirão Verde (hike) | Free |
| Jardim do Monte Palace (return visit / restful stop) | €12 |
| Taberna da Casa Velha (seafood tapas dinner) | €22 |
| Miradouro do Pico dos Barcelos (night view) | Free |
| Flight to Tenerife (Madeira to Tenerife) - per person (low-cost estimate) | €80 |
| Playa del Duque promenade breakfast (churros & coffee) | €8 |
| Barranco del Infierno Visitor Centre - guided gorge walk (entry/booking) | €8 |
| Paseo Marítimo de Torviscas (cliff-top stroll) | Free |
| Glass-bottom boat trip from Puerto Colón | €25 |
| Mirador de la Centinela (viewpoint) | Free |
| Playa de la Enramada (swim) | Free |
| Seaside paella at chiringuito | €18 |
| Tapas at El Callejón de La Noria (evening) | €18 |
| Papagayo Beach Club - cocktails / live music | €20 |
| Parador de las Cañadas del Teide (sunrise visit / photos) | Free |
| Roques de García (walks & picnic) | Free |
| Teleférico del Teide (cable car round trip) | €38 |
| Sendero Telesforo Bravo viewpoints (guided short trek) | Free |
| Centro de Visitantes El Portillo (interactive exhibits) | Free |
| Guided stargazing session at Parador de Las Cañadas (per person) | €25 |
| Ferry/flight to La Gomera (from Tenerife) - per person | €30 |
| Mirador de Abrante (viewpoint with glass platform) | €2 |
| Parque Nacional de Garajonay (laurel forest trails) | Free |
| Agulo - coffee & honey cake | €5 |
| Mirador de Igualero (viewpoint) | Free |
| Roque Cano (viewpoint) | Free |
| Casa de la Miel (honey tasting / purchase) | €6 |
| Playa de la Calera (kayak rental / paddle - per person) | €15 |
| Mirador de los Órganos (viewpoint) | Free |
| Playa de Vueltas (sunset stroll & herbal liqueur) | €6 |
| Ferry/flight to La Palma (from Tenerife/La Gomera) - per person | €35 |
| Parque Natural de las Nieves (walks & Mirador de La Cumbrecita) | Free |
| Mirador de La Cumbrecita (viewpoint) | Free |
| Los Tilos de Moya (laurel grove visit) | Free |
| Mirador de los Andenes (mountain café stop) | €4 |
| Caldera de Taburiente National Park (trails & viewpoints) | Free |
| Refugio del Pilar (nature walk) | Free |
| Mirador de los Brecitos (viewpoint) | Free |
| Santa Cruz de La Palma harbour tapas (evening) | €18 |
| Bajada de la Virgen steps (night view) | Free |
| Mirador del Llano del Jable (low-light view) | Free |
| Roque de los Muchachos Observatory - guided astronomy session (entry) | €20 |
| Plaza de España seaside breakfast | €8 |
| Parque Marítimo César Manrique (volcanic pools entrance) | €6 |
| Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre (courtyard visit / optional entrance) | €5 |
| Mercado Nuestra Señora de África (souvenirs) | €10 |
| Playa de Las Teresitas (umbrella rental & beach access) | €6 |
| Restaurante El Cangrejo (light seaside lunch) | €18 |
| Mirador de Jardina (final photos & coffee) | €3 |
| La Hierbita (seafood dinner) | €25 |
| Café 7 (final herbal tea / drink) | €4 |
| Estimated Total (per person) | €1200 |