Start your trip with a stroll around the beautiful historic center of Ponta Delgada. Explore the stunning architecture of the city's churches and squares, and indulge in the vibrant food scene. In the evening, head to the Marina for a relaxing walk or experience the nightlife at a local bar.
Make your way to the Lagoa do Fogo, a picturesque crater lake surrounded by lush greenery. Take a dip in the warm thermal water, hike the surrounding trails or simply enjoy the stunning scenery with a picnic lunch. Afterward, head back to the city and take a guided tour to learn about the island's rich history.
Head to Furnas, a paradise of natural beauty, and take a stroll through the Terra Nostra botanical garden, packed with exotic plant collections, waterfalls, and hot springs. Indulge in a traditional "cozido das Furnas" meal and continue to the stunning caldeiras (geysers) nearby. You can even relax in one of the hot spring pools, a perfect way to end your day.
Embark on a journey to the Sete Cidades, known as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Portugal. Hike along the caldera rim, take a dip in the blue and green lakes, and visit the small towns of Mosteiros and Ginetes. Catch the breathtaking sunset on the western side of the island or head back to Ponta Delgada for a relaxing evening.
Take a ferry to the Vila Franca do Campo, a former capital of the Azores, and explore the impressive historical buildings and churches. Don't miss the chance to visit the unique Islet of Vila Franca, which has a stunning natural swimming pool in its crater. Afterward, enjoy a seafood lunch at the harbor, try out some water sports and soak up the sunny weather.
Join a whale watching boat tour and observe the amazing marine life surrounding the Azorean islands. You may spot several species of whales and dolphins, including the sperm whale, common dolphin, and blue whale. Afterward, relax at the beach or try out some traditional snacks at a local café.
Wrap up your Azorean adventure with some souvenir shopping in Ponta Delgada's unique stores, featuring local handicrafts and delicacies. Make sure to end the day with a cozy dinner, perhaps trying out some of the delicious seafood or other traditional Azorean dishes you have discovered on your journey.
It's recommended to rent a car to explore the island's different regions. Alternatively, you can also use public transportation, including local buses or taxi services, which can incur additional costs. Ferries are the primary mode of transport between islands. The average cost of renting a car is around €25-30/day, and a taxi ride to and from the airport costs approximately €10-15.
With more time, you can discover many other hidden spots lurking in the different islands. You can also go on a hiking adventure to witness incredible landscapes and natural phenomena that can only be found in the Azores. If you have less time, prioritizing the listed activities for each day can be helpful so that you can maximize your time on the island.
João Paulo II Airport (PDL) is located on the island of São Miguel, a few kilometers from the city center of Ponta Delgada. The airport can serve international and domestic flights, with multiple airlines offering direct services to major cities in Europe and North America. It is recommended to book flights in advance to get the best deals possible.