A 6-Day Itinerary to Explore Azores, Portugal

• Day 1: Settle down in the beautiful and serene city of Ponta Delgada. Walk around the cobbled streets and visit the beautiful churches, gardens and museums.
• Day 2: Head towards the Sete Cidades volcano and admire the beautiful scenery. Have a picnic lunch on the shore of the Lagoa das Sete Cidades, one of the most beautiful sights in Azores.
• Day 3: Go on a boat tour to watch the dolphins and whales in the open sea. A truly unforgettable experience not to be missed when in Azores.
• Day 4: Visit the Furnas Lake and the famous hot springs. Take a swim in the natural hot water pools and explore the picturesque town of Furnas.
• Day 5: Take a hike at the Pico da Vara, the highest peak of Sao Miguel island. Admire the panoramic view of the island from the top.
• Day 6: Visit the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, a beautiful and serene place with waterfalls, lush vegetation and charming walking trails.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Ponta Delgada exploration (1 day): 8 hours
• Sete Cidades visit and picnic lunch (1 day): 6 hours
• Dolphin and whale watching boat tour (1 day): 3-4 hours, $100-$150 (depending on type of tour)
• Furnas Lake and hot springs visit (1 day): 8 hours, $50 (entrance fee for hot springs)
• Pico da Vara hike (1 day): 5-6 hours, free
• Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park visit (1 day): 4 hours, $5 (entrance fee)
• Total Estimated Costs: $155-$205 (depending on type of dolphin and whale watching tour)

Transportation

Transportation in Azores is primarily by rental cars or guided tours. Taxis are also available but can be expensive. Public buses are available but they can be limited in terms of frequency and destinations. A rental car is highly recommended to explore different areas of the island at your convenience. The average cost of a rental car in Azores is $30-$50 per day.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting other attractions in Azores such as the blue-green waterfalls of Salto do Prego, the tea plantation at Gorreana, the hot springs and natural pool of Poça da Dona Beija, and the beautiful beaches of Praia do Populo and Praia de São Roque. If you have less time, consider skipping the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park visit.