Start your trip in Ponta Delgada, the capital of Azores. Take a guided tour to get to know the city's history and traditions. Your family will love the picturesque narrow streets, squares, and lovely gardens. Visit the stunning neo-gothic church, Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião, and the famous three arches Gates of the City.
Explore the Sete Cidades volcanic complex, which includes two beautiful lakes: Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde. Your family will enjoy scenic vistas and an easy walking trail around the lakes. For a thrilling experience, try paragliding or kayaking in the breathtaking landscape.
Experience a unique activity ideal for families - whale watching tour in Ponta Delgada. Take a boat trip with an experienced guide and spot whales, dolphins, and other marine life in the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic. Your family will be fascinated by these gentle giants.
Visit Furnas for a relaxing day with your family. The small town is known for its natural hot springs and geysers. Enjoy a picnic in Terra Nostra Park, one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in Portugal. Taste delicious local specialties cooked using underground geothermal heat such as "Cozido das Furnas" stew and "Bolo Lêvedo," a sweet bread with a unique flavor.
See the beloved Portuguese soccer team in action by attending a game at Estádio Municipal de Ponta Delgada. The stadium has a capacity of 12,000 seats and impressive views of the ocean. It's an unforgettable experience for all the family, even if you're not a soccer fan.
Spend a day exploring one of the most beautiful sites in Azores, the Ribeira Grande Beaches. You can swim in warm and crystalline waters or try surfing. It's an excellent opportunity for your family to relax and enjoy a beach picnic with traditional Portuguese treats.
Finish your trip in Mosteiros, a small picturesque fishing village on the western end of São Miguel Island. Your family will love the black sand beach, the natural rock pools, and the photogenic Monasteries - an iconic natural rock formation. For lunch, try fresh fish or seafood in one of the restaurants facing the ocean.
You can book a rental car or hire a guide or an agency to organize your activities, but it's essential to check opening and closing times of the activities.
The cost of a rental car per day starts at €35, and taxi rides cost around €20 for a 10-kilometer ride. The bus system, although inexpensive, has limited routes and schedules.
If you have extra days, consider visiting other Azores islands like Terceira, Pico, or Faial. These islands offer unique experiences like hiking, wine tasting, and diving.
If you have less time, choose activities that appeal the most to your family's interests, and keep the travel distance between locations in mind.
João Paulo II Airport (PDL) is the only airport on São Miguel Island, located 2 kilometers west of Ponta Delgada. It's the main gateway to Azores and serves daily flights from Lisbon, Porto, Madeira, and several international destinations.