Quick answer

The Azores are a Portuguese autonomous archipelago in the mid‑Atlantic offering dramatic landscapes, whale watching, geothermal baths and outdoor activities. Expect variable weather, limited inter‑island schedules, and standard EU/Schengen entry rules. Plan for outdoor gear, flexible itineraries, and respect for local nature and customs.

Visa & entry requirements

• The Azores are part of Portugal and the Schengen Area. Schengen visa rules apply.
• EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: entry with national ID card or passport. No visa.
• Non‑EU visitors: passport required; many nationalities can enter visa‑free for short stays (check Schengen visa list). If you need a Schengen visa, it covers the Azores.
• Passport should be valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen in some cases; check your home country embassy guidance.
• COVID restrictions: usually none, but verify current Portuguese health and entry requirements before travel.

Best time to visit

• May–September: warmest, driest and best for swimming, hiking, boat trips and festivals. July–August are busiest.
• April–June & September–October: good shoulder seasons—fewer crowds, pleasant weather, lower prices.
• November–March: cooler, wetter, but great for storm watching, fewer tourists and lower rates. Some activities (inter‑island flights/ferries) may be reduced.

Safety tips

• The Azores are generally very safe; low crime rates.
• Natural hazards: strong sea currents, sneaker waves on rocky coasts—obey signs and keep distance from cliff edges.
• When hiking, check weather and trail conditions; fog and rapid weather changes are common. Carry waterproof layers, map or GPS, and sufficient water/food.
• For whale/boat trips, choose licensed operators and wear provided safety gear.
• Driving: roads are generally good but narrow and winding on smaller islands—drive cautiously and watch for livestock.

Local customs & etiquette

• Portuguese courtesy applies: greetings, please (por favor), thank you (obrigado/obrigada), and a friendly tone are appreciated.
• Dress is casual; islanders tend to be modest. When visiting churches, dress respectfully.
• Tipping: not obligatory but appreciated—round up or leave 5–10% in restaurants for good service.
• Respect nature: follow marked paths, don’t pick plants, and dispose of rubbish properly—eco‑conservation is important locally.

Currency & money

• Currency: Euro (EUR).
• Credit/debit cards widely accepted on main islands; bring some cash for smaller shops, markets and remote areas.
• ATMs available in main towns; may be limited on smaller islets—withdraw in advance.

Getting around / transportation

• Main islands with airports: São Miguel (Ponta Delgada), Terceira (Lajes), Faial (Horta), Pico, Santa Maria, São Jorge, Flores, Corvo. Ponta Delgada is the busiest gateway.
• Inter‑island travel: scheduled flights (SATA/Azores Airlines and other operators) and ferries. Flights are faster; ferries operate seasonally and depend on sea conditions.
• Car hire: recommended for independence on each island—book in advance in high season. Note manual transmissions are common.
• Public transport: limited—buses in larger towns but infrequent for remote sites.
• Taxis and organized tours available; consider guided hikes for unfamiliar terrain.

Must‑know tips & local insights

• Weather is changeable: “four seasons in a day” is common—pack layers, waterproof jacket and good walking shoes.
• Plan extra time for inter‑island connections; weather cancellations can disrupt schedules—keep flexible plans.
• Fuel and grocery options: fill up in larger towns; some islands have limited supplies and shops close earlier.
• Water: tap water is generally safe to drink; bottled water available if preferred.
• Food & drink: try cozido das Furnas (geothermal stew), fresh seafood, local cheeses, and Azorean pineapples (São Miguel). Sample local wines on Pico and artisanal liqueurs.
• Nature activities: whale & dolphin watching, geothermal baths, hiking volcano calderas, crater lakes, hot springs, canyoning, surf—book reputable operators.
• Photography: dramatic landscapes and whale sightings—bring zoom lens/binoculars.

Practical checklist

• Check passport/visa validity and travel insurance (include medical and trip interruption for weather delays).
• Book inter‑island transport and car hire early for summer.
• Pack layers, waterproof jacket, sturdy shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, and motion‑sickness remedies for boat trips.
• Download offline maps and note emergency numbers: Portugal emergency number 112.

Enjoy the Azores—prioritize flexibility, respect local nature and culture, and you'll have a memorable trip exploring stunning islands and marine life.