If you aren’t familiar with the Azores, an archipelago of nine islands located 1367 km (850 miles) off the coast of Portugal, you’re not alone. For many years, these islands’ remoteness and lack of flights prevented them from being a tourist destination. That has changed in recent years, and the Azores are climbing the ranks of many travelers’ bucket lists. The reasons to visit the Azores are endless: the volcanic archipelago has diverse geographical features that create stunning and unique landscapes. The islands were settled by different nations over many years, creating a colorful cultural experience. The Azores has everything you could want to do but remains quieter than similar touristy spots on the mainland. Whether you’re just learning about this region or you’re planning a trip there, use this list of things to do in the Azores, Portugal, to craft your itinerary.
1. View the gorgeous local plants at Parque Terra Nostra
Parque Terra Nostra is one of the most visually stunning and historically rich places in the Azores. This botanical garden sits in the crater of an extinct volcano and the grounds are fed by natural springs fed by healing mineral waters. Over 200 years ago, the garden had its beginnings when a wealthy merchant from Boston built a home on the site and surrounded it with trees from North America. Over the next decades, the land switched owners and many plants from around the world were brought to the park. Gardeners also tended to the plants native to the Azores. Today, the plants still flourish and visitors can witness their beauty themselves. Be sure to stop by the garden’s remarkable collection of camellias. There are over 600 species of the flower, making it one of the largest collections in the world.
Parque Terra Nostra
Address: Largo Marquês da Praia e Monfort, 9675-061 Furnas, Portugal
Website: Parque Terra Nostra
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 9 USD
2. Soak in thermal hot springs at night (from USD 81.29)
The Azores are known for their thermal hot springs, and one of the most beautiful places to experience them is at Poça da Dona Beija, located in the Furnas region of São Miguel Island. This Get Your Guide tour will not only bring you to the hot springs–you’ll also feel relaxed from the start to end of your trip. The tour includes convenient transportation from your hotel to the sights. First, you’ll stop at Pico do Ferro viewpoint where you will see an epic volcanic crater. After that, head to Poça da Dona Beija hot springs and relax in the warm waters, which are said to have therapeutic benefits! Though it will be nighttime, you will still be able to see the beautiful palm trees surrounding the springs. Before you head home, you’ll have dinner prepared by locals, who will create a traditional stew over the hot steam from the volcanoes.
São Miguel: Furnas Hot Springs at Night with Dinner
Duration: 5.0 hour
3. Spot whales and dolphins on this boat excursion (from USD 69.77)
The Azores location far out in the Atlantic Ocean makes them a perfect spot for seeing ocean life! This boat tour will bring you out to see where you can spot animals like whales, dolphins, and turtles. Plus, it is led by ocean conservationists and naturalists who will teach you interesting facts about the sea life in the area. The tour lasts 2.5 hours and it also includes a spin around the stunning Princess Ring Islet of Vila Franca do Campo to see a volcano up close.
Azores: Whale Watching and Islet Boat Tour
Duration: 3.0 hour
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4. Hike through volcanic landscapes on Terceira Island (from USD 48.3)
The Azores are a volcanic archipelago, with some of the volcanoes long extinct and others still mildly active! The volcanic activity has shaped the islands and given them their stunning landscapes. Explore the beautiful vistas of Terceira Island yourself by booking this Get Your Guide tour. The expedition lasts half a day and begins with pickup from your hotel. You’ll hike a trail on the north side of the island which offers a great variety of landscapes and views. To one side, you’ll see panoramas of ocean bays and to the other will be towering volcanic mountains! Though the terrain sounds ambitious, this is considered to be an easy hike and it is accessible for people of various activity levels.
Terceira: Azores Half Day Hike
Duration: 3.5 hour
5. Swim with the dolphins in the ocean (from USD 101.52)
If you’re not content with seeing dolphins from afar on a whale watch, sign up for this interactive Get Your Guide outing where you can actually swim with them! This two-hour tour is led by qualified nature guides and groups are kept small so the dolphins can remain at peace. You’ll get complete instructions as well as all the gear you’ll need, like snorkels, masks, and wet suits. After you return to land, share your adventures with the other participants while snacking on complimentary refreshments.
Sao Miguel: Swimming with Dolphins
Duration: 2.5 hour
6. Learn about the environment at Centro de Interpretação Ambiental da Caldeira Velha
You’ll appreciate the Azores’ beauty all the more if you understand how it came to be so stunning. At Centro de Interpretação Ambiental da Caldeira Velha, or Caldeira Velha Environmental Interpretation Center, you’ll learn all about the natural heritage of the area known as the Caldeira Velha. The interactive and informative education center takes visitors all the way back to the volcanic formation of the islands. You’ll also learn about Caldeira Velha’s biodiversity, geodiversity, and geothermal resources. It’s not all educational, however, you can still enjoy three of the thermal pools and also hike the trails within the park.
Centro de Interpretação Ambiental da Caldeira Velha
Address: EN5 2A, Ribeira Grande, Portugal
Website: Centro de Interpretação Ambiental da Caldeira Velha
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 8 USD
7. Explore the volcano caves at Gruta do Carvão
Another place to learn about the natural history of the Azores is at Gruta do Carvão. This archaeological site is home to an ancient lava tube which is between 5,000 and 12,000 years old. The tube has enchanted explorers since the 1600s, and visitors can still wonder at its mysteries today. Lava tubes and caves are a rare find throughout the world, and the Azores is home to 271 of them! Gruta do Carvão is the largest known system on the island. Though its estimated total length is 2.5 km (1.5 miles), only 1912 meters (1.1 miles) is accessible to visitors. See the interesting underground formations and maybe even one of the unique bugs that live in the cave!
Gruta do Carvão
Address: R. do Paim 2ª, Ponta Delgada, Portugal
Website: Gruta do Carvão
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 5 USD
8. Take a full-day tour of Terceira Island (from USD 85.88)
From rolling green farmlands to stunning seasides to active volcanic vents, Terceira Island is a diverse place with lots of things to see! Book this full-day tour to make sure you see all the highlights without getting lost or overwhelmed. The day starts with pick-up from your hotel in a minibus. First, you’ll head to Algar do Carvão, Europe’s only empty volcano. The interior now looks like a large stone cave, and you can even go inside and explore. As you drive around, you’ll learn about Terceira’s unique traditions and see both its manmade and natural landmarks, like villages, churches, mountain tops, lakes, and natural swimming pools. Lunch is at an authentic restaurant where you can eat the traditional foods of the island.
Azores: Terceira Island Full-Day Tour
Duration: 8.0 hour
9. Walk through the iconic city gates at Portas da Cidade
Portas da Cidade are to the Azores what the Eiffel Tower is to Paris! These ornate 18th-century gates are an iconic symbol of the islands and Ponta Delgada, the capital city. The gates were originally built next to the old quay in the city. They were moved to their current location in Gonçalo Velho Cabral Square during construction. The gates have three arches constructed of white and brick-colored stones, with the city’s coat of arms at the top of the center arch. Today, they are a must-see addition to your Azores trip and the ideal place to take a picture!
Portas da Cidade
Address: Praça de Gonçalo Velho 9500, 9500-094 Ponta Delgada, Portugal
Website: Portas da Cidade
Opening hours: 6am - 9pm (daily)
Price: Free
10. Go fishing in the deep waters surrounding the islands (from USD 238.0)
Fishermen will love the experience of casting their rods in the Azorean waters! The ocean surrounding the islands is over 1000 meters (3280 feet) deep, creating ideal conditions for catching big fish without having to go too far out into the water. Some of the large fish you might catch include White Marlins, Yellow Fin and Big Eye Tuna, and several kinds of sharks. The biggest fish swimming in the waters is the Atlantic Blue Marlin–they usually weigh over 500 pounds (226 kilograms)! You can also try your luck at catching smaller fish like Blue Fish, Wahoo, Dorado, and Barracuda. It’s best to book your fishing adventure with a tour group that can expertly guide you through the waters. Reviewers love ProIslandTour, which offers a half-day tour where you can eat any fish you catch! The fish is cleaned and cooked by the guides and accompanied by delicious bread and local wine and cheese.
ProIslandTour Fishing Tour
Address: Angra do Heroísmo, Portugual
Website: ProIslandTour Fishing Tour
Opening hours: 8am - 4pm (daily)
Price: 121 USD
Fish In the Azores
Duration: 7 hours
11. Go on a canyoning and coasteering adventure
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
See the Azores in a unique and thrilling way by booking an experience with Azorean Active Blueberry! This company offers some of the islands’ most popular and highly rated adventure tours. Choose from several options! Beginner canyoners will love the canyon experience. You’ll have three hours to get acquainted with the sport and slide and rappel over waterfalls. The canyon adventure lasts five hours and it is perfect for the slightly more adventurous canyoner. Active Blueberry also offers coasteering, an experience that allows you to access some of the hidden coastlines of the islands by scrambling along the tide line, snorkeling in the water, and jumping off the cliffs!
Azorean Active Blueberry
Address: Estrada Regional, 9630-024 Nordeste, Portugal
Website: Azorean Active Blueberry
Opening hours: 8am - 7pm (daily)
Price: 72 USD
12. Enjoy pineapples at Augusto Arruda Pineapple Plantation
A visit to the Augusto Arruda Pineapple Plantation is both culturally enriching and pleasing to your tastebuds! The plantation was once the main growing site for pineapples in the Azores, and at one time, was one of the largest exporters of the fruit in the world! The plantation has been in operation since the early 20th century, when the cultivation methods were brought from South America. Pineapple production replaced what was the most prolific fruit, the orange, after those plants were attacked by a disease. Today, the plantation is the best place to learn about this part of the Azores’ history, and you can also try the fruit as well as other pineapple products, including a delicious pineapple liqueur.
Augusto Arruda Pineapple Plantation
Address: Rua Doutor Augusto Arruda, Fajã de Baixo, 9500-454 Ponta Delgada, Portugal
Website: Augusto Arruda Pineapple Plantation
Opening hours: 9am - 8pm (daily)
Price: Free
13. Taste traditional Portuguese cuisines at A Tasca
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by A Tasca on Saturday, June 15, 2013
For an authentic yet modern taste of Azorean cuisines, you must head to A Tasca. Though this restaurant has only been open since 2014, it is run by a native chef who has run several restaurants on São Miguel, and this one might be his most popular! The small restaurant is hugely popular, and it is recommended to call ahead for a reservation if you have your heart set on eating there. It’s worth the extra effort: the menu features traditional Portuguese tapas and all of the dishes are prepared with local ingredients.
A Tasca
Address: R. do Aljube 16, 9500-018 Ponta Delgada, Portugal
Website: A Tasca
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 1pm; Sun: 5pm - 11pm
14. Experience the island nightlife at Bar Do Pi
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Adeptos de Rum... Alguém por ai? :) #bardopi #rum #havana #bacardi #plantation #captmorgan #barceló #pampero
Posted by bar do pi on Sunday, June 14, 2015
Ponta Delgada has an exciting nightlife scene! If you have any energy left after a day of exploring, be sure to stop by some of the bars in town for drinks and music. One of the best bars is Bar Do Pi. It is located right on the waterfront and you can sit outside and watch the ships come in. Portugal is known for its many varieties of wine, as well as for caipirinhas, a traditional Brazilian cocktail.
Bar Do Pi
Address: Av. Infante Dom Henrique, Ponta Delgada, Portugal
Website: Bar Do Pi
Opening hours: 2pm - 4am (daily)
15. Check out the Capelinhos volcano
Most of the volcanoes on the Azores have been dormant for many years, but the Capelinhos volcano on Faial Island was active as recently as 1957! The activity started as an underwater eruption that lasted for 13 months. The eruption resulted in the formation of the Capelinhos volcano above land and it was a unique experience for researchers to witness volcanic activity as it occurred. Today, you can visit the subterranean interpretation center to learn all about its history. Afterward, walk around and visit the remains of homes and a lighthouse destroyed by the eruption to see the power of nature.
Capelinhos volcano
Address: Capelinhos Lighthouse, 9900 Vegetable Garden
Website: Capelinhos volcano
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 10 USD
16. Hike to the summit of Mount Pico
Any avid hiker should add Mount Pico to their list of mountains to conquer. This volcano is the tallest mountain in all of Portugal. Though it may not be a tall mountain in comparison to the Alps or the Himalayas, it is a challenging climb that many hikers cannot complete. However, if you aren’t an experienced mountaineer, don’t rule Mount Pico out. It’s suitable for amateurs, but you’ll definitely feel it the next day. The unique trail that dips into the volcanic crater before continuing to the summit is a rewarding addition to your trip to the Azores.
Mount Pico
Address: Mount Pico, Ilha de Pico, Portugal
Website: Mount Pico
Opening hours: 6am - 7pm (daily)
Price: Free
17. Go shopping in Parque Atlantico
The Azores may be an archipelago of history and natural beauty, but they also have modern conveniences like shopping malls. Head to Parque Atlantico for souvenirs, items you forgot to pack, and restaurants you’re homesick for. The mall has stores for every need, whether you need basics like clothes or specialty items like surf equipment. You can also grab a quick bite of comfort food from chain restaurants like McDonald’s and Burger King.
Parque Atlantico
Address: R. da Juventude, 9500-211 Ponta Delgada, Portugal
Website: Parque Atlantico
Opening hours: 8:30am - 11pm (daily)
Price: Free
18. Enjoy the picturesque beauty of the Islet of Vila Franca do Campo
Just off the coast of São Miguel island is one of the island’s most popular attractions: the Islet of Vila Franca do Campo. This small island was formed by a volcano which has long since sunk into the water. The lush green island pops out of the ocean and surrounds an almost perfectly circular lake, which was once the caldera. The islet has served as a military outpost and a vineyard before being named a natural preserve to protect the unique plants and animals that live there. You can visit it by boat during the summer months and see where the Red Bull Cliff-Diving world championship was held.
Islet of Vila Franca do Campo
Address: Vila Franca do Campo, Portugal
Website: Islet of Vila Franca do Campo
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 8 USD
19. Explore underwater life with Espírito Azul
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Espírito Azul on Thursday, September 7, 2017
If you’ve ever wanted to try scuba diving, the Azores is one of the best places to do it. There is a great diversity of underwater life surrounding the islands. Whether you want to see unique fish or colorful coral reef, the best diving company in the Azores is Espírito Azul Dive Center. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, they offer classes and excursions that will help you experience the Azores in a new and exciting way!
Espírito Azul Dive Center
Address: Marina Vila Franca do Campo, 9680-909 Vila Franca Do Campo, Portugal
Website: Espírito Azul Dive Center
Opening hours: 9am - 7pm (daily)
Price: 49 USD
20. Learn about the geodiversity of the islands at Azores Geopark
Geoparks exist throughout the world–they are protected territories with exceptional geological heritage and scientific, educational, and touristic value. The vast geodiversity of the Azores makes it a perfect addition to the worldwide network of geoparks. The nine islands and surrounding seafloor are an insular but diverse environment, consisting of interesting geological features like volcanoes, calderas, lakes, lava fields, fumaroles, hot springs and thermal waters, volcanic caves, and more. Choose from several themed routes, like the route of caves, route of thermal spas, and route of science centers, to learn about the Azores in an eco-friendly way.
Azores Geopark
Address: 9900-038 Horta, Portugal
Website: Azores Geopark
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5:30pm (Closed on Sat & Sun)
Price: Free
21. Visit the colorful Marina da Horta
Marina da Horta on the island of Faial is one of the most unique ports in the world. The marina has been open since 1986 and it is one of the busiest ports in the world. It is most famous for a long-held tradition: sailors who dock at the marina must paint their boat symbols or logos on the breakwater for luck, creating a colorful tapestry of all those who have passed through. Walk around to enjoy this display of public artwork as well as the hustle and bustle of the busy port.
Marina da Horta
Address: Cais de Santa Cruz, 9900-017 Horta, Portugal
Website: Marina da Horta
Opening hours: 6am - 11pm (daily)
Price: Free
22. Peruse the artifacts at MAH - Angra do Heroismo Museum
Whether you’re faced with a rainy day or simply are looking to learn more about the history of the Azores, MAH - Angra do Heroismo Museum is a great pick. The museum is housed in a beautiful Franciscan convent that is several hundred years old. Inside, you’ll see a great variety of objects, from cars to ceramics to weapons to paintings. Here, you’ll learn about how the culture of the Azores was shaped by its island existence, but also how the Azores fits into and interacts with the rest of the globe.
MAH - Angra do Heroismo Museum
Address: Ladeira de São Francisco, 9700-181 Angra do Heroísmo, Portugal
Website: MAH - Angra do Heroismo Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10:30am - 5pm (Closed on Tue)
Price: 2 USD
23. Check out the collections at Museu Scrimshaw
Scrimshaw is an art form born out of the practice of whaling. Teeth and bones from sperm whales are carved and engraved with intricate images and designs. Museu Scrimshaw on Faial Island has one of the world’s largest collections of scrimshaw. The museum also teaches visitors about the Azores’ impressive whaling industry.
Museu Scrimshaw
Address: Peter Café Sport Angustias 027, R. José Azevedo, Horta, Portugal
Website: Museu Scrimshaw
Opening hours: 10am - 4pm (daily)
Price: 2 USD
24. Learn about the Azores' whaling industry at Museu dos Baleeiros
Another spot to learn about the glory days of the Azorean whaling industry is at Museu dos Baleeiros, or Whaling Museum. This museum has many exhibits and artifacts detailing whaling as well as relevant topics. It is divided into five sections: whaling boats, blacksmithing, shore whaling, shipbuilding, and scrimshaw. The building’s entire design is inspired by a nautical theme; be sure to stop by the amphitheater, which has walls that look like the structure of a ship
Museu dos Baleeiros
Address: R. dos Baleeiros 13, 9930-143 Lajes Do Pico, Portugal
Website: Museu dos Baleeiros
Opening hours: 10am - 5:30pm (daily)
Price: 2 USD
25. Marvel at the views at Paisagem da Cultura da Vinha da Ilha do Pico
Paisagem da Cultura da Vinha da Ilha do Pico, or Landscape of the Pico Island Vineyard, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is rich in history as well as stunning beauty. The site was once a vineyard that dates back to the 15th century. It has been preserved to protect an example of vineyard culture and design, but also to protect flora and fauna that are unique to the area. You can stroll around the area along three trails that follow the old stone walls of the former vineyard. It is also one of the best places on the island to catch a stunning sunset.
Paisagem da Cultura da Vinha da Ilha do Pico
Address: Lajido de Santa Luzia, Sao Roque do Pico, Pico 9940-311, Portugal
Website: Paisagem da Cultura da Vinha da Ilha do Pico
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
Price: Free
26. Explore the Azores' canyons up close (from USD 69.77)
If you’ve never heard of canyoning, you have to add this Get Your Guide tour to your itinerary! Canyoning is the newest outdoor sporting activity where you explore canyons up close by rappelling off cliffs, sliding down waterfall flumes, and swimming in the water. This tour offers two locations to try canyoning: Caldeiroes in the northeast part of the island and Salto do Cabrito in the central part of the island. Both have jumps and rappels to try, and in the winter months, they also leave time for participants to take a dip in a hot spring. If you’re new to canyoning, these tours are great picks because they are led by expert guides and provide all the equipment you’ll need. For the more experienced, they offer some new canyoning challenges in a beautiful environment.
Sao Miguel: Caldeiroes Canyoning Experience
Duration: 3.0 hour
27. Relax in the geothermal pools at Poça da Dona Beija (from USD 55.58)
Nature meets luxury at Poça da Dona Beija. These thermal baths are formed by natural hot springs, but the architecture and amenities are more like what you’d find at a high-end spa. Poça da Dona Beija consists of five pools that were designed by a top architect to create a unique atmosphere. You’ll find bathrooms, changing rooms, and lockers for your convenience. The pools are not only relaxing, but they also have health benefits. The heat of the water soothes sore muscles, and the iron in the water regulates body temperature and helps fight fatigue!
Poça da Dona Beija
Address: Lomba Das Barracas 1, Furnas, Portugal
Website: Poça da Dona Beija
Opening hours: 7am - 11pm (daily)
Price: 6 USD
Furnas and Dona Beija Hot Springs
Duration: 5 hour
28. Admire stunning vistas at Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo (from USD 75.14)
This full-day tour will bring you to two of the Azores most beautiful sights: Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo. The eight-hour itinerary is packed with agenda items, making the tour a great pick if you’re trying to see a lot in a little time. You’ll start out touring an old pineapple plantation and then head to Vista do Rei and Grota do Inferno for pretty photo opportunities. Next, you’ll explore the charming town of Lagoa das Sete Cidades and take a break for lunch. After that, the tour heads to Lagoa do Fogo, a breathtaking lake that you must see to believe. You can also enjoy the Caldeira Velha hot springs or the waterfall at Salto do Cabrito. One of the last stops on your tour is a liquor factory in Ribeira Grande and strolling the Santa Bárbara beach!
Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo - Full-Day Tour
Duration: 8.0 hour
Discover the Portuguese paradise
For a small group of islands, there is a vast array of things to do in the Azores that exceeds some similar tourist destinations! Thrill-seekers will love hiking volcanoes and careening down canyons. Wellness enthusiasts will relish soaking in the geothermal springs. History and nature buffs will eat up all the exhibits about the Azores’ geodiversity. Get to the Azores before it becomes the next popular destination and see this unique place for yourself!
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