the Azores Travel Insights

Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts in the Azores

Filter by topic: The Azores Tours & Itineraries · The Azores Travel Advice · The Azores Self-Drive Tours & Itineraries · Best of Furnas · Make the Most of Your Time in the Azores · Best of Ponta Delgada

Discover the beauty of the Azores on this family trip to São Miguel

Family-Friendly Azores Adventure: Volcanoes, Wildlife & Beach Time - 7 Days

Perfect for outdoorsy families, this weeklong adventure focuses on São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores. Spot whales and dolphins on a cruise through the archipelago's protected waters, refuel with a tasty food tour in the island capital, and go off-road to discover the crater lakes of Sete Cidades by Jeep. In between all the action, you'll have plenty of opportunities to fit in beach time for younger ages or canyoning and sea kayaking activities for teens.

Marvel at Pico Island's natural beauty, including the summit of Piquinho

5 Days in the Azores - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With five days, you can visit 1-2 Azorean islands or include a stop in Lisbon. Culinary travelers will enjoy wine tasting on Pico Island and a geothermal cooking class on São Miguel. Outdoor enthusiasts can kayak the Sete Cidades lagoons, soak in hot springs, and hike through one of Europe's last subtropical rainforests. Travelers keen on history and culture can visit Lisbon's historical sites, experience soulful fado music, and join a walking tour of Ponta Delgada's ornate churches and Micaelense architecture.

Savor fresh shellfish, local wines, and artisan cheeses on this food-focused tour of the Azores

Cuisine & Culture in the Azores - 5 Days

Explore the Azorean island of São Miguel through your taste buds on this five-day culinary adventure. Visit one of Europe's only tea plantations, get hands-on as you learn to whip up local dishes cooked with volcanic heat, and try the archipelago's tastiest offerings—from local wines to artisan cheeses and fresh seafood. In between memorable meals, hike along the rim of a crater, swim in hot springs by night, and witness smoking fumaroles and calderas in the geothermal Furnas Valley.

Split your time between the islands of São Miguel and Terceira

Best of the Azores: São Miguel & Terceira - 5 Days

This five-day itinerary combines two Azorean islands for a quick taste of the archipelago's landscapes and culture. Start on São Miguel with a tour of its natural highlights and a kayaking adventure on its famous lagoons. After exploring the hot springs and mud pits of the Furnas Valley, hop over to Terceira, a peaceful island known for its lush climate and sustainable agriculture. Here, you'll visit a working farm, try your hand at milking a cow, and sample local dishes and wines on a gastronomic tour.

Get behind the wheel and explore the incredible landscapes of São Miguel

Azores Self-Drive Adventure: São Miguel Island - 5 Days

Choose your own adventure on this five-day road trip around the Azores' largest island. You'll have all of São Miguel at your fingertips as you get behind the wheel to seek out pineapple plantations, explore ancient lava tubes, and soak in the many hot springs that are scattered around the island. But it won't be all about driving. You'll also have the opportunity to go on a whale watching excursion, kayak within a volcanic caldera, or join an exhilarating canyoning tour.

Venture into São Miguel's interior to discover lagoons and waterfalls

Lisbon & Azores Highlights - 5 Days

Can't decide between the buzzing Portuguese capital or the lush forests and lagoons of the Azores? On this quick five-day trip, you'll experience the best of both worlds. Explore the heart of Lisbon both on your own and with a private guide before jetting off to the remote Atlantic archipelago, where you'll kayak through turquoise waters, soak in thermal hot springs, and seek out hidden waterfalls on the largest island of São Miguel.

Views from the Miradouro de Santa Iría on the Azorean island of São Miguel

Off-the-Beaten-Path Azores: São Miguel & Pico Island - 5 Days

Go from whale watching to wine sipping on this five-day trip to the Azores. You'll experience the most visited island, São Miguel, alongside the smaller hidden gem of Pico. From interesting culinary experiences, like volcanic vineyards and geothermally cooked meals, to exhilarating excursions, like a Jeep tour and waterfall hike, this trip to the "Pearl of the Atlantic" strikes a perfect balance of adventure and culture.

Discover Parque Terra Nostra in the Furnas Valley on São Miguel

10 Days in the Azores - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days in the Azores, you can visit São Miguel and Pico islands or pair Porto or Lisbon with one of the Azorean islands without feeling rushed. Adventure seekers and nature lovers can take to the Azores for hiking, off-road excursions, and diving, while Porto offers gentler activities such as wine tasting and a riverboat cruise in the Douro Valley. Travelers wanting to hit the highlights of Portugal should explore Lisbon's food scene and take a day trip through the rural Alentejo region.

Hike for panoramic views of Lagoa do Fogo lake in São Miguel Island

1 Week in the Azores - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

One week in the Azores is enough time to cover one to three destinations. The islands are small, but your itinerary can be full of adventurous excursions or relaxing beach time, depending on your preferred pace. Focus on being in nature with snorkeling, whale watching, and hiking on São Miguel; discover the natural wonders and landscapes of the Furnas Valley and Terceira Island's rock pools; or experience São Miguel's culture through culinary-focused activities like eatery-hopping in downtown Ponta Delgada.

Immerse yourself in the volcanic landscapes of Pico Island

Azores Two-Island Adventure: São Miguel & Pico - 10 Days

Escape to one of Europe's most remote and remarkable corners on this active 10-day tour of the Azores. Start on the Atlantic archipelago's largest island of São Miguel, where you'll discover its dramatic volcanic landscapes with 4WD and hiking tours, then hit the water for whale watching and diving experiences. Get off the beaten path next as you hop over to Pico, exploring this sparsely-populated island with a trek up Portugal's highest peak and a tasting tour of its UNESCO-listed vineyards.

A view throught the palms to a historic church in Ponta Delgada

Experience the Azores: Nature & Adventure on São Miguel Island - 7 Days

Partake in a week of adventure by land and sea as you get to know the remote Azorean island of São Miguel. Based in the historic capital of Ponta Delgada, you'll join guided excursions to whale watch along the coast, snorkel among underwater lava formations, and explore the geysers and hot springs of the Furnas Valley. Then it's time to strike off on your own as you lace up your walking shoes and hike into the island's interior—discovering a volcanic landscape of crater lakes, lush valleys, and steep hillsides.

Hiking, horseback riding, and canyoning await amid the lush landscapes of the Azores' São Miguel Island

Culture & Adventure in the Azores - 7 Days

You can pack in plenty of culture and outdoor adventure with a week on São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores archipelago. From your base in the historic capital of Ponta Delgada, join a delicious culinary tour, go horseback riding, and take an off-road excursion to the volcanic lakes of Sete Cidades. After rappeling down waterfalls and visiting geothermal calderas in the Furnas Valley, you'll still have plenty of downtime to discover the island's black-sand beaches and stroll the charming town at your leisure.

Hike above spectacular crater lakes in the Azores

Discover Porto & the Azores - 10 Days

Experience the rich culture of Portugal's "second city" and the incredible beauty of the Azores on this 10-day tour. Start with a vintage car tour of Porto before heading into the lush Douro Valley for wine tasting and a riverboat cruise. Continue to São Miguel in the Azores, where you'll hike and ride horses through geothermal landscapes, laze on volcanic beaches, soak in thermal pools, and take a show-stopping sunset cruise.

Drive yourself to several stunning hiking trails on São Miguel Island

Best of the Azores & Lisbon - 10 Days

This 10-day tour combines cultural activities in Lisbon and gorgeous landscapes in the Azores for a trip of a lifetime. Land on São Miguel Island, where you'll hike to sparkling crater lakes, laze on volcanic beaches, soak in thermal pools, and join a range of diving excursions and whale watching trips. Continue the adventure in Portugal's vibrant capital, Lisbon, to sample food with a local expert, explore hip neighborhoods, and take a day trip through the rural Alentejo region.

Drive at your own pace along the stunning São Miguel coastline

Natural Wonders of the Azores: São Miguel & Terceira – 7 Days

Discover the stunning beauty of two islands in the Azores during this weeklong tour. First, touch down on the largest island in the archipelago, São Miguel. With a rental car, you'll hike and kayak among shimmering crater lakes, soak in hot springs, and explore the Furnas Valley's geothermal landscapes. Finish on Terceira Island, where you'll stay in the UNESCO-listed city of Angra do Heroísmo, check out colorful temples, and bathe in pristine rock pools.

In December, try cozido das Furnas, a meat stew cooked by the volcanic heat of São Miguel's Furnas Lagoon

The Azores in December: Travel Tips, Weather & More

December may be winter in the Azores, but with mild temperatures in the high 50s (Fahrenheit) to low 60s and a mix of rainy and sunny days, it's a great time for active travelers to explore the lush landscapes of São Miguel and Terceira. Accommodation prices will be near their lowest, and trails and restaurants will be much quieter than in summer. Pack a swimsuit for the natural hot pools and some rain gear, and you'll find December is an excellent time for an authentic travel experience in the Azores.

A wintry scene along Lagoa do Congro's volcanic lake, São Miguel Island

The Azores in November: Travel Tips, Weather & More

November is the tail end of fall in the Azores and offers a mix of sunny days, spots of rain, and cooler nights. Nature enthusiasts will love hiking through the lush landscapes, while those looking for a relaxing vacation can head for the natural hot springs dotted across São Miguel. While less frequent, some days in early November are still warm enough to soak up the sun at the beach and enjoy a refreshing swim.

Discover the city of Horta on Faial Island in October

The Azores in October: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Cheaper accommodations and lingering summer temperatures make October a great time to visit. You can look forward to days in the mid to high 60s (Fahrenheit), with an occasional day of rain. Those looking for a relaxing vacation can spend their time between the beach and the hot springs, while nature enthusiasts will love hiking the lush forests and quiet coastal trails.

Take to the water off Pico Island and snorkel Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo

The Azores in August: Travel Tips, Weather & More

August is one of the most popular times to visit the Azores, and for good reason. With daytime highs around 78ºF (25ºC) and ocean temperatures warming up to 74ºF (23ºC), you can spend your days soaking up the sun at the beach and whale watching in calm ocean waters. Mornings are perfect for hikes through the lush jungle, while pleasant evenings are ideal for wandering the cobblestone streets of Ponta Delgada and Angra do Heroísmo.

Cella Bar on Pico Island on a bright summer's day

The Azores in July: Travel Tips, Weather & More

July is the most popular and one of the best months to visit the Azores. Summer is in full swing, and temperatures range from the mid-60s (Fahrenheit) to the mid-70s. Top that with limited rainfall, light winds, and 14 hours of daylight, and you'll have plenty of time to hike, kayak, and swim your way around the islands. Accommodation prices will be higher than in winter, but as the Azores rarely get crowded, you can enjoy quiet beaches and empty trails if you head away from the main tourist spots.

People swimming in the sea and relaxing on nice sandy Praia do Fogo

The Azores in June: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Pleasant temperatures in the high 60s (Fahrenheit) and minimal days of rain make June a great time to visit the Azores for those looking to spend time at the beach and hiking. Ferries and planes will be on their frequent summer schedule, making it easy to island hop, and as the Azores rarely gets packed, you can still enjoy quiet beaches and empty trails.

Hike to the top of Mount Pico on Pico Island, a great activity in September

The Azores in September: Travel Tips, Weather & More

With pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds than in July and August, September is one of the best times to visit the Azores. Sea temperatures are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and calm oceans are ideal for spotting the last of the migrating whales passing through. Expect the occasional rain shower, but you can enjoy the lush landscapes the Azores are known for in return.

Sete Cidades near Miradouro da Boca do Inferno viewpoint, São Miguel Island, Azores

The Azores in May: Travel Tips, Weather & More

May is a great time to visit the Azores to take advantage of the quiet trails and warming temperatures. With the winter rains receding and the islands lush and green, you can enjoy plenty of sunny days ideal for hiking, whale watching, and island hopping. Accommodation prices will still be lower than in the busy summer months, except during Santo Cristo, when thousands of visitors arrive in Ponta Delgada to participate in a large festival and procession.

Picturesque view of the Lake of Sete Cidades, a volcanic crater lake on São Miguel Island, Azores, Portugal

The Azores in April: Travel Tips, Weather & More

April marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring in the Azores, making it an ideal time to visit if you're looking to hike, whale watch, and soak in the hot springs. Expect a mix of sunny days in the 60s (Fahrenheit), with the occasional rain shower and cloudy day. Accommodation prices are still lower than in the busy summer months, and activities and businesses on the western islands of Flores and Corvo are beginning to open up.

Wander São Miguel's Terra Nostra Garden in March

The Azores in March: Travel Tips, Weather & More

With spring just around the corner and the winter rains easing, March is a beautiful time to visit the Azores. Pleasant temperatures are ideal for hiking, and cooler evenings are perfect for relaxing in São Miguel's natural hot springs. Wildlife lovers will have the chance to spot migrating whales and resident dolphins, and cheaper accommodations are great for budget-conscious travelers.

Check out the natural swimming pools in Biscoitos on Terceira

The Azores in February: Travel Tips, Weather & More

After the rains of January, February is a great month to hike the lush landscapes of the Azores and relax in scenic hot springs dotted around São Miguel Island. Temperatures hover in the high 50s (Fahrenheit), and as February is considered offseason, you'll find the trails and towns crowd-free. You'll want to be prepared for the occasional rain shower, but in return, you can take advantage of the cheaper accommodations and deserted beaches.

January is a great time to explore Terceira's volcanic chamber of Algar do Carvão

The Azores in January: Travel Tips, Weather & More

January is a great month to visit the Azores for nature enthusiasts and hearty adventurers. Towns and trails will be at their quietest, and once pricey accommodations can be yours for a fraction of the cost. Cooler temperatures are perfect for soaking in the picturesque hot springs on São Miguel and hiking Terceira's lush trails.

Take a discovery walk on Pico Island, the Azores in summer

Best Time of Year to Visit the Azores

Plan a trip for early summer (June) or fall (September) to enjoy the best the Azores offers, including beautiful coastlines, lush forests, and otherworldly geothermal features. June and September are especially excellent months to visit, with minimal rainfall, pleasant temperatures, and plenty of wildlife out and about. The busier summer season is best for beachgoers and island-hopping, while winter is great for hiking and soaking in natural hot pools.

Viewpoint at Ponta do Sossego, São Miguel Island

How Many Days to Spend in the Azores

Seven or eight days is an ideal amount of time to spend in the Azores. Travelers with only a week to explore the Portuguese archipelago can focus their time on the island of São Miguel, adding on a trip to Terceira for whale watching if they have an extra day or two. Those with two weeks to spare can opt for a more comprehensive trip around the Azores, exploring four of its islands, or integrating an Azores excursion into a larger Portugal trip, including Lisbon and the Duoro Valley.

Island Hopping in the Azores: São Miguel, Faial, Pico & Terceira - 15 Days

Explore the volcanic landscapes of the Azores on this 15-day self-driving tour that highlights four of the Portuguese archipelago's islands. Start in São Miguel, where you'll kayak across crater lakes and try stew made with geothermal heat. Then, hop between Faial, Pico, and Terceira to hike dormant volcanoes, explore deep magma chambers, and swim in natural pools made of solidified lava.

Start your adventure on Terceira, where volcanic rock walls frame the lush farmland

Self-Drive Azores Adventure: Terceira & São Miguel - 8 Days

The Azores are a nature lover's paradise, and this eight-day road trip is the perfect introduction to two of the Portuguese archipelago's largest islands. Begin on Terceira to stroll through its UNESCO-listed capital and hop between volcanic sea pools, natural hot springs, and black-sand beaches. Then it's off to São Miguel, where you'll start with a tasting tour of Ponta Delgada before hitting the road toward turquoise lagoons, geothermal calderas, towering waterfalls, and ancient laurel forests.

Azores Adventure: Best of São Miguel - 7 Days

São Miguel is the biggest of the nine islands that compose the Azores archipelago, and you'll spend a week getting to know its lakes, towns, and geothermal calderas on this guided tour. From your base in beautiful Ponta Delgada, discover the island's highlights and hidden gems through hiking, cycling, and off-roading expeditions—with plenty of time to relax in natural hot pools and beaches along the way.

Get Started

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan

Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

Secure & easy booking

Once you are happy with the trip, you can easily book via kimkim’s secure payment platform.

Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.