7 days in Azores, Portugal: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Picture yourself in a breathtaking archipelago made up of nine volcanic islands, perfect to explore and immerse in natural beauty. That’s what awaits you in the Azores, Portugal! Nicknamed the “Hawaii of the Atlantic,” these emerald islands are truly a paradise filled with lush forests, turquoise lagoons, steaming hot springs, and epic whale watching opportunities. Beyond the inspiring landscapes, the Azores also boasts unique culture and delicious cuisine for every curious traveler.
Things to Consider Before Arriving in Azores
Unspoiled nature: Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers
Welcoming people: The locals are friendly, welcoming, and proud of their culture
Island hopping: There are fewer connections between islands, making the process costlier and time-consuming
The Azores are ideal for those who appreciate stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and a relaxed pace of life.
What to Bring with You
1. Comfortable clothing: Pack for unpredictable weather, as it can change quickly
2. Sturdy shoes: Trails can be slippery and rough, so good hiking shoes are essential
3. Waterproofs: A rain jacket will help keep you dry, as sudden showers are common
Best Time of the Year to Visit
Spring and summer (May to October) are the best times to visit the Azores to enjoy pleasant weather, clear skies, and witness the islands in full bloom.
How to Get into Azores
1. By air: Azores has the João Paulo II Airport near Ponta Delgada on São Miguel Island. Flights mainly come from Lisbon, Madeira, and sometimes from major European cities. Some seasonal flights are available from North America too.
2. By cruise ship: Azores is a common stopover for transatlantic cruise ships, allowing you to explore the islands while en route to your final destination.
7 Day City Guide Trip to Azores, Portugal
Day 1 – Arrival and Exploring Ponta Delgada
Start your day with a fresh seafood breakfast at Mercado da Graça, where locals go to buy their groceries. Then, take a walk in the beautiful Parque Atlântico and head towards the historic center of Ponta Delgada. Visit the stunning churches of São Sebastião and São José, and stop by the Portas da Cidade. In the evening, enjoy a wine tasting at A Tasca wine bar and have dinner at the renowned A Tasca restaurant.
Day 2 – Whale Watching and Furnas Hot Springs
Book a whale watching tour and experience the beauty of these majestic creatures. After the tour, have a traditional cozido lunch at Furnas, where your food is cooked underground with the volcanic heat. In the afternoon, relax in the thermal hot springs or explore the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden.
Day 3 – Exploring São Miguel Island
Rent a car and drive to the Sete Cidades crater and lake, one of the most breathtaking views in the Azores. Stop by the picturesque village of Mosteiros and have lunch at the local restaurant, O Pescador. End your day with a visit to the Convent of Our Lady of Hope, where you can see beautiful hand-painted tiles.
Day 4 – Pico Island Day Trip
Take a short flight to Pico Island and visit the stunning landscape of the Pico Vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy some wine tasting at the Adega A Buraca and have lunch at the Cella Bar. In the afternoon, hike up to the summit of Pico Mountain, the highest point in Portugal.
Day 5 – Horta and Faial Island Day Trip
Take a ferry to Faial Island and visit the charming town of Horta. Admire the colorful murals on the harbor walls and have lunch at the Peter Café Sport, a famous spot for sailors. In the afternoon, visit the stunning Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Centre.
Day 6 – Lagoa do Fogo and Ribeira Grande
Take a hike to the Lagoa do Fogo and enjoy the incredible lookout. Then, visit the town of Ribeira Grande and walk around the historic center, admiring the stunning architecture. Have lunch at the Tasca restaurant and end your day with a visit to the Caldeira Velha hot springs.
Day 7 – Departure and Santos Populares Festival
End your trip with a lively visit to the Santos Populares Festival, a traditional Portuguese festival that takes place in June. Join the locals in the celebrations, eating sardines and drinking wine, dancing to live music and admiring the colorful street decorations.
How to Continue Your Travel After You Have Spent 7 Days in Azores, Portugal
If you’re looking to extend your stay in Portugal, consider visiting Lisbon and Porto. Lisbon is a vibrant city with a rich history, including the famous Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery. Porto is known for its stunning wine cellars, charming neighborhoods and the Ribeira district. Both cities can be reached by plane from the Azores or by boat from mainland Portugal.
