car tours azores

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GARY TRAVASSOS AZOREAN TOURS

DISCOVER WHERE THE GREEN AND BLUE NEVER END

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Latest Available Tours

Discover with us the wonders of São Miguel..

Private Tour # 1 - Sete Cidades Lakes & Fire Lake

Private Tour # 2 - Furnas Hot Springs & Nordeste area

Suggestions on S. Miguel island: Hidden tresures

Our services.

Personalized Car Van Tours to see the most beautiful places on the island of São Miguel, Azores. In my page, you can find over 1000 photos, videos, and interesting information about the Azores (especially for Sao Miguel Island, where I live and work on). We execute Taxi Transfers on the island, from and to the Airport, and to the Hiking trails, and too any other destination on the island of Sao Miguel. We also offer some Hiking Tours to some places on Sao Miguel Island. If you click on the ícone option on the top of my website, you are instantly directed to our Tours itineraries, places you will stop and see, tour duration and prices on each Tour. For the Private Car & Van Tours & Transfers the prices are applied by Tour/Transfer/service, and not per person. For the Activity Tours the prices are applied per person. For family or big groups or any other information regarding bookings and services, please contact me to know about special conditions and offers through my email or contact form available on the website, email: [email protected]

What do we offer

A Private Tour Guide gives you the opportunity to fully enjoy all that I have to offer, appreciate our nature wonders, in a comfortable and safe mean of transport, without long time driving (almost 250 Km/day) and looking in the map, as you will if you do it on your own. Bus Tours normally have an inflexible schedule.kinda Special requests and private questions are a little difficult to answer, because there can be another 50 people wanting to ask questions too. Where green and blue never ends!!!

Testimonial from our Clients

Our Clients are our very reason of existence

Amazing 2 day tour w/ Gary. Highly recommend if you want to see a lot in a short period of time. He took us to the most beautiful sights. He is super knowledgeable and has a great sense of humor. Both days he brought us to great lunch spots that were exactly what we were looking for. We had so much fun and hope we can go back to visit Gary soon

Jennifer ONeil

Disembarked our ship wanting to see as much as San Miguel as we could. After a quick chat Marco agreed to take us to all the main highlights of the island & a price was set. What a superb day. We had the mini van to ourselves & Marco was a gentleman, extremely knowledgable & fun. He went out of his way to make our day as informative & enjoyable as possible. We'd highly recommend pre booking him. The island is stunning & we got an incredible insight to the both the island & culture with breath taking views along the way. THANK YOU MARCO

Angela Todd

Absolutely loved our experience with Azorean Tours with Marco as a guide. Marco is knowledgeable about the Island, has a great personality, and is passionate about his work. Thank you for making our trip to St. Michael so special!!

Sue Kapatoes Raposo

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Azores Archipelago Tours & Trips

Find the right tour package for you through Azores Archipelago. We've got 37 trips going to Azores Archipelago, starting from just 3 days in length, and the longest tour is 15 days. The most popular month to go is June, which has the most tour departures.

37 Azores Archipelago tour packages with 914 reviews

• Hiking & Trekking
• Christmas & New Year

São Miguel Soft Hiking

I had great time. The hotel was really good and very close to the center and the tour company Futurismo. Futurismo were nice and professional. The tours were well planned and the guides are super professional as well.

Hiking the Azores

The hikes and info were great, even though some last minute changes were necessary due to trail closures. We had a fun, varied group of 13 and the logistics all worked well. The only disappointment was Hotel Zenite on Terceira Island - it was an aging hotel with poor service and should be replaced with a different hotel in the same area.

• In-depth Cultural

Best of the Azores: 7 days in São Miguel

Our guides Phillip and John (Juan) were both fantastic.

São Miguel Active Experience

This was an amazing tour! So well organized from start to finish. We were extremely happy with our accommodation and every single one of our daily tours and each tour guide. Nice small groups of max 6-8 people for each tour. I cannot recommend this tour enough.

Highlights of the Azores

All went well. Isabelle was very giid and knowledgeable and informative Traveling between island I'm the Azores is time consuming but getting us to the airport two and a half hours before the flight was a waste of a morning You seem to be the only operator who visits four islands, please continue. If you're going there you want to see as much as possible

• Walking Adventure

Walking in the Azores

Overall good itinerary and opportunity to see quite a lot from Azores. I would however prefer if more hikes were included in base package. Otherwise it was a bit of a mess and not so clear alternatives (and information materials on them seem to be a bit outdated). In any case, e.g. in Horta there is not much to see on our own, so would be nice to include a couple of hikes and highlights already in base package. Other than that very thoughtful logistics with 5 islands in 2 weeks. The first hotel in Ponta Delgada is a bit basic - no pool, basic breakfast, but the others were good. I think reservations for group dinners are good every now and then, but it should be as an option and better to be asked first whether people actually want them instead of presenting it a a big favour and literally making feel ashame if you don't go or cancel too late. You don't want to be pressured in time and sometimes it is more interesting to explore smaller places on your own rather attending a group dinner with preset menu lasting for 2-3 hours. Maybe it was miscommunication from the guide though. Overall Tania was very caring and tried to do her best, her organizational skills are very good. However, communication should be more clear, it was not transparent where exactly we go, what are the alternatives and how much do they cost (a table with all the options, required time and approximate cost can be even prepared in advance and included in information materials - we had 3 sets of materials, sometimes contradicting to each other). Also we would like more clear and timely information on what to expect of the hikes (hard or medium are very subjective words, one would like to know what is the soil, what are the views etc). Tania was eager to listen and adjust, but it was still hard to follow, especially when asking a question, she was not really answering it but telling something else.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Portugal in Depth with Azores

Best of São Miguel Island

Overall the tour was good. The response coordinating the trip was great. They did change 1 item on the itinerary but it was no problem. I didn't like the location of the hotel. There was nothing close by (shops, restaurants, etc.). This also wasn't a tour where you were with the same group of people. It was more solo where you met different people on different days and no one stayed in the same location so very little group bonding. It was nice on the days I had the rental car so I was able to get out to stores, restaurants and sights. The last day there was a dinner but it was so far from the location of the hotel, I didn't even bother going. Note: the canyoning was well worth it!

Best of Porto & Azores in 9 days

Great mix of destinations. We felt supported all the way and Pedro was very quick to answer anytime we needed them. Douro and Sao Miguel are now on our top destinations in the world, and at 70 we´ve covered a lot!

Azores Escape

Short Break in Azores, Terceira Island, Self-drive

Highlights of Spain and Portugal with Azores

Atlantic Azores

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

The Dream of the Blue Whale

What people love about azores archipelago tours.

We had a fantastic time. Exploring the island through jeep tour and kayaking was exhilarating. The whale watching and local food experiences were delightful, and the guides were truly local and knowledgeable. This tour was an unforgettable journey, would take it again, thank yuou.

Azores Archipelago Tours starting in:

• Ponta Delgada (17)
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• Explorer (21)
• Personalized (18)
• Fully Guided (17)
• Private (10)
• Partially Guided (9)
• Self-Guided (9)
• Hiking & Trekking (8)
• Intl. Flights Included (8)
• Self Drive (5)
• In-depth Cultural (4)
• Small Group (15)
• 7 Day Tours (13)
• 10 Day Tours (11)
• 2 Week Tours (5)
• 3 Week Tours (4)
• Spring 2024 (24)
• Summer 2024 (30)
• Fall / Autumn 2024 (27)
• Winter 2024 / 2025 (10)
• Spring 2025 (10)
• Summer 2025 (7)
• Fall / Autumn 2025 (6)
• Winter 2025 / 2026 (1)
• March 2024 (5)
• April 2024 (16)
• May 2024 (23)
• June 2024 (28)
• July 2024 (23)
• August 2024 (21)
• September 2024 (27)
• October 2024 (23)
• November 2024 (9)
• December 2024 (9)
• January 2025 (3)
• February 2025 (3)
• March 2025 (4)
• April 2025 (4)
• May 2025 (7)
• June 2025 (7)
• July 2025 (4)
• August 2025 (6)
• September 2025 (6)
• October 2025 (5)

Other Regions in Portugal

• Northern Portugal (62)
• Madeira (43)
• Algarve (38)
• Central Portugal (28)
• Alentejo (17)

Travel Styles

• Singles and Solo (29)
• For Couples (14)
• Seniors (12)

International Versions

• Deutsch: Azoren Rundreisen
• Français: Circuits en Archipel des Açores
• Español: Circuitos por Archipiélago de las Azores
• Nederlands: Azoren Rondreizen

Car Tour Half Day

In this Tour, we go around the Island of Flores, passing through the main villages on the Island and appreciating its stunning landscape. Check here for availability for your desired date range.

• Reviews 0 Reviews 0/5
• Vacation Style Holiday Type Nature
• Accomodation
• FAQs & Reviews

Each location is unique and of incomparable beauty. The photographs will forever be framed in your memory. Whenever you revisit the exhibition of paintings from memories, Ilha das Flores will always be highlighted, as one of the most beautiful places on our planet. 3 Hours 180€

Check availability:

Private tour in a high-end 4×4 car for up to 4 adults and two children Safe

Accommodation and Meals are not included, but we also have T0 and T1 holiday homes fully equipped with all appliances, WI_FI, … and we can book lunch and dinner according to your preference.

Departure from Santa Cruz towards Ponta Delgada or Lajes das Flores, then on to Fajã Grande.

Options and duration may vary depending on weather conditions and customer preferences.

• 13:00 ou 17:00 Return to Santa Cruz

Here are some options where you can stay:

Fajazinha Cottage

Link Booking Fazenda Apartment 1

Link Booking Fazenda Apartment 2

Link Booking Fazenda Apartment 3

• What is a half-day car tour in the Azores?
• What can I expect to see during a half-day car tour?
• What should I bring on a half-day car tour?

A half-day car tour in the Azores is a guided excursion that allows you to explore the beautiful islands of the Azores archipelago by car, visiting various attractions, scenic viewpoints, cultural sites, and natural wonders.

During the tour, you can expect to see breathtaking landscapes, volcanic formations, crater lakes, coastal cliffs, charming villages, historical sites, botanical gardens, and other notable points of interest on the islands.

It is recommended to bring comfortable clothing and footwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a camera or smartphone, a reusable water bottle, snacks, and any personal items you may need during the day.

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Tour: I'm not sure Half Day Sete Cidades Half Day Lagoa do Fogo Full Day Furnas Tour Full Day Nordeste Cruise-ships to shore excursions

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Azores Tours - São Miguel Excursions

Half day sete cidades.

• Carvão Viewpoint
• Empadadas Lake
• Canário Lake
• Vista do Rei Viewpoint
• Cerrado das Freiras Viewpoint
• Santiago Lake
• Sete Cidades Village
• Escalvado Viewpoint
• Greenhouses and Pineapple Plantations

Tour prices

150€ total cost per car up to 03 people 220€ total cost per van up to 06 people, duration - 3h30/4h00.

Half Day Lagoa do Fogo

• Lagoa Ceramic Factory
• Lagoa do Fogo
• Caldeira Velha
• Liquors Factory Mulher de Capote
• Ribeira Grande City Center
• Palheiro Viewpoint

Full day Furnas

• Pisão Viewpoint
• Vila Franca do Campo
• Senhora da Paz Viewpoint
• Furnas Lake and Hot Springs
• Furnas Village
• Terra Nostra Botanical Garden (optional)
• (Stop for Lunch)
• Hot Springs & Mineral waters
• Pico do Ferro Viewpoint
• Gorreana Tea Plantation and Factory
• Santa Iria Viewpoint

230€ Total cost PER CAR up to 03 people 320€ Total cost PER VAN up to 06 people

Duration - 8h00.

Full day Nordeste

• Salto do Cavalo Viewpoint
• Salto da Farinha Viewpoint
• Ribeira dos Caldeirões Garden/Waterfall
• Nordeste Village
• Ponta do Sossego Viewpoint
• Ponta da Madrugada Viewpoint
• Povoação Village
• Ribeira Quente

250€ Total cost PER CAR up to 03 people 320€ Total cost PER VAN up to 06 people

Cruise-ships to shore excursions

Duration - 4h to 7h

• Prices are valid for tours starting/ending from hotels located in Ponta Delgada town center
• Tours starting/ending from hotels outside Ponta Delgada town center have a surcharge
• Lunches and entrance tickets are not included in the tour cost
• Itinerary subject to change according to weather conditions
• Museums are closed on Mondays. Other tourist attractions may be closed on weekends and bank holidays
• I do not charge cost per person, only price for car or van. For one person it is the same total value as four people
• In the case of a large number of people, another van or car may be used with one more tour guide driver
• The tours prices for Cruise Ships may be different due the cruise port fees
• During the excursions we can make stops for lunch in a restaurant of your choice

Mercedes E Class Avantgarde Limousine

Mercedes Viano Executive

Benefits of the tour guide

It is possible to visit the most beautiful places in São Miguel in just a few days, as long as you know where to go. Hiring a tour guide is an excellent option for tourists who wish to enjoy with tranquility the major points of tourist interest of the island quickly and without any concern.

The car rental is the choice of many visitors and it may be a cheaper option than hiring a private guide. However, the rental car carries a set of risks, especially for those who are not accustomed to driving on our roads, especially in the mountain paths and in conditions of fog and / or showers, common in our region .

We’ve created this service having in mind your total comfort and safety. The tour guide will make your trip more enjoyable, safer and more productive, allowing everyone to enjoy it at full 100%. The guide will take you by car and walk to the most beautiful and pure charm of the island of Sao Miguel, in accordance with the time available for the trip.

RESERVATIONS, PAYMENTS AND CANCELLATIONS:

RESERVATIONS : To book and confirm your tour, you should contact us by email. Upon booking, a 25% deposit of the total amount will be required to hold the reservation. This deposit can be made by bank transfer or through Paypal (for clients outside Portugal and the Azores).

PAYMENTS : After receiving your payment we will send a voucher that acknowledges receipt of the deposit, along with all the details of the service and meeting instructions.

CANCELLATIONS : A refund of the deposit will be made depending on the reason for tour cancellation (e.g. cancellation of flights or cruise ship visit due to weather conditions are accepted).

Do not miss the opportunity of a dream vacation; book with us today!

The Perfect Azores Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

By: Author Kris

Posted on Last updated: February 19, 2024

Are you planning a visit to the Azores and seeking the ultimate itinerary? Look no further! In this personal blog post about our adventure through the Azores Islands, you’ll discover all the highlights of our journey.

The Azores, comprised of nine pristine islands, are a magnet for travelers worldwide.

Our own Azores escapade led us to magnificent geysers, awe-inspiring caves, and stunningly picturesque lakes.

Join us as we recount our day-by-day exploration of the Azores islands in vivid detail.

So, without further ado, dive into this heartfelt Azores travel blog post to uncover the wonders that await you.

Here you can find an overview of the best Azores travel tips.

There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Our Azores Itinerary

We are excited to share our personal Azores itinerary with you. We hope it inspires you to craft your own unforgettable journey through these stunning islands.

Day 1-2-3 Pico

We started our trip on picturesque Pico, the second-largest island of the Azores. Pico Island is named after Mount Pico, the highest mountain in Portugal.

Best Pico Sights

One of the highlights of Pico Island is climbing Mount Pico . You can do this on your own or you can join a tour with an experienced guide.

We did not climb Mount Pico ourselves. We did, however, talk with another couple who did accept that challenge.

The climb is pretty strenuous. It’s marked by 46 posts and after one and a half hours of hiking and climbing, they only made it to the 9th post.

That’s when they decided to turn back after all.

Don’t let this scare you off, though. There are quite a lot of hikers who manage to conquer the mountain, which is one of the greatest Azores hiking trips. Just don’t underestimate the hike.

We also recommend wearing proper hiking gear.

• Although you can hike in shorts, since this isn’t an easy trail, leggings for hiking are way more comfortable when doing this strenuous hike.
• Here is an overview of the best hiking shoes. 

If you want to climb Pico , it’s best to set aside a few days on Pico Island because the mountain is often shrouded in clouds and the hike is obviously at its most beautiful under a clear sky.

Most people do the ascent and descent of Pico on the same day , but it’s also possible to do the climb at night (under a starry sky if you’re lucky).  If you’re feeling really adventurous you can even spend the night on top of the volcano.

A guide is not obligatory but as they know the best (read:easiest) way to the top it can make your expedition a lot more pleasant.

Besides climbing the Pico Volcano, you can also do many other challenging and less challenging hikes.

Here you can find more info about hiking on the Azores. 

Is this your first trip to the Azores and do you feel a bit overwhelmed by the travel preparations?

Creating a fantastic itinerary for the Azores will be much easier and much more enjoyable with our Azores Travel Planner .

Pico is also home to several stunning mountain lakes. The most beautiful of these lakes is arguably Lagoa do Capitaõ . If the weather’s nice, you can see the reflection of Mount Pico in the water.

Tip: When you notice the clouds dispersing around the mountain, it’s a great idea to head towards the lakes promptly. If the mountain is clear, chances are the lakes are too. For real-time weather updates around Pico Volcano, check out the webcams available on SpotAzores website.

We also visited the Grutta das Torres .

There are lots of caves in the Azores. We didn’t think that this lava cave is necessarily the most beautiful cave, but what makes visiting this cave absolutely worth it, is its somewhat adventurous character.

Armed with a flashlight and a helmet, you descend 50 meters below the ground. There’s no paved path and no artificial light, which makes it pretty adventurous.

The tour is done with a guide, who will teach you all about the lava formations you see along the way.

It’s chilly in the cave, so make sure you bring a warm piece of clothing. Put on hiking shoes, too, because the surface is uneven.

Personal tip:

When we visited, we spontaneously booked our ticket on the spot. However, if you’re planning to explore during the busy summer months, it’s wise to secure your spot in advance to ensure availability for the tour.

Ticket fee : €10 per person (At the counter they only accepted cash but you can now book tickets online and pay with a credit card)

Opening hours : see website

Near Madalena lies the Criação Velha winery . These are vineyards like you’ve never seen anywhere else. That’s exactly why they’re UNESCO World Heritage.

Here, you can go on a beautiful walk through the vineyards. Standing in the middle of the area is a windmill that offers an amazing view of the surrounding landscape.

We felt the weather was still a bit chilly, but we discovered two stunning natural swimming pools near the vineyards. They were perfect for a refreshing dip after a strenuous hike.

Pico is also a good place to go whale watching. 

Whale watching is a must-do activity while being in the Azores. Here you can find more info on the best whale watching tours in the Azores. 

Even though we wouldn’t call ourselves museum fans, we did stop by the whale museum . The Museu dos Baleerios in Lajes retells the history of whaling, which used to be the most important source of income on these islands. There’s also a second museum that covers the goings-on within the whaling factories.

Particularly the film that shows how they hunted for sperm whales in the old days was very impressive. Fortunately, whale hunting has been illegal since 1987. You can still hunt these beautiful animals, though, but only with your camera. Pico Island is, by the way, one of the best places for whale watching in the Azores.

Personal tip: On Sundays, you can visit the museum free of charge. It’s closed on Mondays.

Here is a full list of the best things to do in Pico.

Hotels on Pico

Alma do Pico

During our stay, we opted for Alma do Pico. It’s an ideal retreat to unwind after a bustling day. You’ll be welcomed into snug cottages complete with a convenient kitchenette.

Additionally, the hotel boasts a stunning swimming pool, and for those craving Italian cuisine, there’s a fantastic Italian restaurant on-site.

What makes the experience even more special is the warm hospitality of the Italian owners, who go above and beyond to ensure your stay is memorable.

A great place to stay on Pico island.

Check prices and availability: Booking.com

Day 4-6 Faial

Taking the ferry from Pico to Faial is a quick journey of just 30 minutes.

Legend has it that the island earned its name from the countless beech trees, known as “faias” in Portuguese, that dot its landscape.

Faial is affectionately dubbed the “blue island” thanks to the sea of vibrant blue hydrangeas that blanket its fields.

While it’s widely believed that Faial boasts an abundance of hydrangeas, we personally found it challenging to discern a noticeable difference in the quantity compared to other islands.

Faial Sights

For us, the highlights of Faial were exploring the picturesque town of Horta with its delightful port, as well as visiting the captivating Capelinhos and Caldeira volcanoes.

Our journey through Faial kicked off at the bustling yacht port. This vibrant spot has a rich history as a favored stopover for sailboats embarking on global adventures or voyages to America. In the past, sailors would pause here to check weather reports and replenish supplies. Nowadays, it’s simply a joy to soak up the charming atmosphere of this island.

It’s been a long-standing tradition among sailors to leave a mural on the docks or the breakwater when they leave. This is said to bring good fortune on one’s journey.

We stumbled upon numerous Dutch murals along with several murals created by Belgian crew members.

Those many small works of art have made the yacht port into a very colorful place.

Located at the port, Peter Sport café is the place to be for a chat with the sailors or to sample the local gin.

When you enter the R1-1 from the port and drive in a counterclockwise direction, you’ll arrive at the viewpoint of Nossa Senhora da Conceição after about 10 minutes. This lookout offers a beautiful view of the town of Horta and the nearby islands of Pico, São Jorge, and Graciosa.

The beautiful sandy beach of Praia do Almoxarife lies only about 5 minutes by car from this viewpoint. This is a wonderful and peaceful place to hang out on a sunny day, while the view of the Pico Volcano is fantastic.

The 2-kilometer-wide Caldeira crater is another absolute must-see when you’re visiting Faial. At the top, a lookout point offers a magnificent view of the enormous green crater. You can also go on a beautiful and easy hike of about 8 kilometers around the crater. This is the Azores hiking at its very best.

Personal tip: The crater is often shrouded in clouds. It’s an impressive experience to stand at the summit surrounded by clouds, but if you also want to actually see something, it’s best to wait to drive up until you see that the top of the crater is cloud-free. You can also check the webcam at the top .

Here are some personal tips for exploring the Caldeira crater:

• If you’re afraid of heights, the hike might not be recommended. Sometimes, the trail is quite narrow and runs along a steep drop-off.
• Make sure to wear warm clothes, put on proper hiking shoes and bring raingear because, as we mentioned before, the weather in the Azores can change rapidly.
• If you’d like to, you can also descend into the crater, but you would need to do that with a guide.

The lunar landscape of the Capelinhos Volcano is unique in the Azores. The volcano erupted approximately 50 years ago, creating a desolate, moonlike landscape. The entire region was leveled and only the lighthouse remained standing.

You can admire the surrounding landscape from the top of the lighthouse.  This can be reached from within the visitor center for a fee.  

Inside the futuristic visitor center is also a museum where you can learn everything about volcanoes and the eruption of the Capelinhos Volcano in particular.

Ticket fee : €10 per adult / €5 for children aged 7 to 14 and 65+.  There are other tickets available for those who only want to climb the lighthouse or only want to watch the movie.

Opening hours : The region can be visited 24/7 for free.  The visitor center and museum is open during the following hours.

1 November – 31 March Monday: closed / Tuesday – Friday: 9 am – 5 pm

1 April – 31 October Everyday: 9 am – 6 pm

• Here is a complete list of what to do in Faial.
• The perfect 7 day azores itinerary.

Hotels on Faial

Lofts Azul pastel

During our time in Horta, we opted for The Lofts Azul Pastel, conveniently situated just a 10-minute stroll from the town center.

Our accommodation provided a spacious and comfortable room, boasting picturesque views of the sea on one side and the majestic Caldeira on the other.

Although equipped with a kitchen, we found ourselves tempted by the delectable offerings at the on-site restaurant. With a diverse selection of affordable and delicious dishes, dining in was a delightful experience.

A quiet place to stay not too far from Horta.

Day 7-9 São Jorge

We continued our Azores itinerary by ferry and traveled from Faial via Pico to São Jorge.

The crossing lasted about one and a half hours.

This island was even less touristy than Pico or Faial.

Best São Jorge Sights

The weather was pretty bad on the first day and we limited our activities to a drive around the island.

A loop like that is actually a worthwhile thing to do on every island since you’ll always pass by some beautiful viewpoints.

On São Jorge, our tour first took us to Ilhéu do Topo . This is a small island off the easternmost point of São Jorge where you can spot birds.

The Espirito Santo festivities were also in full swing. The people from a village where we passed by were generous and welcoming, invited us to the celebrations, and offered us some of their soup and wine. (In exchange for a voluntary donation to their parish) It was a lot of fun to get to know the locals this way.

Personal tip: In the Azores, you’ll find a plethora of festivals happening throughout the year. For the inside scoop on all the upcoming events, we suggest popping into the tourist office. They’re always ready to fill you in on the latest happenings. Typically, you’ll find a tourist office conveniently located in the heart of the island’s main city. If you’re arriving by plane, keep an eye out for a desk in the arrivals hall—it’s your go-to for festival info right off the bat!

On the second day, we went bird-watching at Fajã dos Cubres and did a beautiful but pretty challenging hike at Norte Pequeno .

Hotels in São Jorge

Make it happen farm

Our stay at Make it Happen Farm was an unforgettable experience spanning two nights. Nestled on this idyllic “organic farm,” we found ourselves in charming detached houses, each exuding its own unique charm.

The farm boasts a spacious shared kitchen and living area, where we had the pleasure of cooking with ingredients freshly harvested from the land.

However, for those moments when cooking didn’t quite fit the bill, we discovered a handful of restaurants just a stone’s throw away. And when the weather was clear, we were treated to stunning views of the Pico volcano—a sight to behold indeed!

Great place to stay for a couple of days.

Day 10-12 Terceira

Leaving São Jorge behind, we hopped aboard a SATA Air Açores flight to Terceira, enjoying a quick 30-minute journey to our next destination.

Best Terceira Sights

From the airport, it’s only 10 minutes to the viewpoint of Serra Do Cume . Here, you get to enjoy a stunning vista across numerous meadows.

We also explored the historic streets of Angra do Heroismo , a charming town that’s listed as UNESCO World Heritage.

Moreover, we had the opportunity to explore the enchanting landscape of Furnas do Enxofre. This area, teeming with volcanic activity, offers a mesmerizing sight with fumes rising from fissures in the ground and the distinctive scent of sulfur lingering in the air. Yet, what truly captivated us were the vibrant hues of mosses that adorn this magical landscape, adding an extra layer of charm to the scene.

However, the true standout of our Terceira experience was the Algar do Carvão cave. Descending through a tunnel, we found ourselves in the depths of this 90-meter-deep cavern carved by lava. The entrance and the picturesque lake formed by rainwater took our breath away. Depending on the season, the water level of this lake can fluctuate from completely dry to a depth of up to 14 meters, adding to the cave’s allure.

Personal tip: Inside the cave, the temperature always ranges around 14 degrees Celsius (57 Fahrenheit) and water consistently drips down. So, make sure to bring a sweater and rain clothes.

Ticket fee : €10 per person 

If you don’t have a car you can  book an organized tour.   The tour visits the Algar do Carvão cave, the Gruto do Natal lava tunnel and Furnas do Enxofre.

Opening hours : Vary by season,( check their website )

You can also buy a combination ticket with Gruto do Natal.  These tickets cost €15.

Gruto do Natal is a lava tunnel that you can explore by yourself after a brief introduction and armed with a helmet and map.  While Gruto do Natal is less spectacular than Algor do Carvão, it is worth a visit to see the massive tunnels that have been created by the lava.

There are 2 loops in the Gruto do Natal. Route 1 is the easiest. Route 2 involves a bit more climbing and occasionally crawling through slightly narrow spaces, but should be suitable for most visitors.  Both loops aren’t too long at all and you can complete them in about 45 minutes.

Personal tip: We also advise dressing warmly and, most importantly, wearing appropriate footwear. This recommendation particularly applies to the second loop of the trail.

Ticket fee : €8 per person (or 15€ as a combi-ticket with Algar do Carvão)

Opening hours : vary by season ( check the website )

The Gruto do Natal is also the starting point of a beautiful hike.  The Mistérios Negros (PRC01TER)  hike is approximately 6 kilometers long and takes you past some beautiful lagoons and, of course, past the namesake mountains.

On Terceira, there are numerous natural swimming spots nestled among the rocky coastline. On sunny days, you’ll often find locals frolicking in these breathtaking pools created by nature. We personally found the swimming spots in Biscoitos to be absolutely stunning, complete with all the amenities you might need.

As a shivery person, I personally found it a little too cold to dive in myself, but there were plenty of others who thought otherwise. Even if you don’t want to swim yourself, Biscoitos is a beautiful place to drive by on a sunny day and enjoy the vibe.

When you’re taking a dip, it’s important to keep an eye out for the Portuguese man-of-war. These venomous jellyfish are quite common in these waters, and trust me, getting stung by one is far from enjoyable—putting it mildly.

One of the most unforgettable experiences we had on Terceira was witnessing a street bullfight.

These lively events take place from May 1 to October 15. During the spectacle, bulls dash through the streets for 15 to 30 minutes, guided by “pastores” holding onto long ropes.

While some daring individuals participate as voluntary bullfighters, most of us, including myself, prefer to observe from a safe distance, soaking in the rich cultural tradition of the Azores.

It’s important to note that these bulls are not harmed in any way during the event. Afterward, they are safely returned to their pastures.

While I typically oppose activities involving harm to animals, I felt compelled to witness this unique cultural event. Although I couldn’t help feeling a twinge of sadness seeing the bulls out of their natural habitat, I also appreciated the opportunity to immerse myself in this folkloric tradition during our Azores adventure.

Personal tip: You can pop into the tourist office and request a list of the dates and locations for these bullfights. It’s a handy resource to have for planning your Azores itinerary.

Here is an article with more fun things to do in Terceira

Hotels in Terceira

ALLuar Lodge

During our stay at the ALLUar Lodge, we were accommodated in quaint detached houses offering stunning views of the sea. Each cottage is equipped with a convenient kitchenette, and if you’re not in the mood to cook, there are several restaurants nearby.

One of the highlights of our mornings was the delivery of a delicious breakfast basket to our doorstep every day. We had the option to savor our breakfast in the comfort of our cottage, on the terrace overlooking the sea, or by the inviting swimming pool.

After a day filled with exploration, we loved unwinding with a few laps in the pool or simply lounging poolside, soaking up the peaceful atmosphere.

A great place to relax after a busy day.

Day 13-20 São Miguel

From Terceira, we flew to São Miguel, this flight takes about 40 minutes.

We have a post with all the info you need for island-hopping in the Azores .  Including info on how you save money on flights.

São Miguel is the largest and most touristy island of the Azores.

While you can get around most Azores Islands in just an hour, you’ll need more than an hour to just get from one side of São Miguel to the other.

Best São Miguel Sights

São Miguel boasts numerous stunning attractions that are must-sees during your Azores getaway.

Here we highlight the most important attractions.

If you’re seeking a comprehensive São Miguel itinerary, look no further! Click here to discover all the must-visit spots and plan your perfect adventure.

One of the most renowned attractions is the crater lake of Sete Cidades. You’ve likely come across this breathtaking sight before—it’s the iconic image of the Azores. These crater lakes often grace the photos of the Azores, and for good reason—they’re absolutely stunning.

The most beautiful views of this lake are from the viewpoints  Vista do Rei  and  Boca da Inferno .

Another highlight is the crater lake of Lagoa do Fogo . This lake is at its most photogenic at sunset.

Personal tip: Before you head out, it’s worth taking a moment to check if the lake isn’t shrouded in mist. You can easily do this by visiting the SpotAzores website. Here, you’ll find several webcams that provide real-time weather updates, including those positioned at the Lagoa de Fogo viewpoint.

The viewpoint of the lake is on the rim of the crater. There’s also a beautiful hike that takes you to the lakeshore. If you’re looking for an Azores hiking suggestion, look no further.

Just like Pico and Faial, São Miguel is an ideal destination for dolphin and whale watching in the Azores. While we didn’t have the chance to spot any whales, we were treated to the incredible sight of a large group of dolphins frolicking around our boat. Although it was disappointing to hear that the tours before us had spotted whales, the experience was still absolutely magical.

We booked our tour via GetYourGuide and were very happy with how everything was organized. 

This is what our tour looked like.

Initially, we received an expert explanation about the various species of whales and dolphins. Following this briefing, we embarked on a journey out to sea aboard a zodiac.

Accompanying us were not only the captain but also a knowledgeable naturalist. Whenever we spotted marine life, she provided us with ample information about the animals.

After the tour, she offered a brief recap of everything we had encountered and remained available to answer any further questions we had.

This tour comes highly recommended if you don’t only want to see these beautiful animals, but also would like to learn more about them.

Check prices and availability: Dolphin and whale watching tour

Read our complete post where we share the best whale and dolphin tours. 

Additionally, we also went for some relaxation in the thermal baths . On São Miguel, there are many natural hot springs in the vicinity of Furnas. We’ll tell you about the most famous ones below.

Personal tip: Do not forget your towel and slippers.

Parque Terra Nostra

Parque Terra Nostra features one large thermal bath and two smaller Jacuzzis. These smaller baths offer slightly hotter water, providing a cozy experience. What makes this park particularly enjoyable is that a visit includes access to the stunning botanical garden where the baths are nestled.

It wasn’t too crowded when we visited.

Opening hours : see webite

Caldeira Velha

These natural pools are nestled amidst the beauty of nature. Among them, the most popular and picturesque pool features a stunning waterfall. Despite Caldeira Velha’s authentic ambiance amidst splendid nature, its charm is somewhat diminished by the crowds.

We drove by three times, and each time, it was bustling with activity. Regrettably, we didn’t get the chance to explore the pools ourselves.

However, since our visit, they have expanded the parking area, and now you can also reserve a spot online in advance. This improvement should make visiting the baths much more convenient.

Check reviews on  Tripadvisor

Ticket fee : €10 per person for 2 hours. If you want to visit this site without bathing you pay €3. Children aged 7-14 pay half the price, and children younger than 7 are free.

Poça Da Dona Beija

You can also indulge in a relaxing soak at the thermal baths of Poça Da Dona Beija. This delightful spot boasts five baths, with the hottest ones reaching a toasty 39 degrees Celsius (102 Fahrenheit). Additionally, there’s a leisure area where you can unwind in water that’s a comfortable 28 degrees Celsius (82 Fahrenheit).

This is an amazing place to relax under the stars since it doesn’t close until 11 p.m.

Because we’d already visited Parque Terra Nostra, we didn’t visit these pools. But you can check out some reviews on TripAdvisor .

Ticket fee : €8 per person / Children 6 or younger: €6

Opening hours : daily from 8.30 am to 11 pm

The tea fields of Gorreana are a rare find in Europe, with the Azores’ favorable climate providing an ideal environment for tea cultivation. Compared to elsewhere in Europe, there are very few tea plantations, making Gorreana unique. This plantation operates on a small scale, with many tasks still performed manually. Visitors are welcome to explore the plantation and factory grounds freely, where they can witness firsthand the process of harvesting and further processing the tea leaves.

There’s also a small souvenir shop and while you visit the factory you can taste the tea free of charge, too.

Another must-visit attraction on São Miguel is its stunning array of waterfalls. In our experience, one of the most breathtaking and unspoiled waterfalls can be found near the beach of Moinhos. Additionally, the waterfall of Salto do Prego is absolutely worth exploring. The incredible hike to reach it is an adventure in itself and makes the trip truly worthwhile.

If you want to relax for a couple of days, have a look at our post in which we share the best beaches in São Miguel.

If you don’t have a car have a look at this post in which we share the best São Miguel tours. 

Hotels on São Miguel

We stayed the entire week in Furnas, but we wouldn’t necessarily recommend it. Since São Miguel is quite large, it takes about 90 minutes to drive from one side to the other. Therefore, we suggest splitting your stay between Furnas and Ponta Delgada.

Furnas is perfect for unwinding in the hot water baths and serves as a great base for exploring the rugged east coast of the island.

On the other hand, Ponta Delgada offers a wider variety of restaurants and is better situated for visiting other parts of the island.

Octant Furnas hotel

During our stay, we lodged at the Octant Furnas Hotel (formerly known as the Furnas Boutique hotel). The rooms were tastefully decorated and quite spacious. Each morning, we kicked off our day with a delightful breakfast served on the charming terrace.

After a full day of exploring, we found solace in the hotel’s thermal pools, sauna, and steam bath. While the restaurant’s menu was somewhat limited, we were pleased to discover some truly delicious options.

It’s worth noting that the restaurant consistently receives rave reviews on TripAdvisor, solidifying its place as one of the top dining options in Furnas.

Casa do Contador

Casa do Contador is conveniently located right in the heart of Ponta Delgada.

A mere 10-minute stroll from the hotel leads you to the vibrant boardwalk, where you can indulge in drinks or snacks at one of the many trendy bars dotting the area.

Additionally, all rooms at Casa do Contador are equipped with a small kitchenette for added convenience during your stay.

If you prefer staying in an Airbnb, have a look at the following posts:   Amazing Airbnbs in Ponta Delgada.  and the  best São Miguel Airbnbs.

Azores Travel Tips

Here are some handy travel tips for your Azores adventure!

Best Time to Visit the Azores

The best time to travel to the Azores is during spring and summer. If you love swimming, we advise you to visit during the summer.

We visited in June and the water was still quite cold. 

Here you can find more info about  the Azores climate and the best time to visit.

Are the Azores Expensive?

Although prices, in general, were slightly more expensive than in mainland Portugal, we found the Azores still quite cheap.

To give you an example: For a regular meal, we paid around €12-€15 per person. The gas was even cheaper than on the mainland.

The one thing we found to be more expensive was taxis.

So we advise you to rent a car .

But compared to other Western European countries, we didn’t find the Azores expensive. 

How to Get to the Azores and How to Get Azores Plane Tickets

First of all, let’s take a look at how to get to the Azores.

The Azores Islands are easily reachable by plane from the mainland of Portugal throughout the entire year.

As far as flights go, there’s no best time to visit the Azores—you can easily get there all year round. 

Both TAP and Azores Airlines offer multiple daily flights from Porto and Lisbon to the Azores.

Most flights are to Ponta Delgada on São Miguel, but there are also flights to the other islands. Note, however, that when flying to another island, you’ll often have a layover in Ponta Delgada.

There are also an increasing number of direct flights to the Azores from the United States and Canada. 

Azores Airlines flies to different cities in the USA and Canada and United has a direct flight between New York JFK and Ponta Delgada.

Going Independent or Joining an Organized Azores Tour

We found it easy to create our travel itinerary.  It was also fairly easy to travel through the Azores independently. 

But if you want the company of a group, don’t have the time to create your itinerary, or just don’t want to go independent, you could also join an organized tour. 

TourRadar  is a trustworthy company where you can book an organized tour to the Azores to make it easy on yourself. 

We wrote a complete post in which we share 6 of the best Azores tours ( hiking trips, island hopping trips, and tours that only visit São Miguel.

Check prices and availability: Organized Azores tours

Where to Stay in the Azores? 

You will find plenty of hotels in the Azores. From high-end hotels to ecolodge and small boutique hotels. In this itinerary, we mention per island where we stayed. 

Here you can find an overview of the best places to stay in the Azores .

If you prefer staying in an Airbnbs, have a look at our Azores Airbnb post in which we share the best Airbnbs on each island.

Do I Need Travel Insurance For the Azores?

When planning your vacation, don’t overlook travel insurance, even in safe destinations like Portugal. Initially, we skipped it, relying on credit card coverage, but learned the hard way. Medical costs in some countries can be surprisingly high.

Good travel insurance is worth the investment, covering medical expenses, trip cancellation, baggage loss, and more. Check out HeyMondo and SafetyWing for competitive rates.

If you still need travel insurance, check out HeyMondo and SafetyWing. Both companies offer good insurance for a competitive price.

Which Islands to visit in the Azores

When traveling, you usually have to make choices and that was certainly the case during our Azores trip.

We visited 5 of the 9 Azores Islands.

How Did we Make Our Selection?

We chose our destinations based on the activities available on each island and their accessibility.

As a result, we opted against visiting the more remote islands of Corvo and Flores this time around. However, we’re keen to explore them in the future.

Unfortunately, getting to these islands isn’t as straightforward, with flights being less reliable. They’re often canceled or delayed, which could disrupt our plans. Therefore, we’ve decided to save them for another trip.

How Many Days Do You Need in the Azores?

Determining the ideal amount of time to spend on each island can be challenging.

Ultimately, it depends on various factors such as your travel preferences, interest in hiking, and the specific attractions you wish to experience on each of the Azores islands.

Typically, you can explore the main highlights of most Azores islands within 2-3 days. São Miguel, being the largest island, is an exception, and we recommend spending at least 5-7 days to fully experience its attractions.

Certainly, you have the option to extend your stay on certain islands. However, the Azores travel itinerary we’ve selected, outlined below, provides ample time on each island to explore the main attractions of the archipelago.

How to Go Island Hopping in the Azores

You can categorize the archipelago into three distinct areas.

In the central region, you’ll discover Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico, and Faial. The latter three islands are situated within an hour’s boat ride from one another and are connected by ferry year-round.

To the west lie the islands of Corvo and Flores.

Finally, São Miguel and Santa Maria are situated in the eastern part of the archipelago.

Island hopping in the Azores is facilitated by plane or ferry transport.

All Azores Islands have an airport, even teeny-tiny Corvo.

Azores Airlines has flights to all the islands all year round. You shouldn’t have any trouble finding a Lisbon to Azores flight, or a flight in between the 9 Azores islands.

Note, however, that during the high season (June-August),  flights tend to sell out. Therefore, we recommend booking your plane tickets well in advance.

The ferry runs throughout most of the year except for the winter months. However, you should know that outside the summer months, only a very small selection of routes are available.

Ferry routes connect Pico with Faial and Saõ Jorge. There’s also a direct connection between Corvo and Flores. In the peak season, there’s also a ferry to Graciosa and Terceira.

The other islands, Sao Miguel and Santa Maria, can’t be reached by ferry.

The ferry is operated by AtlânticoLine . Their fleet consists of 5 boats, 2 of which are capable of transporting a small number of vehicles (12 and 15).

You can find more information about ferry routes and times on the AtlânticoLine website . It’s also possible to book tickets on their website.

Check our island-hopping article for a more in-depth look at the various ferry routes.

We suggest booking your tickets in advance, especially in the high season (July-August). Some routes are only served intermittently and it can get pretty busy that time of year. With a ticket, you’re sure to have a spot on the ferry of your choice.

How Did We Do It?

For our island hopping trip in the Azores, we utilized a mix of ferry and airplane travel.

The proximity of Pico, Faial, and São Jorge made ferry travel the most convenient option, while the more remote islands were best reached by plane.

Upon arrival on each island, we rented a car to facilitate exploration. Car rental offices are conveniently located at all ports and airports, and although changing cars for each island wasn’t initially appealing, the process proved to be seamless.

While planning our Azores trip itinerary, I considered taking our rental car on the ferry to save costs but ultimately found it wasn’t economical.

For more details

For island hopping in the Azores, we utilized a mix of ferry and airplane travel.

While planning our Azores trip itinerary, I considered taking our rental car on the ferry to save costs, but ultimately found it wasn’t economical.

For more details on navigating the Azores and why we chose a rental car, refer to the information provided below.

Renting a Car in The Azores

Car rental offices are conveniently available at all ports and airports in the Azores, allowing us to rent a car for each island we visited.

Although initially hesitant about changing cars frequently, the process was smooth and hassle-free.

While considering ferrying our rental car between islands to potentially save money, we found that it wouldn’t have been cost-effective. Nonetheless, switching cars between islands is straightforward and quick.

Driving in the Azores is easy, with well-maintained roads and courteous drivers.

Booking your rental car in advance is generally cheaper, and platforms like Discover Cars and Rentalcars.com offer easy comparison of quotes from both international and local brands.

We typically find the best deals on Discover Cars.

Here you can find all info on how to rent a car in the Azores. 

The Azores offer a breathtaking experience for nature enthusiasts and hikers alike. Despite being not too far away, it’s a refreshing departure from our usual surroundings back home. It’s one of those destinations we’re eagerly looking forward to revisiting in the future.

Our Azores itinerary allowed us to explore five of the nine islands. Most of the Azores remain untouched, with minimal tourist presence. During our hikes, we often encountered no one else or just a handful of fellow adventurers. Only São Miguel seems to have attracted more tourists.

For sports enthusiasts, the Azores offer a plethora of activities to enjoy. We’re already planning our return to explore the remaining heavenly islands

If you only have a week in the Azores, check out this 7-day Azores itinerary.

In our Azores travel guide , you can find all our Azores posts.

See the web story that accompanies this post.

If you like this post, pin it: 

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About This Tour

Enter an untouched paradise on an adventure through the Azores, the archipelago gems of Portugal. Explore the rim of the Sete Cidades Caldera. Indulge in a traditional cozido das furnas meal, cooked by the heat of the volcanic earth. Descend into Algar do Carvao, the “Cavern of Coal” lava tube, with an expert guide. Enjoy a home-hosted meal during your stay in Sao Miguel Island. Spend 3 nights in a lava stone house. From thermal pools and lush craters to local farms and volcanic cuisine, delve into the culture of Portuguese island life.

Your Tour Includes

• 5 Handpicked Accommodations
• 4 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

• Off-Road Sete Cidades Experience
• Terra Nostra Botanical Garden & Thermal Pool
• Furnas Valley
• Home-Hosted Dinner

Your Tour at a Glance

12 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Explorations

On Tour Air

Customize your tour.

Optional Excursions

Starting at $75.00

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

On Tour Air Included

• The cost of all internal flights on tour or within an extension are included into the total tour cost on our website and brochures.
• Purchasing internal flights through Collette is now required on tours where applicable.
• This price continues to exclude all round-trip air getting to and from the tour, as well as any additional air segments required to arrive at or depart from an extension.
• The cost displayed is based on availability at the time of booking.

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Discover Pico’s exclusive wines.

Descend into Algar do Carvao, an ancient lava tube, with a local expert.

Admire views of Pico Volcano, the highest point in Portugal.

Cultural Experiences:

Spend 3 nights in the eco-friendly lava stone houses of Aldeia da Fonte, Pico Island.

Traverse the entire rim of the Sete Cidades caldera and gaze upon the twin lakes.

Swim in natural volcanic pools.

Culinary Inclusions:

Experience a truly unique cozido das furnas lunch in Furnas valley.

Enjoy a home-hosted meal at a village in the Sao Miguel Island.

• Angra do Heroismo
• Algar do Carvao
• Natural Volcanic Pools
• Choices on Tour
• Volcanic Stone House Stay
• Pico Wine Museum

Book with Confidence

* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
• Top Rated Travel Protection

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour, upgrade your room.

Hotel Upgrade

Pre and Post Tour Extensions

• Choice On Tour

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Room Upgrade

Hotel-Grand Hotel Acores Atlantico

You may choose to upgrade your room at the Grand Hotel Acores Atlantico in Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel to an ocean view room for your first 3-nights of the tour. Take in the sparkling coastline and wake up to an incomparable view.

*Total for all passengers

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

Choose between a dip in relaxing waters and a visit to a gorgeous botanical garden. For the first choice, take a dip into the warm, mineral-enriched waters of the Terra Nostra pool. While you soak in the thermal spring waters, take in the gorgeous surrounding views of Terra Nostra Park and the Valley of Furnas. Savor the views in addition to appreciating the history; the pool was built in the 18th century by the American consul to the Azores. Your second choice is to embark on a guided visit to the organic paradise that is the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden. From colorful flowers to palm trees, aquatic plants, bamboo, azaleas, and more, stroll through the garden alongside your guide to see what’s in bloom.

Choose between two museums today. For your first choice, visit the Horta Museum and see Baroque artwork as well as exhibitions of religious paintings that illustrate gold and silversmithing and ivory. Walk through spaces adorned with antique furniture and pianos from the 19th and 20th centuries. Your second choice is a visit to the Scrimshaw Museum, featuring engraved whalebones and teeth from sperm whales. The fascinating collection showcases works by the best scrimshaw artists on the Faial islands. Exhibitions preserve the history of whaling and spirit of adventure that is a core part of the Azores. Make your way through the history of whaling and the scrimshaw artistry at this lovely museum located in one of the most famous sailing Cafes in the world.

Extend your stay in Portugal with 3 nights in Lisbon – the country’s vibrant capital city. See the city like never before – zooming to the famous sights via tuk-tuk and tram! Enjoy ample free time to discover Lisbon’s hidden charms on your own. Take advantage of the city’s savory cuisine, lively energy, and colorful promenades.

• Experience Lisbon, Portugal’s capital city where old traditions intermingle with modern twists. See the city on a lively tuk-tuk tour, zooming through the urban energy from the back seat of an open-air vehicle. Venture through the city's beloved neighborhoods. After becoming acquainted with the area, enjoy the rest of your day at leisure to explore on your own.
• See the city from a different perspective - via tram! With a local guide, hop on and learn to navigate this widespread trolley system! Your guide will take you to Lisbon’s famous sights, including Jeronimo’s Monastery (UNESCO), the Monument to the Discoveries, and the Tower of Belem (UNESCO). Make the most of an afternoon to yourself, perhaps taking the historic tram to the vibrant Alfama district. Gather in the evening for dinner in a local restaurant, getting a taste of some of Portugal’s favorite flavors.
• The day is yours! Take advantage of your day at leisure; maybe stroll along Praça do Comércio, or even make your way to the São Jorge Castle for a sprawling panorama of the city.
• Wish Lisbon goodbye as you depart for home.

Taste your way through the unique, natural flavors of São Miguel. This afternoon, stop at a local gin production facility, where traditional botanical ingredients like rosemary and juniper are blended with local, sustainably sourced seaweed. Drinks and bottles of gin sold here support marine conservation locally, through a donation to the Ocean Azores Foundation. Enjoy a light, farmhouse-style lunch on the beautiful grounds of the facility. Cap off this afternoon excursion with a visit to a pineapple plantation that is more than 100 years old. You’ll see the plantation and where the pineapples grow before getting the chance to sip on an expertly prepared pineapple cocktail.

This morning, see what lies on the western side of Terceira Island. Take in the beautiful coastal views along the way before visiting a banana plantation, where bright green banana leaves and blue skies meet. After sipping on coffee and sampling some bananas or other seasonal fruits, you’ll visit a family-owned cheese factory. The family owns cows that roam freely with plenty of space and grass at a nearby farm, and many say the milk of these “happy cows” leads to a tastier cheese. After learning about the production process and the family history, gather for a light lunch of local products.

Indulge your taste buds and connect with Portuguese cuisine and culture at a home-hosted meal where local wines and petiscos, or Portuguese tapas, will be the start of a great night! Enjoy different wines, liquors and taste some of Portugal's and the Azores iconic foods. Portugal has been producing and exporting wine since the age of the ancient Romans – and it’s only gotten better with time! Relax at this local home and feel as if you are meeting an old friend!

By zodiac, venture out into the blue Atlantic and keep your eyes peeled for up to 25 species of whales. Learn about the culture of whales in the Azores from an expert biologist, detailing the social shift of whale treatment in the area. From whale hunting to whale watching, you’ll understand the cultural evolution that has led to respecting these peaceful animals in present day. Witness the majestic beasts surfacing for air, spraying water in clouds of mist. Sperm whales, pilot whales, and pods of dolphins frequent the Azorean waters. End your experience with lunch of local favorites.

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: Grand Hotel Acores Atlantico From $110 per night

Grand Hotel Acores Atlantico

Zenite boutique hotel & spa, hotel do canal, aldeia da fonte nature hotel.

Nights 9-11

Iberostar Selection Lisboa

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PEKIN, Elektrostal - Lenina Ave. 40/8 - Restaurant Reviews, Photos & Phone Number - Tripadvisor