Azores (São Miguel Island)- The Ultimate Guide with links
↓THINGS TO KNOW↓
Stay protected with travel insurance:
How To Get Here:
You'll need to fly into Ponta Delgada Airport (João Paulo II Airport). There are flights from mainland Portugal + other international destinations. I personally recommend flying with SATA Azores Airlines, as it was one of my most positive flight experiences!
How To Get Around:
Getting around São Miguel in the Azores can be achieved in several ways. Regardless of your chosen mode of transportation, always ensure you have a map or a reliable GPS system, especially if you're venturing into more remote areas of the island:
1. **Rent a Car, Scooters, and Motorbikes**-- This is the most popular and convenient option for many visitors. The island's road network is well-maintained, and having your own vehicle provides the flexibility to explore the island's many attractions at your own pace. There are several car rental agencies available at the airport and in Ponta Delgada.
Car Rentals:
You can also directly reach out to smaller companies like:
- “Happy Azores Rent a Car” (Whatsapp: +351 968 469 275) for car rentals - “Auto Ramalhense” (Whatsapp: +351 919 015 778) for automatic motorbike rentals.
2. **Public Buses**-- São Miguel has a public bus system operated by two main companies, CRPDL and EVT. While they are economical, the routes primarily cater to locals, so they may not always be convenient for tourists. Schedules might be limited, especially outside of Ponta Delgada.
3. **Taxis**-- Taxis are available and can be a convenient way to get around, especially for short distances. They can be hailed in Ponta Delgada or called ahead in other parts of the island. You can get taxi numbers upon arrival at the airport, or you can try contacting these numbers on WhatsApp: (+351 913 100 446) or (+351 914 161 585)
4. **Guided Tours**: There are several tour operators on São Miguel offering guided tours to the island's main attractions. This option is great for those who prefer not to drive and want a more structured experience with local insights.
5. **Cycling**: For the active traveler, renting a bicycle can be a great way to explore parts of São Miguel. However, the island's hilly terrain will be challenging for some, and not ideal for ambitious/busy itineraries.
6. **Walking**: In towns and villages, walking is an enjoyable way to explore spots like Ponta Delgada. However, for longer distances between attractions, it is not practical.
Best Time To Visit + Weather
Given São Miguel's evergreen appeal, there's really no wrong time to visit. Your decision might be influenced by the type of activities you want to engage in and your tolerance for crowds. Always check local event calendars, as festivals and events might further influence your decision on when to go. ⬇️
**Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)**:
—WEATHER: These months generally have the warmest and driest weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and sightseeing.
—CROWDS: July and August are the peak tourist months, so you can expect more visitors and higher accommodation prices. However, the atmosphere is lively, and many local festivals take place.
**Late Fall to Early Spring (October to April)**:
—WEATHER: These months are cooler and have a higher chance of rainfall. However, the Azores are known for their ever-changing weather, so even in these months, you can experience bursts of sunshine.
—CROWDS: Fewer tourists visit during this period, making it a more tranquil time to explore the island. This can also mean lower accommodation prices and more personal interactions with locals.
—ACTIVITIES: It's a great time for hot spring baths, like those in Furnas, since the cooler weather makes the warm waters even more inviting.**Whale Watching**: If you're particularly interested in whale watching, the Azores are a hotspot. The peak season for spotting various species, including the giant blue whale, is from April to June.
Where to Stay:
This depends on the length of your trip and the activities you plan to do! If it's a short trip, staying in or near Ponta Delgada might be more convenient. If you love hot springs, Furnas is a no-brainer. If you're into surfing, consider Ribeira Grande. Regardless of where you stay, the island's relatively small size means that with a rental car, most attractions are accessible within a day trip.
I've done extensive research and included the best options + descriptions from all 4 main areas of the island (:
If you're specifically looking for cheap hostels/private rooms, I love using Hostel World! It will also provide you with a chat for other travelers visiting during your stay, which can be useful for solo travelers: https://hostelworld.tp.st/Xiu3ebmP
PONTA DELGADA (South): This is the capital and the largest city of both São Miguel and the Azores archipelago. It's the primary hub for dining, shopping, and nightlife, and features a blend of historical and modern attractions. ⬇️
Budget ($)
Mid Range ($$)
Luxury ($$$)
FURNAS (East): Located in a volcanic crater, Furnas is renowned for its thermal springs, botanical gardens, and the iconic Lagoa das Furnas. The town is also famous for the "cozido das Furnas" – a stew cooked underground by volcanic steam. ⬇️
Budget ($)
Mid Range ($$)
Luxury ($$$)
RIBEIRA GRANDE (North): This northern town is distinguished by its beautiful beaches, historic buildings, and cultural landmarks. It's also a popular spot for surfers due to its Atlantic waves. ⬇️
Budget ($)
Mid Range ($$)
Luxury ($$$)
SETE CIDADES (West): This northern town is distinguished by its beautiful beaches, historic buildings, and cultural landmarks. It's also a popular spot for surfers due to its Atlantic waves. ⬇️
--There are not many options in this area, so options listed below are mid range to luxury pricing--
Tours/Activities
All links to book these tours are in the beginning of their descriptions! Their locations on the map are their listed meeting points for their tour.
I did not include tours for hikes, as the popular hikes can easily be discovered by car and allow for you to take your time with sightseeing and taking pictures! However if you are interested in this type of tour, there are plenty on Viator and GetYourGuide(:
(This does not include any hikes/beaches/waterfalls, as there will be an entire section for that).
Beaches
Hikes + Waterfalls
Before going, please make sure to check the "link" section for a direct link to the most up to date conditions of the destination when available.
Please also make sure to check the webcams to know the weather conditions in advance: https://www.spotazores.com/ilha/são-miguel/
Viewpoints
Not a hiker and simply rather drive to see beautiful views? Check out some of the island's best viewpoints below! (Some may involve a very short walk).
Please also make sure to check the webcams to know the weather conditions in advance: https://www.spotazores.com/ilha/são-miguel/
Hot Springs & Thermal Baths
Recommendation: Avoid wearing white when visiting hot springs and thermal baths due to many of the springs being rich in minerals. The iron, sulfur, and other minerals present in the waters can stain light-colored clothing, and white is particularly susceptible. Over time, these minerals can settle into the fabric and become challenging to wash out completely. The minerals can also degrade the elasticity of swimwear over time, so consider using older or dedicated swimwear when frequenting these hot springs.
Where To Eat:
Remember, opening hours and offerings can vary seasonally, so it's always a good idea to check ahead or make a reservation where possible. Enjoy your culinary journey in São Miguel! Menus are linked when available.
BREAKFAST:
LUNCH & DINNER
Useful Apps & Links:
-Island webcams: Make sure to check the webcams for the most up to date conditions! If it's cloudy, it may be best to reorder your days for a location with clear weather. https://www.spotazores.com/ilha/são-miguel/
-Travel insurance: Stay protected with Ekta travel insurance! https://ektatraveling.tp.st/TG377tUH
-Download Google Maps and/or Maps.me apps. Before your trip, download the map of São Miguel, and you can use it for navigation without internet access. I like to use google maps and download the offline map since it is the easiest and most widely used!
-Azores Trails: Useful for hiking enthusiasts, this app provides detailed information on various trails around the Azores, including their length, difficulty, and sights. https://trails.visitazores.com/en/trails-azores/sao-miguel
Bonus: 7 day Itinerary
This itinerary is meant to be a rough guide if you don't know where to start or how to plan out your days! It's recommended to do 1 region per day. Feel free to swap things out or plan your trip completely different (:
Need help packing? Check out my categorized products to see if you’re missing anything!
Day 1: Arrival
-Arrive in Ponta Delgada airport in the morning + pick up your rental!
-Check into your private room at "Out Of The Blue"
-Explore the city of Ponta Delgada.
-Lunch at A Tasca, where you can dine inside a volcanic cave.
-Spend the evening exploring the small town and getting settled.
Day 2: Furnas
-Grab a quick breakfast sandwich and coffee from Prince of Cheese
-Gorreana Tea Plantation. If you have any interest in tea, definitely take the tour and walk the grounds!
-Miradouro Pico do Ferro Viewpoint
-Head to Restaurante Tony's to try Cozido das Furnas
-Lagoa das Furnas
-End the day at Poça da Dona Beija
Day 3: Sete Cidade
-Breakfast at Intz48 Coffee Roasters
-Miradouro do Pico do Carvão
-Easy/moderate hike to see Lagoa do Canario & Miradouro Grota do Inferno!
-Head to Green Love for lunch, and check out Lagoa das Sete Cidades while in the area!
-Praia dos Mosteiros. There are a few nearby "restaurants" walking distance from the beach where you can get a pizza or other meal to-go. Bring it to the beach to eat while the sun sets!
Day 4: Lagoa Do Fogo
-Join the Whale/Dolphin tour + Vila Franca Islet!
-If you still have energy, I highly recommend visiting Praia Santa Barbara for the evening. Watch surfers catch some waves and a vivid sunset. There is a restaurant here as well- TukáTulá Beach Bar
Day 5: Ponta Delgada
-Enjoy a relaxing day on the Small-Group Food Tour
-Final moments on the beach of Praia do Fogo
-Dinner at Cais 20
Day 6: Nordeste
-Join the Ribeira dos Caldeiroes Canyoning Experience
- Miradouro Ponta do Sossego
-Miradouro Ponta Madrugada
-Spend the night in Ponta Delgada. Enjoy dinner at Taberna Acor.
Day 7: Departure
-Relaxing morning in Ponta Delgada! Grab a coffee from Louvre Michaelense.
-Visit Ananas Dos Acores for free to tour the plantation + sample their pineapple treats.
-Time to catch a flight to your next destination! Follow @thequidedtravels for an upcomingquide to Madeira Island (Direct flights offered by SATA airlines)
-Say Goodbye
+
4 DAY ITINERARY:
I recommend spending at least a week here, but if you're short on time, I hope this guide helps!
Rent a car here: https://rentalcars.tp.st/pIwRXsDf
Day 1: Arrival To Ponta Delgada and Surroundings
-Arrive in Ponta Delgada airport in the morning + pick up your rental!
-Check into your private room at "Out Of The Blue"
-Explore the city of Ponta Delgada.
-Lunch at A Tasca, where you can dine inside a volcanic cave.
-Drive to Praia do Areal de Santa Barbara for a beautiful sunset on the beach, and dinnerat their TukáTulá Beach Bar
Day 2: Sete Cidades and the West
-Grab something light from Intz48 Coffee Roasters.
-Head to Miradouro da Boca do Inferno for an easy hike and breathtaking views over SeteCidades' lakes. Drive around the Sete Cidades crater and stop at various viewpoints after!
-Lunch at Green Love: Lakeside Lounge for a lakeside meal.
-Watch the best sunsets on the island at either Praia dos Mosteiros or Ponta do Castelo.
Day 3: Explore the Sea
-Enjoy an early breakfast from Cafe Royal.
-Join an 8 hour tour that includes Whales, dolphins, Vila Franca Islet, and lunch!
-If you still have energy, drive to Lagoa do Fogo in the evening for panoramic views and ahike down to the lake.
-Dinner at Quinta dos Sabores.
Day 4: Departure
-Relaxing morning in Ponta Delgada! Grab a coffee from Louvre Michaelense.
-Visit Ananas Dos Acores for free to tour the plantation + sample their pineapple treats.
-Time to catch a flight to your next destination! Follow @thequidedtravels for an upcomingquide to Madeira Island (Direct flights offered by SATA airlines)
-Say Goodbye
Azores (São Miguel Island)- The Ultimate Guide with links
↓THINGS TO KNOW↓
Stay protected with travel insurance:
How To Get Here:
You'll need to fly into Ponta Delgada Airport (João Paulo II Airport). There are flights from mainland Portugal + other international destinations. I personally recommend flying with SATA Azores Airlines, as it was one of my most positive flight experiences!
How To Get Around:
Getting around São Miguel in the Azores can be achieved in several ways. Regardless of your chosen mode of transportation, always ensure you have a map or a reliable GPS system, especially if you're venturing into more remote areas of the island:
1. **Rent a Car, Scooters, and Motorbikes**-- This is the most popular and convenient option for many visitors. The island's road network is well-maintained, and having your own vehicle provides the flexibility to explore the island's many attractions at your own pace. There are several car rental agencies available at the airport and in Ponta Delgada.
Car Rentals:
You can also directly reach out to smaller companies like:
- “Happy Azores Rent a Car” (Whatsapp: +351 968 469 275) for car rentals - “Auto Ramalhense” (Whatsapp: +351 919 015 778) for automatic motorbike rentals.
2. **Public Buses**-- São Miguel has a public bus system operated by two main companies, CRPDL and EVT. While they are economical, the routes primarily cater to locals, so they may not always be convenient for tourists. Schedules might be limited, especially outside of Ponta Delgada.
3. **Taxis**-- Taxis are available and can be a convenient way to get around, especially for short distances. They can be hailed in Ponta Delgada or called ahead in other parts of the island. You can get taxi numbers upon arrival at the airport, or you can try contacting these numbers on WhatsApp: (+351 913 100 446) or (+351 914 161 585)
4. **Guided Tours**: There are several tour operators on São Miguel offering guided tours to the island's main attractions. This option is great for those who prefer not to drive and want a more structured experience with local insights.
5. **Cycling**: For the active traveler, renting a bicycle can be a great way to explore parts of São Miguel. However, the island's hilly terrain will be challenging for some, and not ideal for ambitious/busy itineraries.
6. **Walking**: In towns and villages, walking is an enjoyable way to explore spots like Ponta Delgada. However, for longer distances between attractions, it is not practical.
Best Time To Visit + Weather
Given São Miguel's evergreen appeal, there's really no wrong time to visit. Your decision might be influenced by the type of activities you want to engage in and your tolerance for crowds. Always check local event calendars, as festivals and events might further influence your decision on when to go. ⬇️
**Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)**:
—WEATHER: These months generally have the warmest and driest weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and sightseeing.
—CROWDS: July and August are the peak tourist months, so you can expect more visitors and higher accommodation prices. However, the atmosphere is lively, and many local festivals take place.
**Late Fall to Early Spring (October to April)**:
—WEATHER: These months are cooler and have a higher chance of rainfall. However, the Azores are known for their ever-changing weather, so even in these months, you can experience bursts of sunshine.
—CROWDS: Fewer tourists visit during this period, making it a more tranquil time to explore the island. This can also mean lower accommodation prices and more personal interactions with locals.
—ACTIVITIES: It's a great time for hot spring baths, like those in Furnas, since the cooler weather makes the warm waters even more inviting.**Whale Watching**: If you're particularly interested in whale watching, the Azores are a hotspot. The peak season for spotting various species, including the giant blue whale, is from April to June.
Where to Stay:
This depends on the length of your trip and the activities you plan to do! If it's a short trip, staying in or near Ponta Delgada might be more convenient. If you love hot springs, Furnas is a no-brainer. If you're into surfing, consider Ribeira Grande. Regardless of where you stay, the island's relatively small size means that with a rental car, most attractions are accessible within a day trip.
I've done extensive research and included the best options + descriptions from all 4 main areas of the island (:
If you're specifically looking for cheap hostels/private rooms, I love using Hostel World! It will also provide you with a chat for other travelers visiting during your stay, which can be useful for solo travelers: https://hostelworld.tp.st/Xiu3ebmP
PONTA DELGADA (South): This is the capital and the largest city of both São Miguel and the Azores archipelago. It's the primary hub for dining, shopping, and nightlife, and features a blend of historical and modern attractions. ⬇️
Budget ($)
Mid Range ($$)
Luxury ($$$)
FURNAS (East): Located in a volcanic crater, Furnas is renowned for its thermal springs, botanical gardens, and the iconic Lagoa das Furnas. The town is also famous for the "cozido das Furnas" – a stew cooked underground by volcanic steam. ⬇️
Budget ($)
Mid Range ($$)
Luxury ($$$)
RIBEIRA GRANDE (North): This northern town is distinguished by its beautiful beaches, historic buildings, and cultural landmarks. It's also a popular spot for surfers due to its Atlantic waves. ⬇️
Budget ($)
Mid Range ($$)
Luxury ($$$)
SETE CIDADES (West): This northern town is distinguished by its beautiful beaches, historic buildings, and cultural landmarks. It's also a popular spot for surfers due to its Atlantic waves. ⬇️
--There are not many options in this area, so options listed below are mid range to luxury pricing--
Tours/Activities
All links to book these tours are in the beginning of their descriptions! Their locations on the map are their listed meeting points for their tour.
I did not include tours for hikes, as the popular hikes can easily be discovered by car and allow for you to take your time with sightseeing and taking pictures! However if you are interested in this type of tour, there are plenty on Viator and GetYourGuide(:
(This does not include any hikes/beaches/waterfalls, as there will be an entire section for that).
Beaches
Hikes + Waterfalls
Before going, please make sure to check the "link" section for a direct link to the most up to date conditions of the destination when available.
Please also make sure to check the webcams to know the weather conditions in advance: https://www.spotazores.com/ilha/são-miguel/
Viewpoints
Not a hiker and simply rather drive to see beautiful views? Check out some of the island's best viewpoints below! (Some may involve a very short walk).
Please also make sure to check the webcams to know the weather conditions in advance: https://www.spotazores.com/ilha/são-miguel/
Hot Springs & Thermal Baths
Recommendation: Avoid wearing white when visiting hot springs and thermal baths due to many of the springs being rich in minerals. The iron, sulfur, and other minerals present in the waters can stain light-colored clothing, and white is particularly susceptible. Over time, these minerals can settle into the fabric and become challenging to wash out completely. The minerals can also degrade the elasticity of swimwear over time, so consider using older or dedicated swimwear when frequenting these hot springs.
Where To Eat:
Remember, opening hours and offerings can vary seasonally, so it's always a good idea to check ahead or make a reservation where possible. Enjoy your culinary journey in São Miguel! Menus are linked when available.
BREAKFAST:
LUNCH & DINNER
Useful Apps & Links:
-Island webcams: Make sure to check the webcams for the most up to date conditions! If it's cloudy, it may be best to reorder your days for a location with clear weather. https://www.spotazores.com/ilha/são-miguel/
-Travel insurance: Stay protected with Ekta travel insurance! https://ektatraveling.tp.st/TG377tUH
-Download Google Maps and/or Maps.me apps. Before your trip, download the map of São Miguel, and you can use it for navigation without internet access. I like to use google maps and download the offline map since it is the easiest and most widely used!
-Azores Trails: Useful for hiking enthusiasts, this app provides detailed information on various trails around the Azores, including their length, difficulty, and sights. https://trails.visitazores.com/en/trails-azores/sao-miguel
Bonus: 7 day Itinerary
This itinerary is meant to be a rough guide if you don't know where to start or how to plan out your days! It's recommended to do 1 region per day. Feel free to swap things out or plan your trip completely different (:
Need help packing? Check out my categorized products to see if you’re missing anything!
Day 1: Arrival
-Arrive in Ponta Delgada airport in the morning + pick up your rental!
-Check into your private room at "Out Of The Blue"
-Explore the city of Ponta Delgada.
-Lunch at A Tasca, where you can dine inside a volcanic cave.
-Spend the evening exploring the small town and getting settled.
Day 2: Furnas
-Grab a quick breakfast sandwich and coffee from Prince of Cheese
-Gorreana Tea Plantation. If you have any interest in tea, definitely take the tour and walk the grounds!
-Miradouro Pico do Ferro Viewpoint
-Head to Restaurante Tony's to try Cozido das Furnas
-Lagoa das Furnas
-End the day at Poça da Dona Beija
Day 3: Sete Cidade
-Breakfast at Intz48 Coffee Roasters
-Miradouro do Pico do Carvão
-Easy/moderate hike to see Lagoa do Canario & Miradouro Grota do Inferno!
-Head to Green Love for lunch, and check out Lagoa das Sete Cidades while in the area!
-Praia dos Mosteiros. There are a few nearby "restaurants" walking distance from the beach where you can get a pizza or other meal to-go. Bring it to the beach to eat while the sun sets!
Day 4: Lagoa Do Fogo
-Join the Whale/Dolphin tour + Vila Franca Islet!
-If you still have energy, I highly recommend visiting Praia Santa Barbara for the evening. Watch surfers catch some waves and a vivid sunset. There is a restaurant here as well- TukáTulá Beach Bar
Day 5: Ponta Delgada
-Enjoy a relaxing day on the Small-Group Food Tour
-Final moments on the beach of Praia do Fogo
-Dinner at Cais 20
Day 6: Nordeste
-Join the Ribeira dos Caldeiroes Canyoning Experience
- Miradouro Ponta do Sossego
-Miradouro Ponta Madrugada
-Spend the night in Ponta Delgada. Enjoy dinner at Taberna Acor.
Day 7: Departure
-Relaxing morning in Ponta Delgada! Grab a coffee from Louvre Michaelense.
-Visit Ananas Dos Acores for free to tour the plantation + sample their pineapple treats.
-Time to catch a flight to your next destination! Follow @thequidedtravels for an upcomingquide to Madeira Island (Direct flights offered by SATA airlines)
-Say Goodbye
+
4 DAY ITINERARY:
I recommend spending at least a week here, but if you're short on time, I hope this guide helps!
Rent a car here: https://rentalcars.tp.st/pIwRXsDf
Day 1: Arrival To Ponta Delgada and Surroundings
-Arrive in Ponta Delgada airport in the morning + pick up your rental!
-Check into your private room at "Out Of The Blue"
-Explore the city of Ponta Delgada.
-Lunch at A Tasca, where you can dine inside a volcanic cave.
-Drive to Praia do Areal de Santa Barbara for a beautiful sunset on the beach, and dinnerat their TukáTulá Beach Bar
Day 2: Sete Cidades and the West
-Grab something light from Intz48 Coffee Roasters.
-Head to Miradouro da Boca do Inferno for an easy hike and breathtaking views over SeteCidades' lakes. Drive around the Sete Cidades crater and stop at various viewpoints after!
-Lunch at Green Love: Lakeside Lounge for a lakeside meal.
-Watch the best sunsets on the island at either Praia dos Mosteiros or Ponta do Castelo.
Day 3: Explore the Sea
-Enjoy an early breakfast from Cafe Royal.
-Join an 8 hour tour that includes Whales, dolphins, Vila Franca Islet, and lunch!
-If you still have energy, drive to Lagoa do Fogo in the evening for panoramic views and ahike down to the lake.
-Dinner at Quinta dos Sabores.
Day 4: Departure
-Relaxing morning in Ponta Delgada! Grab a coffee from Louvre Michaelense.
-Visit Ananas Dos Acores for free to tour the plantation + sample their pineapple treats.
-Time to catch a flight to your next destination! Follow @thequidedtravels for an upcomingquide to Madeira Island (Direct flights offered by SATA airlines)
-Say Goodbye