Why Go to The Azores
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
The Azores feel like the setting of a fantasy novel. These nine volcanic islands in the middle of the Atlantic, about 900 miles west of mainland Portugal, are covered in green hills, crater lakes, hot springs and dramatic cliffs, and they're one of Europe's most magical and still-undiscovered destinations.
On Sao Miguel, the largest island, see the twin blue and green lakes of Sete Cidades inside a huge caldera, hike around the crater lake of Lagoa do Fogo, and soak in naturally heated thermal pools in the Furnas Valley, where locals even cook a stew underground using volcanic heat. Visit Europe's only tea plantations and pineapple greenhouses. The waters around the Azores are one of the best places in the world to see whales and dolphins, with many species passing through. Each island has its own character, from the vineyards of Pico, a UNESCO site beneath Portugal's highest mountain, to the colorful harbor of Faial, a favorite stop for transatlantic sailors.
The Azores are just a few hours' flight from Boston and other U.S. cities. I'll plan your island-hopping route, whale-watching and hiking, and pair the Azores with Lisbon.
BEST FOR
Hikers, nature lovers, whale watchers and road-trippers
BEST MONTHS
May–September for generally better outdoor conditions
EXPLORE
Ponta Delgada is the main base on São Miguel; Furnas is known for geothermal landscapes; Terceira has Angra do Heroísmo; Pico is known for its mountain and vineyards.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
The Azores
Europe › Macaronesia › Portugal › Azores
Volcanic islands, green crater lakes and Atlantic horizons
National Parks & Nature
Adventure
Volcanic
Nature
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Base your itinerary on the islands you actually plan to visit—São Miguel's Sete Cidades and Furnas are not on every island. Keep viewpoint visits flexible for fast-changing cloud cover, and allow generous buffers when connecting between islands by air or sea.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Mountain fog can hide the views; check the forecast before driving up.
Sete Cidades
See the crater lakes and green volcanic landscape of Sete Cidades on São Miguel, with viewpoints above the twin lakes.
Observe protected-area rules and any seasonal road restrictions.
Lagoa do Fogo
Admire a dramatic crater lake surrounded by protected highland vegetation on São Miguel.
Stay on marked paths near hot ground and steam vents.
Furnas Valley
Explore geothermal springs, steaming vents and lush scenery in São Miguel’s Furnas area.
Check entry policies and bring a change of clothes if bathing.
Terra Nostra Garden
Stroll a celebrated botanical garden in Furnas with exotic plants and geothermal bathing areas.
Summit access requires proper planning; follow official mountain registration and safety rules.
Pico Mountain
See Portugal’s highest mountain rising above Pico Island, a challenging volcanic summit for prepared hikers.
A waterfront city hotel in Ponta Delgada, practical for harbor excursions, restaurants and airport connections. Confirm the precise room outlook and parking arrangements.
Octant Ponta Delgada
Ponta Delgada / São Miguel
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A hotel in the Furnas geothermal region, ideal for visitors focusing on gardens and volcanic landscapes rather than the island capital. Check travel time to the airport and garden access conditions.
Terra Nostra Garden Hotel
Furnas / São Miguel
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A resort-style hotel in the Furnas valley for guests who prefer a quieter nature-based stay near thermal landscapes. Verify wellness arrangements and rental-car plans.
Octant Furnas
Furnas / São Miguel
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A small upscale coastal property in the Lagoa area, offering an alternative to busy Ponta Delgada. A car or arranged transfer is useful for island exploration.
White Exclusive Suites & Villas
Lagoa / São Miguel
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A coastal resort on the north side of São Miguel, suitable for guests interested in beach scenery and surf areas. Weather differs across the island; confirm transport and access before booking.
Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort
Ribeira Grande / São Miguel
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Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in The Azores
High 64°F · Low 55°F · Rain 4.3 in
Mild, rainy days and quiet villages.
May–September for generally better outdoor conditions. Verify conditions, local schedules and reservation policies when arranging your trip.
Best Times to Visit The Azores
WHEN TO GO
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Walking and Trailheads
Hikes often start outside towns and may require arranged returns. Check trail closures and fog forecasts.
05
Rental Cars
A rental car is useful for volcanic viewpoints and rural villages on many islands. Confirm pickup island and insurance.
04
Ferries
Some island groups have ferry connections that vary by season and sea conditions. Confirm the route before booking lodging.
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Interisland Flights
Flights connect selected islands, but schedules and weather disruptions can alter connections. Avoid tight itineraries.
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Local Transportation
A rental car is helpful on most islands. Ferry schedules and weather can affect inter-island plans.
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Arrival and Regional Access
Ponta Delgada on São Miguel is a common international gateway; inter-island flights and seasonal ferries connect islands.
A rental car is helpful on most islands. Ferry schedules and weather can affect inter-island plans.
Getting Around The Azores