Itinerary for Five Days in São Miguel, Azores
- Dates visited: July 2025
- Time Needed: 5–6 days and nights
General Information
The Azores is an archipelago of nine volcanic Portuguese islands located nine hundred miles west of mainland Portugal. It is home to roughly 250,000 people and hosts only 1.3 million tourists annually, compared to almost 19 million in Lisbon alone. Known as the “Hawaii of Europe” for its similar landscapes, it is a hidden European gem — though likely not for much longer!
The names of the nine islands are as follows:
- São Miguel — “The Green Island” — geothermal wonders and tea plantations
- Santa Maria — “The Sunshine Island” — warmest climate
- Terceira — “The Lilac Island” — lilac-hued hydrangeas, bullfights, and UNESCO-site Angra do Heroísmo
- Graciosa — “The White Island” — whitewashed houses and quiet charm
- São Jorge — “The Fajã Island” — dramatic cliffs and lava flats (fajãs)
- Pico — “The Mountain Island” — home to Portugal’s highest peak (Mount Pico) and renouned vineyards
- Faial — “The Blue Island” — hydrangea-lined roads and marine culture
- Flores — “The Flower Island” — lush landscapes and waterfalls
- Corvo — “The Tiny Island” — smallest and most remote
The capital island of the entire Azores, São Miguel, is the largest and most popular, measuring just over three hundred square miles. Most travelers prioritize here to make the most of their time and get a good feel for the archipelago.
Overall, the island has numerous things to do and see over the course of five days, as outlined in this map. Keep in mind that this guide is for groups that love to walk and hike everywhere, remaining always on the go. Alter based on your interests and abilities.
- Day One: Ponta Delgada
- Day Two: West / Sete Cidades
- Day Three: North / Central Island
- Day Four: Furnas
- Day Five: Porto Formoso
Communication
Although Portuguese is the official language of the Azores, English is widely spoken — thanks largely to three major waves of emigration to North America.
The first wave began in the 1910s, when New England whalers visiting the islands shared stories of opportunity back home, encouraging their new Azorean friends to join them. The second wave followed World War II, when the U.S. government granted citizenship to many Portuguese nationals as a gesture of thanks for allowing the U.S. military to use one of the islands as a mid-Atlantic base. The third wave came in the 1970s, after a volcanic eruption forced many residents to flee. Around this time, many Azoreans also moved to Hawai‘i, drawn by its familiar climate and volcanic landscape.
Today, there are more Azoreans living in Fall River, Massachusetts than in the Azores themselves. It’s estimated that 90% of Azoreans have relatives in the U.S. or Canada, contributing to the islands’ strong English-language skills and cultural ties to North America.
Wifi
WiFi is available and strong at a majority of hotels and establishments. However, it is limited in more rural locations.
Weather
In general, the archipelago offers mild year-round temperatures. The most opportune visiting times are May through October when air and ocean temperatures are favorable — in comparison to the winter months when rain is prevalent.
São Miguel is home to funky microclimates, resulting in varying temperatures and weather patterns all over the island. As the locals say, the unpredictable climate “is what it is” and one can experience up to “four seasons in a day.” For example — it can be gorgeous in Sete Cidades but viciously cloudy in Achada. To try to predict the unpredictable as much as possible, utilize the Spot Azores weather app, which displays live webcam footage from all over the island to provide real time weather updates.
Hiking Boots
The hikes in this guide are relatively easy and can be done in regular sneakers. Hiking boots aren’t necessary — unless you’re visiting during the rainy season, when muddier trails may call for sturdier footwear.
Safety
The Azores are incredibly safe. Unlike major islands like Santorini and Mykonos, even pickpocketing is not a concern. We kept our bags visible in the trunk of the car for hours at a time as we transitioned from one accommodation to another, stopping for hikes and exploration. I was never concerned someone would break in. It’s a worry-free holiday destination.
Drinking Water
Tap water is safe to drink throughout the entire archipelago.
Transportation
Several airlines offer direct flights from Lisbon, Porto, Boston, and NYC, including United, TAP Portugal, and SATA Airlines. We had abhorrent luck with SATA, so avoid if you can.
Unfortunately, it is the only airline that flies to other Azorean islands from São Miguel. Ferries, run by Atlânticoline, operate mainly from April through October. If bringing a car onboard, book in advance.
Exploring São Miguel requires either renting a car or booking guided day trips from Ponta Delgada, as public transportation is limited and mostly confined to the capital and nearby areas. However, try not to stay in Ponta Delgada the entire time — staying in different parts of the island allows you to fully experience São Miguel’s diverse landscapes and local charm.
Reserve your rental car well in advance, as São Miguel has a limited supply and demand is high — especially in peak seasons. Most major rental agencies have kiosks directly in the airport arrivals area, making pickup quick and straightforward.
One exception is Drive on Holidays, which does not operate onsite. Instead, pickup is handled from a lot about five minutes away by shuttle — a detail that isn’t clearly stated when booking. Upon arrival, visit the Airport Information Desk and ask them to call the company on your behalf. A shuttle will then be dispatched to bring you to the vehicle.
As for fuel — not all gas stations remain open 24/7. Some open around 7am and close at 10pm. In addition, not all accept credit cards. Bring cash to be safe and plan refuel stops accordingly.
Note: If stationing in PD and forgoing the car rental, it’s easy to get from the airport to downtown by hailing one of the many taxis directly outside airport arrivals or downtown near the Fontanário. The drive takes roughly ten minutes and costs anywhere from 10 to 12 euros. Most cabs only accept cash, though some have card readers — just confirm in advance.
The town itself is very walkable, but if public transportation is preferred, hop on the PDL Mini Bus. Each ride is €0.50 in cash (change can be provided) and stops at each location every twenty minutes. Download the PDL Mini Bus app for real time updates.
Parking
Parking across São Miguel is generally free, but in Ponta Delgada, fees apply in certain areas and at specific times.
Several free parking lots are available, like this one, and while street parking is common, it can be tight due to narrow roads. Look for white-lined spots, which indicate legal parking. Yellow lines are reserved for temporary stops or disabled access and should be avoided unless permitted.
When parking on the street, note the following:
- Weekdays: Free from 7 PM to 8 AM
- Saturdays: Paid parking from 8 AM to 1 PM
- Sundays & holidays: Free all day
Payment kiosks are located on most streets and accept both cash and card. Parking is actively monitored, so be sure to pay during applicable hours to avoid fines. Whenever possible, prioritize designated lots for easier access and peace of mind.
Accommodations
It is worth spending two or three nights in Ponta Delgada, using the city as your base, then moving to the north side of the island for the remainder of the trip. For the second half, select accommodations anywhere along the coast from Santa Barbara Beach through Achada. We stayed at this ocean-view Airbnb and couldn’t recommend it more. Other waterfront towns include Ribeira, Fumarosa, and Maia.
Note: If arriving too early to check into your city accommodations, download the Bounce app to find an easy and affordable place to store luggage for the day, even last minute. I booked storage at In Ponta Delgada Storage Spot and was pleased with the service.
Payment
The country’s main currency is the Euro. Most establishments accept credit cards. Carry cash just in case — especially in smaller towns.
Note: Most of this outline highlights costs in USD. This is a conversion to make it easier for some readers. Costs vary and everything is charged in the local currency when in person.
Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory but with the influx of western tourism, many service industry employees now expect at least a little something. Round up to the nearest dollar or tip 10% with exceptional service.
Electrical Outlets
Portugal uses the same outlet type as those in continental Europe; the type F plug.
ITINERARY -
DAY ONE: Ponta Delgada
Although Ponta Delgada is small, it’s worth spending a full day exploring this charming and remarkably clean city of 68k people. Start your morning with breakfast at Intz48 Coffee Roasters, tucked away on a quiet side street with outdoor seating. While slightly pricier than expected, the coffee and food are excellent.
Next, join a walking tour to get your bearings and dive into the city’s rich history. Founded in 1546, Ponta Delgada was once enclosed by protective walls to defend against North African pirate raids, which played a notorious role in the transatlantic slave trade. Today, a small section of the original gate — Portas da Cidade — still stands as one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Local legend says that anyone who walks through the gate is destined to return to the island.
As you wander, be sure to visit Largo de São Francisco (St. Francis Square), home to a striking 150-year-old New Zealand Christmas Tree, gifted by the New Zealand government. The tree symbolizes the friendship and shared volcanic heritage between the two island nations. Fun fact: this very species is said to have inspired Treebeard in The Lord of the Rings! It’s a beautiful and unique sight, well worth a stop.
After the tour, grab a coffee or beer at Dondue, a low key local spot, or eat a heavier meal at Nonna’s Pizza who’s savory smell can be detected a block away. Then, walk it off by hiking up 108 steps to the top of the Torre do Relógio ou Torre Sineira, the City Hall Bell Tower. Access is free and although the passageway is tight and narrow, it’s worth it for the views. Note that it is closed Saturdays and Sundays.
If interested, visit either of the two museums next -
- Sahar Hassamaim Hebrew Museum — This place of worship was founded in 1836 by Jewish families from Morocco. Because the country’s main religion was Catholicism, all other religions were barred from openly displaying signs of faith. As a result, the synagogue sits disguised in a typical urban house, looking unassuming from the street. Today, it is one of the few Jewish relics still in existence in all of Portugal. Don’t expect too much as it is tiny and most display descriptions are in Portuguese. But it’s cool to see for ten minutes, especially as it’s free. Closed Saturdays and Sundays.
- Museu Militar dos Açores — Housed within a 16th century fortress built to defend the city from pirates, the Military Museum provides a deep dive into the Azores’ strategic defense tactics over the years as well as its important role in major events like WW1 and 2. Spend anywhere from 1–2 hours exploring the cannons, military gear, maps, and vehicles.
After, walk aimlessly — stopping into random stores and local haunts. For dinner, put your name in early at A Tasca. Formerly a women’s prison, it’s now one of the most frequented restaurants on the island. For fancy cocktails and highly trained mixologists, prioritize Résvés Street Bar.
Other recommended restaurants include:
- São Pedro — Portuguese seafood. Closed Sundays.
- Õtaka — Pricey Japanese, as it’s on its way to getting a Michelin star. Closed Sundays and Mondays.
- A Grega Café — Delicious and affordable Greek. Closed Sundays and Mondays.
Note: Some might recommend driving or taking a taxi ten minutes to the Plantação Ananases A Arruda, the only place in the world where pineapples are grown in greenhouses. It’s a free stop where guests can peek inside the greenhouses and see the growing process firsthand, with a small gift shop and café on-site. But between you and me — unless you’re really into pineapples, it’s a quick visit that doesn’t leave much of an impression. Cute, yes, but skippable if you’re short on time.
DAY TWO: West / Sete Cidades
São Miguel is home to three active volcano complexes — Furnas, Água de Pau Massif / Lagoa do Fogo Volcano, and Sete Cidades — though none of them have exploded in 500+ years. Day Two is dedicated to Sete Cidades and the area around it.
At three miles in diameter, this caldera is the most visited place on the island. It is comprised of two lakes, Lagoa Azul (Blue Lake) and Lagoa Verde (Green Lake). Legend has it, a blue-eyed shepherd and green-eyed princess fell in love but were barred from seeing each other due to their “incompatible” family statuses. Both cried so much while saying the final farewell that the lakes were formed in their wake. In truth, the colors are a result of light reflecting differently from surrounding vegetation — but let’s stick with the folklore for fun.
From Ponta Delgada, the drive takes about thirty-five minutes. Leave on the earlier side to avoid crowds — though it’s worth noting that crowds on this island are far less antagonizing than other major tourist cities. You’ll never feel like you’re at Disney World.
Stop first at the Vista do Rei for panoramic views before embarking on a quick and relatively flat fifty minute walk to the Boco do Inferno (“Hell’s Mouth”) and Lagoa Do Canario viewpoints (“mirodouros”). The walk also provides views of the Lagoa das Sete Cidades, Lagoa Rasa, Lagoa Santiago, Sete Cidades village, and Serra Devassa mountain range.
After, drive no more than fifteen minutes to the Lagoa Do Canario trailhead before embarking on a 2.5 mile hike into the mountain range and past several other lakes. The climb features an ancient aqueduct, brilliant flowers, and a steep finish at the top. For incredible views, add on a twenty-minute detour marked on the trail as “viewpoint”.
Once back at the car, drive past Cerrado Das Freiras viewpoint before regaining your strength in the close town of Sete Cidades for lunch. A quaint and adorable village, it looks strikingly like a suburban Belfast — at least from my perspective — and sits adoringly on the shore of the blue and green lakes. We ordered the buffet at São Nicolau which was a bit too heavy for my taste so unless you’re famished and ready for an overserving of meat, select a different joint.
If you thought Sete Cidades was tiny, you’d be shocked to see that the town of Mosteiros, just twenty minutes away, is even smaller. Opt for a quick walk through the one main street, or simply drive to the gorgeous viewpoint of Ponta Do Castelo. Known for its rock formations, it’s exceptionally popular with locals at sunset. Then, head another fifteen minutes to Ponta da Ferraria on the western edge of the island.
A natural pool, these hot springs offer thermal water mixed with the Atlantic Ocean to produce surprisingly warm temperatures. The key to experiencing them is to know when to visit. At low tide, the pools are warm — sometimes overly so — while at high tide, temperatures cool and tides tend to create rough seas. It is best to go two hours before or after low tide. Upon arrival, drive past the parking lot on the cliff and down through a steep and winding road to enter the main lot. The area itself is a bit commercialized — with showers, toilets, lifeguards, and spa services at the retreat next door — but the experience is still authentic.
Note: If this is a must do, plan the day around the tides and your preferred temperature, scheduling the hike towards the end of the day if need be.
As a reward for a busy afternoon, book an advanced reservation at MôMô, located at the SENSI Azores Nature and Spa Resort. Bring clothes to change into after the thermal experience and before sitting down to a fancier meal. Situated steps from the Atlantic Ocean, the food is incredible and the cocktails creative.
DAY THREE: North/Central Island
Today requires a bit of strategy. Lagoa do Fogo (Lake of Fire), located within the Água de Pau Massif caldera, is another one of São Miguel’s three main active volcanoes and a major tourist draw. Its wild, pumice-lined shores earned it a spot among the “Seven Natural Wonders of Portugal” in the wild beach category back in 2012.
Due to its popularity, the local government restricts parking access between 9:00 AM and 7:00 PM, from June 15 to September 30 each year. A police officer monitors the lot and redirects traffic once it’s closed to new arrivals. However, visitors can arrive before 9:00 AM and stay as long as they like, free of charge. Aim to check out of your accommodations early in order to arrive by 8:00 or 8:30 AM. Then, you’ll be sure to secure a spot and enjoy the 1-mile roundtrip hike down to the water.
Note: The Azores are far less crowded than major tourist hotspots like Yosemite or Yellowstone. I was initially worried that arriving around this time wouldn’t guarantee a parking spot — but that wasn’t the case. Crowds are manageable, and you’re unlikely to have any issues finding parking.
If early mornings aren’t your thing, pre-purchase shuttle bus tickets at least a day in advance — though that’s not ideal. The shuttle service has poor reviews, with long wait times, inconsistent scheduling, and limited capacity. Guests often report waiting over an hour to board. If possible, arrive early and drive yourself to avoid the hassle.
Next, head just five minutes down the road to Caldeira Velha Hot Springs, known for their iron-rich thermal pools set in a lush, jungle-like environment. To be honest, I’m not a huge hot springs fan — many are understandably, though disappointingly, crowded with tourists — and this three-pool spot is no exception. While undeniably beautiful, I wouldn’t call it a must-do like Iceland’s Blue Lagoon. That said, it’s a great way to soothe tired muscles after the Lagoa do Fogo hike.
If you decide to go, book your ticket in advance. Time slots run in 90-minute blocks starting at 9:00 AM. If hiking Lagoa do Fogo in the early morning, aim for the 10:30 AM — 12:00 PM slot and arrive anytime during that window.
A few things to note:
- Towels are not provided by the facility, but can be purchased at a small stand across the street for around €10 (subject to availability).
- Lockers are available for €2 at the entrance.
- Basic changing rooms are free to use.
- Dark colored bathing suits are recommended as the iron waters are notorious for staining clothes.
Note: When exiting the hot springs parking lot, a police officer will likely be redirecting traffic away from the Lagoa do Fogo road. You’ll need to turn left out of the lot and head in the opposite direction.
Before checking into your accommodations on the north side of the island, spend the rest of the afternoon at Santa Barbara Beach. Park near the Eco Lodge, where you’ll find a surf school and rentals for umbrellas and chairs. This is the largest beach on the island and home to a laid-back beach club serving drinks and snacks. If you’re hoping to catch a wave, book a surf lesson in advance to secure your preferred time, though walk-up spots are usually available later in the day.
DAY FOUR: Furnas
Day Four is dedicated to exploring the island’s third active volcano complex — Furnas. Opt for a flat stroll around Lagoa Das Furnas for roughly four miles, or gain elevation on a separate but close by 1.6 mile trail to the Pico do Ferro Viewpoint. Feeling up for both? Send it! They’re completely doable in one morning, but require time and energy.
Either way, be sure to stop by the Fumarolas Lagoa das Furnas adjacent to the lake. This is a geothermal site known not only for its boiling mud pools and steam vents, but as being the local gathering point to cook Cozido das Furnas or “Volcano Stew.” Families and restaurants fill a large metal pot with layers of meats and vegetables then lower it into the steam pit to cook. After five to seven hours, the pots are unearthed to reveal a hearty and tender dish. Onlookers can see the reveal often daily around 12–1pm — so plan accordingly if looking to experience in real time.
Next to this phenomenon is an outdoor food and coffee shop, Grená Restaurant, serving eggs boiled in the steam vents as well as fresh cut pineapple. Don’t skip! Behind the cafe lies Grená Park, a private nature reserve offering scenic waterfalls and forest trails. Forgo this if you’ve already completed other trails listed above as it can be visually repetitive. The same can be said for Terra Nostra Park, a botanical garden located ten minutes away in Furnas. While beautiful, much of the island is already lush with vibrant flowers and greenery, so it’s not essential if short on time.
What cannot be missed is spending lunch in town, indulging in a Cozido yourself! Restaurants that serve the dish directly from the Fumarolas Lagoa das Furnas are:
- A Quinta Furnas
- Tony’s Restaurant
- Restaurante Terra Nostra
- Caldeiras & Volcanoes Restaurant Bar
- Restaurante Vale das Furnas
We walked into A Quinta with no reservation and sat immediately. However, most sources recommend booking an advanced reservation at the other establishments, just in case.
Note: Utilize the town’s free public parking lot before exploring on foot. It’s quick and easy.
After, walk off lunch by roaming the town — which should take no more than thirty minutes due to its quaint size. Then, consider returning to your accommodations for a quick nap and regroup.
End the evening with an unforgettable boat ride with Hamar.Azores Private Charters in Porto Formoso. Public trips are also available — just inquire via email. Depending on your group size, a private charter might be the better (and surprisingly affordable) option.
Cruise along dramatic seaside cliffs, explore hidden rock formations, and glide across open ocean. Cool off with a quick swim, then relax on deck with a complimentary beer in hand. Pack an easy dinner to eat while onboard as the late sun sets over exceptional scenery.
Pro-Tip: While daytime trips are available, a sunset cruise is highly recommended — the boat is open-air with no shade, making midday rides hot and exposed.
DAY FIVE: Porto Formoso
This five-day adventure is packed with hiking — but if you’d rather sleep in and take it easy, go for it! For those looking to stay active, embark on a spectacular three mile, two hour trail that winds through lush forest, past a waterfall, and along dramatic cliffside paths in the town of Porto Formoso.
One of the best parts? The trail starts just steps from the parking lot with the waterfall and natural pool. If not up for a full hike, simply stop here for a swim — just bring a towel and brace yourself for a chilly, refreshing dip.
Afterward, it’s a short five-minute walk from the parking lot to Praia dos Moinhos, a black-sand beach that also happens to be the final stop of the hike if you decide to follow it all the way through. Here, relax in the sun, swim, or grab an espresso and a snack at O Moinho Terrace Cafe (sometimes listed as Camelot Beach Front Bar & Lounge).
Just don’t fill up too much — save room for lunch at Casa de Pasto — o Amaral, a local favorite just five minutes away by car. Known for fresh seafood, be sure to try the limpets (a local delicacy) and the catch of the day. Free parking is available across the street.
Spend the rest of the afternoon lounging on the beach, exploring nearby trails, and soaking up the natural beauty of São Miguel before stopping by the Gorreana Tea Plantation. Established in 1883, this is the oldest tea plantation in Europe. Walk in for a quick 10-minute tour and tasting, then wander through part of the picturesque 37-acre estate. A small café onsite serves food and drinks if feeling peckish.
Fly out the next day in the late morning or afternoon as the drive to the airport takes approximately fifty minutes from this side of the island.
Note: Travelers have the option to extend an additional day to explore the Nordeste area of the island. However, based on feedback from locals, it is the least active area of São Miguel and doesn’t offer as much as other locations — so it can be skipped.
