3 Days in the Azores: A Journey Through Portugal’s Island Paradise

Introduction

The Azores offer a rare kind of travel experience, where dramatic landscapes, friendly towns, and natural wonders create a paradise unlike anywhere else in Europe. Whether hiking along volcanic ridges, soaking in natural hot springs, or savoring fresh seafood by the Atlantic, travelers find adventure and tranquility in perfect balance. This carefully curated 3-day itinerary focuses on São Miguel, the largest and most accessible island, offering a perfect taste of the Azores for those seeking a truly unforgettable getaway.

Day 1

Morning

Arrive on São Miguel and settle into your hotel in Ponta Delgada, the island’s vibrant capital.
Stroll through the historic Old Town, visiting landmarks like the City Gates and the Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião. Wander along the marina, where boats bob gently against a backdrop of volcanic cliffs.

Afternoon

After a relaxed lunch featuring local specialties like grilled limpets or tuna steaks, drive toward Sete Cidades.
Stop at Vista do Rei viewpoint to capture sweeping views of the twin lakes nestled inside an ancient volcanic crater.

Spend the afternoon exploring the lakes by foot or kayak, enjoying the peace and lush greenery surrounding the caldera.

Evening

Return to Ponta Delgada for a relaxed dinner. Outdoor terraces along the marina offer the perfect setting for sampling Azorean wines and seafood while watching the sun set over the Atlantic.

Day 2

Morning

Start the day with a scenic drive east to Furnas Valley, a geothermal paradise bubbling with activity.
Explore the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden, then take a rejuvenating swim in its mineral-rich thermal pool, surrounded by centuries-old trees and tropical plants.

Afternoon

Lunch in Furnas is a must, featuring the famous cozido das Furnas, a stew cooked underground by volcanic heat.
Afterward, visit the steaming fumaroles by Lagoa das Furnas and sip mineral water from the various natural springs.

Later, head north to Gorreana Tea Plantation, Europe’s oldest tea factory. Stroll through the tea fields and sample green and black teas with views stretching to the Atlantic horizon.

Evening

Return to Ponta Delgada for an evening stroll along the Avenida Infante Dom Henrique. Choose a casual café for dinner, where dishes feature fresh island produce and locally caught fish.

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Day 3

Morning

Begin your final day with a visit to Lagoa do Fogo, one of the island’s most pristine crater lakes.
Hike to the lake’s edge or simply take in panoramic views from the Miradouro da Lagoa do Fogo, where clouds and sunlight dance across the volcanic landscape.

Afternoon

Head south to Caloura, a small coastal village known for its natural swimming pools and colorful fishing port.
Enjoy a leisurely seaside lunch at one of the village’s famed seafood restaurants, savoring dishes like grilled grouper or octopus stew.

Afterward, visit Vila Franca do Campo, São Miguel’s first capital, and if the season allows, take a boat to the Ilhéu de Vila Franca, a volcanic islet forming a perfect circular swimming lagoon.

Evening

Return to Ponta Delgada to enjoy one final evening meal. Toast the journey with a glass of passionfruit liqueur or local wine, reflecting on the beauty and calm spirit of the Azores.

Conclusion

Three days in the Azores offer a refreshing immersion into one of Europe’s most beautiful and unspoiled destinations. From volcanic lakes and lush gardens to soothing hot springs and unforgettable meals, the islands deliver a rich blend of adventure and relaxation. Thanks to the ease of modern planning tools, finding the best flights to the Azores and booking comfortable hotels in the Azores ensures that travelers can focus fully on discovering the wonders of this remarkable archipelago.