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Rising dramatically from the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores are one of Europe’s most extraordinary archipelagos. This autonomous Portuguese region consists of nine volcanic islands spread across vast stretches of ocean, offering crater lakes, lava caves, hot springs, dramatic cliffs, and some of the best whale watching on Earth. Remote yet accessible, wild yet welcoming, the Azores are ideal for travellers seeking nature, authenticity, and adventure.
Understanding the Azores: Geography, History, and Atmosphere
The Azores sit roughly halfway between mainland Portugal and North America, shaping both their landscape and identity.
Volcanic origin responsible for calderas, lava tubes, and geothermal activity
Mild Atlantic climate with lush green scenery year-round
Strong maritime traditions rooted in fishing, whaling history, and navigation
Slower pace of life with a focus on nature, sustainability, and community
Each island has its own character, traditions, and landscapes
Together, the islands form a destination unlike anywhere else in Europe. We’ve collected the best things to see and do on the archipelago to make sure your trip is an unforgettable xperience.
1. São Miguel: The Green Island
Lagoa de Sete Cidades is just one of several crater lakes across São Miguel
São Miguel is the largest and most diverse island, often considered the gateway to the Azores.
Home to Gorreana Tea Plantation, the only tea plantation in Europe, operating since the 19th century
Rolling green tea fields open to visitors with free self-guided walks
Famous for Cozido das Furnas, a traditional stew slow-cooked underground using volcanic heat
Opportunity to soak in natural hot springs such as Furnas, Terra Nostra, and Poça da Dona Beija
Crater lakes like Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo offer iconic Azorean scenery
São Miguel perfectly combines food, geothermal wonders, and dramatic landscapes.
2. Terceira: Volcanoes and History
Explore Angra do Heroísmo, the most beautiful city in the Azores
Terceira blends geological wonders with one of the Azores’ most important historic cities.
Explore dormant volcanoes and dramatic volcanic terrain
Descend underground into lava formations such as Gruta do Natal
Visit Algar do Carvão, a rare volcanic chimney open to the public
Discover Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage city
Once served briefly as Portugal’s capital during the 16th century
Elegant streets, fortifications, and churches reflect its global maritime importance
On the north coast, trenches and fortifications built to prepare for a possible invasion in the Second World War, known as trincheiras, are free to visit
Terceira offers both subterranean adventure and cultural depth.
3. Faial: Volcanoes, Sailors, and Atlantic Culture
Horta Marina is known for its colourful murals
Faial is known as the meeting point of the Atlantic, especially for sailors.
Visit the dramatic Faial Caldera, a vast volcanic crater at the island’s centre
Learn about eruptions and geology at the Volcano Museum
Explore Horta Marina, famous for its painted murals by sailors from around the world
Ranked among the most colourful marinas globally and one of the busiest in the Atlantic
Relax in natural settings and enjoy coastal viewpoints shaped by volcanic activity
Faial’s atmosphere blends adventure, science, and global maritime culture.
4. Pico: Mountains, Wine, and Whales
The slopes of Mount Pico, a dormant volcano, provide unique conditions for wine-growing
Pico is dominated by the tallest mountain in Portugal and a UNESCO-listed wine landscape.
Mount Pico rises 2,351 metres, making it twice as tall as any other Portuguese mountain
Guided climbs offer sunrise views across neighbouring islands
Explore unique volcanic vineyards, built from black lava stone
Enjoy wine tastings of Verdelho grown in extreme conditions
Pico is also one of the best islands for whale watching
This island is raw, powerful, and deeply connected to nature.
5. São Jorge: Dramatic Cliffs and Local Flavours
Long, narrow, and rugged, São Jorge is famous for its dramatic geography and food traditions.
Home to steep cliffs and fertile coastal plains known as fajãs
Renowned São Jorge cheese, aged and intensely flavoured
Local specialities include canned tuna and Espécie, a traditional sweet cake
Hiking trails run through picture-postcard peaks and remote villages
Less developed tourism offers a truly authentic island experience
São Jorge is ideal for hikers and food lovers alike.
6. Flores and Corvo: The Wildest Azores
The giant Caldeirão dominates Corvo, the smallest of the Azorean islands
The westernmost islands are the most remote and untouched.
Flores is known for waterfalls, lush valleys, and volcanic lakes
Swim in natural pools formed by lava along the coastline
Ideal for nature photography and quiet exploration
Corvo, the smallest island, features a massive central caldera dominating the landscape
Walking the caldera rim offers views into a volcanic amphitheatre unlike any other
Limited population creates a deeply personal travel experience
These islands showcase the Azores at their most pristine.
7. Whale Watching: One of the Best Places on Earth
The Azores provide some of the best whale-watching conditions anywhere in the world
The Azores sit on major whale migration routes, making sightings frequent and diverse.
One of the world’s top whale-watching destinations
Sightings include sperm whales, blue whales, fin whales, and dolphins
Tours operate from several islands, including São Miguel, Pico, and Faial
Marine biologists often accompany expeditions
Responsible tourism practices are strongly enforced
Few places offer such consistent and ethical marine encounters.
Getting to the Azores
Despite their remote location, the Azores are well connected.
Direct flights from Lisbon and Porto to multiple islands
Increasing number of direct international flights from Europe and North America
Main entry points include São Miguel (Ponta Delgada) and Terceira (Lajes)
Flights between islands are frequent and relatively short
Reaching the Azores is far easier than their isolation suggests, and as the islands are a part of Portugal, no additional visas or border are involved.
Getting Around the Azores
Each island requires a slightly different approach to transport.
Car hire is the most flexible option on larger islands
Local buses operate but may be limited in frequency
Inter-island travel by short flights or ferries (seasonal)
Roads are well maintained but winding and scenic
Planning transport in advance enhances the experience.
Food, Shopping, and Island Life
Azorean cuisine is simple, fresh, and deeply local.
Heavy focus on seafood, beef, dairy, and volcanic cooking methods
Specialities include lapas, tuna steaks, cozido, cheeses, and sweet breads
Small local shops sell handicrafts, ceramics, and food products
Nightlife is low-key, centred on cafés, bars, and local festivals
Entertainment often revolves around nature, food, and community events
The islands prioritise quality of life over mass tourism.
Why Visit the Azores?
The Azores offer something increasingly rare in Europe.
Untouched landscapes shaped by volcanoes and ocean
Authentic island cultures and traditions
Outdoor adventure without crowds
Wildlife encounters found in few other places
A sense of discovery that feels genuinely unique
The Azores are not about ticking off landmarks: they’re about immersion, nature, and awe. These islands remind visitors that Europe still has frontiers left to explore, and this archipelago, green, wild, and rising from the raw Atlantic, is the furthest frontier of them all.
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