Complete Azores Travel Guide: Getting Around, Activities, and All the Tips for an Epic Trip
Looking to book a trip to the Azores Islands? You are in the right place. This Azores travel guide will walk you through everything you need to know for exploring this incredible volcanic archipelago in the best way possible.
The Azores are one of the most beautiful island destinations on Earth. They are perfect for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone who dreams of dramatic landscapes, crater lakes, waterfalls, and wild Atlantic coastlines. Each island has its own personality, and exploring them feels like stepping into a different world.
In this Azores travel guide we will help you discover the beauty of these breathtaking islands by sharing how to get there, how to move around, and how to enjoy everything from unique activities to hidden gems spread across the nine islands.
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Azores Travel Guide: A Brief Intro to Visiting
First, let’s learn a bit about what the Azores Islands are like.
What Are the Azores Famous For?
The Azores are famous for their volcanic landscapes, crater lakes, dramatic coastlines, natural hot springs, vibrant hydrangeas, and lush green mountains. They are one of the best places in Europe for hiking, canyoning, whale watching, and exploring untouched nature.
- São Miguel is known for its geothermal hot springs and viewpoints.
- Pico is known for its massive volcanic peak and world class wines.
- Faial is famous for its blue hydrangeas and colorful marina.
- Terceira is known for its charming architecture and volcanic caves.
- Flores and Corvo offer some of the most remote scenery in Europe.
The combination of raw natural beauty, outdoor adventures, amazing food, and peaceful island life is exactly why an Azores travel guide is essential for planning the perfect trip.
Where Are the Azores Located?
The Azores are an autonomous region of Portugal located in the North Atlantic Ocean. They sit about 900 miles (1450 km) west of mainland Portugal, roughly halfway between Europe and North America.
Even though they feel remote, the Azores are culturally Portuguese, with a mix of European charm and wild volcanic scenery. Their location makes them an incredible destination for both European and American travelers.
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Azores Travel Guide: Getting There
There are a few different ways to travel to the Azores, but the easiest method is flying there from Europe or the US.
Here are the different options for getting to the Azores:
- Fly to São Miguel (PDL) or Terceira (TER)
- Visit by cruise ship on select Atlantic sailings
We also made you a full guide for how to get to the Azores including direct flight routes from Europe and North America.
Azores Travel Guide: Entry Requirements
Now that you know how to get to the Azores, let’s look at what you need legally to visit.
Do I Need a Visa for the Azores?
The Azores follow the same entry rules as mainland Portugal. Travelers from the EU can visit freely, while Americans and other non restricted nationalities can visit visa free for 90 days within a 180 day period (in total inside the Schengen Zone)..
Are the Azores in the Schengen Zone?
Yes. The Azores are part of both the EU and the Schengen Zone. If you are arriving from another Schengen country you will not pass through customs again. Just make sure you are not overstaying your 90 days within a 180 day allowance.
If your nationality requires a Schengen Visa for Europe, you will need that visa to visit the Azores.
What Vaccines Are Required to Enter the Azores?
The Azores do not require any special vaccinations for travelers.
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Azores Travel Guide: Local Adjustments
Here are some important things to know before visiting the Azores.
What Is the Language in the Azores?
The language of the Azores is Portuguese. Many locals understand English, especially in tourist areas, but it helps to learn a bit of the basics.
What Currency Is Used in the Azores?
The Azores use the Euro. Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but it is still helpful to carry a little cash in smaller towns.
What Plug Adapter Do You Need for the Azores?
The Azores use plug type F, with an electrical current of 230V and 50Hz.
Can You Drink the Tap Water in the Azores?
Yes! The water is completely safe to drink. We recommend bringing a reusable water bottle to be a more eco-friendly traveler.
Should You Tip in the Azores?
Tipping is not mandatory, and locals often just round up the bill.
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Azores Travel Guide: Where to Visit
Now that you know all of the basics for visiting the Azores, Portugal, let's get to the fun stuff! The next part of our Azores travel guide is going to go over all of the nine islands in archipelago, and what's special about each one.
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The Azores Islands: What Each Island Is Known For
With nine incredible islands to choose from, the Azores offer a completely different experience depending on where you go. Here is a breakdown of each island and what makes it unique.
São Miguel
São Miguel is the largest and most visited island in the Azores. Known as the Green Island, it is famous for its crater lakes, geothermal hot springs, lush tea plantations, and dramatic coastal cliffs.
Highlights include Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, Furnas hot springs, the Terra Nostra gardens, and the Gorreana Tea Factory. This is the best island for first time visitors, and is the one we visited while working on cruise ships!
Santa Maria
Santa Maria is known for its sunshine, sandy beaches, and warmer climate. It feels very different from the other islands, offering golden beaches, charming villages, and great snorkeling spots. Highlights include Praia Formosa, the Barreiro da Faneca red desert, and the lighthouse viewpoint at Gonçalo Velho.
Pico
Pico Island is dominated by its massive volcanic peak, which is the highest mountain in Portugal. It is famous for its lava vineyards, whale watching, and dramatic basalt landscapes. Highlights include climbing Pico Mountain, exploring the vineyards of Criação Velha, and joining a whale watching tour from Madalena or Lajes.
Terceira
Terceira is known for its colorful architecture, volcanic caves, and lively cultural scene. The UNESCO town of Angra do Heroísmo is full of history, while natural attractions like Algar do Carvão and the natural pools of Biscoitos make the island exciting to explore. Terceira is ideal for travelers who love culture, food, and nature in equal balance.
Faial
Known as the Blue Island, Faial is covered in hydrangeas during the summer months. It is also a major sailing hub with a colorful marina full of murals painted by international crews. The Capelinhos Volcano, created during an eruption in the 1950s, offers one of the most unique landscapes in the Azores. Faial pairs perfectly with Pico and São Jorge.
São Jorge
São Jorge is a narrow island known for its dramatic cliffs and beautiful fajãs, which are flat, fertile areas formed by lava flows or landslides along the coast. It is an incredible island for hiking, canyoning, and tasting local cheese. The Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo is one of the most famous spots in the entire archipelago.
Graciosa
Graciosa, known as the White Island, is one of the quietest islands in the Azores. It is known for its windmills, volcanic caves, and charming small towns. The Furna do Enxofre cave and Caldeira da Graciosa are the main geological attractions, while its relaxed atmosphere makes it a peaceful getaway.
Flores
Flores is one of the most remote and scenic islands in the Azores. It is famous for its countless waterfalls, crater lakes, and wild landscapes that feel straight out of a fantasy movie. Highlights include Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro, Rocha dos Bordões, and the island’s many lakes and viewpoints.
Flores is one of the most remote of the islands, but is also the ultimate destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Corvo
The smallest island in the Azores, Corvo is remote, but stunning and home to a striking crater known as the Caldeirão. It offers some of the most dramatic and remote scenery in the archipelago, and is very drone-worthy.
Corvo pairs beautifully with Flores and is ideal for travelers looking for a quiet and unforgettable nature escape.
Azores Travel Guide: Getting Around
One of the most important parts of planning your trip is deciding how you want to get around. The Azores are not an area you can simply island hop daily like the Canary Islands, and it definitely takes a bit of planning!
Options for Getting Around the Azores
Here are the different ways to explore the Azores:
- Rent a car: best for getting around inside each island
- Public transportation: available on São Miguel and Terceira but limited
- Taxis and Ubers: good for short distances
- Ferries: for traveling between islands, but has limited availability and requires booking in advance, especially with a car
- Inter island flights: fastest way to connect inside the archipelago, with consistent rates
- Guided tours: ideal for non drivers and solo travelers
- Outdoor excursions: great for activities like canyoning or whale watching
We also have a full Azores transportation guide if you want each option broken down in detail.
Getting around a new country can feel overwhelming, but transportation in Azerbaijan is surprisingly easy once you know your options. From modern metro systems in Baku to scenic train rides through the countryside, the country offers a mix of transport methods for every type of traveler.In this guide Azerbaijan transportation guide,
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Azores Travel Guide: Food & Drink
Food is a big part of any Azores travel guide! Whether you're looking to eat in a local restaurant, sip on wine, or join a cooking class, eating and drinking are a core aspect of enjoying the Azores.
What to Eat and Drink in the Azores
The islands are known for their fresh seafood, delicious beef, volcanic stews, dairy products, and unique local drinks.
Here are some must tries:
- Cozido das Furnas, a stew cooked underground by volcanic heat
- Fresh limpets with garlic and butter
- Azorean cheese, especially from São Jorge and Terceira
- Local pineapple from São Miguel
- Bolo lêvedo sweet bread
- Black tea from Europe’s only tea plantation
- Azorean wine from Pico’s lava fields or Terceira's volcanic wineries
- Beef - Terceira particularly has great meat!
There are also amazing restaurants, food tours, and farm experiences across the islands if you want to dive deeper into the region’s flavors.
Is Terceira on your list of Azorean island to visit? Don't miss out on our dedicated Terceira food guide which shares local dishes and amazing restaurants to check out!
The island of Sao Miguel is home to the only tea plantations in Europe!
Azores Travel Guide: Safety
Now it is time to make sure your trip is as smooth and safe as possible.
How Safe Are the Azores for Tourists?
The Azores are extremely safe. Crime rates are low, the islands are calm, and locals are very welcoming. It is one of the safest regions in Europe to visit!
Are the Azores Safe for Solo Females?
The Azores are very safe for solo female travelers. We recommend staying in central areas, joining tours, and using hotels or guesthouses with good reviews to make it even easier.
Azores Travel Guide: Other Things to Know About Visiting
We are in the final stretch of your Azores travel guide! Here are a few last things to help you plan.
Weather in the Azores
The Azores have a mild, but very unpredictable climate. Weather changes constantly between islands and even between regions on the same island. The islands are famous for dramatic clouds, quick rain showers, and beautiful sunny breaks in between.
The weather in the Azores can change really quickly.
Best Time to Visit the Azores
Most people say the best time to travel to the Azores depends on your interests. But we're very passionate about sharing our opinion that the best time to visit is in the summer. Even though it's the priciest time to visit, it's certainly worth traveling there when the weather is ideal.
A lot of the beauty of the Azores lies in its nature, and in the summer you'll have warm, sunny days with clear views, with opportunities to swim, hike, and go on boat trips.
Spring and Autumn also have their reasons for visiting, which we go over more in depth in our dedicated guide.
If you’re planning a trip to Portugal’s stunning Azores islands, you might be wondering about the best time to visit the Azores. These volcanic islands offer incredible landscapes, lush greenery, and outdoor adventures all year round, but timing your visit can make a big difference in your experience.From whale watching and
Packing List for Your Trip to the Azores
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Umbrella
- Insulated Water Bottle (to hold the temperature)
- Flip Flops (we personally always get Havaiana flip flops, as they are comfy and long lasting)
- Comfortable shoes/sneakers (for hiking)
- Small Bag or Backpack - take a look at these backpacks for travelers!
- Power Bank (we use Anker power banks, as they are the best in the market)
- Beach Towel
- Bathing Suits
- Action Camera (we use the GoPro for underwater shots, and the Insta 360 with the extra long selfie stick for drone-like shots)
- Waterproof Phone Pouch (we use the Case Mate Phone Pouch)
- Camera (we use the Sony A7Riii)
- Wide Lens for capturing wide panoramas (we use Sony GM 14mm 1.8)
- Drone for unique shots of the island's breathtaking landscapes (We use the DJI Mavic Mini 4 Pro)
- Power Bank (we use Anker power banks as they are super long lasting and durable)
- Travel Adapter
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Are the Azores Worth Visiting?
The Azores are one of the most stunning destinations in Europe, and arer worth is for nature enthusiasts and those that like a more laid back travel experience.
They offer dramatic scenery, volcanic landscapes, charming towns, incredible food, and endless outdoor adventures without the crowds of other island destinations in Europe. We loved our time there and definitely look forward to returning to see some more of the islands.
How Many Days in the Azores Is Enough?
We drastically underestimated just how much time the Azores deserve, especially considering the low frequency of ferries and time and money it takes to travel from island to island.
We'd recommend 2-3 weeks if you really want to see each island, but minimum a week to see one or two of the islands.
Because the weather can change quickly, it is helpful to plan extra time for certain activities and viewpoints, and not try to rush going from island to island.
Travel Planning Tools
Here are some useful tools that you can use for planning your upcoming trip!
So are you ready for your trip to the Azores? We know you're going to fall in love with these islands just as much as we did, and we hope our Azores travel guide has thoroughly helped you plan your trip. Still have questions? Feel free to drop them in the comments below!
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Ready to start booking your most amazing trip to the Azores in Portugal? Well, we're here to help! Scratch Your Mapa has customized travel planning services, offering specially-curated itineraries, budget-friendly flights, and unique accommodation options for every traveler. Looking to learn more? Simply send us an email for your free consultation!
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