Azores Itinerary: 10 Days of Nature, Culture & Ocean Adventures

Azores Itinerary: 10 Days of Nature, Culture & Ocean Adventures

In the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores Islands are a true natural wonder, volcanic landscapes, crater lakes, waterfalls, and colorful fishing villages. With their eternal spring climate and untouched nature, these islands are perfect for nature lovers and explorers.

On this 10-day, 9-night Azores itinerary, you’ll discover the green jewels of the archipelago: São Miguel, Flores, Corvo, and Faial.

São Miguel: breathtaking Sete Cidades crater lakes and volcanic hot springs

Flores: a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve filled with waterfalls and lush valleys

Corvo: the dramatic Caldeirão crater

Faial: the famous Horta marina and unforgettable whale-watching safaris

Highlights

  • Join a whale watching tour and spot majestic ocean giants
  • Hike among volcanic craters, waterfalls, and lagoons
  • Fall in love with the “fifty shades of green” across lush islands
  • Explore picturesque Portuguese fishing towns and vibrant marinas

Day 1: Arrival in São Miguel

Arrive on São Miguel, the largest and greenest island of the Azores. After checking into your hotel in Ponta Delgada, stroll along the marina, discover cobblestone streets, and admire whitewashed houses and lively cafés.

Optional: Visit the Carlos Machado Museum for an introduction to Azorean culture.

Day 2: Sete Cidades & Western São Miguel

Start your trip with São Miguel’s most iconic view: the twin crater lakes of Sete Cidades. From the Vista do Rei viewpoint, gaze over turquoise and emerald waters surrounded by lush mountains.

  • Hike down to the lakeshore for a peaceful paddle or bike ride.

  • Explore nearby viewpoints like Boca do Inferno and Miradouro da Lagoa de Santiago.

  • End the day at Ferraria hot springs, a natural oceanic pool heated by volcanic energy.

Day 3: Furnas Valley & Eastern São Miguel

A day of geothermal wonders:

  • Visit Terra Nostra Botanical Garden and swim in its thermal pool.

  • Watch locals cook cozido (traditional stew) in volcanic soil.

  • Relax at the Poça da Dona Beija hot springs.

  • Explore Furnas Lake, surrounded by fumaroles and bubbling mud pools.
    In the evening, enjoy dinner in a traditional tasca with Azorean wine.

Day 4: Lagoa do Fogo & Tea Plantations

Head into the mountains for one of the most beautiful hikes on São Miguel: Lagoa do Fogo. On clear days, its crater lake glows with shades of blue.

  • Stop at Salto do Cabrito waterfall for a refreshing break.

  • Visit the Gorreana Tea Plantation, the oldest in Europe.

  • Explore charming villages like Vila Franca do Campo, once the island’s capital.

Evening flight to Flores Island.

Day 5: Exploring Flores

Wake up in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Flores is known for its lush valleys, endless hydrangeas, and stunning waterfalls.

  • Visit Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro, where dozens of waterfalls cascade down green cliffs.

  • Discover Poço do Bacalhau waterfall for a swim.

  • Stop at Morro Alto, the island’s highest point, with panoramic views.

  • Explore Fajã Grande, Europe’s westernmost village.

Day 6: Day Trip to Corvo Island

Take a short boat ride to Corvo, the smallest island of the Azores.

  • Hike around the giant Caldeirão crater, with its miniature lakes and fields inside.

  • Stroll through the quiet village of Vila do Corvo.
    Return to Flores in the afternoon and enjoy a seafood dinner by the coast.

Day 7: More of Flores

Spend a relaxed day soaking in Flores’ peaceful atmosphere.

  • Explore hidden lagoons like Lagoa Negra and Lagoa Comprida.

  • Hike along coastal trails dotted with wildflowers.

  • Visit Fajazinha village and its waterfall-filled valley.

Evening flight to Faial Island.

Day 8: Faial & Whale-Watching Safari

Begin your stay in Horta, the sailors’ capital of the Azores.

  • Morning: embark on a whale-watching tour. Depending on the season, you may spot blue whales, sperm whales, dolphins, and more.

  • Afternoon: explore Horta Marina, famous for its colorful sailor murals. Tradition says every captain paints one before crossing the Atlantic.

  • Evening: relax in Peter Café Sport, a legendary meeting place for sailors.

Day 9: Volcanoes & Adventure on Faial

Explore Faial’s volcanic landscapes:

  • Hike around the massive Caldeira do Cabeço Gordo crater.

  • Visit Ponta dos Capelinhos, where a volcanic eruption in the 1950s reshaped the island.

  • If time allows, take a ferry to Pico Island, home to Portugal’s highest mountain and world-famous vineyards.

Day 10: Departure

Enjoy your final Azorean breakfast overlooking the Atlantic. Depart from Faial Airport for your onward journey.

Tips for your trip