Dark sand beaches and warm sea, hot springs in the midst of lush forests, stunning lagoons and waterfalls, magnificent green and volcanic landscapes, cuisine with a taste of the countryside and the sea... you'll find all this and much more on the islands of the Azores.
Each season offers a unique experience in the Azores. In spring and summer, nature blooms in all its glory and the green landscapes are tinged with the bright blue of flowering hydrangeas, creating an incredible spectacle. These are the best times for whale and dolphin watching, hiking outdoors and enjoying the beaches. In autumn and winter, the islands are perfectly peaceful, ideal for relaxing in the hot springs and marvelling at the archipelago´s idyllic scenery.
The best way to travel to the Azores is by air. There are direct flights from several cities in Europe and the USA to Ponta Delgada Airport on the island of São Miguel. You can also choose to fly to Terceira or Faial Airport, although they have fewer connections. In addition, the different islands are connected by domestic flights and ferries.
The cuisine of the Azores is absolutely delightful, highlighted by the flavours and ingredients that combine both land and sea. Try Terceira-style rump steak, bolo lêvedo (muffins) and Furnas meat stew, slow-cooked underground from the heat of volcanic calderas. Indulge in the fish stew and delight in the freshness of the seafood. Try the different homemade cheeses, including those produced on the islands of São Jorge and Graciosa. As for drinks, you must try the excellent wines from the island of Pico. There are also plenty of options for dessert, such as the delicious cheesecakes and the vast assortment of sweets made from pineapple and passion fruit.
The Azores are an idyllic piece of nature abounding with stunning landscapes. Explore volcanic craters that have turned into serene lakes surrounded by lush vegetation, such as the Sete Cidades and Fogo lagoons on the island of São Miguel. Walk inside a volcano at Algar do Carvã, on the island of Terceira. Stroll through a lunar landscape of black lava and ash at the Capelinhos Volcano in Faial. Climb the highest mountain in Portugal and enjoy the incredible panoramic views on the island of Pico.
The marine life is equally fascinating, and you will have the opportunity to observe whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, all year round. Each of the nine islands of the Azores has unique and fascinating natural features worth discovering.
The capital of the island of Terceira bears living witness to the maritime age, where trade and navigation shaped its essence. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this Atlantic city is a maze of cobbled streets and brightly coloured buildings with extraordinary architecture, imposing walls and fortresses. Discover its rich history reflected in monuments and centuries-old art. Angra do Heroísmo takes you on a journey back in time, where, with each step you become immersed in an era of splendour and discovery.
