Pico Island Azores, Portugal Travel Guide
Hostels, mainly in Madalena, feature dorm beds or private rooms. They appeal to budget travelers and hikers seeking an affordable base and social connections.
These often family-run establishments feature comfortable rooms, frequently with breakfast. Guesthouses share a local feel plus tailored attention, varying in size.
Hotels, from 3-star to 4-star, are mainly in Madalena. They offer standard conveniences like en-suite bathrooms, daily cleaning, and sometimes a restaurant or pool.
This popular choice means staying in wonderfully renovated traditional stone houses, often within vineyards or the countryside. They combine self-catering or B&B options. This selection is recommended for an authentic Azorean experience, linking you with the island's architecture plus serenity.
These "country houses" are beautifully restored properties. They blend traditional architecture, like basalt stone walls, with modern comforts. They present a serene escape, often with stunning views.
Traditional Azorean estates, sometimes with active vineyards or agricultural plots.
Unique to Pico, these traditional stone wine cellars or small houses adapt for lodging. Many are within the UNESCO World Heritage vineyard landscape, for an immersive experience in the island's wine culture.
Widely accessible via international platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com, vacation rentals and apartments include more space, privacy, and kitchen facilities. They suit families, groups, or long-term travelers, creating a 'home away from home' feel.
Pico's primary towns and rural areas each present distinct ambiances.
Rural areas are very quiet, with only nature sounds, for a serene escape.
Madalena can have street noise, notably near the port during peak hours.
Prudent booking ensures a smooth trip, especially during peak travel times.
Negotiating walk-in rates is not customary; prices are generally fixed.
Always check deposit and cancellation policies prior to confirming, as these vary by platform and correctty.
Peak season (July-August) sees noticeably higher accommodation prices, with moderate rates in shoulder seasons and lowest in winter.
Pico features excellent choices across all budget levels and for various traveler types.
A popular choice for its clean facilities, friendly atmosphere, and good location, suitable for travelers on a budget.
A guesthouse with private rooms, often praised for comfort and location.
Integrated with nature, with unique stone bungalows plus the ocean views. A peaceful retreat.
Traditional stone cottages in a stunning coastal location, often with natural swimming pool access.
Modern, architecturally distinct bungalows within dramatic lava fields. They present privacy, stylish design, and unique views.
An upscale rural property with vineyard views and high-end amenities, for a refined experience.
Find high-end vacation rentals and unique properties for groups.
Check for top-quality hotel choices on the island.
Vacation rentals/apartments are ideal, with multiple bedrooms, living spaces, and kitchen facilities. Rural tourism properties often present ample outdoor space for children and a quieter atmosphere. Properties with swimming pools, like Aldeia da Fonte, are also popular choices.
Hostels provide opportunities for social interaction. Guesthouses offer a good balance of privacy and interaction with local hosts, sharing insights into island life.
Vacation rentals or apartments are best for stays over a week, with kitchens and laundry facilities. Some rural tourism properties also list attractive weekly or monthly rates. Consider TrustedHousesitters for unique, extended stays.
Many rural tourism houses are restored traditional Azorean homes. Staying in these properties, especially those within the vineyard landscape, creates a direct glimpse into the island''s construction heritage and traditional way of life.
€20 - €40 (dorm bed). Good for frugal travelers, solo travelers, social interaction. Features shared rooms, communal areas, basic amenities, often locations in the center.
€40 - €70. Good for couples, budget-conscious travelers seeking privacy, local experience. Features private rooms, often family-run, breakfast sometimes included, personalized service.
€70 - €150. Good for standard tourists, those preferring hotel amenities and services. Features standard services at the hotel, often located in Madalena, sometimes with pools/restaurants.
€70 - €200+. Good for an authentic experience, tranquility, families, couples. Features restored old-style houses, often self-catering, picturesque settings, unique character, often in vineyards.
€60 - €250+. Good for families, groups, longer stays, self-catering preference. Features full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, privacy, located across the island, flexible.
