Sao Miguel Azores, Portugal Travel Guide
Sete Cidades & West Coast: Features like Lagoa Azul & Verde, Vista do Rei viewpoint, Mosteiros swimming holes, and Ponta da Ferraria hot springs in the ocean are popular. A rental car is strongly recommended for the most freedom. A full day is well spent here (6-8 hours).
Furnas Valley & East Coast: Terra Nostra Park, Poça da Dona Beija hot springs, Cozido das Furnas (volcanic stew), Gorreana Tea Factory, and Ribeira Quente village make for a fulfilling visit. A car rental is suggested for maximum freedom, though public bus service exists to Furnas village. A full day (6-8 hours) permits ample discovery.
São Miguel has many opportunities for natural finding and cultural encounters, from lush parks to historic towns.
Ponta da Ferraria (Ginetes): A unique natural hot spring on the island's western tip. Volcanic heat warms the ocean water at low tide, creating a thermal pool within the sea. Check tide times for the best experience.
Vila Franca do Campo: Explore São Miguel's former capital. Wander its historic center, visit charming churches, and enjoy the waterfront. It provides a glimpse into the island's past.
São Miguel serves as an excellent starting point for extending your journey to other Azorean keys or mainland Portugal.
A short flight away (30-40 mins). Spend 2-3 days exploring its history and geological features.
Reach by flight (45-55 mins). Mount Pico, volcanic vineyards (UNESCO site), and whale watching are draws. 2-3 days are well spent here.
Faial (50-60 min flight) pairs well with Pico by ferry. São Jorge (flight/ferry) is famous for cliffs, "fajãs", and dairy product from milk.
SATA Air Açores operates regular inter-island flights. This is the fastest way to move island-to-island.
After The Green island, Lisbon or Porto are next logical stops. Direct flights from Ponta Delgada frequently connect to mainland Portugal.
For longer stays, São Miguel serves as a base to discover other islands, providing a rich and diverse Azorean experience.
Pico is known for Mount Pico, Portugal''s tallest mountain, a challenging climb. Its unique volcanic vineyards are an UNESCO World Heritage site.
Terceira is accessible by a short flight out of Ponta Delgada city. It features a rich history and distinctive geological formations.
Faial is a short flight from Ponta Delgada and connects to Pico by ferry. Its main town, Horta, is a renowned transatlantic yachting hub.
São Jorge, accessible by flight or ferry, stands out for its steep cliffs, unique "fajãs" (flat coastal areas), and famous cheese.
A 7-10 day trip could cover The Green island (4-5 days) to explore its highlights, followed by 2-3 days on Terceira or Pico. This approach provides broad subjection to the archipelago's diverse landscapes.
SATA Air Açores for quick flights between islands.
Atlânticoline connects closer islands during warmer months.
Consider flying into one island and setting off from another.
