Azores, Portugal
The perfect 5 days itinerary
The Azores, an autonomous region of Portugal, is an archipelago in the mid-Atlantic. The islands are characterized by dramatic landscapes, fishing villages, green pastures and hedgerows of blue hydrangeas. São Miguel, the largest, has lake-filled calderas and the Gorreana Tea Plantation. Pico is home to the 2,351m Mt. Pico and vineyards sheltered by boulders. Let's dive into the itinerary for your 5-day trip to this fascinating region.
What to do in Azores?
This 5 days itinerary is the perfect guide to the best things to see in Azores. It includes day-by-day activities, travel tips, and the top places to visit.
Day 1: Discover São Miguel Island
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Gorreana Tea Plantation, the only tea plantation in Europe. Take a guided tour to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy a tasting session.
Afternoon
Head to the Furnas Valley, known for its thermal waters. Visit the Terra Nostra Garden, a beautiful botanical garden with a thermal pool.
Evening
Enjoy a traditional Cozido das Furnas meal, cooked underground by volcanic steam.
Day 2: Explore the Natural Wonders of São Miguel
Morning
Visit the Sete Cidades, a twin lake situated in the crater of a dormant volcano. Take a leisurely walk around the lake or rent a bike for a more adventurous exploration.
Afternoon
Head to the Ponta da Ferraria, a unique spot where a hot spring meets the sea. Enjoy a relaxing bath in the warm waters.
Evening
Dine at a local restaurant and try some Azorean wine.
Day 3: A Day in Pico Island
Morning
Take a ferry to Pico Island. Visit the Pico Mountain, the highest point in Portugal. If you're up for it, take a guided hike to the summit for breathtaking views.
Afternoon
Explore the UNESCO-listed Pico Vineyards, where vines are grown in black volcanic soil.
Evening
Visit the Whalers Museum in the town of Lajes do Pico and learn about the island's whaling history.
Day 4: Whale and Dolphin Watching
Morning
Join a whale and dolphin watching tour. The Azores is one of the world's best destinations for spotting these magnificent creatures.
Afternoon
Visit the Gruta das Torres, the largest lava tube in Portugal. Take a guided tour to explore this fascinating geological formation.
Evening
Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 5: Relax and Unwind
Morning
Spend the morning at Praia de Santa Barbara, a beautiful black sand beach. Take a surf lesson or simply relax and enjoy the sun.
Afternoon
Visit the Igreja de Santa Cruz, a beautiful church in the town of Lagoa. Explore the local shops and cafes.
Evening
End your trip with a relaxing soak in the thermal pools of Caldeira Velha.