3-Day Adventure-filled Family Itinerary: Azores Hidden Gems
Azores, Portugal
3 days
About Azores, Portugal
Discover the enchanting Azores, Portugal's hidden gem in the Atlantic Ocean. This archipelago of nine volcanic islands offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and adventure. Explore the lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and serene lakes of São Miguel, or dive into the crystal-clear waters of Terceira. Experience the vibrant festivals, traditional cuisine, and warm hospitality of the locals. Whether you're hiking through the verdant trails, whale watching, or soaking in geothermal pools, Azores promises an unforgettable journey. With its UNESCO World Heritage sites, charming villages, and stunning vistas, Azores is a paradise for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. Embark on a captivating journey to Azores, where every moment is a postcard-perfect memory.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Discovering the Volcanic Wonders of Furnas
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Terra Nostra Garden, a beautiful botanical garden with a variety of plants and a thermal pool. Take a dip in the warm, mineral-rich waters for a unique experience.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local restaurant in Furnas. Try the local specialty, Furnas stew, which is cooked in the ground using geothermal heat.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the volcanic complex of Furnas. Visit the fumaroles, hot springs, and boiling mud pools. Don't forget to try the mineral waters from the various springs.
Dinner
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try the grilled limpets, a local delicacy, and finish your meal with a traditional Azorean dessert.
Evening
End your day with a relaxing stroll around the village, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the beautiful night sky.
Day 3
Whale Watching and City Exploration in Ponta Delgada
Morning
Start your day with a Whale watching tour. The Azores are one of the best places in the world to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local seafood restaurant in Ponta Delgada. Try the grilled octopus, a local favorite.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the historic city center of Ponta Delgada. Visit the local market, the city gates, and the beautiful churches.
Dinner
Enjoy your last dinner in the Azores at a local restaurant. Try the Azorean cheese and the local wine.
Evening
End your trip with a walk along the marina, enjoying the beautiful view of the sea and the city lights.
Attractions in Itinerary (6)
1Terra Nostra Garden
A beautiful botanical garden with a thermal pool, located in the Furnas Valley.
2Whale watching tour
An exciting tour offering the chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.
3Furnas Volcanic Complex
A geologically rich area known for its thermal waters, fumaroles, and boiling springs. It's also home to Terra Nostra Park, one of the most beautiful gardens in the Azores.
4Ponta Delgada City Center
The bustling heart of the Azores' largest city, filled with historic churches, charming squares, excellent restaurants, and unique shops. Highlights include the City Gates, the Carlos Machado Museum, and the Church of St. Sebastian.
5Sete Cidades Crater
One of the Seven Natural Wonders of Portugal, this crater is home to the twin lakes of Sete Cidades, one green and one blue.
6Sete Cidades Village
A charming village located within the Sete Cidades Crater, offering a glimpse into traditional Azorean life.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Alcatra
A traditional Azorean dish made from beef or fish cooked slowly in a clay pot with spices, wine, and garlic. It's a must-try for its unique flavor and its importance in Azorean cuisine.
Queijo São Jorge
A hard cheese made on the island of São Jorge. It's known for its spicy and intense flavor, making it a staple in the Azorean diet.
Caldo de Peixe
A traditional Azorean fish soup made with a variety of local fish and shellfish, potatoes, and vegetables. It's a popular dish among locals and tourists alike for its fresh and hearty taste.
Lapas Grelhadas
Grilled limpets, a type of sea snail, is a common dish in the Azores. They are typically served with a garlic and butter sauce, offering a taste of the Atlantic Ocean.
Bolo Lêvedo
A sweet, pancake-like bread that is a staple in Azorean breakfasts. It's often served with butter or jam, and is a great way to start the day in the Azores.
Chicharros com Molho de Vilão
A traditional Azorean dish made with horse mackerel and a sauce made from vinegar, peppers, and onions. It's a popular dish for its tangy and savory flavors.
Morcela da Beira
A blood sausage made with pork, blood, onions, and spices. It's a traditional Azorean dish that is often served as a starter or part of a main course.
Arroz Doce
A sweet rice pudding that is a common dessert in the Azores. It's typically flavored with lemon and cinnamon, offering a sweet end to any meal.
Vinho Verdelho
A white wine made from the Verdelho grape, which is grown on the islands of the Azores. It's known for its crisp and fruity flavor, making it a popular choice for wine lovers.
Ananás dos Açores
Azores is famous for its pineapples, which are grown in greenhouses. They are known for their sweet and slightly acidic flavor, making them a popular snack or dessert.
Passas de Figo
Dried figs are a popular snack in the Azores. They are often served with cheese or used in baking, offering a sweet and chewy treat.
Aguardente de Figo
A traditional Azorean liquor made from figs. It's known for its strong and sweet flavor, making it a popular after-dinner drink.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Azores, Portugal is typically between June and September. During these months, you can expect warm temperatures, minimal rainfall, and plenty of sunshine. This is also the peak season for whale and dolphin watching, one of the main attractions in the Azores. However, if you prefer a quieter vacation, the shoulder seasons of April-May and October-November are also great times to visit, with mild weather and fewer tourists.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
February 13 | Tue | Carnival / Shrove Tuesday / Pancake Day |
March 19 | Tue | St. Joseph's Day (Santarém) |
March 29 | Fri | Good Friday |
March 31 | Sun | Easter Sunday |
April 16 | Tue | Our Lady of Mércoles (Castelo Branco) |
April 25 | Thu | Liberty Day |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day / May Day |
May 9 | Thu | Ascension Day (Beja) |
May 12 | Sun | St. Joana's Day (Aveiro) |
May 20 | Mon | Azores Day (Azores) |
May 22 | Wed | Leiria Day (Leiria) |
May 23 | Thu | Portalegre Day (Portalegre) |
May 30 | Thu | Corpus Christi |
June 10 | Mon | Portugal Day |
June 13 | Thu | St. Anthony's Day (regional holiday) |
June 24 | Mon | St. John's Day (regional holiday) |
June 29 | Sat | St. Peter's Day (Évora) |
July 1 | Mon | Madeira Day (Madeira) |
July 4 | Thu | St. Elizabeth's Day (Coimbra) |
August 15 | Thu | Assumption of Mary |
August 20 | Tue | Our Lady of Sorrows (Viana do Castelo) |
August 22 | Thu | Our Lady of Graces (Bragança) |
September 7 | Sat | Faro Day (Faro) |
September 15 | Sun | Birth of Bocage (Setúbal) |
September 21 | Sat | St. Matthew's Day (Viseu) |
October 5 | Sat | Republic Day |
November 1 | Fri | All Saints' Day |
November 27 | Wed | Foral of Sancho I (Guarda) |
December 1 | Sun | Restoration of Independence |
December 8 | Sun | Feast of the Immaculate Conception |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
How to get around
Air Travel
The Azores are an archipelago of nine islands, and the quickest way to travel between them is by air. SATA Air Açores operates regular flights between the islands.
Car Rental
Renting a car is a convenient way to explore each island at your own pace. Most islands have car rental agencies, and you can book in advance online or upon arrival. Remember to bring your driver's license.
Public Buses
Each island has a network of public buses that connect the main towns and attractions. However, services can be infrequent and may not align with your travel schedule.
Ferries
Traveling by ferry is a slower but more scenic way to hop between the islands. Atlanticoline operates regular services during the summer months, with a reduced schedule in the winter.
Taxi
Taxis are available on all islands and can be a convenient way to get around, especially for shorter distances. They can be hailed on the street or booked in advance.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services are not widely available in the Azores. However, you may find local rideshare groups on social media platforms where locals and visitors arrange shared journeys.
Bicycle Rental
For the active traveler, renting a bicycle can be a great way to explore the islands' natural beauty. Many towns have bicycle rental shops, and some hotels also offer this service to their guests.
Hiking
The Azores are renowned for their stunning hiking trails. Walking is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the islands' landscapes, from volcanic craters to lush forests and rugged coastlines.
Scooter Rental
Renting a scooter can be a fun and efficient way to get around, especially on the smaller islands. You'll need a valid driver's license, and it's recommended to book in advance during the busy summer months.
Important information
Currency€ EUR
Time zoneUTC 0
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone112
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Azores, Portugal as a first time visitor
1
The Azores is an autonomous region of Portugal, but it has its own distinct culture and traditions.
2
The official language is Portuguese, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
3
The currency used is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash.
4
The Azores has a maritime temperate climate. Summers (June to September) are warm with temperatures ranging from 70-80°F (21-27°C). Winters (December to February) are mild with temperatures ranging from 50-60°F (10-15°C).
5
The Azores is a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is most favorable.
6
The Azores is in the Western European Time Zone (WET, GMT +0). During daylight saving time, it follows Western European Summer Time (WEST, GMT +1).
7
The Azores is made up of nine islands. Each island has its own unique character and attractions.
8
Public transportation is available but not very frequent. Renting a car is the best way to explore the islands.
9
The Azores is known for its sustainable tourism. Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment and local customs.
10
The Azores has a low crime rate, but it's always a good idea to take basic precautions like not leaving valuables unattended.
11
The tap water is safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available if preferred.
12
The Azores has a rich culinary scene. Seafood is a staple, and the region is known for its cheeses and wines.
13
The Azores has a VAT (Value Added Tax) rate of 18%. Non-EU tourists can claim a refund on departure for goods purchased within the last 3 months.
14
Healthcare facilities are good in the Azores. However, travel insurance is recommended for any unexpected medical expenses.
15
The Azores is a great destination for outdoor activities like hiking, bird watching, and whale watching.
16
The Azores is located in the mid-Atlantic and can be prone to sudden changes in weather. It's advisable to pack layers and waterproof clothing.
17
The Azores has a slower pace of life compared to mainland Portugal. Embrace the laid-back lifestyle and take time to enjoy the natural beauty.
18
The Azores has a strong connection to the sea. Respect marine life and avoid disturbing wildlife during water activities.
19
The Azores has a mix of sandy and rocky beaches. Always check the conditions before swimming as currents can be strong.
20
The Azores is in a seismic active zone, earthquakes and volcanic activity are possible, but they are monitored closely by authorities.
Basic Portuguese to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Olá | O-la | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Adeus | Ad-ey-oosh | Leaving or saying goodbye to someone |
Please | Por favor | Por fa-vor | When asking for something |
Thank you | Obrigado | Ob-ri-ga-doo | After receiving something or someone's help |
Yes | Sim | Seem | Agreeing with someone or something |
No | Não | Nown | Disagreeing with someone or something |
Excuse me | Desculpe | Desh-kool-pe | Getting someone's attention or apologizing |
I'm sorry | Lamento | La-men-to | Apologizing |
Do you speak English? | Fala inglês? | Fala in-glesh? | When you need to communicate in English |
I don't understand | Não entendo | Nown en-ten-doo | When you don't understand what's being said |
Where is the bathroom? | Onde está o banheiro? | Onde es-ta o ba-ney-ro? | When you need to use the restroom |
How much does it cost? | Quanto custa? | Kwan-to kus-ta? | When you want to know the price of something |
I would like... | Eu gostaria... | Ey-oo go-sta-ria | When you want to order something |
Help | Ajuda | A-ju-da | In case of emergency |
Can I have the menu, please? | Posso ter o menu, por favor? | Pos-so ter o me-nu, por fa-vor? | When you want to see the menu at a restaurant |
Water | Água | A-gwa | When you want to order water |
Beer | Cerveja | Ser-ve-ja | When you want to order beer |
Wine | Vinho | Vin-yo | When you want to order wine |
Cheers | Saúde | Sau-de | When toasting |
Good night | Boa noite | Bo-a noi-te | When leaving or going to bed in the evening |
Packing List
Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Swimwear
Sunglasses
Sun hat
Comfortable walking shoes
Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
Rain jacket or umbrella
Toiletries
Travel-size shampoo and conditioner
Travel-size body wash
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
First-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)
Prescription medications
Travel-size laundry detergent
Travel documents and essentials
Passport/ID
Airline tickets
Hotel reservation confirmation
Travel insurance documents
Credit and debit cards
Cash (Euros)
Guidebook
Map of Azores
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Travel adapter plug
Digital camera
Charger for digital camera
Portable power bank
Headphones
Miscellaneous items
Snacks
Reusable water bottle
Travel pillow and blanket
Books or e-books for leisure reading
Travel-size umbrella
Ziplock bags for wet swimwear
Beach towel
Binoculars for bird watching
Weather Conditions
The Azores, Portugal, is a beautiful destination known for its mild and temperate climate. The weather can be unpredictable, so it's essential to be prepared for various conditions. The average temperature in the Azores ranges from 57°F (14°C) in the winter to 77°F (25°C) in the summer. However, sudden changes can occur, so it's advisable to pack layers. A light jacket or sweater is recommended for cooler evenings or sudden rain showers. Rain is quite common in the Azores, especially during the winter months. Therefore, it's a good idea to pack a waterproof jacket or an umbrella. Despite the rain, the Azores are often sunny, so don't forget your sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. The Azores are also known for their strong winds, especially in the coastal areas. If you plan on participating in water sports or boat trips, check the local weather forecast for wind conditions. It's also recommended to secure any loose items if you're staying in a coastal area. The sea temperature in the Azores is relatively stable, ranging from 60°F (16°C) in the winter to 75°F (24°C) in the summer. If you're planning on swimming, snorkeling, or diving, a wetsuit might be necessary, especially during the cooler months. Overall, the key to enjoying your visit to the Azores is to be prepared for a variety of weather conditions. Despite the occasional rain shower or windy day, the Azores' beautiful landscapes and mild temperatures make it a fantastic destination year-round.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 17° / 11° | January is the coldest month in Azores, but it's still relatively mild with occasional rain showers. |
February | 17° / 11° | February is similar to January, with mild temperatures and a chance of rain. |
March | 18° / 12° | In March, the weather starts to warm up slightly, but there is still a chance of rain. |
April | 19° / 13° | April sees a slight increase in temperature, with more sunny days but still a chance of occasional showers. |
May | 21° / 15° | May marks the beginning of the warmer season in Azores, with more sunshine and less rain. |
June | 24° / 18° | June is a great month to visit Azores, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. |
July | 26° / 20° | July is one of the hottest months in Azores, perfect for beach activities and exploring the islands. |
August | 27° / 21° | August is the peak of summer in Azores, with hot temperatures and lots of sunshine. |
September | 26° / 20° | September is slightly cooler than August, but still warm enough for outdoor activities. |
October | 24° / 18° | In October, the weather starts to cool down, but it's still pleasant with a moderate amount of rain. |
November | 21° / 15° | November sees a further drop in temperature, with more frequent rain showers. |
December | 19° / 13° | December is a mild winter month in Azores, with cooler temperatures and a higher chance of rain. |
Did you know?
Places near by Azores, Portugal
Porto
A vibrant city known for its stately bridges and port wine production. It's also home to the stunning Livraria Lello, one of the world's most beautiful bookstores.
Lisbon
The hilly, coastal capital city of Portugal known for its cafe culture and soulful Fado music. Visit the historic Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery.
Madeira
An archipelago comprising 4 islands off the northwest coast of Africa. Known for its namesake wine and warm, subtropical climate.
Algarve
The southernmost region of continental Portugal, known for its Mediterranean beaches and golf resorts.
Coimbra
A riverfront city in central Portugal and the country’s former capital. Home to a preserved medieval old town and the historic University of Coimbra.
Sintra
A resort town in the foothills of Portugal’s Sintra Mountains, near the capital, Lisbon. Known for its many 19th-century Romantic architectural monuments.
Evora
A small city in southern Portugal known for its well-preserved old town center, still partially enclosed by medieval walls.
