5-Day Solo Retreat: Relaxation and Shopping in Azores, Portugal
Azores, Portugal
5 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.
5-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Discovering Furnas
Morning
Start your second day with a visit to the town of Furnas, known for its thermal springs and beautiful gardens.
Lunch
Have lunch in Furnas and try the local specialty 'Cozido das Furnas', a stew cooked in the ground using the heat from the volcanic activity.
Afternoon
After lunch, visit the Terra Nostra Garden, a beautiful park with a thermal pool, where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the Azores.
Dinner
Enjoy a quiet dinner in Furnas, trying more local dishes.
Evening
Spend the evening relaxing in your accommodation or taking a leisurely stroll around the town.
Day 3
Visiting Faial and Horta
Morning
On your third day, visit the island of Faial, known for its beautiful landscapes and charming towns. Start your day with a visit to the Capelinhos Volcano, a fascinating geological site.
Lunch
Have lunch in the town of Horta, known for its beautiful marina and historic buildings.
Afternoon
After lunch, visit the Peter's Café Sport, a famous sailor's bar with a fascinating maritime museum.
Dinner
Enjoy a seafood dinner in one of Horta's local restaurants.
Evening
End your day with a relaxing walk along the marina, enjoying the peaceful evening atmosphere.
Day 4
Experiencing Pico and Madalena
Morning
On your fourth day, visit the island of Pico, known for its stunning landscapes and wine production. Start your day with a visit to the Pico Mountain, the highest point in Portugal.
Lunch
Have lunch in the town of Madalena, known for its beautiful vineyards and wine production.
Afternoon
After lunch, visit the Pico Vineyard Culture, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can learn about the island's unique wine production methods.
Dinner
Enjoy a dinner in Madalena, trying local dishes and wines.
Evening
Spend the evening relaxing in your accommodation or taking a leisurely stroll around the town.
Day 5
Uncovering Terceira and Angra do Heroísmo
Morning
On your last day, visit the island of Terceira, known for its beautiful landscapes and historic towns. Start your day with a visit to the Algar do Carvão, a unique volcanic cave.
Lunch
Have lunch in the town of Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautiful architecture and historic sites.
Afternoon
After lunch, explore the town's historic sites, including the Angra Cathedral and the Fort of São João Baptista.
Dinner
Enjoy your last dinner in the Azores in Angra do Heroísmo, trying local dishes and wines.
Evening
End your trip with a relaxing walk along the town's waterfront, enjoying the peaceful evening atmosphere.
Attractions in Itinerary (10)
1Ponta Delgada
The largest city in Azores, known for its historic buildings, beautiful gardens, and vibrant culture.
2António Borges Garden
A historic garden featuring a variety of exotic plants.
3Terra Nostra Garden
A beautiful botanical garden with a thermal pool, located in the Furnas Valley.
4Capelinhos Volcano
A dormant volcano and lighthouse offering a unique landscape.
5Pico Mountain
The highest mountain in Portugal, Pico Mountain is a popular spot for hiking and climbing. The summit offers breathtaking views of the surrounding islands.
6Pico Vineyard Culture
The Pico Vineyard Culture is a UNESCO World Heritage site, where vineyards are grown in a unique landscape of volcanic soil, creating a truly unique wine.
7Algar do Carvão
Visit an ancient lava tube and marvel at the unique geological formations.
8Angra do Heroísmo
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its Renaissance architecture and military fortifications.
9Angra Cathedral
The Angra Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of the Holy Saviour, is a stunning piece of architecture in the city of Angra do Heroísmo. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in religious sites or architecture.
10Fort of São João Baptista
The Fort of São João Baptista is a historic monument in Angra do Heroísmo. It offers stunning views of the city and the sea, and is a must-visit for history buffs.
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 for warm weather
Sweater or light jacket for cooler evenings
Swimsuit for beach or pool
Comfortable walking shoes
Flip flops for the beach
Underwear and socks for 5 days
Pajamas
Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
Rain jacket or umbrella
Toiletries
Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner
Travel-sized body wash or soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
Lip balm with SPF
Basic first aid kit
Prescription medications
Travel-sized laundry detergent
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and car rental reservations
Emergency contact information
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Power adapter for Portugal
Digital camera or GoPro
Charger for camera or GoPro
Portable power bank
Headphones
Miscellaneous items
Travel guidebook for Azores
Snacks for travel
Reusable water bottle
Travel pillow and blanket for flight
Earplugs and eye mask for flight
Books or e-reader for leisure
Travel-sized games or playing cards
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.
