16 Best Things to do in the Azores

Planning a trip to the Azores and wondering what to do? You’re in the right place.

The Azores are unlike anywhere else in Europe. This remote Portuguese archipelago is all volcanic lakes and lush green landscapes. In fact, along with Madeira, the Azores are often nicknamed “the Hawaii of Europe”!

There are nine islands in total, and each one offers something a little different. But of course, knowing that can also make planning a trip feel a bit overwhelming! To help you plan your trip, we’ve rounded up the best things to do in the Azores and included all the need-to-know details for each activity.

Things to do in the Azores

1. Experience the lakes, legends, and landscapes of western São Miguel 

This São Miguel west tour ended up being one of the best ways for us to see the island without having to plan a thing. If it’s your first time in the Azores, it’s a no-brainer! 

What we loved most was how much variety it packed into one day. Instead of just heading to one viewpoint and calling it a day, we moved between crater lakes and coastal cliffs, and stopped at lots of quiet, tucked-away spots we definitely would have missed on our own.

Of course, Sete Cidades is the standout! Seeing Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde from viewpoints like Boca do Inferno and Vista do Rei was even more impressive than we had imagined. The stop in Mosteiros was another highlight, and we loved seeing the volcanic coastline up close.

Another thing that really made the experience for us was our local guide. Daniel was so knowledgeable and passionate about the island – and no, I’m not just bigging him up because we have the same name! Lunch was a nice bonus too, as we got a proper local meal involving fresh fish, rather than just a quick snack or a packed lunch. 

Overall, we think this is the perfect introduction to São Miguel, especially if you want to see the island’s most iconic spots without the stress of driving! And we’re not the only ones who love it, as it has over 1,600 glowing reviews that you can read here!

2. Taste the most authentic Azorean cuisine

Sao Miguell

This food tour was our favorite thing that we did in Ponta Delgada! We booked it for our first day, and we’re so glad that we did because it helped us get our bearings and understand the local food scene straight away.

We started at Portas da Cidade and spent the next few hours wandering through the Old Town, stopping at local markets and small, traditional eateries along the way. The variety was fantastic, as we got to try everything from local cheeses and cured meats to fresh seafood and traditional pastries. Nothing felt rushed either, which we really appreciated!

Our guide, Isha, was amazing and made a huge difference. Azorean cuisine is quite different from mainland Portugal in some ways, so having a local explain the specialties and traditions behind them was so helpful. If you can, schedule this for early in your trip, as it will really help you know what to order later on!

Terceira 

If you want to experience Azorean food in the most authentic way possible, this dining experience on Terceira is a great choice. Rather than going to a normal restaurant, you’ll be welcomed by a local family and spend the evening eating proper homemade food cooked in a traditional wood-fired oven made with volcanic stones. It’s a delicious deep dive into the island’s culture, and if you like, you can roll up your sleeves and help to prepare the fresh bread.

The menu changes depending on what’s fresh and available, but you can expect a mix of meat, fish, vegetables, desserts, and freshly baked bread, all made with local ingredients, of course! Drinks are included too, and the hosts share stories about island life and the traditions behind the food. It’s such a wholesome and memorable way to spend an evening in Terceira!

3. Go canyoning in the lush Ribeira Grande 

This canyoning experience is easily one of the most fun and adventurous things to do in Ponta Delgada, São Miguel. It really gets you right into the heart of the landscape!

The tour takes place near Ribeira Grande, in a lush, green valley filled with waterfalls and clear streams. It feels like a natural playground! You’re not just walking through it either, you’re climbing, scrambling, abseiling down waterfalls, and even jumping into natural pools if you’re up for it. The jumps are optional, so you can take them at your own pace, which makes it a good option for beginners.

The guides are experienced, friendly, and very focused on safety, which makes a big difference, especially if it’s your first time canyoning. They talk you through everything step by step, so you always feel comfortable, even when you’re doing something a bit outside your comfort zone.

It’s also a great activity to mix into your itinerary because it works in almost any weather. In fact, a bit of rain actually adds to the experience, as the waterfalls are even more impressive.

If you’re looking to add something active and memorable to your trip, this is a great choice. It’s a little bit challenging and a completely different way to experience São Miguel – no wonder it has hundreds of glowing reviews!

4. Experience the magic of whale (and dolphin!) watching in the Atlantic

São Miguel

Whale watching is one of the best things to do on São Miguel, which is where most visitors to the Azores end up staying, and this cruise is top-rated! Plus, it leaves right from the marina in Ponta Delgada, so it’s super convenient. 

And since the Azores islands, you have a good chance of spotting multiple whale species here! Spring is especially exciting, as blue whales, fin whales, and sei whales pass through the islands during their migration; meanwhile, in summer, you’re likely to see sperm whales and big dolphin pods.

And with this tour, there are two boat options. The catamaran is the more relaxed choice, with a smoother ride and plenty of space to move around, making it ideal for families or anyone prone to seasickness. Then the speedboat is faster and more adventurous, so it’s perfect if you want to feel closer to the water!

Related Read: Ponta Delgada makes the perfect base for exploring São Miguel. Read our guide to the best things to do in Ponta Delgada and our detailed Ponta Delgada itinerary for more inspiration.

Pico

Pico is one of the best islands in the Azores for whale watching, so if you’re staying here, you can’t miss this marine adventure! The Azores are home to more than 20 different species of whales and dolphins, and Pico’s dramatic coastline really adds to the whole experience.

The tour starts with a short briefing at the whale watching center in Lajes do Pico, then you’ll head out on the water with an experienced crew to search for marine life. Having local guides makes a big difference here because they know where sightings are most likely, and they’ll help you understand what you’re seeing along the way.

The boat trip lasts around three hours, so it’s long enough to see lots of whales, but it won’t take up the whole day. As well as sperm and humpback whales, you’ve also got a good chance of seeing large pods of dolphins as well!

Terceira 

Terceira is another fantastic island for whale and dolphin watching, and this tour is a great choice if you want a really strong chance of seeing marine life. The Azores are one of the best places in the world for cetacean spotting, and around 28 different species can be seen here throughout the year. That’s a pretty good reason to get out on the water if you ask me!

This tour leaves from Angra do Heroísmo Marina, so it’s especially convenient if you’re staying in or near the city. The team uses a land-based lookout with long-range binoculars to help guide the boat towards sightings, which gives you a much better chance of seeing whales or dolphins. It also comes with a sighting guarantee, so if you don’t see at least one cetacean, you can either try again or request a refund.

5. Wander through Angra do Heroísmo’s UNESCO-listed streets

Angra do Heroísmo is one of the most beautiful towns in the Azores, and it’s definitely worth setting aside some time to explore it if you’re visiting Terceira. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it feels very different from the more rugged, volcanic side of the islands. 

As you wander around, you’ll see colorful colonial-era buildings and charming cobbled streets. And since Angra sits between the ocean and Monte Brasil, you also get ocean and mountain views. It’s just gorgeous!

What we love about Angra is that it’s easy to explore on foot. Rua da Sé is a great place to start, as it’s one of the main shopping streets, with lots of cute stores and coffee shops.

Praça Velha is another must-see, as it’s the town’s main square, and we also recommend checking out the area around Sé Cathedral before wandering down towards the waterfront.

6. Climb to the highest point in the Azores (and Portugal!)

If you’re up for a challenge, climbing Mount Pico is one of the most unforgettable things to do in the Azores. At 2,351 meters (about 7,700 feet), it’s the highest point in Portugal, and it has an average slope of 30%, so this is definitely one for more confident hikers. The conditions can also be tricky, so for safety reasons, you’re going to want to go with a local guide!

There are two main ways to do it. The daytime guided hike is the more straightforward option, and it’s a great choice if you want to enjoy the volcanic scenery as you climb. You’ll hike up to Piquinho, the summit crater, with a guide who helps with pacing, safety, and all of the practical bits.

The night climb requires a bit more effort (or rather, a lot less sleep!) but it’s also super special. You’ll start in the dark and climb through the night so that you can reach the top in time for sunrise. Watching the sun come up from the highest point in the Azores is a proper bucket-list moment!

7. Experience the raw volcanic beauty of Faial Island

Faial is sometimes overlooked compared to islands like São Miguel and Pico, but fortunately, this full-day tour makes it super easy to visit! It gives you a fantastic overview of the island in one day, without having to work out a route or car rental yourself. 

You’ll explore Faial with a local guide, Ramiro, who really brings the island to life with stories and lots of little details you’d probably miss on your own. We also like the fact that this is a small-group tour, so it feels relaxed and personal, and you won’t be part of a swarm of 50+ travelers all descending on the same stop at once!

But of course, the scenery is really what makes this tour so worth it. You’ll visit the huge Caldeira, which sits right in the center of the island, as well as Capelinhos Volcano, where the 1957 eruption completely changed the coastline. This part of Faial feels almost lunar, and it’s such a cool contrast to the island’s green hills and ocean views.

The tour also includes stops at places like Monte da Guia, Praia do Almoxarife, and Porto do Comprido’s natural pools, so you get a really nice mix of viewpoints, beaches, volcanic landscapes, and local villages. In summer, you may even be able to swim at Almoxarife Beach, so bring a swimsuit just in case!

8. Uncover Terceira’s past on a full-day archaeology adventure

If you’re interested in history, this private archaeology tour on Terceira is a fascinating way to spend a day. Most people know the Azores for their volcanoes and rugged coastlines, but this tour digs into a completely different side of the islands – literally! 

Traditional history says that the Azores were only discovered when the Portuguese arrived in the 15th century, but Terceira is home to some much older and more mysterious structures. On this tour, you’ll head out with a private guide to explore sites that most visitors would never find on their own, including a megalithic complex, a Roman-style columbarium, and an ancient trail carved by oxcarts.

What makes this tour really special is the guide, Juca. He’s a local expert who has spent years exploring Terceira, and he actually discovered one of the sites you’ll visit, which is pretty amazing! A lot of these places are not well marked, and some are on private land, so this is definitely the kind of experience where having a guide makes all the difference. You would never be able to find them on your own!

There are small hikes involved, so you’ll need a moderate level of fitness, but it’s not just walking for the sake of it. And as you go, you’ll hear lots of different theories about the island’s past, which are definitely fun to contemplate. If you’re interested in history and archaeology, you definitely shouldn’t miss this tour – and don’t just take my word for it, because the reviews are absolutely glowing.

9. Stroll through São Miguel’s rolling tea fields

Gorreana Tea Plantation is such a lovely stop if you’re exploring the east side of São Miguel. It’s very pretty, and it doesn’t take a lot of effort to go and explore! It feels totally different from the island’s crater lakes and volcanic pools, so it’s good to see the contrast.

The tea fields are free to wander around, and you can usually walk through them independently, soaking up the views over the rolling green hills. It’s not a strenuous hike, but that’s why it’s so appealing! If you’re driving around the island, it’s the perfect place to pull over and stretch your legs. It’s easy to visit before or after visiting Furnas, depending on the route you’re taking.

Basically, this is the perfect quick stop for an island road trip. It’s quick but memorable, and it makes for great photos. Plus, the factory adds some local interest because you get a look at one of São Miguel’s longest-running local industries.

10. Ride along coastal trails and soak up volcanic views on an e-bike

São Miguel 

This e-bike tour isn’t your typical bike ride! Instead of cycling through flat city streets, you’ll be riding along the rim of a volcanic crater, which is every bit as cool as it sounds. You’ll be fully immersed in the Sete Cidades landscape the entire time, and the electric bikes make the uphill sections feel easy. 

The route takes you along dirt trails and sections of the crater rim, with incredible views over the famous blue and green lakes below. I can safely say this is unlike any other bike ride I’ve been on! It’s adventurous, but don’t worry, it’s beginner-friendly, and the guides will be with you throughout to keep the pace leisurely and ensure you don’t get lost.  If you want a unique way to see Sete Cidades, this is definitely it!

Terceira

Monte Brasil in Terceira is a super scenic peninsula, and we think that this e-bike tour is the perfect way to explore! The peninsula sits right by Angra do Heroísmo, so the tour starts close to town, but before long, you’ll be enjoying peace and quiet out on the rugged trails.

Monte Brasil is actually an old volcano and now a protected forest reserve, so you’ll ride through lots of greenery, past historic military areas, and up towards Pico das Cruzinhas for panoramic views over Angra and the coastline. The electric bikes make the climb so much easier, and allow you to enjoy the scenery without feeling like your legs are going to fall off!

We think this is a great option if you want something active but not too intense. It’s rated as easy, and the guide gives you time to get comfortable with the bike before setting off, so no worries if you haven’t ridden an e-bike before.

11. Journey through Furnas’ steaming valleys 

This Furnas Valley tour is one of the most unique experiences you can have in Portugal, and it’s an absolute must if you’re visiting São Miguel! While the island is full of incredible scenery, Furnas is completely different – and totally unique. I mean, it’s a geothermal area, so the landscape is actually alive! 

What makes this tour so great is how much it fits into one day without feeling rushed – you’d never be able to do it all on your own! You’ll start along the north coast with stops at places like Miradouro de Santa Iria, where you get those sweeping ocean views, before heading to the Gorreana tea plantation. It’s one of the only tea plantations in Europe, and walking through the fields is a really cool experience.

Once you reach Furnas, things get even more interesting. At Lagoa das Furnas, you can actually see the famous “cozido” stew being cooked underground using volcanic heat. It’s such a unique tradition, and then you get to sit down and eat it for lunch, which makes it even better!

The afternoon is just as good. You’ll explore the geothermal area in the village itself, see bubbling hot springs, and you’ll have the option to visit Terra Nostra Park and relax in the warm thermal pool surrounded by lush gardens. If you want to see a completely different side of São Miguel, this is easily one of the best ways to do it!

12. Explore Terceira’s colorful towns, volcanic landscapes, and island traditions 

If you only have one day on Terceira, this full-day highlights tour will help you to see as much of the island as possible! Terceira is a small island that has a charming mix of colorful towns and dramatic, volcanic landscapes, so on this tour you’ll hit all of the best viewpoints and swimming spots. 

The tour begins by visiting Monte Brasil, an extinct volcano wrapped in old military walls, so you get awesome views over Angra do Heroísmo right from the get-go. From there, the route takes you around the island to spots like São Sebastião, where you can see one of the oldest churches on Terceira, and Praia da Vitória for a quick wander through the town center.

The viewpoints are a big part of this tour, too. Serra do Facho gives you gorgeous views over Praia da Vitória and the bay, while Serra do Cume is the one that really shows off Terceira’s patchwork countryside. 

Of course, the volcanic side of the island is just as impressive, and we love that this tour showcases the variety here! You’ll visit Algar do Carvão, where you can actually go inside an empty volcano, as well as Furnas do Enxofre, a fumarole field that shows the island is still very much alive. Finally, the tour stops at the Biscoitos natural swimming pools to end the day on a high note! 

13. Chase waterfalls across the Azores

The Azores are full of waterfalls, and they’re such a good way to experience the islands’ lush, Jurassic Park-style scenery. You don’t have to be a hardcore hiker to enjoy them either, as there are plenty that are easy to reach! 

If you want the biggest wow-factor, head to Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro on Flores. This is one of the most dramatic natural sights in the Azores, with multiple waterfalls streaming down a huge green cliff into a dark lagoon below. It looks unreal! The walk from the parking area is fairly short, too, so you don’t need to commit to a major hike to see those jaw-dropping views.

On São Miguel, Salto do Prego is a great choice if you want more of an active waterfall adventure. It’s located near Faial da Terra, so it pairs well with an east coast or Furnas itinerary. The trail takes you through lush forest and ravines before reaching the waterfall, so it’s a fun adventure, but it’s not too extreme.

Just be prepared for muddy sections, especially if it has rained recently, and be sure to wear comfy shoes with good grip. If you like the idea of canyoning but don’t fancy jumping into waterfalls, this is the perfect self-guided alternative!

14. Power through dirt tracks on a buggy or ATV 

São Miguel

Furnas is one of the most unique places to visit on São Miguel, and this quad biking tour is a fantastic way to experience it properly. The whole area feels completely different from the rest of the island, with steaming fumaroles and bubbling hot springs to explore.

What makes Furnas so special is that the landscape is still very much alive. You can actually see steam rising from the ground and watch the famous cozido stew being pulled from the earth after cooking underground with geothermal heat. I mean, where else do you get lunch cooked by a volcano?

This is exactly why a guided tour works so well here. You don’t just look at pretty scenery; you actually learn how the volcanic activity shapes daily life in Furnas. It’s scenic, cultural, and a little bit surreal, which makes it one of São Miguel’s must-do experiences.

Related Read: Making São Miguel your base? Check out our detailed São Miguel itinerary to see how we recommend spending your time on the island.

Terceira

Terceira is full of beautiful viewpoints, forests, fields, and winding little backroads, so what better way to see them than with a buggy tour? Rather than just sitting in a van between stops, you actually get to drive through the island’s western and central landscapes yourself, which makes the whole thing feel way more adventurous.

You’ll ride in a UTV with a guide leading the way, taking on a mix of forest dirt tracks and open countryside. It’s a really fun way to reach places that feel a bit more tucked away, so this is perfect if you’re looking to explore the “real” Terceira. We love that! 

The route can include areas like 5 Ribeiras, Raminho, Santa Bárbara, and viewpoints across the west and center of the island. You’ll get quintessential Azorean views, with volcanic scenery, lots of green, and flashes of the ocean, but with a lot more adrenaline along the way. It’s definitely more exciting than your standard island tour!

Related Read: Before you go, check out our Portugal packing list for tips on what to bring for outdoor adventures, island hopping, and changing weather.

15. Discover the Azores’ volcanic reefs on a scuba dive 

Did you know that the Azores Islands are a great place to go scuba diving? Yup, while most people come here for the landscapes above ground, what’s going on beneath the surface is just as impressive. And that’s why we love this 3-hour scuba diving tour, which takes you on a boat from São Miguel to explore some of the island’s richest marine hotspots.

The waters around the Azores are full of volcanic formations, which makes the underwater scenery really stand out. Instead of coral reefs like you’d find in tropical destinations, you’ve got dramatic rock formations, caves, and lava structures that create a totally different kind of dive environment. It’s very unique, and it fits the rugged nature of the Azores perfectly.

Marine life here is also really interesting because of the island’s location in the Atlantic. You can spot a mix of species you wouldn’t normally see together, including colorful fish, octopus, and sometimes even larger pelagic species, depending on the conditions. You won’t necessarily see huge schools of fish, but you will experience a lot of variety and unique creatures! Even if you’ve done plenty of scuba dives before, you probably haven’t experienced anything quite like this.

16. Soak up Santa Maria’s peaceful charm and golden beaches

Santa Maria is one of the quieter islands in the Azores, and it doesn’t get a ton of tourists. Accommodation is quite limited, and it’s not the easiest place to explore by yourself, especially if it’s your first time in the Azores, so if you’d like to check it out, we recommend visiting on this full-day tour!

What makes this tour stand out for us is that it’s run by a small group of locals who are clearly so passionate about showcasing the beauty of their island. They’re proud of Santa Maria’s history and everything that makes it so unique, so they’ll ensure you get to see the very best spots.

Santa Maria isn’t as rugged as the other Azores islands, but that’s actually why it’s so worth visiting! It offers beautiful, beachy landscapes with golden sands and natural pools that you can swim in. It’s magical! 

Other tour highlights include Forte de São Brás, which dates back to the 16th century, as well as viewpoints like São Lourenço, where the bay views are absolutely gorgeous. And we have to mention Barreiro da Faneca, also known as the Red Desert, where the red volcanic earth makes it feel like you’ve suddenly landed on Mars! It’s a really relaxed but varied island day, and going with a local guide who grew up on the island really does make all the difference.

Thanks for reading!

The Azores completely exceeded our expectations. Between the crater lakes of São Miguel, the volcanic landscapes of Pico and Faial, the charming towns of Terceira, and all of the incredible food along the way, every island felt like a new adventure. Whether you’re here to hike, whale watch, chase waterfalls, or simply soak in the scenery, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences waiting for you!

And if you’re looking for more travel inspiration, be sure to check out our other Portugal travel guides for destination ideas, itineraries, and tips. We’ve also linked a few of our favorite guides below to help inspire your next trip!

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Where to Stay in Ponta Delgada, Azores: 3 Best Areas & Hotels

Where to Stay in Faro, Portugal: 3 Best Areas & Hotels