Like a handful of marbles scattered in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the nine volcanic islands of the Azores archipelago feel untamed and wild – and somehow this somewhat well-kept secret is very accessible from both North America and Europe.
Halfway between the two continents – some 1,500 km (900 miles) west of Lisbon – lie the nine Azorean islands, each with its own personality. They’re linked by the warm and friendly islanders who call this dramatic and moody group – where volcanic peaks kiss the clouds and blue hydrangeas bloom – home.
If you’re expecting long sandy beaches with all-inclusive resorts, look for other islands across the globe. But, if you’re a curious traveller after hot springs and hiking, whale watching and canyoning, then the Azores are for you.
Here’s a deep guide covering everything you need to know about the nine Azorean islands.
Spend 4-5 days exploring dramatic crater lakes like Sete Cidades, steaming hot springs in Furnas, black sand beaches, epic lookouts, and beautiful tea plantations.
Pico means peak, and Portugal’s highest mountain dominates the volcanic landscape.
Terceira is known for its colorful impérios, lively festivals, bull-fighting traditions, deep historic roots, and a meaty dish called alcatra. Explore with 2-3 days.
It’s famous for its cliffs and fajãs – flat coastal plains formed by landslides or lava flows – and the strong, bitey cheese.
Faial gained 3km of land in the 1957 eruption, a reminder that the Azores are alive. It’s a popular sailor’s port.
This UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve has whitewashed houses, red Flemish-inspired windmills, and the endangered Azorean dwarf donkey.
Expect a dramatic, verdant and floral landscape of goldenrods and hydrangeas. Come here to hike, swim in natural pools and chase waterfalls.
Find solace on the island with just 468 residents and plenty of migratory birds.
The Azores’ sunny island with golden sandy beaches (rather than black volcanic sand).
Essential tip… Set in the middle of the wild Altantic Ocean, the islands of the Azores experience every season, every day. The best way to explore the islands is with the free SpotAzores app in your pocket. This gives you access to webcams across the island so you can see which landmarks and sights are experiencing blue sky… and where is under a cover of cloud.
Daily flights from Lisbon and Porto reach São Miguel or Terceira, with additional direct routes from the UK, Denmark, the Czech Republic, Germany, Spain, and—seasonally—from Boston, Toronto, Montreal, and New York.
SATA, the Azores’ own airline, runs both international and inter-island flights, often with deals that include luggage and make island-hopping cheaper. Ryanair and TAP also serve the islands, and some North America–Portugal routes may offer free Azores stopovers.
Once you arrive, rent a car (if you can) – public transport is limited. Driving lets you reach crater lakes, hidden viewpoints, and even the occasional cow traffic jam. Non-drivers can still explore on guided small-group tours, especially on the larger islands.
To hop between islands, remember the Azores are split into three groups. SATA runs most inter-island flights year-round, while seasonal ferries link the five central islands and connect Flores with tiny Corvo in the west.
From grilled limpets to island cheese, the nine remote Azorean islands offer up a buffet of unique dishes and unusual ingredients. Discover what to eat and drink in the Azores with my guide.
I also have restaurant guides for São Miguel and Terceira islands.
I’m slowly building a library of guides for the Azores – reach out if you have a question
