Remote and lush, the Azores archipelago is absolutely breathtaking. The volcanic islands feature mesmerizing vistas over verdant landscapes, nature trails that lead to tumbling waterfalls and epic sea expeditions.
Of the nine Azores Islands, Sao Miguel is the largest and offers abundant and diverse attractions. With an ideal 7-Day Sao Miguel, Azores Itinerary, visitors can experience the best the island has to offer!
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Summary of Sao Miguel, Azores Itinerary
Our trip to the Azores was nearly 10 years in the making. So, when we finally visited Sao Miguel Island, we decided to stay for three weeks.
Based on our personal experiences, we squeezed the top things to do into this 1-Week Sao Miguel, Azores Vacation Itinerary.
Therefore, we suggest staying in a few different locations, rather than basing yourself in one place for the duration of the trip.
Ponta Delgada – 1 Night | Mosteiros – 2 Nights | Nordeste – 2 Nights | Furnas – 2 Nights
Planning a One Week Sao Miguel Itinerary
To fully explore the landscapes and partake in the best things to do in Sao Miguel Island, we believe 7 days is ideal. However, that could easily be extended to two weeks.
To help determine how many days to plan for your trip, also read our other detailed Sao Miguel, Azores travel guides.
- 2 Week Azores, Lisbon & Porto Itinerary
- Best Hikes on Sao Miguel
- Must-See Sao Miguel Viewpoints
- What To Do in Ponta Delgada
Organize Your Azores Trip
As you begin making hotel and airline reservations, staying organized is key. We recommend using our Printable Travel Planner for all your Azores vacation details!
Day-by-Day Sao Miguel, Azores Itinerary 7 Days
Now that we have covered some of the basics, let’s get to the daily adventures! At the end of this 7 Day Azores Sao Miguel Itinerary, we share a map and more useful tips regarding logistics.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Sao Miguel Travel Guide for your vacation to Portugal!
Day 1: Ponta Delgada and Whale Watching Tour
Begin your 1 Week Sao Miguel Island Itinerary exploring the capital city; Ponta Delgada. In the afternoon, join a whale watching expedition and then end your day with a delicious meal.
Morning
Historic Ponta Delgada is compact and easy to navigate. Start at the city gates, Portas da Cidade, and wander along the narrow lanes to admire the typical black-and-white, 15th century architecture.
Step inside the stunningly beautiful churches (the interiors are exquisite). Climb to the top of the City Hall bell tower (it’s free).
Pop into museums (The Carlos Machado Sacred Art Center is our favorite). Stop by parks (don’t miss Jardim Botanico Antonio Borges). Then shop for products at the local market and stores (we like Principe dos Queijos).
When you get hungry, join the locals for a traditional, no-frills lunch at Restaurante Floresta or enjoy a tasty pizza at Nonna’s Teeth and Tomatoes.
Afternoon
The Azores are a hot spot for marine life – including numerous species of whales and dolphins.
Organized boat tours depart from Ponta Delgada Marina in the mornings and afternoons, allowing passengers to get a glimpse of the sea creatures.
On our trip, we opted to join the family-run, 4-hour Moby Dick tour aboard a refurbished wooden ferry boat.
Boasting a passionate crew and a comfortable ride, we saw an astounding 7 whales and countless dolphins!
Insider Tip: Moby Dick Boat Tours has a BYO policy – so bring along your favorite beverages and snacks for the afternoon at sea!
Evening
After a full day of sightseeing, wind down with a satisfying meal. A Tasca dishes out homecooked Portuguese fare (we recommend the Acorda de Camarao and Alcatra Beef).
As the city’s most popular restaurant, they do not take reservations – so there will likely be a long line.
Alternatively, go to Suplexio for a casual dining experience (although, expect a wait there, too).
The hip joint grills up fantastic burgers served alongside excellent Portuguese craft beers. Order the 1427 Burger for a taste of local flavor!
Where To Stay in Ponta Delgada
Situated in the heart of the Old Town, we recommend Hotel do Colegio.
The property occupies a former schoolhouse – but has been completely renovated to include all the modern conveniences. Plus, they have a pool and an ample included breakfast!
Day 2: Best of Sao Miguel West Coast and Mosteiros
Today is all about the western Sao Miguel coastline. Take in the views, embark on a hike, dip your toes in the sea and watch a gorgeous sunset!
Morning
After checking out of the hotel, pick up your rental car and drive the coastal road to the west.
Take in the sweeping ocean views from Miradouro do Caminho Novo, where you can scan the water for whales and watch airplanes as they take off and land.
If you want to admire more sea views, really stretch your legs on the Rocha da Relva Trail. It follows the cliffside down to a quiet, tucked away town. Plan to spend about 2.5 hours on the roundtrip hike.
Afternoon
Continuing west, grab lunch in the village of Ginetes. ‘O Sole Mio makes great pizza or pick up picnic supplies at Meu Super grocery store. Then head to the natural Sao Miguel hot springs: Ponta da Ferraria.
Explore the basalt rock coastline, following the trail to the south that leads to the natural Ponta da Ferraria Thermal Baths.
Refreshed after a swim, continue the drive towards Mosteiros. Make a stop at Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado for an expansive shoreline view.
To the south, the vista stretches over green hills to the Farol da Ferraria Lighthouse. To the north, you get a first glimpse of the offshore rock formations in the town of Mosteiros.
Evening
Arrive in Mosteiros by late afternoon and get checked into your accommodation for the next two nights. Once settled, enjoy a casual walk along the sublime coastline.
Begin your stroll at Praia dos Mosteiros. It’s one of the best black sand beaches in Sao Miguel, Azores – and a prime place to view the islets that rise out of the sea.
The largest one resembles a church or a monastery, which is how the town got its name, with the rocks off to the side likened to nuns or monks.
Saunter along the shore and choose between Sunset Steve’s or Seaside Vibez for a casual dinner with a stunning ocean view.
Where To Stay in Mosteiros
Mosteiros is a small town, but there are several holiday homes – including many with sea views and swimming pools. Those who would rather stay in a hotel, should check out the posh 4-star Mosteiros Place.
Day 3: Sete Cidades Hikes and Viewpoints
Spend day 3 of your Sao Miguel One Week Itinerary discovering one of the island’s most bewitching sights: The crater lakes at Sete Cidades.
Morning
Plan to get an early start to grab a parking space at the Lagoa do Canario. Make the short trek past Canario Lake to the astounding Boca do Inferno viewpoint.
The elevated platform offers an impressive panoramic vista over the volcanic terrain and the lakes that are now nestled in the craters.
Once you’ve taken in the scene, follow the unmarked path along the crater rim to the east, where it joins with the popular PR04 hiking trail.
Continue as far as you would like; Miradouro das Cumeeiras is a good turn-around point. We outline exactly how to complete this trek in our Sao Miguel Hikes post.
After your hike, drive to Miradouro da Vista do Rei – another famous viewpoint on the island.
Gaze out over the Green and Blue Lakes, then walk around the abandoned Monte Palace Hotel to the Food and Friends Food Truck for a phenomenally satisfying Chicken Bifana Sandwich.
Afternoon
Descend the crater rim and spend the rest of the afternoon in Sete Cidades, which sits quaintly on the west side of Lagoa Azul.
The town itself features just a handful of restaurants and a pretty church, Igreja de Sao Nicolau, which dates to 1857.
However, we enjoy visiting Sete Cidades to appreciate the lake views – but this time, from the shore or even on the lake itself.
Use the paths to wander and gain new perspectives within the crater. Trails extend on both sides of both lakes. Better yet, rent a kayak or SUP and experience the lake from the middle of it!
Evening
End the day in Mosteiros with dinner at O Americo de Barbosa. Order the house specialty, Roasted Octopus, for a divine taste of the local seafood!
Day 4: Sao Miguel North Coast, Waterfalls and Tea
The north side of the island is marked with jagged peninsulas, sheer cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Today on your Sao Miguel 7 Day Itinerary – as you transfer from west to east – stop to explore this long stretch of spectacular coastline.
Morning
In the morning, pack up and begin the sensational drive to the east coast along the EN1-1A Highway.
In Capelas, detour to catch the view at Miradouro das Pedras Negras. Then make your way to Buraco de Sao Pedro, a fascinating sinkhole with a sublime coastal panorama.
If it’s a hot day, consider stopping at Praia do Areal de Santa Barbara Beach in Ribeira Grande for a swim. Otherwise, keep driving to the marvelous Miradouro de Santa Iria Viewpoint.
In Moinhos, venture into the woods to find the tranquil Cascata do Limbo Waterfall. If you brought a picnic, it’s an ideal place for lunch.
Otherwise, there’s two restaurants in Moinhos town and one at the tea plantation, which is the next stop.
The Gorreana Tea Factory (Fabrica de Cha Gorreana) was established in 1883. It’s the oldest – and only – tea plantation in Europe.
Guests are invited to tour the facilities for free, hike around the tea gardens (don’t miss the waterfall), buy local products at the gift shop and dine at the café that overlooks the estate.
Regardless, the tea is free for all visitors. Grab a mug and fill up with either their black or green tea. Just keep an eye on the time, because there is so much more to see today!
Afternoon
The afternoon is packed with more miradouros and waterfalls – plus the opportunity for a hike.
First up is the Jose Furtado Viewpoint and Farolim dos Fenais da Ajuda Lighthouse. A bit off the beaten path, the view encompasses coastal basalt column stacks and sea arches cut by waves.
Next, embark on a trek to 3 streaming waterfalls via the Trilho Moinho do Felix Cascades Trail. The route can be completed as a loop (that takes you through the small town) or as an out-and-back within the forest. Either way, allow at least 2 hours.
Those not up for a hike can still see a waterfall. Make a stop at the nearby Miradouro do Salto da Farinha for a distant view of water spilling over the edge of the cliff.
Continuing east, Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeiroes is not to be missed. A nicely landscaped garden, the free attraction features an astonishing (albeit not natural) waterfall.
A trail past the main falls leads to a small, natural waterfall. There is also a watermill and museum on site.
If time allows, make stops for two more amazing northern coastal vistas. Vigia das Baleias in Algarvia is a spectacular spot with views that extend far along the coast and out to sea.
Miradouro do Pelado, which boasts trails to secluded viewpoints and a trek right down to the shore, sits on the northeastern corner of Sao Miguel Island.
Evening
Arriving on the east coast, savor the scene from Miradouro da Ponta do Arnel, which overlooks the first lighthouse in the Azores. Then, get checked into your accommodation.
After settling in, venture into Nordeste town. Walk across the Ponte dos Sete Arcos Bridge and through Praca da Republica Square. If the doors to Igreja Matriz de Sao Jorge Church are open, be sure to step inside.
Dining options are not plentiful in Nordeste, but Restaurante Tronqueira is a bit of a gem. Order the Bife a Regional (locally prepared steak) – or go for the buffet and try several dishes. O Forno is another good choice for simple and affordable Portuguese food.
Where To Stay in Nordeste
We stayed at the fabulous Azores Casa Atlantis, The modern bungalow overlooks the ocean and the sloping hills in Pedreira. The resident chickens and ducks greeted us each day and the friendly host was incredibly kind.
If Casa Atlantis is already booked, The Lince Hotel and Spa in the heart of Nordeste is a solid option. It features 2 swimming pools, a wellness center and balcony rooms.
Day 5: Mountain Peak, Local Birds and Waterfall Hike
Today we visit lesser-known destinations in this quiet corner of Sao Miguel Island. From mountaintops and a seaside village to the search for an elusive endemic bird, the day is filled with unique experiences.
Morning
Take advantage of your east coast perch and wake up with the sunrise. Then, prepare to spend a full day in nature (so pack plenty of water, snacks and a picnic lunch).
If the skies are clear, drive up to the summit of Pico Bartolomeu. Standing at 2910 feet, the peak has been claimed by communication towers, but it still offers one of the best panoramic views of Sao Miguel.
When descending back down, stop into Reserva Florestal de Recreio da Cancela do Cinzeiro, a nature reserve.
Typically void of crowds, it’s a great place to try to spot the rare and endangered Azores Bullfinch – or Priolo.
The on-site (and free) Centro Ambiental do Priolo Museum provides fascinating information about the species. We never caught sight of one, but thoroughly enjoyed the serene walk through endemic plants.
Next, drive south on the perpetually curving coastal road to Miradouro Picos dos Bodes. The view extends south out to sea over the Faial da Terra parish and north over mountainous terrain.
Climb up the lookout tower to search for whales or Santa Maria Island on the horizon. Then scout out a spot for your lunchtime picnic.
Afternoon
Continue into Faial da Terra and park near the trailhead to the Cascata do Salto do Prego Waterfall Hike.
The trek through the forest leads to a mesmerizing waterfall surrounded by leafy foliage. Here you can cool off in the lagoon or scamper to the top of the falls for misty views.
On the return walk, detour onto the Sanguinho Trail, which leads you through an old settlement of stone houses. Plan to spend about 2 hours on this adventure.
Post-hike, return to Nordeste on the same twisting road – taking time to stop at the east-facing viewpoints along the route.
We feel Miradouro da Ponta da Madrugada offers the best view – but the garden at Miradouro da Ponta do Sossego is enchanting, as well.
Evening
Wind down your day with a walk to Faja do Araujo. The coastal path extends from Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Luz Church in Pedreira down to a seaside community. There are only a handful of houses, but miles of views.
Afterwards, dine at Cafe Central for an extremely local experience – or pick up some basic supplies at the adjacent supermercado to make an easy meal in your apartment.
Day 6: Furnas Town, Lake Walk and Hot Springs
On day 6 of your Sao Miguel, Azores 1 Week Itinerary, use the northern route to make your way to Furnas. Walk the circumference trail of Lake Furnas, eat local stew and soak in thermal waters.
Morning
With steam rising from bubbling geysers and unique culinary traditions, Furnas is one of the most interesting places on Sao Miguel Island.
As you near the village nestled in the volcanic crater, stop at Miradouro do Pico do Ferro for an elevated view of Furnas Lake.
Next, wind your way down to the water’s edge (there is parking on the east side) and begin your clockwise trek around Lagoa das Furnas.
Detour into Mata Jardim Jose do Canto (€4 to enter) to hike to a hidden waterfall and past a giant Sequoia. Including the waterfall trek, the lap around the lake should take about 4 hours.
Afternoon
For lunch, go to Gloria Moniz Bakery for a toasty made with their special Bolo Levedo bread (we liked the cheese and chorizo). Finish the meal with their signature sweet, Queijada das Furnas.
Spend the afternoon discovering the sights of Furnas. Stroll along the streaming water to Cascata e Aquario das Furnas Park and dip your toes in the free hot springs at Poca da Tia Silvina.
Visit the town church, Igreja de Nossa Senhor da Algeria and meander to the Church of Santa Ana (one of the oldest on the island). Seek out Casa Invertida (Upside Down House), a quirky attraction.
On the east end of town, saunter through the free Caldeiras park, where paths weave through boiling pools of water and steam rises from the earth.
Find the vendor selling naturally steamed Corn on the Cob for a delicious afternoon snack. After touring Furnas, get checked into your accommodation (suggestions below).
Evening
Sit down for an early dinner at Queijaria Furnense, where they specialize in local cheese and dairy products.
Start with an order of the Cheesy Garlic Bread (you won’t regret it) – followed by a cheeseboard and a Prego Angus Beef Burger.
Cap off the night with a relaxing evening soak in the thermal hot springs. Poca da Dona Beija, where there are five pools of varying depths, stays open late (just be sure to book ahead online).
Where To Stay in Furnas
There is an abundance of guesthouses and vacation rentals in Furnas – but it’s hard to pass on the Terra Nostra Hotel. Guests of the upscale property have access to their gardens and thermal baths around the clock.
Day 7: Sao Miguel History and Lagoa do Fogo Views
Wrap up your 7-Day Azores Itinerary by visiting the island’s former capital city, Vila Franca do Campo. Then hike through a forest and take a scenic drive along one of the prettiest lakes on Sao Miguel.
Morning
Vila Franca do Campo served as the capital of Sao Miguel until 1522, when a massive earthquake and subsequent landslide decimated the area. Although it never regained its status, there are a few reasons to visit it today.
Start high above it all at the Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Paz church. It features an elaborate staircase, similar to the Bom Jesus do Monte Church in Braga, Portugal, and a commanding panorama.
In Vila Franca, visit more beautiful churches (like the 15th century Igreja de Sao Miguel Arcanjo).
Then take in the views from the shoreline path (Miradouro do Tanque is sublime) and eat the town’s favorite pastry, Queijada de Vila Franca do Campo from Queijadas do Morgado.
In the summertime, you can join a boat trip to Vila Franca Islet. The volcanic cone is an uninhabited nature reserve – and swimming inside the crater is the top activity.
Other nearby attractions to consider include the sandy Agua d’Alto Beach and the Quatro Fabricas da Luz Pequena Rota Hiking Trail.
Afternoon
Today’s somewhat unlikely lunch is a smash burger from the extraordinary Agua de Fogo Food Truck. Afterwards, work off those calories on the Janela do Inferno and Rota da Agua Hike.
The circular route begins near the food truck and passes through pastures before ducking into the forest. The trail then leads up ladders and through tunnels to a waterfall that spills from an opening in a sheer rock wall.
After completing the hike, drive the most famous Sao Miguel scenic route north for views of the iconic Lagoa do Fogo. Stop at the numerous lookouts along the way, taking in the shifting perspective at each spot.
If time allows, consider trekking down to Fogo Lake, just remember you will have to hike back up!
Alternatively, drive further north to the Salto do Cabrito Waterfall or spend a serene afternoon at the Caldeira Velha Thermal Pools.
Evening
Arrive back in Furnas for dinner at Restaurante Tony’s. Be sure to make reservations and order the legendary Cozido Stew – a must-eat food in Sao Miguel, Azores – in advance.
The meat-and-vegetable soup is slow cooked in the natural hot springs…and it’s utterly satisfying.
Sao Miguel Map
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our map of Sao Miguel below.
Each color indicates sights to see on our 7 Day Itinerary Sao Miguel, Azores. Day 1 is Red; 2 is Orange, 3 is Yellow; 4 is Green; 5 is Blue, 6 is Purple, 7 is Gray.
Portugal Travel Tips for Our Sao Miguel Itinerary
We have outlined our suggested plan for a 7 Day Azores Itinerary, but we have some additional advice that will help you prepare for your vacation.
Getting To The Azores
Unless on a cruise, you will travel to Sao Miguel by plane. Frequent flights depart from both Porto and Lisbon. Direct flights are also available from Boston, Toronto and NYC.
The Sao Miguel, Azores Airport is located just west of Ponta Delgada. It’s a short and inexpensive taxi ride from PDL to the city center. Before booking flights to Sao Miguel, read our tips for Finding Cheap Airfare.
Getting Around: Car Rental, Tours, Taxis, Bus
The best way to get around Sao Miguel is with a rental car. The major roads on the island are paved and in good condition.
We scored a great price booking early with Go Rent-a-Car. Because a vehicle is not necessary in Ponta Delgada, we opted to pick up at their city location and drop off (no charge) at the airport.
Do note that there is a limited supply of cars on the island – especially with automatic transmission. It is essential to book in advance, using our Car Rental Tips to find the best rate!
If driving in the Azores sounds like too much of a hassle, there are alternatives. Consider joining Sao Miguel Tours – or hiring your own personal guide.
For short distances, taxis are an option – but anything outside of the Ponta Delgada region will be extremely expensive. Uber is not available in the Azores.
While we are typically big proponents of public transportation, it’s not really viable either. The routes and frequencies are simply too limited.
Where To Stay on Sao Miguel, Azores 
Because our trip to Sao Miguel was a 3-week adventure, we opted to stay in vacation homes – and there are a multitude of options in a range of prices. You can search for apartments on Booking.com or Airbnb.
However, staying in a hotel – especially for quick stops – can sometimes be easier and more enjoyable. In our Sao Miguel Travel Itinerary, we made suggestions for each location – and are summarizing them here again.
- Ponta Delgada: Hotel do Colegio
- Mosteiros: Mosteiros Place
- Nordeste: Azores Casa Atlantis or The Lince Hotel
- Furnas: Terra Nostra Garden Hotel
What To Pack for The Azores
Deciding what to pack for your trip to Sao Miguel? We have a few specific suggestions for the Azores below. So, grab your FREE Checklist and let’s go to Portugal!
Weather Gear
Sao Miguel weather can be hot, brisk, windy and wet…all within a matter of minutes. It’s best to pack clothing that can be layered.
Additionally, a wind-resistant raincoat is a necessity…as is high SPF sunscreen and polarized sunglasses.
Dark Swimwear
Due to the natural iron in the thermal springs, the water is an orange, rusty color…and it can stain light colored apparel. Apparently, it can change the color of your hair dye, too!
Those planning on soaking in the Sao Miguel, Azores hot springs should wear a dark colored swimsuit to prevent discoloration.
Travel Camera & Binoculars
Capture the true beauty of the Azores with a real travel camera. We use a Canon Rebel (which is a well-priced DSLR) with a 18-135mm lens, which worked great for landscape shots.
Whether whale spotting or bird watching, a decent pair of binoculars will help in your quest. We didn’t have ours and regretted it!
Durable Shoes
Although an island, it’s not necessarily a flip flop destination. Of course, pack sandals, but plan on mostly wearing comfortable trainers or hiking shoes. Looking for the right pair? Read our reviews for the Best Travel Shoes!
More Portugal Travel Advice
We’ve spent ample time traveling around Portugal and Europe– and have tons of knowledge to share!
Mainland Portugal and Azores Itinerary
Although there are direct flights from the United States to Sao Miguel Island, consider creating a longer Portugal Itinerary.
From the Best of Lisbon in 3 Days to What To Do in Porto – our travel guides are full of useful information and insider tips.
Madeira or The Azores
Debating between Madeira Island or Sao Miguel? It’s not an easy choice – as the two Portuguese islands are actually quite different.
Madeira is more touristic and it’s landscapes more dramatic, while Sao Miguel is rustic and far less-developed. Read our 1-Week Madeira Itinerary to help determine which destination is better for your vacation.
European Travel Planning
Before making your trip from abroad, make sure you cover all your bases! We share more of our best advice in our guide to Vacationing in Europe.
Start planning your trip to Portugal! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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