Azores holidays

How to reach the Azores

• Flight time: Flights to the Azores from London take around 4 hours, depending on which island you’re flying to. São Miguel, home to the capital Ponta Delgada, is the most accessible island with direct routes available.

• Transfer time: Ponta Delgada Airport is just a 10-minute drive by car, taxi or rideshare from the city centre. Most other islands in the Azores have small airports close to their main towns.

• Price: A taxi from Ponta Delgada Airport to the city centre will set you back around €10. The airport shuttle costs €5 one way. For those heading to other islands, interisland flights cost €50–€100.

Best time to visit the Azores

The Azores enjoy a mild, temperate climate year-round, so there’s no bad time to visit. However, your experience can vary depending on the season.

• April to June: With hydrangeas blooming everywhere, spring is a charming season in the Azores. Temperatures increase from 16°C to 20°C, making it a fantastic time for exploring. Rainfall is sporadic, and you can expect about 7 to 9 hours of sunshine daily.

• July to August: Summer is the peak season in the Azores, with temperatures reaching 24°C. With up to 10 hours of sunshine a day and minimal rainfall (20–50mm a month), it’s the best season for spending time on the beach and whale-watching tours.

• September to November: Autumn, with temperatures dropping from 23°C to 19°C, is the shoulder season in the Azores. Rainfall increases slightly to 60–100mm. The sea is still warm enough for swimming, so it’s the perfect time for those who prefer to avoid the summer crowds.

• December to March: Winter is cooler, with temperatures averaging 16°C and 4 to 5 hours of sunshine daily. It’s a lovely time to explore the islands’ hot springs and enjoy cultural events. Rainfall tends to be more frequent though (70–120mm per month), so bring a raincoat just in case.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Portuguese is the official language, though English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

• Local habits and customs: Meals are leisurely, with dinner starting at 7 pm or later. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service (5–10 percent).

• Currency: The Azores use the Euro. ATMs are readily available in towns and cities, and major credit cards are accepted at most businesses.

• Getting around: Public buses are available on São Miguel and Terceira but can be infrequent, with fares starting at €2. Car hire is the best way to explore, costing around €40–€70 per day depending on the season. Interisland ferries are a budget-friendly option, with prices starting at €30 for a return trip.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard voltage is 230V, with Type C and F plugs, so UK travellers need an adaptor.

• Time zone: The Azores are on Azores Time, which is 1 hour behind GMT.

• Required travel documentation: UK nationals can stay in Portugal visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, with a passport valid for at least six months.

Beaches to enjoy on Azores holidays

Azores holidays offer more than just lush green landscapes and volcanic wonders—the archipelago also boasts stunning and unique beaches perfect for relaxation and adventure. From black volcanic sands to secluded bays, the Azores cater to every kind of beach lover.

• Praia Formosa, Santa Maria: Known as one of the few white sand beaches in the Azores, Praia Formosa is ideal for sunbathing and swimming. Its calm waters and picturesque setting make it a favourite among families and couples.

• Mosteiros Beach, São Miguel: This volcanic beach features dramatic black sands and striking rock formations. It’s a tranquil spot for relaxing or enjoying the spectacular sunsets over the Atlantic.

• Praia de Porto Pim, Faial: A crescent-shaped beach with soft sands and calm waters, Porto Pim is perfect for families and snorkelling enthusiasts. Its nearby cafes and historical sites add a touch of charm to your beach day.

• Vila Franca do Campo Islet, São Miguel: Accessible by a short boat ride, this natural swimming pool formed inside a volcanic crater offers a unique beach experience. It’s a must-visit for snorkelling and enjoying serene waters.

• Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo, São Jorge: This remote beach is a haven for surfers and nature lovers. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and accessible via hiking trails, it’s a secluded spot for those seeking adventure.

• Silveira Natural Pools, Terceira: While not a traditional beach, these natural pools carved into volcanic rock provide a unique swimming experience. They’re ideal for those looking for crystal-clear waters and a calm setting.

Whether you’re soaking up the sun on Praia Formosa, exploring volcanic formations at Mosteiros, or diving into the clear waters of Vila Franca do Campo, the Azores offer beaches as diverse and captivating as the islands themselves.

Local dishes in the Azores

On holidays to the Azores you’ll find a delightful array of hearty, traditional dishes and fresh, ocean-inspired flavours.

Some typical dishes

• Cozido das Furnas: Slow-cooked underground using volcanic heat, cozido das furnas is the iconic dish of São Miguel, a hearty stew including a combination of meats, sausages and vegetables.

• Alcatra: This beef stew hailing from Terceira, featuring tender meat marinated in wine, garlic and spices, is traditionally slow-cooked in clay pots and very appetising.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Grilled Limpets: Grilled limpets are usually served fresh with garlic butter and lemon. They’re often enjoyed as a starter and make a perfect pair with a glass of white wine.

• Cavaco Lobster: Unique to the Azores, this sweet, delicate crustacean is often grilled or boiled. A simple but delicious dish!

• Octopus Stew: Braised with red wine, garlic and tomatoes, octopus stew is a rich and flavoursome dish found across the Azores.

Sweets and desserts

• Queijadas da Graciosa: Queijadas are small, sweet, flaky pastries filled with a creamy custard. These light cakes pair very well with espresso or a glass of sweet dessert wine.

• Bolos Lêvedos: These soft, sweet bread rolls are a versatile treat, often served warm with butter or as a base for sandwiches. A must-try during your Azores holidays!

Local drinks

• Azorean Tea: Grown on São Miguel – the only region in Europe producing tea – the local tea has aromatic black and green varieties. Perfect to enjoy after a day’s hike, accompanied by queijadas da graciosa or another dessert.

• Pineapple Liqueur: This sweet and fruity tipple is made from the Azores’ famous pineapples. Definitely give it a try as it has a unique sharp but very pleasant taste! It can be drunk neat or as the main ingredient in a variety of cocktails.

Best things to do in the Azores

A lush, volcanic paradise, the nine islands of the Azores offer unique natural wonders, charming towns and exciting activities.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Sete Cidades: A short drive from Ponta Delgada, this twin-lake formation is one of the most mesmerising sights in the Azores. The vibrant green and blue lakes are surrounded by lush vegetation and steep crater walls. The best panoramic views can be enjoyed from the Vista do Rei viewpoint.

• Pico Mountain: For those fit enough to hike to the summit, Pico Mountain – Portugal’s highest peak – offers sweeping views. On a clear day, the magnificent vistas stretch across nearby islands.

Parks and gardens

• Terra Nostra Garden: Located in Furnas on São Miguel, this beautiful botanical garden is home to exotic plants from around the world as well as jacuzzis and a thermal swimming pool heated by volcanic activity.

• Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park: Found on São Miguel, this natural park is well known for its waterfalls, walking trails and traditional watermills, making it a peaceful spot for a day out.

Historical monuments

• Portas da Cidade (City Gates): Ponta Delgada’s impressive 18th-century city gates are an iconic landmark, located at the entrance to the historic centre of São Miguel’s capital.

• São Francisco Convent: This 17th-century convent in Angra do Heroísmo, São Miguel, faces the sea and is a wonderfully serene place. It has been converted into an amazing museum that offers insights into Azorean history, art and culture.

• Church of São Sebastião: Situated in Ponta Delgada, this 16th-century church features stunning Manueline and Baroque architecture, a beautiful portal, a magnificent altar and intricate azulejo work. A must-visit for history buffs.

Regional highlights

• Ponta Delgada: The capital of São Miguel blends modernity with traditional charm. A captivating combination of volcanic landscapes, charming streets and vibrant harbourfront makes Ponta Delgada a lovely place to visit.

• Angra do Heroísmo: This UNESCO-listed town on Terceira Island is known for its colourful streets, a rich maritime history and well-preserved 16th-century architecture. With the lively town square excellent for dining and shopping, Angra do Heroísmo is well worth a day trip.

• Furnas Valley: This geothermal hotspot on São Miguel offers bubbling hot springs, steam vents and the chance to try the local stew, cozido, cooked in volcanic heat.

Activities for families in the Azores

Azores holidays are perfect for families who love the outdoors and want to bond over unique activities.

• Interactive museums: The Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Centre on Faial Island offers a fascinating look at geology through interactive exhibits. Kids will enjoy learning about the volcanic origins of the islands and can also climb the lighthouse for panoramic views.

• Aquariums: If you have children in tow, be sure to visit the Porto Pim Aquarium on Faial to learn about the Azores’ marine ecosystems. The aquarium showcases the most common coastal species of the Azores and has an exhibition on the region’s marine life.

• Cycling: Faial Island offers routes for all levels, from leisurely coastal rides to intense trails, while São Jorge’s scenic paths combine ocean views with the lush interior. Choose a route that suits your family best.

Free things to do in the Azores

Exploring the Azores doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of free activities to enjoy during your holidays to the Azores.

• Free events: Local festivals, such as Espírito Santo celebrations, offer a blend of music, food and traditions. Join in for free for a real taste of Azorean culture.

• Nossa Senhora da Paz (Our Lady of Peace): This beautiful 18th-century chapel enjoys incredible views over Vila Franca do Campo. Nossa Senhora da Paz is accessed via a narrow road with many steps which seem daunting at first sight, but are quite manageable to the very top.

• Natural wonders: Many of the Azores’ highlights, like Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo and Pico Mountain trails, are free to access. Bring a picnic and soak up the scenery.

Nature and outdoor activities in the Azores

The Azores’ dramatic landscapes, from volcanic craters to cascading waterfalls, create endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.

• Whale and dolphin watching: The Azores are one of the best places in the world for marine wildlife encounters, with tours regularly departing from Pico, Faial and São Miguel. The local waters are frequented by sperm whales, dolphins and even blue whales or occasional orcas, so don’t waste your chance to spot them.

• Diving and snorkelling: Dive into underwater worlds around Pico Island, where you’ll be mesmerised by volcanic formations with habitats of colourful fish, octopuses and even manta rays. If diving isn’t your thing, go snorkelling which is also a great way to enjoy the clear Atlantic waters.

• Canyoning: Canyoning on São Jorge and São Miguel involves descending waterfalls and natural rock slides, so adventure-seekers will be on cloud nine there.