15 day itinerary
Açores
Itinerary
The Azores are a stunning archipelago in Portugal, known for their lush landscapes, volcanic craters, and beautiful coastlines. With 15 days to explore, you can take your time and soak in the natural beauty. Here’s a relaxed itinerary that includes parks and green spaces, allowing you to enjoy the serene atmosphere of the islands.
Day 1: Arrival in São Miguel
- Morning: Arrive at in Ponta Delgada. Check into your accommodation.
- Afternoon: Stroll around Ponta Delgada. Visit the beautiful , a lovely park with exotic plants and peaceful paths.
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional Azorean dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2:
- Morning: Head to , a stunning twin lake in a volcanic crater. Take a leisurely hike around the lakes or rent a bike.
- Afternoon: Have a picnic lunch with a view at .
- Evening: Return to Ponta Delgada and relax at your accommodation.
Day 3:
- Morning: Drive to , another beautiful crater lake. Enjoy a hike down to the lake and take in the breathtaking views.
- Afternoon: Spend some time at the beach nearby, , for a refreshing swim.
- Evening: Dinner in a local restaurant, perhaps trying the famous cozido das Furnas.
Day 4: Furnas
- Morning: Visit the hot springs in Furnas. Don’t miss the , where you can swim in the thermal pool surrounded by lush gardens.
- Afternoon: Explore the botanical gardens and enjoy the geothermal cooking of cozido.
- Evening: Relax in Furnas and enjoy the local cuisine.
Day 5: Nordeste
- Morning: Drive to Nordeste, known for its stunning viewpoints and lush landscapes. Stop at and .
- Afternoon: Visit the , where you can walk along the trails and see waterfalls.
- Evening: Return to Ponta Delgada for dinner.
Day 6: Whale Watching
- Morning: Take a whale-watching tour from Ponta Delgada. Keep an eye out for dolphins and whales!
- Afternoon: Relax at the beach or explore the local shops.
- Evening: Enjoy a seafood dinner at a waterfront restaurant.
Day 7: Pico Island
- Morning: Take a ferry to Pico Island. Check into your accommodation.
- Afternoon: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the vineyards and enjoy a wine tasting.
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant, sampling the island’s specialties.
Day 8:
- Morning: Hike , the highest peak in Portugal. (This can be a full-day activity, so start early!)
- Afternoon: Enjoy the views from the summit and take your time descending.
- Evening: Relax and recover with a hearty meal.
Day 9: Faial Island
- Morning: Take a ferry to Faial Island. Check into your accommodation.
- Afternoon: Visit the and the Interpretation Center to learn about the island’s volcanic history.
- Evening: Stroll around and enjoy dinner at a local eatery.
Day 10: Horta and Green Spaces
- Morning: Explore the beautiful gardens of Horta, such as the .
- Afternoon: Visit the , a famous sailors’ bar, and enjoy a drink while soaking in the atmosphere.
- Evening: Dinner in Horta, perhaps trying some local fish dishes.
Day 11: São Jorge Island
- Morning: Take a ferry to São Jorge Island. Check into your accommodation.
- Afternoon: Explore the Fajãs (coastal plateaus) of São Jorge, such as , known for its stunning views and tranquility.
- Evening: Enjoy a quiet dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 12: Hiking São Jorge
- Morning: Hike the trail from to , taking in the lush landscapes and coastal views.
- Afternoon: Relax at the beach or enjoy a swim in the natural pools.
- Evening: Return to your accommodation and unwind.
Day 13: Terceira Island
- Morning: Take a ferry to Terceira Island. Check into your accommodation.
- Afternoon: Explore , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the beautiful gardens in the city.
- Evening: Dinner in Angra, sampling local dishes.
Day 14:
- Morning: Visit , a volcanic cave with stunning formations.
- Afternoon: Explore the nearby for a refreshing swim.
- Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner on Terceira Island.
Day 15: Departure
- Morning: Relax and enjoy a leisurely breakfast. If time allows, take a final stroll through the gardens or parks in .
- Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.
This itinerary allows you to explore the natural beauty of the Azores at a relaxed pace, with plenty of time to enjoy parks, gardens, and the stunning landscapes. Enjoy your trip! 🌿✈️
