4 day itinerary for Azores, Portugal

Itinerary

The Azores are a stunning archipelago in Portugal, known for their breathtaking landscapes, lush greenery, and unique volcanic features. Here’s a fabulous 4-day itinerary that will leave you and your partner in awe!

## Day 1: Arrival in São Miguel Island - Ponta Delgada

Morning:

• Arrival in Ponta Delgada: Welcome to the Azores! Check into a charming hotel or a cozy guesthouse. I recommend staying in the heart of Ponta Delgada for easy access to attractions.
• Breakfast at a local café: Try some traditional Azorean pastries like "queijadas" or "bolo lêvedo" with a strong cup of coffee.

Afternoon:

• Explore Ponta Delgada: Stroll through the cobblestone streets, visit the beautiful Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião, and check out the stunning Portas da Cidade (City Gates).
• Lunch at a local restaurant: Enjoy fresh seafood, perhaps some grilled limpets or octopus salad.

Evening:

• Sete Cidades: Head to the iconic Sete Cidades, a twin lake situated in a volcanic crater. Take a scenic drive or hike to the viewpoint at Vista do Rei for a breathtaking sunset. The colors of the lakes are mesmerizing!
• Dinner: Enjoy a romantic dinner at a restaurant overlooking the lakes. Try the local dish "cozido," a stew cooked in volcanic soil.

## Day 2: Adventure and Nature

Morning:

• Whale Watching Tour: Start your day with an exhilarating whale-watching tour. The Azores are one of the best places in the world to see these magnificent creatures. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins too!

Afternoon:

• Lagoa do Fogo: After your tour, head to Lagoa do Fogo, a stunning crater lake. You can hike down to the lake or simply enjoy the views from the top. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the water!
• Lunch: Have a picnic by the lake or head back to town for a bite.

Evening:

• Hot Springs at Caldeira Velha: Relax in the natural hot springs at Caldeira Velha. The lush surroundings and warm waters create a magical atmosphere.
• Dinner in Ribeira Grande: Head to Ribeira Grande for dinner. Try some local specialties at a cozy restaurant.

## Day 3: Terceira Island - A Day Trip

Morning:

• Ferry to Terceira Island: Take an early ferry to Terceira Island (about 30 minutes). Rent a car for the day to explore.
• Breakfast in Angra do Heroísmo: Start your day in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Angra do Heroísmo. Enjoy breakfast at a local café.

Afternoon:

• Algar do Carvão: Visit this unique volcanic cave, where you can walk down into the earth and see stunning stalactites and stalagmites. It’s a truly extraordinary experience!
• Lunch in Praia da Vitória: Enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant, savoring fresh fish and local wines.

Evening:

• Explore Angra do Heroísmo: Spend the afternoon wandering the charming streets of Angra, visiting the beautiful gardens and historic buildings.
• Dinner: Have a romantic dinner at a restaurant with a view of the harbor. Try the local dish "alcatra," a slow-cooked beef stew.

## Day 4: Relaxation and Departure

Morning:

• Visit Furnas: Head back to São Miguel and visit the village of Furnas. Explore the Terra Nostra Park, where you can take a dip in the thermal pool surrounded by lush gardens.
• Breakfast at a local café: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in Furnas, perhaps trying the famous "furnas stew" cooked in the hot springs.

Afternoon:

• Visit the hot springs: After breakfast, explore the hot springs in the area. Don’t miss the chance to try the mineral-rich waters!
• Lunch: Have a light lunch in Furnas before heading back to Ponta Delgada.

Evening:

• Last-minute shopping: Spend your last few hours shopping for local crafts and souvenirs in Ponta Delgada.
• Departure: Depending on your flight time, enjoy a final dinner at a local restaurant, reminiscing about your extraordinary adventures in the Azores.

Tips:

• Transportation: Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility and ease of exploring the islands.
• Weather: The weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and be prepared for both sun and rain.
• Local Culture: Don’t forget to engage with the locals; they are incredibly friendly and can offer great insights into the culture and hidden gems of the islands.

I hope this itinerary helps you create unforgettable memories in the Azores! Enjoy your trip! 🌊🌿✨