Itinerary for 9 day trip to Azores

The Azores are a stunning archipelago in Portugal, known for their lush landscapes, volcanic craters, and beautiful beaches. With your constraints in mind, here’s a relaxed 9-day itinerary that balances beach time with exploration, all while keeping your budget in check. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival in São Miguel

Morning: Fly from Madrid to , São Miguel. The flight is about 2 hours, so it’s a quick hop!
Afternoon: Check into your accommodation. I recommend a cozy beachside hotel or a charming Airbnb in .
Evening: Stroll around the city, visit the beautiful , and enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. Try some fresh seafood or the famous cozido das !

Day 2: Explore

Morning: After breakfast, head to , a stunning twin lake located in a volcanic crater. You can hike around the area or rent bikes to explore.
Afternoon: Have a picnic lunch by the lakeside. There are plenty of scenic spots! After lunch, visit the viewpoint at for breathtaking views.
Evening: Return to and enjoy dinner at a local eatery. Don’t forget to try the local cheese!

Day 3: Relax at

Morning: Head to , one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. It’s perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Afternoon: Enjoy a beachside lunch at one of the nearby cafes. Spend the afternoon relaxing, building sandcastles, or trying out some water sports.
Evening: Return to your accommodation and have a casual dinner. Perhaps try a local pizzeria for a relaxed vibe.

Day 4: Day Trip to

Morning: Take a day trip to , known for its hot springs and beautiful gardens. Visit and take a dip in the thermal pool.
Afternoon: Enjoy a traditional cozido lunch cooked in the volcanic soil. After lunch, explore the beautiful botanical gardens.
Evening: Return to and enjoy a leisurely dinner. Maybe try some local pastries for dessert!

Day 5: Travel to Terceira Island

Morning: Take a short flight from São Miguel to Terceira Island (about 30 minutes). Check into your accommodation in .
Afternoon: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of . Visit the beautiful gardens and the historic city center.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling some traditional Azorean dishes.

Day 6: Beach Day at

Morning: Head to , a lovely beach with golden sand. Perfect for a relaxing day by the sea!
Afternoon: Have lunch at a beachside café. Spend the afternoon swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying water activities.
Evening: Return to for dinner. Try some local wine to complement your meal!

Day 7: Explore Terceira Island

Morning: Visit the , a volcanic cave that’s a must-see! It’s a unique experience to explore the underground formations.
Afternoon: Head to the for a swim in the ocean. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the pools.
Evening: Return to for dinner. Enjoy a relaxed evening, perhaps with a stroll through the town.

Day 8: Return to São Miguel

Morning: Fly back to São Miguel. Check into your accommodation.
Afternoon: Spend the day at , a beautiful beach with white sand and clear waters. Relax and soak up the sun!
Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner in . Celebrate your trip with some local specialties!

Day 9: Departure

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and some last-minute shopping or sightseeing in .
Afternoon: Head to the airport for your flight back to Madrid.

Budget Breakdown

Flights: Approx. €200-€300 per person roundtrip from Madrid to the Azores.
Accommodation: €100-€150 per night for 4 adults (total €900-€1350 for 9 nights).
Food: Approx. €30-€50 per person per day (total €1080-€1800 for 9 days).
Activities & Transport: Approx. €1000 for car rentals, entrance fees, and activities.
Total Estimated Budget: €5000-€6000, which fits perfectly within your budget!

This itinerary allows for a relaxed pace while still experiencing the beauty and culture of the Azores. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of photos! 🌊🌞