The Azores, with their stunning landscapes, lush greenery, and unique volcanic features, are a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Here’s a fun and engaging 20-day itinerary that will let you soak in the beauty of these islands. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival in São Miguel

• Morning: Arrive at João Paulo II Airport in Ponta Delgada. Check into your accommodation.
• Afternoon: Stroll around Ponta Delgada. Visit the beautiful Portas da Cidade and the Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Azorean dinner at a local restaurant. Try the “Cozido das Furnas” if you can!

Day 2: Sete Cidades

• Morning: Head to Sete Cidades. Hike around the crater lakes and take in the breathtaking views from Vista do Rei.
• Afternoon: Rent a kayak or paddleboard on the lakes. It’s a fantastic way to explore!
• Evening: Return to Ponta Delgada and enjoy a leisurely dinner.

Day 3: Furnas

• Morning: Visit Furnas. Explore the Terra Nostra Park and take a dip in the thermal pools.
• Afternoon: Check out the hot springs and the fumaroles. Don’t forget to try the local “queijadas” (cheese pastries).
• Evening: Enjoy a cozy dinner in Furnas, perhaps at a restaurant that serves the famous Cozido.

Day 4: Lagoa do Fogo

• Morning: Hike to Lagoa do Fogo. The views are absolutely stunning!
• Afternoon: Spend some time at the lake, maybe have a picnic.
• Evening: Return to Ponta Delgada and relax.

Day 5: Whale Watching

• Morning: Go on a whale-watching tour. The Azores are one of the best places in the world for this!
• Afternoon: After your tour, visit the Carlos Machado Museum to learn about the island’s history.
• Evening: Dinner in Ponta Delgada.

Day 6: São Miguel to Faial

• Morning: Take a flight or ferry to Faial Island.
• Afternoon: Explore Horta, visit the marina, and check out the famous Peter Café Sport.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner with a view of the marina.

Day 7: Capelinhos Volcano

• Morning: Visit the Capelinhos Volcano and the interpretation center.
• Afternoon: Hike around the volcanic landscape.
• Evening: Return to Horta for dinner.

Day 8: Pico Island

• Morning: Take a ferry to Pico Island.
• Afternoon: Visit the vineyards and taste some local wines.
• Evening: Stay overnight in Pico.

Day 9: Climbing Mount Pico

• All Day: Climb Mount Pico, the highest peak in Portugal! Start early and enjoy the stunning views from the top.
• Evening: Celebrate your achievement with a hearty meal.

Day 10: Relaxing in Pico

• Morning: Take it easy after your climb. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast.
• Afternoon: Visit the whaling museum and learn about the island’s history.
• Evening: Dinner in a local restaurant.

Day 11: São Jorge Island

• Morning: Ferry to São Jorge Island.
• Afternoon: Explore the island’s famous fajãs (coastal plateaus). Hike to Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo.
• Evening: Stay overnight in São Jorge.

Day 12: More São Jorge Adventures

• Morning: Continue exploring São Jorge. Visit the cheese factories and taste the local cheese.
• Afternoon: Hike another trail or relax at the beach.
• Evening: Dinner at a local eatery.

Day 13: Terceira Island

• Morning: Ferry to Terceira Island.
• Afternoon: Explore Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the beautiful gardens and the fort.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in Angra.

Day 14: Algar do Carvão

• Morning: Visit Algar do Carvão, a volcanic cave. It’s a unique experience!
• Afternoon: Explore the island’s natural beauty, perhaps visit the Biscoitos Natural Pools.
• Evening: Dinner in Terceira.

Day 15: Graciosa Island

• Morning: Ferry to Graciosa Island.
• Afternoon: Explore the island’s unique landscapes and visit the windmills.
• Evening: Stay overnight in Graciosa.

Day 16: Relaxing in Graciosa

• Morning: Visit the thermal pools at Carapacho.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely day exploring the island.
• Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 17: Santa Maria Island

• Morning: Ferry to Santa Maria Island.
• Afternoon: Visit the beautiful beaches, like Praia Formosa.
• Evening: Stay overnight in Santa Maria.

Day 18: Exploring Santa Maria

• Morning: Hike to the viewpoint at Pico Alto for stunning views.
• Afternoon: Visit the local museum and learn about the island’s history.
• Evening: Dinner in Santa Maria.

Day 19: Return to São Miguel

• Morning: Ferry back to São Miguel.
• Afternoon: Last-minute shopping and exploring in Ponta Delgada.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant.

Day 20: Departure

• Morning: Relax and enjoy your last breakfast in the Azores.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

And there you have it! A delightful 20-day itinerary that takes you through the stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delicious cuisine of the Azores. Enjoy your adventure! 🌊🌿✈️