São Miguel
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with São Miguel's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Arrive at Ponta Delgada Airport and transfer to your accommodation. Take some time to settle in and freshen up before exploring the local area. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café that offers traditional Azorean pastries.
Stroll along the charming waterfront and visit the iconic Portas da Cidade, a set of beautiful city gates. Explore the historic streets of Ponta Delgada, with stops at local shops and handicraft stores. Enjoy lunch at a seafood restaurant, tasting the catch of the day.
Dine at a local restaurant featuring Azorean cuisine, savoring dishes like cozido das furnas. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the vibrant city squares filled with lively cafes and shops. Relax at your hotel, preparing for a week of adventure ahead.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to Sete Cidades, one of the island's most beautiful locations. Hike around the twin lakes, Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul, enjoying stunning panoramic views. Take numerous photographs as you navigate through scenic trails that connect the two lakes.
Visit the viewpoint at Vista do Rei for breathtaking vistas of the volcanic caldera and its emerald waters. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the shores of the lakes, surrounded by the lush greenery. Explore the quaint village of Sete Cidades, and learn about its history at the small local museum.
Head back to Ponta Delgada and indulge in dinner at a restaurant known for its local dishes and wines. Experience the local nightlife, perhaps visiting a bar featuring live music. Wind down your evening enjoying the island’s starry sky, a result of minimal light pollution.
Travel to the geothermal paradise of Furnas, where you can soak in hot springs and admire fumaroles. Visit Terra Nostra Park to enjoy a refreshing dip in its thermal pool, surrounded by botanical gardens. Savor a traditional breakfast featuring local delicacies and fresh fruit.
Unleash your inner chef by partaking in the cozido das furnas experience, a delicious meal cooked underground using natural heat. Tour the geothermal sites and sample mineral-rich water at the famous Furnas sources. Explore the scenic paths lined with lush foliage and colorful flowers.
Return to your hotel and relax after a day of pampering at the hot springs. Choose a cozy restaurant for dinner, sampling dishes like octopus and local cheeses. End your evening with a peaceful walk along the tranquil lakeshore or through the charming streets.
After breakfast, head to the charming town of Ribeira Grande, known for its vibrant marketplace and stunning architecture. Visit the Azorean Ethnographic Museum to gain insight into the culture and traditions of the region. Explore the beautiful beaches along the northern coast, perfect for sunbathing.
Take a scenic hike through the Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeirões, where you will find captivating waterfalls and lush landscapes. Enjoy a piquant lunch at a local restaurant featuring fresh ingredients from the region. Spend some time exploring local artisan shops in Ribeira Grande, savoring homemade treats and crafts.
Return to Ponta Delgada for a relaxed dinner at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying island specialties as the sun sets. Immerse yourself in the laid-back ambiance of the town during the calming evening hours. Wind down with a nightcap at a nearby bar, listening to stories from locals about their beloved island.
Start your day with breakfast before venturing to Lagoa do Fogo, a sparkling blue lake nestled in a volcanic crater. Hike to the viewpoint to admire the breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Spend time exploring the various trails that skirt the water's edge.
After a morning of hiking, visit Caldeira Velha, a natural hot spring with lush vegetation and stunning waterfalls. Immerse yourself in the therapeutic warm waters, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst scenic landscapes that are a feast for the eyes.
Return to Ponta Delgada for a revitalizing dinner at a popular eatery known for its friendly atmosphere. Perhaps indulge in delicious local desserts to top off your meal. Spend the evening at your leisure, reflecting on your adventures.
Enjoy an early breakfast before setting out on a thrilling whale watching adventure off the coast of São Miguel. Witness the majesty of these marine giants in their natural habitat as you cruise through the Atlantic waters. Listen to knowledgeable guides share insights about the diverse species present in the area.
After a successful morning of whale watching, return to shore for a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant with ocean views. Take some time to relax on the beach or explore nearby coastlines full of dramatic cliffs and hidden coves. Capture the day's stunning moments with photographs of the spectacular ocean vistas.
Savor a delightful dinner featuring fresh seafood from the island as you recount the day's adventures. Consider visiting a local bar for traditional music or dance performances. Relax into your evening with a stroll along the shore under the stars.
Take a scenic drive to the picturesque town of Nordeste, known for its stunning coastal views and charming architecture. Begin the day by visiting the many viewpoints in the area, where sweeping vistas are sure to amaze. Stop by a local bakery for breakfast treats and artisan coffee.
Explore the quaint streets of Nordeste, visiting colorful gardens and historical landmarks such as the lighthouse. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, sampling regional dishes and enjoying the local ambiance. Take a short walk to the nearby scenic cliffs, perfect for photography and nature appreciation.
Return to Ponta Delgada and enjoy a farewell dinner, celebrating your unforgettable trip with traditional Azorean dishes. After dinner, relish in a quiet evening, perhaps enjoying a last walk along the harbor. Reflect on the beauty and experiences of São Miguel before preparing for your departure.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel as you reminisce about the adventures you've had on São Miguel. Use any remaining time for a final stroll through Ponta Delgada, picking up souvenirs or enjoying the views. Pack your bags and check out of your accommodation.
Transfer to Ponta Delgada Airport, taking a moment to appreciate the beauty of the island one last time. Reflect on the highlights of your trip while enjoying local snacks at the airport café. Prepare for your flight home with a heart full of memories.
Depart from São Miguel, bringing back stories and experiences that will last a lifetime. Carry with you a piece of the Azores, its natural beauty, and culinary delights. Look forward to returning to this enchanting island in the future.