Lykkers, prepare to embark on an enchanting adventure amid the stunning landscapes of the Azores! This captivating archipelago, nestled in the Atlantic Ocean, offers more than just breathtaking views and outdoor activities.
From volcanic peaks to tranquil lagoons, each island possesses its own unique charm, inviting explorers to uncover the hidden gems that lie beyond typical tourist trails. The rich culture, delectable cuisine, and vibrant local gatherings create a harmonious blend that makes the Azores a must-visit destination for any traveler.
São Miguel
Start in Ponta Delgada, where car rentals average €50/day (pick‑up 8 AM–6 PM). Hop on bus 401 (€3, every hour) to Sete Cidades—bike hire runs €25/day (9 AM–6 PM) or kayak tours €30/hr (10 AM–4 PM). At Furnas, Terra Nostra botanical garden entry is €12 (open 9 AM–7 PM), and the thermal pools warm you until sunset. Finish with a 90‑minute whale‑watching cruise (€45, departs 9 AM).
Graciosa
Ferry from Terceira departs at 10 AM and 3 PM (€20 one‑way, 1 hr). Rent a car for €40/day (9 AM–5 PM) to reach Furna do Enxofre—entry €5, cave open 10 AM–5 PM. Stay in Casa da Praia (€70/night, check‑in 2 PM, check‑out 11 AM) overlooking Vila da Praia. Visit the Burro da Graciosa conservation project (donation €3) at the village center (open 10 AM–2 PM). For lunch, try Queijadas de Graciosa (€3 each) at Pastelaria Central, open 8 AM–6 PM.
Santa Maria
Known as "Sun Isle," the catamaran from Ponta Delgada sails at 7 AM and 1 PM (€30, 2.5 hrs). Rent a scooter for €45/day (8 AM–6 PM) to explore Praia Formosa—board rentals are €15/hr, instructors available 9 AM–5 PM. In Vila do Porto, bus 3 runs every 30 minutes (€2, 20 min) to Anjos. If you visit in late August, the Maré de Agosto festival lights up the nights (free entry, concerts start at 6 PM). Dine at O Arco (seafood platters €18–€25, open 12 PM–10 PM).
Corvo
For ultimate seclusion, take the ferry from Flores (Tue/Thu/Sat at 8 AM, €25, 2 hrs). Book ahead at Casa do Corvo guesthouse (€55/night, check‑in 3 PM). With no cars, a shuttle van circles the village every hour (€5). Hike to Caldeirão crater (trail open sunrise–sunset, free) and pause at Miradouro da Vigia for panoramic ocean views.
Corvo Island
Terceira
Fly into Lajes Airport (€60 one‑way, 45 min), then catch bus 6 (€2, every 20 min) to UNESCO‑listed Angra do Heroísmo. Guided walking tours depart the municipal square at 10 AM (€15, 2 hrs). Climb Monte Brasil's paths—entry €4, open 9 AM–6 PM. At noon, savor (sandwiches €5, café 8 AM–2 PM) at Café Beira Mar. If you visit in June, don't miss the island's celebrated concert series and parades (ticketed events start at €20).
São Jorge
Step off the ferry in Velas and grab a taxi (€3) to the Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo trailhead. The 12 km hike takes 4–6 hrs—boot and pole rental is €5/day from Velas Adventure (8 AM–5 PM). End your trek with fresh mussels at the Fajã's local kiosk (€8, open 11 AM–3 PM). Boats back to Velas depart at 5 PM (€10). Overnight at Casa das Fajãs (€65/night, check‑in 2 PM), tucked among coastal slopes.
Pico
Daily ferries from Faial (8 AM, 2 PM; €13, 30 min) land in Madalena. Join a 3‑hour whale‑watching tour (€60, departs 9 AM) guided by ex‑hunters. Book Mount Pico summit hikes with a certified guide (€50, 8 hrs); gear rental (boots, jackets) costs €10/day. In the afternoon, meander through scenic agricultural terraces. Dine on fresh limpets at Tasca do Jonas (€15, open 12 PM–9 PM).
Faial
The "Blue Island" welcomes sailors in Horta's colorful marina. Bike rentals start at €15/day (9 AM–6 PM) to explore Capelinhos Volcano trails—visitor center entry €6 (open 9 AM–6 PM). Shuttle bus 511 (€1.50, hourly) links Horta to Praia do Almoxarife (20 min). Swim in Varadouro's natural lava pools (free). Snack on local espetadas de polvo (octopus skewers, €7) at Café Peter's (10 AM–8 PM).
Flores
Fly from Ponta Delgada at 8 AM (€80, 1 hr). Pick up a Renault Clio (€35/day, 8 AM–5 PM) for road trips to Poço do Bacalhau waterfall. Guided hiking tours (€30, 3 hrs) include transport and picnic (sandwiches €5–€7). Drive to Miradouro da Vista do Rei for jaw‑dropping caldera views (free, dawn–dusk). In Fajã Grande, join a dolphin spotting boat (€25, departs 10 AM). Stay at Hotel Cascade (€90/night, check‑in 3 PM) nestled among waterfalls.
Conclusion
From steaming pools on São Miguel to silent sunsets on Corvo, the Azores weave nature, culture, and adventure into an unforgettable tapestry. With clear schedules, modest fees, and diverse accommodations—from rustic guesthouses to boutique hotels—your Lykkers‑approved island journey awaits. Pack your bags, pick your dates, and let the Azorean magic guide every step.
