10 Days in the Azores - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Itinerary #1: Azores Two-Island Adventure: São Miguel & Pico

Nature lovers will enjoy this multi-island adventure that explores the Azores' two largest islands, São Miguel and Pico. Experience the pristine waters of São Miguel through whale watching and diving excursions, soak in natural hot springs in the Furnas Valley, and trek up Portugal's highest peak at Montanha do Pico. Complete your trip with a wine-tasting tour of Pico's unique volcanic vineyards.

Begin your Azorean adventure on São Miguel Island, where you'll explore the historic capital of Ponta Delgada and sample the island's famous pineapples. Embark on a whale watching excursion off the coast of Vila Franca do Campo and head into the geothermal wonderland of the Furnas Valley, soaking in its natural hot springs and exploring botanical gardens. Replenish your energy with a traditional meal of cozido, a stew famous for being cooked underground using geothermal heat.

Dive into São Miguel's pristine waters on Day 4, witnessing marine life among underground lava formations and caves in Lourenços and Panela—popular dive sites—before relaxing on the island's stunning beaches. After an exciting 4WD excursion among lush hillsides and volcanic craters, hike along the iconic Cumeeiras Trail in Sete Ciudades. On Day 7, fly to Pico Island for a guided tour of its UNESCO-listed wine region and traditional wineries. Trek to the summit of Montanha do Pico, Portugal's highest peak, before enjoying more wine tasting among the distinctive walled volcanic vineyards of the Criação Velha growing region. Learn more

Itinerary #2: Discover Porto & the Azores

Highlights of Porto and the Azores include a vintage car tour of historic Porto, wine tasting and a riverboat cruise in the Douro Valley, and whale watching off the coast of São Miguel Island. Add hiking on stunning trails, visiting geothermal landscapes, horseback riding in the countryside, and beach time for the perfect combination for travelers seeking city exploration, trekking, and relaxation in Portugal. 

Begin your journey on the mainland in Porto, where you'll ride in a 1920s vintage car while learning about the city's history, culture, and architectural heritage before indulging in a port tasting. Hop over to the picturesque Douro Valley for more wine tasting on Day 3, followed by a riverboat cruise. Spend the next day discovering Aveiro's quaint streets, Art Nouveau buildings, and network of scenic canals. On Day 5, you'll fly to São Miguel Island in the Azores and stop at the trendiest eateries and neighborhood bars on a fun and delicious food and wine tour in Ponta Delgada.

Get up close to the geothermal wonders of São Miguel on Day 6, where you can tour the Furnas Valley, visit Terra Nostra Botanical Garden, and explore the island's volcanic landscape. If you still have the energy join a sea kayaking tour or try locally-grown tea at the Gorreana Tea Factory. Spend Day 7 hiking the Gruta do Carvão lava tunnel and savoring São Miguel's beaches, followed by a whale watching experience around Vila Franca do Campo. Saddle up for a scenic horseback ride the next day through the verdant Marta Santa countryside before hitting the beach and ending your trip with a sunset cruise. Learn more

Itinerary #3: Best of the Azores & Lisbon

Covering the best of the Azores and Lisbon, this itinerary is suitable for travelers looking to combine time in nature on São Miguel with hitting the capital's highlights. Discover underwater treasures at several dive sites, explore volcanic landscapes, and spot whales and dolphins on an Azores boat tour. Then, hop around Lisbon and uncover its rich history and food scene through guided tours and a day trip to the rural Alentejo region. 

Begin on the volcanic island of Sāo Miguel in the Azores with the Pico do Ferro walking trail, which offers sweeping views of Furnas Lake. From there, continue to explore the geothermal wonders, such as thermal pools and steam vents, in the Furnas Valley. The following day, glimpse the underwater treasures at the Lourenços and Panela dive sites. Lazing on the beach for the afternoon will leave you well-rested for hiking at Lagoa do Fogo the next day. Your island exploration continues with another diving excursion and hiking in Gruta do Carvão, followed by whale watching and trekking in the Sete Cidades area.

Fly to Lisbon on Day 7 and discover the city's culinary delights on a food tour. Spend the day wandering among historical landmarks, such as Elevador de Santa Justa and Commerical Square, the colorful Chiado district, and bohemian Bairro Alto, finishing with a dinner and fado music performance. On a day trip to the rural Alentejo region, marvel at rolling hills, olive groves, vineyards, and charming fortified towns and see the UNESCO-listed city of Évora's ancient ruins of Templo Romano before returning to Lisbon for one last evening. Learn more

More Great Azores Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to the Azores? Check out these other Azores itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.