Things to do & places to visit in Azores, Portugal

The nine islands that make up the Azores are in fact the peaks of some of the world's tallest mountains, reaching from deep beneath the Atlantic. The once-uninhabited, volcanic archipelago now hosts thousands of tourists every year who flock to the islands for sun, sand and verdant mountain scenery. From the beaches of Praia da Vitoria to the bustling marina of Horta, to the bubbling volcanic ground "ovens" of Furnas, these islands offer unparalleled--and unusual--adventures to discover.

Azores #6 destination in Portugal 2023. The average rating score is 4.50 based on 38.9k traveler reviews, of 238 attractions. Timezone: Europe/Lisbon, current date and time: Wednesday, May 01, 2024, 0:53.

Top things to do (24)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Caldeira das Sete Cidades (4.605 reviews)
- Lucky Day
Geologic Formations

We were lucky enough to be there in the afternoon when the sun came out finally after a rainy morning. Our guide changed our itinerary and we went around the other parts of the island first and hoping that the sun would come out later. It sure did and we got to be here to admire the beautiful lakes. The colors of the two lakes were not that obvious due to weather but we were happy! See more..
5.0 Lagoa do Fogo (2.014 reviews)
- Beautiful and picture perfect trip around the lake!
Bodies of Water

The journey is amazing around the lake. It is a great drive around with multiple viewpoints along the way. We elected to stop by the radio towers and hike up the hill there (probably under an hour round trip) as up top you are rewarded with better views of the lake and some paths there as well. Once you get to the spot by the derelict hotel you will see the amazing viewpoints of the lakes there (you’ll see a number of tourists and buses stop there). We personally felt you can get by driving around without doing much actual hiking, though there are paths available for you to traverse if so inclined. You can easily spend a few hours driving around and stopping for pictures. Please indicate if this was helpful to you as it will help me focus my future efforts! See more..
5.0 Capelinhos (385 reviews)
- Just amazing
Islands

The site of the volcanic eruption of 1957-58 on Faial, an island which is dominated by the volcanic cone of Caldeira. See more..
5.0 Miradouro da Boca do Inferno (357 reviews)
- The best Miradouro/ Sete Cidades
Wednesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent < 1 hour Lookouts

Breathtaking view, forecast was rain%60 but when we got to the point, sun came out and we had amazing view of the Santiago lake in front of us. Be there early and wait few minutes or 1/2 hour if it's a foggy day. Weather changes quickly. If you don't have a car, like us, take a taxi from Ponte Delgada, $20, at 9:00 then walk around the lake from another walking distance parking lot to the Sete Cidades. Last bus leaves at 4:30. Excellent hike, not easy though, you will have great view of the Blue/Green lakes as well. See more..
5.0 Plantacao de Ananas dos Acores (243 reviews)
- Great food, insights, and staff
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Farms

Immerse yourself in the magical journey of the azorean pineapple. Free tours, pineapple for sale, fresh pineapple juice, cocktails, ice cream and a lot more! Visit us! See more..
5.0 Patio (206 reviews)
- Wonderful experience! Great guide
Wednesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours Horseback Riding Tours

PATIO Horse & Lodge is the Horse-Trail company on the Azores Archipelago. The sustainable PATIO Lodge offers wonderful rides for beginners, returnees and experienced riders. From 1.5 hours Beginner Trail to the Classic Faial Island Trail, in 6 days 150 kilometers around the Atlantic island. More than 20 safe, well-trained and powerful trail horses are waiting for you. Lusitanos and Cruzado Portuguese horses. Experienced and licensed PATIO guides will guide you through this beautiful island nature English, German and Portuguese spoken. Relaxation and tranquility overlooking the Atlantic Ocean is offered by the PATIO Lodge with its 4 cozy rooms. Sitting on the terrace, you can enjoy the view of the green pastures and the peaceful grazing trail horses. See more..
5.0 Cascata do Poço do Bacalhau (165 reviews)
- Beautiful waterfall
Waterfalls

It's right by the road, so if you find a place to leave your car (there really isn't any parking by the road) you won't really have to walk for more than 5 mins. The waterfall is very high. If it's a sunny day you can even take a swim there. Beautiful location. See more..
4.5 Parque Terra Nostra (3.088 reviews)
- Paradise
Wednesday: 10:30 AM - 4:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours Gardens

This historic and beautifully manicured botanical garden is tucked in the countryside of the remote São Miguel Island off the Portuguese coast. Parque Terra Nostra features species from around the world and boasts miles of alleys where you can stroll at your own pace, amid grottos, ponds, and lots of topiary. Don’t miss the chance to dip in the park's hot springs, which are naturally at a steady 95 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit, for an utterly relaxing experience. Wear a dark-colored swimsuit as the sulfur-rich waters of the pool may leave stains. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Caldeira das Furnas (1.560 reviews)
- Interesting attraction
Spent < 1 hour Hot Springs & Geysers

In town, there are a number of fumeroles that you can get pretty close to. Some are boiling water, some are deeper and you can hear the water boiling. The steam has a sulferous odour, but not overwhelming. Close by, there are a number of bicas, or waterspouts where you can taste the mineral waters. Each one, though very close to each other, tastes different. There is a little park where you can wander around the fumeroles. 1/2 an hour is plenty of time, A great restaurant, Summer Breeze, is only a block away if you are there at meal time. See more..
4.5 Monte Brasil (1.415 reviews)
- Gunning for a great Volcanic view.
Mountains • Lookouts

Monte Brasil is surrounded by two bays. This peninsula juts out into the ocean and was used as a strategic defensive point. Historic Forts and redoubts built over the centuries including Fortress of São João Baptista over looks the city and protect the bays. Its an ancient volcano jutting out into the sea, with 15th century ramparts, statues, views, Forts and old original buildings, fascinating geography…. but here is the best part.... Monte Brasil has and number of World War 2 - 9,2 cm anti-aircraft cannons, some of which still rotate. Where else can you sit on an anti aircraft gun and spin it around? You can walk up, drive up or hopscotch up the hill, but go just there! See more..
4.5 Furnas (1.141 reviews)
- Wonderful full day of touring with Greenzone Azores
Bodies of Water

We walked around the lake and saw where the restaurants put their pots into the ground. We got to see the chapel and enjoy our walk around the lake. We also ate at a lovely Cozido restaurant. A must do for any meat eaters!! I was able to have tuna - thanks Greenzone. We also did a walk to an area with a research center and fountains providing different carbonated waters. See more..
4.5 Algar do Carvao (1.115 reviews)
- Algar do Carvao
Caverns & Caves

This was a really neat experience, and as others have mentioned you can only experience the inside of a dormant volcano like this in two other places on the planet. The temperature was cool and water dripped down on you as if it was drizzling. It was a welcome break from the summer heat, but if I went other times of the year I would bring a sweater or jacket. Be prepared to walk a ton of stairs up and down. It was busy when we went but not necessarily crowded. Definitely a must-see if you are visiting Terceira Island. See more..
4.5 Caldeira (786 reviews)
- Mystical hike in foggy weather - well worth it
Geologic Formations

We did the 360 degree crater rim hike in foggy and stormy weather. Pretty narrow path at times, views of the caldeira and the island are unbelievable. The 8 km hike can easily be done in 2 hours. Our family liked it a lot - and next time we want to descend into the crater! See more..
4.5 Islet of Vila Franca do Campo (612 reviews)
- A bit overrated for what it is, no facilities on site so bring supplies
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Located right off of Sao Miguel island, this beautiful islet—with its perfectly circular lagoon of clear and turquoise waters surrounded by lush vegetation—is actually the crater of an ancient volcano. A great spot for nature lovers, you can take a birdwatching or whale-watching tour, or put on your snorkeling gear to get up close and personal with the area's unique marine life. The islet is also famous for hosting cliff diving championships that extreme sports fans can watch from a boat. Since it is a nature reserve, the number of visitors allowed is limited—so be sure to get there early. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Duke of Terceira Garden (580 reviews)
- Lovely resting spots, sounds, views, and even an organic vegetarian restaurant!
Spent < 1 hour Parks • Gardens

One of Angra do Heroismo's loveliest venues, the centrally located Duke of Terceira Park occupies the better half of a hill overlooking the many parts of the city. Visitors can stop at numerous sites with great views, sit and listen to birds and some vocal frogs, enjoy the trees and various flowers in bloom, bring their toddlers and small children to a small playground, and even appreciate some attractive pieces of street art. For vegetarian visitors to Duke of Terceira Park, stop by for lunch at the Casa Do Jardim low cost organic vegetarian restaurant, located on the second level of the park See more..
4.5 Nossa Senhora da Paz (516 reviews)
- Quick and unique stop
Religious Sites • Churches & Cathedrals

We unfortunately didn't make it here with the blue sky as the back drop..... No really, it is very cool and unique. I've never seen anything quite like this with all the levels of the structure onto the hillside. The views from the bottom were cool but we did not get to the top for the better views as we were with a group that had to get back to Ponta Delgada. I would highly suggest taking the time to climb up the stairs for the full view. See more..
4.5 Ponta da Ferraria (512 reviews)
- Beautiful location
Lookouts

Even if you're not coming here to partake in a little swimming in the thermal areas, this is still well worth coming out. If you're planning to swim, then pay attention to the tide schedule. We were told by a local guide that the best time is an hour before to an hour after low tide. Twice a day for an option. We went in the morning at low tide and it was perfect. The thermal areas were not as warm as we had hoped but still there were some warmer spots as the incoming tides mix with the warm thermal water. Even after getting out of the water, we wandered around the whole area for another hour at least as it's just a spectacular location. No fee to take in the swim in the ocean and there are some basic facilities for free as well. Just drive down and park to hang out for awhile. Amazing place. See more..
4.5 The Marina of Horta (511 reviews)
- Well worth a Visit
Marinas

lots of interesting drawing on the harbour walls depicting adventures of passing sailors. Around the world voyages, sad stories of loss, and many interesting art works. Stroll along the harbour wall, take a coffee, book a dive or a trip to sea at the other end of the harbour. A lovely place to see the world go by...Excellent donuts in the cafe by the way!!! See more..
4.5 Pico Mountain (Montanha do Pico) (504 reviews)
- Amazing views at the summit
Mountains • Lookouts

Classified as a nature reserve since 1972, this is the highest mountain (7,800 feet) in Portugal, which is capped by a crater, the Pico Grande, from which a small cone emerges. See more..
4.5 Salto do Cabrito (498 reviews)
- Easily accessible waterfall if you traverse down the steep curvy road to the base
Wednesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Waterfalls

You may find value in hiking this (we decided against it), but from a bang for buck perspective, this is easily accessible by going down the steep road down into the park area with the waterfall. From the common parking area it is a short 5 minute walk to the falls. Do not park up top if you don’t have to as then you have to walk down the steep road. A beautiful waterfall very much worth checking out for the sights. If you found this helpful, please indicate so I know where to focus my future efforts. See more..
4.5 Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeirões (431 reviews)
- Beautiful, free and easy
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 11:59 PM National Parks

This is a perfect spot for most tourists who don't want to work for anything. The waterfalls here are not nearly as stunning as the ones we saw on the island that required a significant hike and that is why this place is crazy busy. The parking is insufficient but it's still well worth a stop if you're looking for beautiful and easy. A perfect example of putting in a little work and thought is that there is another natural waterfall on the same side of the road as the large one that everyone visits. While we were there, we saw about 60-70 people stop and look at this one. We took the trail into the woods and for about a 10 minute reasonably easy hike we got to another spectacular waterfall where we had time by ourselves to it. Hardly anyone came while we were here just enjoying the view. Crazy. That said, the park is beautiful. It's well maintained and thought out. It's still a wonderful stop if you're not expecting the beauty in peace and quiet. See more..
4.5 Centro de Interpretacao do Vulcao dos Capelinhos (409 reviews)
- Must see museum
Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

The Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Centre (CIVC) has an informative, educational and scientific mission, having for that purpose, a set of exhibitions with special emphasis on Capelinhos Volcano eruption and the formation of the archipelago, but also the various kinds of volcanic activity in the world and the history of Azorean lighthouses. It was appointed by the European Museum Forum, for best European museum in 2012. This building was constructed underground, so it wouldn't interfere with the pre-existing landscape, allowing you to fully enjoy this recent volcanic landscape originated by the eruption of 1957/58. In addition to a number of exhibitions, the centre has an auditorium and a temporary exhibition of rock and minerals samples. At the end of the visit, go to the lighthouse where you can appreciate this unique scenery. See more..
4.5 Lagoa das Furnas (392 reviews)
- Our third Wow spot on San Miguel.
Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Forests • Hot Springs & Geysers • Volcanos

Lagoa das Furnas was the third Wow spot on San Miguel after Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo. It turned out like in music, starting with the highest note, we went down lower and lower. Although we still said "Wow!" at Pico do Ferro Viewpoint. Since we arrived in Furnas on a regular bus, and got here by taxi from the village, we did not go down to the lake. Yes, as a matter of fact, we did not see the point. It's just a regular lake down there. From the look of it, you can't immediately tell that it is of volcanic origin. And from above, a completely different view... See more..
4.5 Museum of Angra do Heroismo (388 reviews)
- Learned a lot!
Wednesday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours History Museums

We did a tour of the military museum which included a tour on the military base with our guide Tiago on March 2. Tiago is extremely knowledgeable and presented the information in an engaging way that made the history come alive. We did this tour on our first day and it gave us a great perspective for the rest of the visit on the island. Well done to the museum staff and especially Tiago. See more..
4.5 Gruta das Torres (383 reviews)
- Informative and great experience
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Caverns & Caves

Reservations are suggested as slots fill up quickly. This is my second visit to the Gruta das Torres. My children were too young the first visit, so I wanted them to experience the Gruta now as young adults. The tour guide spoke English, kind and informative. We began the tour with a short introduction about the Gruta das Torres. I suggest you bring closed toe shoes, like hiking or tennis shoes. Thereafter the video, we began out descend through the breathtaking entrance. You can feel the temperature change to cool as you descend. The tour guide took us through various areas as we witnessed various lava flows and formations. The tour was a little over one hour. Great tour I recommend if you want to experience the sight of a lava tube. See more..
4.5 Serra do Cume Viewpoint (374 reviews)
- Worth a visit for great views
Spent < 1 hour Lookouts

We were hoping for a better weather but spent all our sunny time on hiking. Still, at least it was not foggy. It was very windy that day, and you can imagine how windy it was at the top so dress accordingly. Also, we did not know that there are platforms on both sides and almost went back but then saw the car coming from that side. See more..
4.5 Lagoa das Empadadas (370 reviews)
- A magical side trip
Bodies of Water

Don't miss Lagoa das Empadadas! We visited on our way to Sete Cidades and it was just magical! This was our first up close experience after arriving and we immediately felt that we'd traveled to "Fern Gully." Don't forget to check out the moss all around, it's a natural sponge! See more..
4.5 Igreja do Santo Cristo (338 reviews)
- Worth a visit
Churches & Cathedrals

At first I thought it was not a church as the facade is simply white with some volcanic rocks. The church is not big but it has a big golden main altar and pulpit. The walls also got azulejos. The interior design is really amazing. This church is home to a miraculous image of Jesus Christ and is very much venerated in the island. Because of this, many locals visit the place to pray. See more..
4.5 Museu dos Baleeiros (Whaler’s Museum) (329 reviews)
- Great Museum Honoring the Heritage of Whaling in the Azores
Speciality Museums

A fascinating museum from a repurposed whale processing plant honoring the whaling tradition of Pico Island and the Azores. There's a fascinating documentary made before whaling was banned in the Azores in 1982 (respecting the issuance of a global moratorium on whaling). Some wonder examples of scrimshaw as well. See more..
4.5 Praia de Santa Bárbara (317 reviews)
- Surfing
Beaches

This has to be the best surfing beach around but on the day we were here there was nobody around. It was a misty morning and the powerful waves were crashing onto shores. Our guide said the beach was full of people just the day before. We strolled along the beach and had the most amazing views of the beach and the ocean. Seemed to be well-equipped with shower and changing facilities. See more..