Guide to São Miguel, Azores: How to Make Every Moment Count
From volcanic craters and natural hot springs to lush landscapes and reconnecting with nature, São Miguel offers the perfect mix of adventure and tranquility for your next adventure.
Trip Highlights: Why Go Here?
Stunning scenery and big Mother Nature energy
Relaxed island pace of life
Old-world charm and affordable accommodations
Volcanic landscapes with crater lakes and hot springs
Fresh, locally-sourced cuisine
Rich cultural heritage and history
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São Miguel, the largest island of the Azores, is best known for its stunning volcanic landscapes, abundant marine life, and laidback charm. The island's volcanic origins have shaped its breathtaking scenery, from the twin crater lakes of Sete Cidades to the geothermal hot springs of Furnas, where you can even enjoy a traditional stew cooked underground using volcanic heat.
The lush, rolling farmland on São Miguel adds to the island’s natural beauty, with unique features like the Gorreana Tea Plantation, Europe’s oldest, offering a peaceful glimpse into its agricultural heritage.
Local cuisine is another highlight, with fresh seafood, sweet greenhouse-grown pineapples, and rich Azorean cheese and butter making for an unforgettable culinary experience.
It’s a hotspot for whale watching, with sperm whales, blue whales, and dolphins frequently seen off the shores of São Miguel (especially from April through October).
And it’s one heck of a place to take a solo roadtrip.
That’s the focus of this post, and I hope you find everything you need to get inspired for your next adventure. Who knows? Maybe it’ll be exclusively to São Miguel, or you might add a stopover here on to another adventure you’re planning.
Need to Know Info
São Miguel is the largest and most populous of the Azores Islands, an autonomous region of Portugal. It’s best known for natural attractions like the Sete Cidades Crater Lakes, Lagoa do Fogo (Lake of Fire), Furnas Valley, and the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park.
Language: Portuguese
Currency: Euro
Time Zone: AZOST (Azores Summer Time); no UTC/GMT offset
Airport: Aeroporto João Paulo II (PDL)
Population: Approx 140,000
Size: 760 km2 (290 sq mi)
Climate: Temperate, Subtropical
Capital city: Ponta Delgada
Location: Located in the subtropical Atlantic, it’s a 6.5-hour flight from Toronto and 2.5 hours from Lisbon.
Getting to São Miguel Island
Azores Airlines offers multi-day stopovers, which I took advantage of on a recent trip back from Europe to North America.
São Miguel also serves as a jumping-off point for international travellers who want to explore any of the other eight Azores Islands. If you’re headed to Santa Maria, Terceira, Flores or Corvo Islands, it’s worth adding a couple of days in São Miguel en route.
Several airlines offer flights to São Miguel, Azores, primarily to the island’s main airport in Ponta Delgada. As you’re checking out rates, look for these airline options:
SATA Azores Airlines – The primary local carrier with flights from mainland Portugal, the U.S., Canada, and other Azorean islands.
TAP Air Portugal – Portugal’s national airline, with regular flights from Lisbon and Porto.
Ryanair – A budget option with direct flights from several European cities like Lisbon, London, and Porto.
EasyJet – Another budget airline offering flights from Lisbon and other major European cities.
Delta Air Lines – Offers seasonal flights from New York (JFK) to Ponta Delgada.
United Airlines – Provides seasonal flights from Newark (EWR).
Air Canada – Offers seasonal flights from Toronto to Ponta Delgada.
Flight availability can vary by season, with more options typically available during the warmer months (April to October).
Tip: Using a flight search engine like Kiwi, Google, or Momondo can help you see all of your options and compare prices. However, I always recommend booking directly with the airline. Definitely stay away from third-party booking services that sell off tickets at cut-rate prices. You have no recourse when things go wrong, and the airlines cannot help you at the airport if you booked with someone else.
This trip gave me just enough of a taste of the Azores to know I need to go back for more. Let’s dig into what makes this such a magical place and why I think you may want to shortlist it for your next trip.
Getting Around São Miguel
Unless you plan on staying in the city of Ponta Delgada and only taking tours, you’re going to need a car. There are buses, but they’re unreliable and only run a few times a day. It was difficult to even locate schedule information, so I wouldn’t waste your time on that if you’re only on the island for a short time.
And listen… if you love to drive, the winding roads and insane switchbacks throughout São Miguel are a helluva lot of fun.
I booked with Guerin in advance via Expedia, but you can book with them direct. I chose them based on their reviews, pricing, and availability of the type of vehicle I wanted. Coming out of customs and into the Arrivals hall, it was clear I’d made the right decision!
Guerin has a slick automated check-in system with self-serve terminals that had me through their kiosk and out the door in under 15 minutes, while anxious crowds stood in long lines at the other car services.
Tip: Get the International Driver’s Permit for peace of mind, if nothing else. There are stories all over the internet of people being denied a rental for not having one, and everything I read said it’s required in addition to your home country license in Portugal.
In the end, no one asked me for it (phew!), but for me, it wasn’t worth rolling the dice and coming up short if I’d gotten that one stickler for the rules.
I also opted in for the fully comprehensive, no-deductible insurance and rented a GPS. The compact rental (manual transmission Nissan Kicks) with those bells and whistles came in at under $300 USD for my two-day roadtrip.
Remember, the entire island is only 290 sq mi (760 km2); it’s about 40 miles (65 km) long and 9 miles (15 km) wide. I aimed to drive the circumference of the island during my short two-day trip and did so, easily. I didn’t even use an entire tank of gas!
I’ve read a lot of blogs that say you need at least 4-5 days on São Miguel to experience it. That would have been nice, but we only have the time we have. If all you can squeeze in is a stopover of 2-3 days on your way to or from somewhere else, I’m telling you: IT’S WORTH IT.
Don’t pass this place up over someone else’s idea of a good time. You can always come back for more!
Where to Stay: São Miguel Accommodations
When it comes to finding a place to stay on São Miguel, you’ll discover a range of accommodations that match the island’s laid-back charm and stunning natural beauty. From cozy, family-run guesthouses in picturesque villages to modern boutique hotels with sweeping ocean views, São Miguel offers something for every budget and travel style.
Whether you want to wake up to the sound of waves crashing along the coastline, relax in a countryside retreat surrounded by lush farmland, or stay in the heart of the island’s vibrant capital, Ponta Delgada, you’ll find an inviting home base for your Azores adventure.
I booked overnights in two places: Furnas in the east and a little village called Várzea in the west. This gave me a place to shoot for (and an address to input into the GPS) each night but still left me open for taking whatever route felt right each day.
They were very different places, but I highly recommend each one.
Furnas Springs Lodge
Furnas Springs Lodge is a no-fuss, loft apartment-style stay in a small town known for its hot springs.
It’s not a hotel, so there’s no formal check-in; you’ll receive instructions for the lockbox before you arrive. It was easy to find, and there was free parking on the street.
Furnas is a 45-minute drive from the Ponta Delgada airport via EN1-1A. I arrived after 4 p.m. and still had plenty of time to have dinner in the city and visit a few lookout points on my way. Visit the Poça da Dona Beija thermal pool while you’re in Furnas (more on that below).
If you’re looking for a clean, private space with a comfortable bed, good-sized washroom, sitting area, and mini-fridge, this is it. I appreciated having access to the main floor shared kitchen with a kettle, coffeemaker and microwave. After a super comfy sleep with very little outside noise, I was off and exploring again at 6 a.m..
Villa Varzea
This adorable villa in a tiny farm village is perfectly located between some of the most stunning natural spots on the island's west side: Sete Cidades, Mosteiros, and Ferraria hot springs.
I stayed in the Charming Suite, which was complete with a soaker tub and a cozy bathrobe. The breakfast, for just €12, was outstanding—fresh and local, with piping hot scrambled eggs, warm bread, a yogurt parfait, fresh fruit, juice, and that amazing Azorean butter.
The owners have put a lot of thought and care into this place. From the comprehensive guidebook and gourmet coffeemaker in the room to Epsom salts in the bath, there were many small touches that made this an exceptional stay.
São Miguel Activities & Adventures
I had a great time chasing miradors (lookout points) on Google Maps. There are dozens along the main coastal highway, and many more up into the mountains.
Organized tours can be a fun way to catch the highlights or have a certain type of experience, too, and I typically try to work one or two of them into each trip.
Some of these recommendations are organized tours, and others you can enjoy on your own.
Iconic Azores Experiences
These are the places and experiences that put São Miguel on the map as a world-class tourism destination, so you can expect they’ll be busy in peak season.
As with all hotspots, there may be a variety of ways to access each one – free or low-cost on your own, with a guided group, or in some cases with preferred access to skip-the-line tickets.
Vila Franca do Campo: Settlers Town
Vila Franca do Campo, once the capital of São Miguel, is known for its rich history, scenic coastal views, and the iconic Ilhéu de Vila Franca, a volcanic islet just offshore.
The town offers a blend of old-world charm with historic architecture, including beautiful churches, and is a great spot for exploring both the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Azores.
Sete Cidades Guided Buggy, Quad, or Jeep Tour
Navigate through the volcanic craters of Sete Cidades or the scenic beauty of Ribeira Grande, marveling at the island’s iconic volcanic lakes and lush surroundings. This unique off-road experience offers an unforgettable way to discover the natural wonders of São Miguel while enjoying the thrill of the ride.
Historic Walking Tour of Ponta Delgada
Discover the rich history and culture of Ponta Delgada on a 3-hour walking tour through the largest and most cosmopolitan city in the Azores. Led by a knowledgeable guide, explore iconic landmarks such as the 18th-century Portas da Cidade and the Manueline-style Parish Church of Saint Sebastian.
Stroll along the bustling Rua dos Mercadores, visit local markets and shops offering regional delicacies, and dive into the natural history of the Azores at the Carlos Machado Museum.
Wildlife Experiences
3-Hr Whale Watching & Islet Tour
This eco-expedition offers the chance to see whales, dolphins, turtles, fish, and seabirds, while uncovering the island’s scenic coastline, sandy beaches, and the iconic Princess Ring Islet of Vila Franca do Campo.
Visit the Mirador Cats
Miradouro da Ponta da Madrugada and Miradouro da Ponta do Sossego are each worth a stop for the views alone. Animal lovers like me have even more reason to put these on your list. Bring some cat food with you and enjoy a visit with some of the island’s feral but well-kept mirador kitties.
More wildlife experiences in São Miguel:
Take the Rabo de Peixe: Sperm Whale Sanctuary Expedition tour. Explore the coast and observe sperm whales and other cetaceans in their natural habitat while you learn about the sperm whale sanctuary from marine biologists.
Swim with dolphins on a snorkel tour from Ponta Delgada. This is about 3 hours by boat, guided by a biologist as you snorkel, swim and cruise with a visit to the Islet of Vila Franca do Campo.
Thermal Pools & Spas
Caldeira Velha Environmental Interpretation Centre & Thermal Pools
This was a highlight of my trip. This protected area offers a serene escape where visitors can soak in warm, iron-rich thermal pools surrounded by vibrant greenery and trickling waterfalls. The center itself provides fascinating insights into the island’s volcanic origins, geothermal activity, and unique ecosystem. It’s a great place to take a peaceful dip in the naturally heated waters and learn about São Miguel ’s rich geology.
Entry is 10 €, or 12 € with locker rental. Parking is free. There’s a steep stairway up from the lot, but you can take a shuttle bus if you prefer.
Tip: If you forgot to purchase a ticket in advance (as I did), you may have to wait until the next available time of entry. Visit the nearby Salto do Cabrito waterfall. It’s a steep hike down, with free parking at the top. After hiking back up that hill, you’ll be more than ready for a thermal soak!
Termas de Ferraria
Take a hair-raising drive on switchbacks down a cliff’s edge to Termas de Ferraria at the southwest edge of the island. Park in the free lot and enjoy time at the spa and restaurant, birdwatching and a hike across volcanic rock, or even a free swim in a natural thermal tidal pool at low to mid-tide.
More thermal pools and spa experiences:
Visit the Poça da Dona Beija thermal pool in Furnas. Tickets are available direct online, or you can take an organized tour with dinner and nighttime access to the thermal baths.
Take a guided trip to Lagoa do Fogo, a crater lake in the Ribeira Grande stratovolcano on São Miguel Island. Learn about volcanoes and bathe in the Caldeira Velha hot springs or Salto Do Cabrito waterfall.
Food & Drink Experiences
Pineapple Wine Tasting Tour in Ponta Delgada
Enjoy an Azorean pineapple experience on a private tour and taste the unique pineapple wine in Europe! Make sure you book ahead, as this one is popular and often sells out.
Yoga & Brunch in Ponta Delgada
Enjoy an energizing vinyasa class in a peaceful Ponta Delgada garden, then breakfast classics like Eggs Benedict or lighter options like an Oat Bowl or Yoghurt-Granola Bowl.
More food and drink experiences:
The Gardener Bar & Terrace at Terra Nostra Hotel: Sample signature cocktails inspired by the Azores Islands and enjoy light meals made with the best Azorean ingredients in stunning natural surroundings in Furnas.
Black Whale Restaurant in Vila Franca Do Campo: This place promised the true flavors of traditional Portuguese cuisine, and delivered in spades. And in the true spirit of Portugal, the menu is heavy on fresh seafood. Try their baked hake fillets, roasted octopus, cod loin, or braised tuna.
Michel Restaurant in Ponta Delgada: Head here for excellent meat dishes including black pork cheeks, oven roasted lamb, and a great steak. Save room for a vinho verde (my favourite, but you can choose what you like from their wine list) and an apertif.
Done-For-You Adventures in São Miguel
If you’re short on time, don’t like mountainous terrain driving, or simply want to take a break and have someone else handle the logistics, that’s definitely an option. Just book your own accommodations and let your guide take care of the rest.
Check out these organized and fully guided São Miguel experiences you can enjoy even with a tight timeline:
2-Day Guided São Miguel Island Tour with Meals
Discover the volcanic beauty of São Miguel on this immersive tour. Take in stunning views of the Sete Cidades Crater Lake from Vista do Rei, explore the fascinating volcanic activity of Furnas, Fogo, and Sete Cidades, and visit one of Europe’s only tea plantations and factories for a unique glimpse into local tea production.
To top it all off, you’ll unwind in the island’s natural hot spring pools, surrounded by lush greenery and serene landscapes.
2-Day São Miguel Island West & East Tour
Experience the best of São Miguel on a 2-day group tour that showcases the island’s east and west sides. Discover volcanic wonders, lush landscapes, and breathtaking viewpoints with the guidance of a local storyteller.
Visit a 100% natural tea plantation and a pineapple plantation, and take part in optional activities like a relaxing thermal bath in the Terra Nostra botanical garden.
Explore the stunning waterfalls in Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, and immerse yourself in Azorean cuisine with the option to include lunch.
Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo Full-Day Tour
Visit the iconic Green and Blue Lakes of Sete Cidades, one of Portugal’s Seven Wonders, and marvel at Lagoa do Fogo, a breathtaking lake inside a volcanic crater.
Stop at scenic viewpoints, explore the amazing natural park with its hot springs waterfall, and dive into local culture by visiting unique spots like a pottery painting factory, ananas (pineapple) plantation, and a liquor factory. It’s a perfect mix of natural beauty and local craftsmanship.
Packing Tips for São Miguel
My two-day stop here was part of a four-week, carry-on only trip, so you can certainly manage that if you try!
The most important thing to keep in mind is that the Atlantic is temperamental, and weather can change on a dime. Prepare to dress in layers. I experienced dense fog, blazing hot sun, chilly mornings, and cool rain in the short time in just two days on the island.
Unless you’re going to a wedding or something, you don’t need dress clothes or fancy shoes. Good sneakers or hiking boots are a must. Here are a few more things to help you pack:
Lightweight rain jacket: Essential for sudden downpours
Quick-dry clothes: Ideal for unpredictable weather and outdoor activities
Swimsuit and light towel: For hot springs and natural pools
Waterproof daypack: To carry layers and keep things dry
Sunscreen and sunglasses: Even cloudy days can turn bright quickly
Phone charger and power bank: Handy for long days exploring
Travel adapter: If coming from outside Europe
Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated while exploring those gorgeous landscapes
Snacks: While there are great local food options, it’s good to have something handy if you’re out hiking or touring remote areas
São Miguel is the kind of place that leaves a lasting impression, with its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. If you're looking for a destination that feels off the beaten path but still offers conveniences like excellent restaurants, modern roadways and decent internet when needed, this island should be on your radar.
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