Best things to do in Sete Cidades

If you are looking for the best things to do in Sete Cidades, you’ve come to the right place. Sitting inside a massive 3-mile volcanic crater, this legendary landscape—famous for its iconic blue and green twin lakes—is easily the most captivating place on São Miguel Island.

In this guide I’ll walk you through the absolute top experiences in Sete Cidades, including exact parking tips, hidden lookout detours, local food spots, and practical logistics so you can plan the perfect trip without missing a thing.

No time to read a long article? Here’s a summary

Best things to do in Sete Cidades

• Enjoy the views from these lookouts: Miradouro do Pico do Carvão, Miradouro da Vista do Rei, Miradouro do Cerrado das Freiras and Miradouro da Grota do Inferno.
• For adventure junkies: Join an Off-Road Buggy tour of Sete Cidades. It is awesome :D
• For outdoorsy people: Kayak across the Twin Lakes with your better half, Rent an E-bike with GPS and Hike the Serra da Devassa Trail
• Enjoy the village: visit the Church of São Nicolau and enjoy an afternoon tea at Casa de Chá “O Poejo”

If you want to skip the stress of renting a car, driving on narrow mountain roads, or trying to match strict bus schedules, booking the São Miguel West Tour: Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo with Lunch is hands down the easiest way to see everything in a single day.

What makes this tour so worth it is that it hits virtually every Sete Cidades highlight on this list—including Pico do Carvão, Vista do Rei, Cerrado das Freiras, and the iconic walk to Miradouro da Grota do Inferno’s lookout — plus time down in Sete Cidades village itself. On top of that, you get seamless round-trip hotel pickup, a full sit-down Azorean lunch, and an afternoon exploring the wild coast of Mosteiros and the breathtaking Lagoa do Fogo crater :)

How to get to Sete Cidades

You can either rent a car (on AutoEurope or DiscoverCars), book a tour (for instance the São Miguel West Tour: Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo with Lunch) or take the bus (this last option is very time consuming, I wrote all about it at the end of the article).

These are the best things to do in Sete Cidades:

Take in the views from the Iconic Miradouros (lookouts)

Visiting the volcanic rim is hands down one of the best things to do in Sete Cidades. Driving into this massive caldera without stopping at its lookouts is like going to Paris and skipping the Eiffel Tower. These miradouros (Portuguese for lookouts) offer front-row seats to one of Europe’s great natural wonders: vibrant twin lakes nestled in lush green craters, surrounded by thick hydrangeas and sheer cliff drop-offs.

Because the landscape shifts dramatically with height and cloud cover, taking in the views from different elevations is the single best way to appreciate the crater.

The scenic drive from Ponta Delgada up to Sete Cidades along the EN1-1A / ER9-2A route features the most famous lookouts on São Miguel Island. To help you plan your drive without pulling over blindly, here is the exact breakdown of the key viewpoints you’ll hit along the way, complete with driving logistics, walking distance, and parking reality checks.

Practical Information about the lookouts of Sete Cidades

Miradouro do Pico do Carvão

• Accessibility: Zero walking. The lookout platform is right next to the road.
• Parking: Easy roadside parking bay with plenty of space.
• What you see: Before you even reach the main crater, this stop gives you a sweeping view across the narrowest midsection of São Miguel, where you can see both the north and south coasts at the same time alongside dozens of ancient volcanic cones.

Miradouro da Grota do Inferno (Boca do Inferno)

• Accessibility: Requires a 15 to 20-minute walk (around 0.75 miles / 1.2 km each way) along a flat dirt road, ending with a short hike up a narrow dirt ridge.
• Parking: Hardest on the island. The small gravel lot fills up fast, forcing cars to park along the narrow main road shoulder. Arrive before 9:30 AM or after 4:00 PM to avoid heavy traffic and tour buses.
• What you see: The quintessential Azores postcard view. From the edge of the ridge, you get a dramatic high-angle look down at the four lakes (Lagoa de Santiago, Lagoa Azul, Lagoa Verde, and Lagoa do Canário) all in a single frame.
• Pro-Tip: The main park gate closes to vehicle entry in the late afternoon (typically around 7:00 PM in summer, earlier in winter), though foot traffic is always allowed.

Miradouro da Vista do Rei

• Accessibility: Right on the main road at the crater’s edge, directly across from the abandoned Monte Palace Hotel.
• Parking: High-turnover designated parking lot, but traffic gets heavy mid-day.
• What you see: The iconic, elevated view straight down into Sete Cidades, showing where the blue and green halves of the crater lake meet at the central bridge.

Miradouro do Cerrado das Freiras

• Accessibility: Pull-off spot right on the winding road descending from Vista do Rei into the village.
• Parking: A small, dedicated paved lay-by fitting about 10 cars. Because people only stop for quick photos, spots open up every few minutes.
• What you see: A much lower perspective than Vista do Rei. You get an up-close look at Lagoa Azul framed by lush foliage, showing off the water’s color without the extreme elevation.

Quick Driving Cheat Sheet:

• Pull-Up & Look (No Hiking): Pico do Carvão, Vista do Rei, Cerrado das Freiras.
• Short Hike Required: Grota do Inferno.
• Park Early: Grota do Inferno and Vista do Rei are the two biggest parking bottlenecks along the route.

Go on an Off-Road Buggy Tour

If there is one activity that stole the show during my last time in São Miguel, it was taking an off-road buggy tour around the Sete Cidades volcano. Viewing the crater from roadside pull-offs is spectacular, but navigating the hidden dirt trails along the volcanic rim in an open-air 4×4 buggy is a whole different level of adventure.

I booked the Buggy Tour Sete Cidades Volcano Off-Road Adventure and it was SO. MUCH. FUN. :)

The best part of this tour is that it takes you way beyond the paved roads and tour bus crowds. You get to drive along dirt tracks and narrow ridge trails—like the breathtaking Miradouro das Cumeeiras and Pico da Cruz—that regular cars simply can’t reach.

What really made the experience for me, though, were the guides (huge shoutout to João and Miguel!). They lead the pack safely, kept everyone on track, and paused at all the best photo spots. Hands down, booking this tour is one of the best things to do in Sete Cidades if you want a mix of adrenaline and unbeatable views.

Practical Information about the Off-Road Buggy Tour in Sete Cidades

• Duration & Route: The tour lasts roughly 3.5 hours, starting in Ribeira Grande before heading up into the volcanic complex. You make several photo stops along the rim, before descending down toward the lakes.
• What’s Included: They equip you with helmets, safety gear, gloves, and even rain jackets if the mountain weather rolls in.
• Bring Your Driver’s License: You MUST present a valid physical driver’s license at check-in to drive.
• Dress for Dust (or Mud): Wear clothes and closed-toe shoes you don’t mind getting dirty. You will either leave covered in fine volcanic dust or mud splatters—both are badges of honor! :)
• Book in Advance: The Buggy Tour Sete Cidades Volcano Off-Road Adventure is top-rated on the island and sells out fast during the high season, so lock in your spot early.

Kayak Across the Twin Lakes

Looking at the blue and green lakes from high up at the viewpoints is awesome, but getting down on the water is even more magical. Being right in the middle of the crater, with giant green hills rising up all around you, is sooo peaceful that it became one of the best things to do in Sete Cidades on our trip.

Me and my partner booked a spot with Double-Seat Kayak Rental at Sete Cidades Lake, right on the shore of Lagoa Azul.

Paddling together with total peace and quiet around us (as motorboats aren’t allowed on the lakes), just listening to the gentle splash of our paddles against the glass-like water, was a cool, romantic moment that we both loved :)

The whole setup was super easy, too. The guys running the rental stand were very friendly, handed us our life jackets, and had us out on the water in less than five minutes.

All and all, kayaking in Sete Cidades turned out to be a fun & easy couple’s activity to do in the Azores :)

Practical Information about kayaking in Sete Cidades

• Duration: An hour rental gives you plenty of time to paddle across to the bridge between the two lakes, take photos, and cruise around without getting too tired.
• Capacity: The kayaks hold two adults comfortably.
• Don’t Forget Sunscreen: The sun reflecting off the water will burn you fast, even if it feels cloudy or chilly. Lather up with sunscreen before you jump in the kayak!

Hike the Scenic Serra Devassa Trail

If you want to step away from the crowds and see the wilder landscape surrounding the crater, this hike is an absolute must. The Serra Devassa trail sits high up on the volcanic complex right outside Sete Cidades village—just a quick 5-minute drive from Miradouro da Grota do Inferno.

While most tourists drive straight past to see the twin lakes, this trail takes you through the higher volcanic ridge that actually formed this whole region, giving you a completely different perspective of the area. Climbing up here was one of our favorite moments, and it is easily one of the best things to do in Sete Cidades if you love nature.

What makes this hike so special (I’ve even included it on my list of the Best hikes in São Miguel island) is how isolated and untouched it feels compared to the main town below. As you walk along the grassy volcanic ridges, you’ll discover hidden crater lakes like Lagoa das Éguas and Lagoa Empadadas, surrounded by rolling green hills, pine trees, and views that stretch all the way to the coast on clear days.

Plus, there is a incredible hidden gem right near the start: a short side detour takes you up to Miradouro do Paúl. Don’t skip this extra walk! From the top of this high lookout, you get a stunning, sweeping panorama that shows the north and south coasts of the island at the same time alongside the surrounding crater lakes.

Practical information about hiking Serra da Devassa Trail

Because Serra Devassa sits high on the rim above Sete Cidades, fog can roll in quickly. Check the SpotAzores app or website before heading up to make sure the ridge isn’t buried in clouds.

Explore the Crater Rim with an E-Bike

If you want the freedom to explore the lakes and viewpoints at your own pace without burning out your legs on steep mountain climbs, renting an E-Bike is hands down one of the best things to do in Sete Cidades.

Taking an E-Bike Rental with GPS and Map Tour lets you zip past traffic, explore hidden corners of the crater that cars can’t reach, and take in the epic views without getting stuck behind tour buses.

What makes this activity so great is that the electric motor does all the heavy lifting on the ascents, making those steep volcanic hills feel completely effortless. You’ll pick up your high-quality e-bike right in Sete Cidades village, get a quick safety briefing, and receive a pre-loaded GPS device with custom routes.

Whether you want a relaxed flat cruise along the lake shore or an adventurous ride up to lookouts like Vista do Rei, you can customize your loop to match your preferences.

Practical information about renting an E-Bike at Sete Cidades

• Meeting Point: Located right in Sete Cidades village (near the soccer field/lake shore).
• Duration Options: Rentals range from 2 to 6 hours depending on how much ground you want to cover.
• What’s Included: High-powered e-bike, safety helmet, cycling gloves, lock cable, repair kit, and a GPS unit loaded with suggested trails.
• Requirement: Must know how to ride a bicycle and meet the height requirement (at least 150 cm / 4 ft 11 in) to comfortably handle the bike frame.

Essential Tips Before You Ride:

• Pick the Right Route for You: The rental team provides a few route options ranging from easy flat rides around Lagoa Azul and Baía do Silêncio to intermediate rim climbs up Cumeeira Grande. Ask them which route fits your riding confidence!
• Layer Up: Weather changes quickly in the crater. Even if it feels warm down in the village, riding up on the high crater rim can get windy and chilly, so bring a light rain jacket in a small backpack.
• Book in Advance During Summer: E-bikes are super popular in Sete Cidades because they solve the parking hassle at busy viewpoints, so reserving your slot ahead of time is a smart move.

Visit the Picturesque Church of São Nicolau

When you drop down into the crater and arrive in Sete Cidades, there is one spot that immediately catches your eye: the Igreja de São Nicolau. This charming 19th-century church looks like it was plucked straight out of a fairytale, and taking a quick stroll here is one of the best things to do in Sete Cidades to soak in the local vibe.

What makes this church so iconic isn’t just the neo-Gothic building itself—it’s the stunning entrance. A long, beautiful avenue lined with Japanese cedar trees leads you straight up to the whitewashed stone façade. Walking down this tree-lined path toward the church feels super peaceful, and it’s arguably one of the most photographed street scenes on São Miguel Island.

We loved taking a quiet break here after paddling on the lake. It’s right in the heart of the quiet village, so you can easily park nearby, walk down the cedar avenue and take some photos.

Stop for Tea and Pastries at Casa de Chá O Poejo

After a busy morning of hiking trails or kayaking, stopping for a hot tea and a slice of cake at Casa de Chá “O Poejo” was one of our favorite low-key moments in Sete Cidades. Located inside a cozy wooden building tucked away in the village, it feels way more authentic than the crowded tourist spots right on the lake. On chilly or rainy Azorean days, they even light up a wood-burning fireplace inside, which makes the whole place feel super warm and cozy :)

They serve a great selection of local teas (including Gorreana tea grown on São Miguel island), fresh cakes, hearty soups, and toasted sandwiches. We loved sitting near the garden window with a hot drink after being out in the wind all morning.

Just keep in mind that since it’s a popular tea house, the service can slow down when the lunch crowd arrives around 1:00 PM. Also, if you go late in the afternoon, some of their most popular homemade cakes might already be sold out. Visiting around 10:30 AM or mid-afternoon is definitely the sweet spot!

Practical Information for Visiting Casa de Chá “O Poejo” in Sete Cidades

• Location: Rua do Queiró 9, Sete Cidades (a 5-minute walk from the Church of São Nicolau).
• Opening Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM (often closed on Sundays, so check ahead).

Take in the Views from the Abandoned Monte Palace Hotel

Sitting directly across the street from the famous Vista do Rei viewpoint, the Monte Palace Hotel is one of the most intriguing spots on the island. Opened in 1989 as a lavish 5-star resort, it went bankrupt and shut its doors a year later. Decades of damp mountain air and neglect have left it completely gutted, turning it into a massive, eerie concrete skeleton overgrown with moss.

To be honest, I wasn’t completely sure whether to include this on my list of the best things to do in Sete Cidades. Technically, it is illegal to enter the grounds, and there are legit safety concerns if you do—with crumbling concrete, missing walls, and zero maintenance over the years.

This being said, loads of people still head inside the grounds every day to explore the ruins and check out the views from this hypnotizing spot. And that includes me :P

The view of the blue and green lakes from this hilltop is unreal, which is precisely why they built the hotel here in the first place.

Whether you choose to play it safe and admire its haunting structure from the outside or venture going inside to snap photos, seeing this giant ruined palace set against the breathtaking crater backdrop is an unforgettable stop.

Practical Information for Visiting the Abandoned Monte Palace Hotel

• Location: Directly opposite the Vista do Rei viewpoint parking lot along the main ER1-1A road.
• Cost: Free.
• Safety Warning: Official signs strictly forbid entering the building. If you choose to explore, keep in mind there are no safety railings or lighting, so watch your step very carefully.
• Parking: Park in the main Vista do Rei lot across the street. It gets super busy around midday, so aim for early morning or late afternoon for an easier park.

The ridge here sits high up where fog settles fast. Check the SpotAzores webcams before driving up to make sure the hotel and the crater aren’t completely hidden in clouds!

How to get to Sete Cidades?

Assuming that you are staying in Ponta Delgada, you have basically three ways of getting to Sete Cidades:

• Rent a car. This is BY FAR the easiest way. I always use AutoEurope or DiscoverCars to rent a car as these price aggregators are able to find the best deals online. Read my Car rental in the Azores guide and the Driving in the Azores islands: 10 life saving tips to have a smooth experience.
• Book a tour with pick up / drop off included. For instance the São Miguel West Van Tour: Sete Cidades & Fogo Lake + Lunch is a great option since it covers not only Sete Cidades but also Mosteiros (which has one of the best natural pools in the Azores) and the famous Rabo de Peixe netflix series’ location.
  By booking the São Miguel West Van Tour: Sete Cidades & Fogo Lake tour, you don’t have to worry about driving, car park, or bus timetables :)
• Take the bus. Honestly I would only do this if I strictly had to because public transportation in the Azores is both scarce and unreliable. In any case, here’s the info you need:

You can catch the Line 205 directly to Sete Cidades village. It departs from the seafront in Ponta Delgada (at Campo de São Francisco / Forte de São Brás). The journey takes around 1h each way and it costs around €2.50 to €3.50. Pay the driver directly in cash when boarding, using small bills.

Service is very limited, so you have to double-check the timetable carefully before you go:

• Weekdays (Lines 205 & 206): The primary morning bus to the village is Line 205, leaving Ponta Delgada at 08:25 (arriving around 09:30 in Sete Cidades). For the return trip, Line 205 leaves the village at 09:30 and 18:50 (with an additional summer-only option around 16:00 on Line 206).
• Saturdays & Sundays: Schedule options drop significantly (often down to a single morning departure or no direct Sunday route back on Line 205), so public transit on weekends isn’t recommended unless you cross-check the latest PDF schedule.