Top Things to Do in the Azores: Best Activities on Every Island

You’re probably searching for the best things to do in the Azores — but here’s the catch: that”s the wrong way to go about your trip.

I will first show you why your planning should begin with choosing the right islands, then walk you through the top things to do in the Azores on each island, and finally answer the most common questions travelers have. Quick heads up: you NEED to rent a car to explore the Azores islands.

It’s a deep dive — because there’s no one-size-fits-all Azores trip -, so here’s the index so you can jump straight to what matters most to you:

Things to Do in the Azores: A Smarter Way to Start Your Trip

Let’s get one thing straight before we dive into the incredible things to do in the Azores:
You’re not visiting “THE Azores.” That’s not a single place — it’s nine different islands spread out across the Atlantic.

So unless you’ve got a three months to travel and a personal helicopter, you won’t be seeing them all.

Everyone starts with São Miguel or Terceira, because they’re the only islands with direct international flights. If you’re still figuring out flights, start here: How to Get to the Azores.

Thinking of island hopping? Totally doable — but it comes with a cost: time. Reaching the smaller islands means catching extra flights or ferries, and the smaller the island, the trickier the logistics. Here’s the full breakdown about How to Travel Between the Azores Islands.

So here’s my advice:

• On a 7 to 10-day trip, don’t try to visit more than 2 or 3 islands. Each island is unique in its beauty and deserves at least 3 full days (excluding the traveling time!).
• And when choosing, stick to islands that are close to where you land.
  • Flying into Terceira? Then the Triangle Islands — Pico, São Jorge, and Faial — are your friends (they’re all easily connected by ferry).
  • Landing in São Miguel? Consider pairing it with nearby Santa Maria — a short flight away and full of off-the-radar charm.

So first, choose which island(s) you’re going to visit. Then, deep dive into this list of the best things to do in the Azores — island by island :)

Top 20 things to do in the Azores

São Miguel island

São Miguel is usually the first island people land on — and for good reason. It’s the largest, most accessible, and packed with volcanic landscapes, hot springs, hikes, and food that literally comes out of the ground. These are the experiences I recommend:

Visit the Sete Cidades volcanic crater

If you’ve seen photos of the Azores, you’ve seen Sete Cidades. Twin lakes — one green, one blue — inside a massive volcanic crater, framed by cliffs and forests. It’s easily one of the most iconic things to do in the Azores, and one of the most rewarding places to explore in São Miguel. You can kayak in Sete Cidades’ lake, bike, or just drive to a viewpoint (I recommend Boca do Inferno and Vista do Rei).

If you’re not driving, or you just want someone else to handle the planning, this Jeep tour to Sete Cidades with a local guide is a great way to get off the main roads and see the crater from angles most people miss.

Go whale and dolphin watching

Seeing whales up close is one of the most unforgettable things to do in the Azores — and São Miguel is the perfect place to do it. The surrounding waters are full of marine life, including whales and several species of dolphins. I’ve done this more than once, and every time has been different (and amazing).

Most tours leave from the marina in Ponta Delgada (the main city in São Miguel) and last about three hours. I recommend this marine biologist-led trip if you want to learn what you’re seeing instead of just pointing at splashes.

And, if you love water, make sure to read my article of the Best Water activities in São Miguel island.

Soak in Furnas’ geothermal hot springs

Going to a hot spring – particularly if you’re all sweaty after a hike – is one of the best things to do in the Azores. The Furnas valley (in my opinion, THE most magical place in the island) is full of geothermal activity — steam vents, bubbling springs, and natural pools tucked into the forest. Poça da Dona Beija is small and cozy. Terra Nostra Park is more dramatic, with a huge rust-colored pool in the middle of a gorgeous garden.

If you’re staying in Ponta Delgada, this Furnas night-time experience is a unique way to explore two of Furnas’ highlights in one go: a traditional cozido dinner and a soak in the hot springs — with transport included, so you don’t have to worry about the long drive back.

Try a traditional Cozido cooked underground

When people ask me what to eat in the Azores, this is the answer: Cozido das Furnas. It is a stew of meats and vegetables slow-cooked underground, using the natural heat of the earth. That’s not a metaphor — locals literally bury the pots in the earth and let the geothermal steam do the cooking. It is a weird looking dish but it’s SO GOOD, 100% local, and pretty cool to witness.

Get to Lagoa das Furnas in the morning if you want to see the pots being pulled from the ground, then grab lunch in one of the nearby restaurants. This isn’t just one of the best things to do in São Miguel — it’s also one of the most unique food experiences in the Azores.

Hike to the Salto do Prego waterfall

The Azores are made for hiking, and the Sanguinho trail (PRC09 SMI) is one of my favourite ones. The walk to Salto do Prego waterfall takes you through thick forest, past abandoned stone houses and it ends at a hidden waterfall where you can swim if you’re brave enough (or sweaty enough). It’s beautiful and it doesn’t require mountaineering gear or superhuman fitness.

The hike starts in Faial da Terra and loops back to the village. You’ll find a full trail breakdown in my guide to The best hiking trails in São Miguel — along with a few others if hiking is high on your Azores to-do list.

Terceira island

Terceira is the second most visited island in the Azores, once home to a thriving U.S. community thanks to the Lajes Air Base — and while it might not always top the typical “things to do in the Azores” lists, it has way more to offer than you’d expect.

Visit a dormant vulcano at Algar do Carvão

Algar do Carvão is a lava tube on a dormant volcano, around 12 kilometers from Angra do Heroísmo. It is an extraordinary geological structure, which we are able to visit – how cool is that?!

Once there, you will travel back in time and will see AMAZING geological features, a small pond of rare beauty and, if you’re lucky, you will even watch the birds that seek refuge inside the cave!

You can do this activity on your own or you can hire a local guide. It is obviously much cheaper to take a taxi and visit Algar do Carvão alone, but I speak from experience when I say that it’s a lot more interesting to visit with a local guide who can explain everything about this unique place. Otherwise, you’ll be just taking random pictures for your Instagram, which is basically what I did the first time I was there 😅

Visit Gruta do Natal, an impressive cave

I LOVED visiting Gruta do Natal :) It is a lava tube that is almost 700 meters long, almost all of which is easy to walk through, with a slightly uneven floor and high ceilings. Along the way, you will find some signs that explain the different types of lava and geological phenomena that our ignorant eyes would miss otherwise.

You can take a combo tour of Algar do Carvão and Gruta do Natal, which I highly recommend. If not, all you can buy the combo ticket when you are at Algar do Carvão, which gives you access to both places.

Discover Angra do Heroísmo, the most beautiful city in the Azores

Angra do Heroísmo, founded in the 15th century, is THE most beautiful city in the Azores (Ponta Delgada, on São Miguel island, is ugly as hell).

The historic center itself is flat and small, so it’s easy to explore on foot. You can start at the Cantagalo viewpoint, then go down Rua Baixinha towards the marina and the customs yard (with the sea always on your left side) and then go up Rua Direita towards the old square, which is the central square. Local tip: In Pátio da Alfandega there is a street that goes up (Rua dos Minhas Terras), where there is a restaurant called Capitain’s table which is very good.

Take a selfie at Serra do Cume viewpoint

One of the most beautiful viewpoints in the entire Azores archipelago is undoubtedly the Serra dos Cumes viewpoint. From there you have a clear view over Terceira’s farm fields which, from a distance, seem to build a huge patchwork blanket. It’s really, really beautiful. As it is in high ground, it can get very windy (as you can see from my hair in the photo), so make sure to wear a hat, or at least tie your hair up!

Take a dip in Biscoitos bathing area

Biscoitos is one of the best bathing areas on Terceira island. It consists of very large rock formations, with small lagoons that create natural pools. In Biscoitos there is a specific area called Abismo, which is a small, narrow and deep bay, which is excellent for bathing when the weather permits.

It’s easy to park in the area, and what’s more, there’s a little cafe where you can eat light meals.

Pico island

Pico Island may be best known for its towering volcano, but there’s a lot more here than just the climb. From UNESCO-protected lava vineyards to dramatic coastlines and world-class whale watching, Pico is raw, rugged, and full of surprises — a must for anyone serious about exploring the best things to do in the Azores.

Climb Mount Pico

Climbing Mount Pico is one of the most unforgettable things to do in the Azores — and a true bucket-list experience for anyone who loves a challenge. At 2,351 meters, it’s the highest peak in Portugal, offering dramatic volcanic landscapes and sweeping views over the Atlantic and nearby islands. The trail is steep, rugged, and demanding — but the sense of accomplishment (and the scenery at the top) makes every step worth it.

By the way, you CANNOT show up and hike it on your own. Due to past fatal accidents, it’s now mandatory to climb with a registered guide. Booking your Climb to Mount Pico is essential — not only because it’s the law, but also because experienced local guides will make the hike safer, smoother, and way more enjoyable :)

Go for wine tasting. Seriously

The world NEEDS to know that in Pico we produce some of the best white wines in Portugal. And I will keep writing about this until they get the recognition they deserve :P 

The only reference that most people who want to do a wine tasting on the island of Pico is the Azores Wine Company, but it is just one of the producers on this island. So, make sure to read my article about the best wine tastings on Pico island in the Azores, where you’ll find all the information you need to be a happy drunk.

Faial island

From volcanic craters to moon-like landscapes and a café that’s famous among sailors worldwide, Faial island is packed with things to do in the Azores that you won’t find anywhere else.

Have a gin tonic at Peter Café Sport

Let’s start with something simple but iconic. Peter Café Sport isn’t just a bar — it’s a legendary meeting point for sailors, locals, and travelers from around the world. It’s been around for over 100 years, and yes, the gin and tonics are part of the tradition.

It might sound strange to include a café on a list of things to do in the Azores, but trust me, this place is different. Sit down, grab a drink, and enjoy being part of Faial’s living history.

Hike to Faial’s Caldera (a famous volcanic crater in the Azores)

The Caldeira is a massive volcanic crater and one of the island’s most beautiful natural areas. It’s also one of the last places where native Azorean forest still thrives — over 60% of the archipelago’s endemic species are found here.

If you want to hike into the crater, you’ll need a certified guide and a permit. It’s steep, narrow, muddy, and totally worth it. Not up for that? You can hike around the rim for free — still one of the best things to do in the Azores.

Visit the Capelinhos Volcano Museum

The Capelinhos Volcano museum sits on land created by the 1957 eruption that added a whole new piece to Faial. It’s one of the best geological museums in Europe, with exhibits, videos, and immersive rooms that explain how volcanoes work — both here and around the world.

It’s not just about the museum though. The surrounding landscape feels raw and untouched, like you’re walking through a freshly formed planet. Definitely one of the most underrated things to do in the Azores.

São Jorge island

Have a bath at Poça Simão Dias

Poça Simão Dias is São Jorge’s most famous natural pool — and once you see it, you’ll understand why :) Surrounded by dramatic basalt rock formations and filled with crystal-clear blue water, it’s one of those places that feels almost too perfect to be real. Great for a swim, great for photos — and no surprise, very popular in summer.

The pool is just a short 5-minute walk from the road, starting near a large white house in Fajã do Ouvidor. Parking is available, but signage may be missing — use these GPS coordinates to be safe: 38º40’45.1’’N 28º03’04.4”W. When you’re done swimming, Amílcar restaurant nearby is a great spot for grilled fish.

Try Espécies, the most iconic sweet from the Azores

São Jorge is known for its cheese and canned tuna, but the most surprising treat is espécies — a round biscuit called Espécie filled with fennel, toasted bread, cinnamon and allspice. Sweet, aromatic, and oddly addictive. You’ll see them in supermarkets, but the handmade ones are a different league.

For the best versions, head to Dulçores near Calheta. It’s a small detour, but absolutely worth it — especially if you’re looking for unusual, local things to do in the Azores.

Hike to Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo

This hike is one of São Jorge’s greatest highlights. The trail starts at Serra do Topo (a GORGEOUS peak) and descends through a lush, bird-filled valley with sweeping ocean views. Every twist and turn looks like a postcard, and the silence is part of the magic.

At the fajã, you can take a swim, explore the small village, or just hang out for a couple of hours before continuing on to Fajã dos Cubres. Just make sure to pre-arrange a taxi pickup — there’s no rank waiting at the end.

Flores & Corvo islands

Visit Ribeira do Ferreiro waterfall

This is the postcard of Flores — and for good reason. Dozens of waterfalls pour into a shallow green lagoon surrounded by cliffs and forest. It’s like a natural amphitheatre and easily one of the most photogenic places in the Azores.

It’s a 20-minute walk from the main road, starting at the Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro parking lot. The path is uneven and can be slippery, so wear shoes with grip — and expect crowds, especially in summer.

Swim in the natural pools of Santa Cruz das Flores

When it comes to swimming in Flores, the natural pools in Santa Cruz are the clear winner. Sheltered from the waves, filled with crystal-clear water, and big enough to swim around freely, they’re among the prettiest pools in the Azores.

There’s no sand, just cement platforms and walkways, so bring a towel and find a comfy spot. You’ll also need to walk down a big staircase, so this isn’t ideal for anyone with limited mobility.

Take a day trip to Corvo island

Corvo may be the smallest island in the Azores, but it leaves a big impression — especially its massive central caldera. You can hike inside it, walk the rim, or explore the island’s one village on foot. It’s an easy and adventurous day trip from Flores that feels like stepping into another world.

You can take a boat to Corvo on your own but honestly, I would recommend booking a Day trip to Corvo from Flores, because it includes a stop at the famous Flores’ sea caves on the way over, plus a few hours to explore Corvo itself.

Frequently Asked Questions about things to do in the Azores

Do I need to rent a car to explore the Azores properly?

Definitely YES! Public transportation are scarce (in the large islands) and simply non existent on the smaller ones. For practical tips, read my guide to Driving in the Azores Islands.

When is the best time to visit the Azores?

The Azores are a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is usually between May and October, when the weather is milder and most outdoor activities — like hiking, whale watching, and swimming — are in full swing. For a full breakdown by month and by interest, check out my guide: Best Time to Visit the Azores.

What are the top things to do in the Azores for first-time visitors?

For first-timers, focus on the islands with the most accessible experiences — like São Miguel and Terceira. Must-do activities include visiting volcanic craters (like Sete Cidades), soaking in geothermal hot springs, whale watching, and tasting local food like Cozido das Furnas São Jorge’s cheeses and canned fish AND (let’s not forget) the amazing sweets from the Azores..

Which Azores island has the most activities and attractions?

São Miguel is by far the most diverse in terms of things to do. From crater lakes and hot springs to waterfalls, tea plantations, some decent hiking and good restaurants, it packs a bit of everything. It’s also the easiest island to reach, with direct flights from Europe and North America.

Is it possible to visit multiple Azores islands on one trip?

Yes — but logistics matter. Flights and ferries connect the islands, but connections aren’t always convenient, especially in the off-season. If you’re staying 7–10 days, stick to 2 or 3 nearby islands. For example, São Miguel + Santa Maria, or Terceira + Pico + Faial. Another popular options is Terceira + Flores + Corvo.

Start with the right island — and you’ll find the perfect mix of adventure, nature, and quiet charm. These are just some of the most amazing things to do in the Azores — now it’s your turn to explore them.