The 7 things to do in the Azores

Visit Azores: What are the best things to do and see in this lost archipelago in the Atlantic?

The Azores form a set of 9 islands located 1450km off the coast of Portugal They are an autonomous region. These volcanic lands that have remained wild as preserved from mass tourism offer many activities for those who love the open air: to visit the Azores, it is to marvel at the strength of nature and serenity that reigns in this small part of Europe.

The archipelago, inhabited by 250,000 inhabitants, also has a rich culture and many clues remind the visitor that it was discovered by the Portuguese explorers in 1427 and, in fact, constitutes one of the vestiges of the Portuguese colonial empire.

Are you wondering what to do in the Azores during your stay? We present you the 6 essentials to enjoy the charms of this volcanic archipelago!

1. Discover the Lagoa do Fogo

The lake of Fire, located in Ribeira Grande, is the highest in the island of São Miguel, the largest in the archipelago. This is the crater of a volcano, filled with rain over the centuries. On its heights, the most beautiful view of the island of São Miguel is offered; but be careful, if it is one of the most beautiful escapades to do at the Azores, the volcano is still active and smoking jets can burn the most temeral of visitors (up to more than 60 degrees)!

For a relaxing moment, head to the Caldeira Velha. A true green setting in which a waterfall is nestled, this natural pool - or crater formed by one of the three volcanoes of the island - is a real jewel of nature! You will enjoy yourself in its warm waters while enjoying the landscape.

2. Gravir the Pico, the highest mountain in Portugal

Many hiking trails allow you to climb on the Ponta do Pico, at 2351 meters above sea level. This volcano, whose last eruption dates back to 1720, is now soothed to allow you to admire the islands of Faial, Terceira, São Jorge and Graciosa.

The sometimes capricious weather (the oceanic climate being unpredictable by gasoline) can be a brake for the adventurers in grass, but the ride is really worth the detour if you have a good physical condition.

3. A boat ride

Visiting the Azores Archipelago without taking the time to take a boat ride would be a real mistake... Indeed, rent a boat in Azores to enjoy the sublime Portuguese coastline the time of a day is a blessing!

Alone or accompanied, don’t hesitate and take an afternoon to discover the Portuguese coasts.

4. Go to meet the whales

The archipelago is the largest shrine of cetaceans in the world! Many agencies offer you to meet them: to visit the Azores, it is the chance to see more than 25 different species.

The best period is from March to May, especially to hope to cross blue whales: they can reach 30 meters and this show provides striking emotions!

5. Explore the alleys of Ponta Delgada

It would be a shame to visit the Azores without going to the largest commune of the archipelago: this historic city, witness to the heritage of the Portuguese settlers, offers a beautiful walk full of discoveries with its many tourist places caught as typical churches and baroque monuments.

6. Discover the King's Viewpoint

In the vicinity of Ponta Delgada, hiking enthusiasts enjoy walking through the roads that border the natural lakes of the island. If you choose a walk during your stay, the miradors of the island will make it unforgettable! For example, the "Miradouro Vista Do Rei" or the "Kingdom Bridge" which alone offers a breathtaking spectacle.

Among the most beautiful of the Azores, the Mirador unveils a breathtaking panoramic view of the Caldeira das Sete Cidades: an illustrated postcard of natural lakes, including the famous Lagoa das Sete Cidades which enjoys guided tours.

7. Browse the Parque Terra Nostra

For all those who still wonder what to do in the Azores: the Parque Terra Nostra is a 12-hectare botanical garden, offering the visitor to discover, alone or with family, multiple varieties of hydrangeas and many species of endemic plants.

It is even possible to relax in a hot water pool at 37°C.

How do I go to the Azores?

If you opt for the plane, know that the Azores do not benefit from a direct flight from France. Therefore, your trip will be punctuated with a stopover in Lisbon or Porto before taking another flight to the archipelago (for a flight from Paris, count between 6 and 8 hours of flight to São Miguel). Among the various airports in the 9 Azores islands, João Paulo II (located on the island of São Miguel near the city of Ponta Delgada) remains the main and thus one of the first choices of visitors.

Whatever your city of departure, in France or Portugal, you will find a cheap flight on our partner's website Ulysses .

Des Ferries also provide the marine connection between the different islands. Using this means of travel is ideal for those looking to visit the Azores while enjoying a nice boat ride.

And because enjoying nature is definitely one of the best things to do in the Azores, many car rental agencies allow to use a vehicle to walk freely. The Compare Rentalcars offers rentals at the best prices.

Where to stay in the Azores?

At the Azores you will find several types of accommodation to choose according to your wishes, and your budget. The archipelago has more than 70 hotels and, especially on the islands of São Miguel and Terceira, it is obviously the easiest and most flexible solution for the occasional traveller looking to visit the Azores; you will find your ideal establishment by consulting offers on this Compare hotels .

It is also possible for you to dive into the Azorian culture in renting a quinta , an old mansion converted into a guest house, often dependent on a sumptuous domain. Or to stay with farmers who can even offer seasonal work to do at the Azores for young people looking for adventure. If about 20 campsites have pitches for unforgettable nights at the star, it should be recalled that the wild campsite is forbidden in Portugal!

Now you know how to exploit all the charms of the Azores Archipelago and enjoy the best activities on its islands. But who will deduce you?