São Miguel & Terceira: City Chic Escape

Day By Day Itinerary

1. Day 1 Welcome to Terceira Island

   

   Welcome to the Azores! Let’s explore together: pick up your car rental on arrival and get ready for adventure. 

   Suggestion for the day: Secrets of Downtown Angra do Heroísmo

   Start your Terceira discovery through the heart of Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This vibrant city boasts a rich history, stunning architecture, and a testament to the enduring spirit of the Terceirenses people. Let Angra do Heroísmo steal your heart with its beauty and resilience!

   Don’t Miss:

   • Sé Cathedral (16th century): Admire the magnificent Sé Cathedral, a landmark of Angra do Heroísmo and a masterpiece of Mannerist architecture. Don't miss the intricately carved portal and the lavish interior adorned with gold leaf and Azorean cedar wood.
   • Capitães-Generais Palace (18th century): Step back in time at the opulent Capitães-Generais Palace, the former seat of power for the Captain-General of the Azores.
   • Garden Duque de Bragança (19th century): Find tranquility amidst the lush greenery and colorful blooms of the Garden Duque de Bragança. This romantic garden boasts a network of pathways, grottos, and fountains, offering a peaceful escape from the city bustle.
   • Alto da Memória Viewpoint (19th century): Ascend to the Alto da Memória Viewpoint, a former military fort offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the harbor, and Mount Brasil. Capture stunning photos and appreciate the city's layout, with its central praça (square) and radiating streets.
   • Misericórdia Church (16th century): Explore the beautiful Misericórdia Church, known for its intricate stone carvings and historical significance. This church once served the Santa Casa da Misericórdia, a charitable brotherhood that provided aid to the poor and sick. Notice the Manueline-style portal and the peaceful interior adorned with religious art.
   • Duque de Bragança Farmers Market Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Duque de Bragança Farmers Market, a bustling hub of local life. Here you will find fresh-caught fish, and locally grown fruits and vegetables, and don't miss the chance to try the island's renowned queijo da Ilha (island cheese) made from cow's milk.

   *Want to maximize your time in paradise? Consider pre-booking an early check-in during the booking process. This way, you can hit the ground running and start exploring sooner! Don't hesitate to contact our booking agents if you have any questions or need assistance setting this up.

2. Day 2 Terceira Island

   

   Suggestion for the day: Terceira’s Underground Magic & Ancient Traditions

   For the first part of your day, visit the Algar do Carvão

   Imagine going inside an actual volcano — something that should be on everyone’s bucket list! Other amazing highlights Terceira Island offers visitors seeking some natural beauty in the great outdoors include the Algar do Carvão, an ancient volcanic cave that you can walk inside, and which is home to some of the largest stalactites in the world -- all of which will leave you speechless and in utter awe. 

   • Algar do Carvão: Gear up for the main event – a descent into the Earth! Algar do Carvão, meaning "charcoal pit," is an ancient lava tube and volcanic chimney formed over 3,200 years ago. Descend 90 meters (300 ft) through tunnels and staircases, and witness the cavern's awe-inspiring natural beauty. The volcanic rock formations and vaulted ceilings will leave you speechless.
   • Bonus Stops for Geo-Enthusiasts: For the ultimate geo-tourism experience, consider adding visits to Gruta do Natal and Furnas do Enxofre. Gruta do Natal is a smaller lava cave with unique speleothems (cave formations), while Furnas do Enxofre offers a glimpse into a former fumarole (a volcanic vent).

   For the second part of your day, immerse yourself in Terceira's rich cultural heritage

   • Visit a traditional pottery shop and witness the art of creating beautiful ceramic pieces using ancient techniques. Alternatively, explore the vibrant world of Azorean embroidery in Angra do Heroísmo. Learn about the intricate designs and colorful threads used to create these stunning textiles.
3. Day 3 Terceira Island

   

   Suggestion for the day: Explore the Beauty of Terceira

   Let yourself be guided through Terceira's captivating highlights on this adventure day! Explore volcanic landscapes, immerse yourself in rich history, and savor delicious local cuisine. From panoramic viewpoints to a unique volcanic cave, this tour unveils the essence of this amazing island. 

   Don’t Miss:

   • Monte Brasil: Ascend this extinct volcano for breathtaking panoramic views of Angra do Heroísmo and the surrounding landscapes. Explore historical sites like the 16th-century Fortaleza de São João Baptista, a testament to the island's rich past.
   • Baía da Salga: Immerse yourself in the beauty of this natural bay on Terceira's north shore. 
   • Miradouro da Serra do Cume: A view you won’t forget! Be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views encompassing the city of Angra do Heroísmo, the majestic Monte Brasil volcano, and the sparkling Baía da Salga bay.
   • São Sebastião Church: Step back in time at this magnificent 16th-century church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the stunning Baroque architecture and explore the collection of artworks within.
   • Praia da Vitória: Discover the vibrant city of Praia da Vitória, a haven for sunbathers and swimmers. Explore the charming city, known for its colorful impérios (religious brotherhood houses) and its historical significance.
4. Day 4 Flight to São Miguel Island

   

   Welcome to São Miguel, the Green Island of the Azores! Airport transfers are also included upon arrival and departure on this portion of your trip.

   Suggestion for the day: Explore Downtown Ponta Delgada

   It’s time to explore Ponta Delgada, the main city, that beckons not only with its charming streets and vibrant atmosphere but also with its status as the economic heart of the archipelago. Ponta Delgada evokes all the charms of Europe with cobbled streets, sidewalk cafes, and a thriving culinary scene. 

   Don't Miss:

   • Simply Stroll Through Ponta Delgada’s Cobblestone Streets: Start your São Miguel discovery with a stroll along Ponta Delgada's charming city streets. Admire the architecture, from historical buildings to colorful houses. Peek into local shops and soak in the atmosphere.
   • Portas da Cidade: Standing proudly at the entrance to Ponta Delgada, the Portas da Cidade (City Gates) serves as a symbolic gateway to the city's rich history and vibrant culture. 
   • Matriz Church: Visit the impressive Matriz Church, a beautiful example of Azorean religious architecture right in the city center.
   • Pineapple Paradise: Embark on a unique adventure to a nearby pineapple plantation. Learn about the island's pineapple production, witness these fascinating plants, and perhaps even enjoy a refreshing pineapple treat.
5. Day 5 São Miguel Island

   

   Suggestion for the day: Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo Lakes

   São Miguel Island, the largest in the Azores archipelago, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, and Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo are two of its most captivating gems. Today, embark on a journey through volcanic landscapes, serene lakes, and charming villages, and discover the essence of this enchanting island.

   • Sete Cidades (A Realm of Twin Lakes): Begin your adventure in Sete Cidades, a village nestled within a vast volcanic crater. As you descend into the caldera, prepare to be awestruck by the sight of Lagoa das Sete Cidades a mesmerizing twin-lake complex. One of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal, this show-stopping crater full of lakes has become one of the signature and most famous images of the Azores. 
   • Mosteiros & Ferraria: Venture to the neighboring village of Mosteiros, a photographer's paradise known for its breathtaking sunsets. As you explore the western region, don't miss the chance to rejuvenate at Ferraria's unique ocean thermal baths. Remember, these thermal pools are best enjoyed during low tide when warm spring water mixes with the ocean for a truly luxurious experience. Lagoa do Fogo (A Crater Lake of Tranquility): Lagoa do Fogo, which translates roughly into "Lagoon of Fire", is a crater lake at the center of São Miguel Island. This Protected Natural Reserve sits tucked away atop the impressive Pico da Barrosa, far from the whir, hum, and hurry of civilization below. 
   • Caldeira Velha Hot Springs: Caldeira Velha is an official natural monument, and the best thing about this lovely locale is not even the thermal pools (although they are divine), but rather the verdant vegetation. Visitors will find that Caldeira Velha is so lush and tropical, that you’ll almost find it hard to believe you are even in Portugal.
6. Day 6 São Miguel Island

   

   Suggestion for the day: Furnas & Tea Plantations

   • The thermal hot spot of the Azores! Furnas Valley is the center of São Miguel's unique geothermal activity. Here you can visit two active volcanic sites to see the boiling caldeiras in action, as well as the gorgeous Terra Nostra Park and so much more.

   Don’t Miss:

   • Lagoa das Furnas: Visitors can enjoy several hiking trails around the lake, as well as several beautiful parks and the iconic Neo-Gothic Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitórias.
   • Cozido das Furnas Lunch: A longstanding tradition among the locals, this beloved popular dish is a Portuguese stew (cozido) cooked in holes known as fumaroles that are dug in the hot volcanic soil in Furnas. 
   • Caldeiras das Furnas: In the center of town, Furnas boasts close to 30 bubbling, steaming calderas and fumaroles of different temperatures and biological compositions, the strong smell of sulfur wafting through the air at every turn. 
   • Terra Nostra Park: Terra Nostra Park is one of the Azores’ main attractions and with good reason. From its super cool thermal pools to its lavish and rich botanical gardens, Terra Nostra is at the top of every tourist’s itinerary. 
   • Poça da Dona Beija: Also located in Furnas is the lovely Poça da Dona Beija, which offers visitors an exotic and unique array of six natural thermal pools. Each of Poça da Dona Beija’s pools rests at different temperatures, making it possible for every single person to find their perfect fit.
   • Gorreana Tea Plantations: Immerse yourself in history and nature at Gorreana Tea Plantations, Europe's oldest still-operating tea farm (established 1883). Explore verdant fields, breathe in the fresh scent of tea leaves, and learn the secrets behind Azores' world-renowned tea.
7. Day 7 São Miguel Island

   

   Suggestion for the day: Whale Watching & Farewell Dinner

   For the first part of your day, embark on a Whale & Dolphin Watching experience

   The Azores Islands are not just known for their volcanic landscapes and charming towns. They are also rapidly becoming a premier destination for whale watching.

   • A Haven for Marine Life: Imagine setting sail on crystal-clear waters, surrounded by volcanic peaks. Suddenly, a pod of playful dolphins leaps from the waves, followed by the majestic spout of a sperm whale! The Azores' unique combination of factors creates a perfect habitat for over 20 species of whales and dolphins, making it one of the world's largest whale sanctuaries.
   • Witness the Wonders: Throughout the year, keep your eyes peeled for resident species like Sperm Whales, Common Dolphins, Bottlenose Dolphins, Atlantic Spotted Dolphins, and Risso's Dolphins. These fascinating creatures call the Azores home year-round.Depending on the time of year, you might encounter migrating giants like Blue Whales, the largest creatures on Earth. Witness humpback whales breaching or orcas hunting in coordinated packs. Spring brings Pilot Whales and Striped Dolphins, while summer welcomes Minke Whales, Fin Whales, and Sei Whales on their migratory journeys.

   Then, take some time for some souvenirs shopping & Say goodbye to the Azores with a delicious farewell dinner

   Don't leave the Azores empty-handed! From gourmet delights to handcrafted treasures, there's a perfect souvenir for everyone on your list.

   • Azorean Tea
   • Pineapple Delights
   • Wickerwork
   • Bordado dos Açores (Embroidery)
   • Ceramics
   • Azores Wine
   • Postcards
   • T-shirts
   • Liqueurs
8. Day 8 Return Flight Home

   

   One last stop: returning your rental car.

   Thank you for choosing us to be your travel companions on this adventure! It's been a pleasure assisting you in creating unforgettable memories. We wish you happy travels. Until next time!