Azores Should You Actually Book Europe's Most Underrated Islands?

The Azores: Nine Islands in the Middle of the Atlantic

Halfway between Europe and North America, in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, nine volcanic islands rise from the sea. The Azores are Portuguese territory but feel like nowhere else on earth — a landscape of crater lakes, hydrangea-lined roads, geysers, and coastlines battered by the full force of the Atlantic. They are also one of the best places in the world to watch whales.

São Miguel is the largest island and the most visited, but the archipelago rewards those who explore further. Each island has its own character: Flores for waterfalls, Faial for sailing, Pico for its perfect volcanic cone, Terceira for its UNESCO-listed capital.

São Miguel: The Green Island

Sete Cidades is the defining image of the Azores — twin lakes, one green and one blue, filling a volcanic crater six kilometres wide. The viewpoint at Vista do Rei is the classic shot; arrive early for the best light and to beat the tour buses.

Furnas is the island's geothermal heart. Hot springs bubble through the village; the local speciality, cozido das Furnas, is a meat and vegetable stew slow-cooked underground in volcanic heat for six hours. Terra Nostra Garden contains a large thermal pool surrounded by 200-year-old trees — swimming here, in the warm iron-rich water, is one of the great simple pleasures of the Azores.

Whale Watching

The Azores sit at the junction of three tectonic plates, creating deep water close to shore that attracts an extraordinary diversity of cetaceans. Sperm whales are resident year-round; blue whales, fin whales, and sei whales pass through on migration. Between April and October, the chances of seeing multiple species on a single trip are excellent.

Book with Futurismo or Terra Azul on São Miguel — both operate rigid inflatable boats that can follow whales at a respectful distance. Former whalers, called vigias, still scan the ocean from clifftop lookout posts and radio coordinates to the boats below.

Pico: The Volcano Island

Pico's perfect volcanic cone — at 2,351 metres, the highest point in Portugal — dominates every view on the island. The climb takes five to seven hours return and requires a guide; the summit, when cloud-free, offers views across the entire archipelago.

Pico is also a UNESCO-listed wine region. The island's vineyards grow in black lava fields divided by low stone walls, producing a distinctive mineral white wine called Verdelho. The wine museum in Madalena tells the story of a wine culture that once supplied the courts of Europe.

Where to Stay

Furnas Boutique Hotel on São Miguel is the finest address in the archipelago — a thermal spa hotel with direct access to the hot springs, surrounded by hydrangea gardens.

Aldeia da Fonte on Pico offers stone cottages overlooking the sea, with a natural lava pool for swimming.

When to Go

May to October is the main season. July and August are warmest but busiest. May, June, and September offer excellent weather with fewer crowds and more affordable prices.

Best Time to Visit

Where to Stay

Budget (€50-100/night)

Mid-Range (€100-250/night)

Luxury (€250+)

Getting There & Around

Flights

Local Transport

What to Eat & Drink

1. Cozido das Furnas: A hearty stew cooked underground using volcanic heat. Enjoy this local specialty at Restaurante O Miroma in Furnas; prices around €15-20.

2. Alcatra: A succulent beef dish slow-cooked in a clay pot. Try it at Restaurante O Pescador in Terceira for about €18.

3. Queijo São Jorge: A flavorful cheese from São Jorge Island. Available in local markets, expect to pay around €10 for a decent-sized piece.

4. Bolo Lêvedo: A soft, sweet bread, often enjoyed with local cheese. Look for it at bakeries in São Miguel for about €1 each.

5. Verdelho Wine: A unique white wine from Pico, known for its minerality. Sample it at local wine cellars like Vinhos do Pico.

6. Pudim de Abóbora: A traditional pumpkin dessert. Try it at Café Canto da Ilha in São Miguel, priced around €4.

7. Ginjinha: A local cherry liqueur, a must-try after dinner. Available at bars in Ponta Delgada for about €2-3 a shot.

8. Espetada: Skewered beef grilled over wood fires, popular in Terceira. Visit Restaurante Beira Mar for around €15.

Insider Tips

1. Early Bird Advantage: Arrive early at popular spots like Sete Cidades or Lagoa do Fogo to enjoy them without crowds, especially during peak season.

2. Explore Less Touristy Islands: Don’t miss Flores for its stunning waterfalls and lush landscapes or Graciosa for its serene beauty and geothermal features.

3. Pack Layers: The weather can change rapidly in the Azores. Bring layers and waterproof gear, especially if you plan to hike.

4. Local Markets: Visit local markets in Ponta Delgada for fresh produce and artisan goods. The Mercado da Graça is particularly vibrant.

5. Respect Nature: When hiking or visiting natural sites, stick to marked trails to preserve the fragile ecosystems.

The Azores offer a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and exhilarating outdoor activities. Whether you are trekking up volcanic peaks, savoring local dishes, or watching whales breach in the Atlantic, these islands promise an unforgettable experience. As you plan your visit, remember that the Azores are not just a destination; they are a journey into a world where nature reigns supreme, and every moment feels like a privilege. So, should you book your trip to the Azores in 2026? Absolutely. You won’t regret it.