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The Azores: Europe's Most Underrated Islands — Honest Verdict
Adventure

The Azores: Europe's Most Underrated Islands — Honest Verdict

Editorial Team·Founder & Lead Travel Editor12 min read
AI-assistedHuman-curated

Nine volcanic islands in the middle of the Atlantic, where you can swim with sperm whales, bathe in hot springs, hike into calderas, and watch the ocean from cliffs that drop 300 metres to the sea. The Azores are Europe's best-kept secret — and they won't stay secret much longer.

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  • ·**January to March:** Winter months with average temperatures around 12–15°C. This is the low season, so expect fewer crowds and lower prices. It's also a great time for whale watching, especially sperm whales.
  • ·**April to June:** Spring brings warmer weather, averaging 15–20°C, with blooming hydrangeas. This is the ideal time for hiking and exploring the lush landscapes, as the trails are less crowded. Prices start to rise as the tourist season approaches.
  • ·**July to August:** The peak season, with temperatures climbing to 25°C. Expect bustling towns and crowded attractions. Prices are at their highest, but the vibrant local festivals, like the Festas do Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres in Ponta Delgada, make it worthwhile.
  • ·**September to October:** The weather remains warm, averaging around 20°C. The crowds thin out, and prices drop as the autumn season sets in. This is an excellent time for outdoor activities and vineyard tours on Pico.
  • ·**November to December:** The temperatures drop to around 12–16°C. This is the rainy season, but the islands are stunningly green. It's a quieter time for travelers looking for solitude.

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  • ·**Hotel Talisman (Ponta Delgada)**: A charming hotel with comfortable rooms and a rooftop pool. Prices start around €70/night.
  • ·**Azores Getaways (São Miguel)**: Offers eco-friendly accommodations and hostels at competitive rates, starting from €50/night.

  • ·**Sensi Azores Nature and Spa (São Miguel)**: A boutique hotel with panoramic views and wellness options, with prices starting at €150/night.
  • ·**Hotel do Canal (Faial)**: Located close to the marina, this hotel offers modern amenities and stunning sea views. Rates start around €120/night.

  • ·**Furnas Boutique Hotel (São Miguel)**: A luxurious retreat with thermal pools and a full-service spa, starting at €250/night.
  • ·**Pico Island Resort Hotel (Pico)**: Set in a stunning location with views of the volcano, offering high-end accommodations and amenities. Prices begin at €300/night.

  • ·**From Lisbon**: Multiple airlines operate daily flights to São Miguel (Ponta Delgada) in about 2 hours. Prices range from €30 to €100 one way, depending on the season.
  • ·**From London**: TAP Air Portugal offers flights to the Azores with a layover in Lisbon, while Ryanair operates direct flights to São Miguel, taking around 4-5 hours.
  • ·**From New York City**: SATA Azores Airlines offers seasonal direct flights to Ponta Delgada, typically around a 5–6 hour journey.

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