São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores archipelago, is a true natural paradise that captivates visitors with its breathtaking landscapes.
This 3-day itinerary was created by a local, to help you explore the main highlights of the island in an efficient and enjoyable way.
This itinerary is designed for travelers who have a rental car and are exploring the island independently.
However, if you prefer not to drive and would rather join a guided tour with a local guide, consider the following options:
- 1 day in the West – Sete Cidades + Lagoa do Fogo
- 1 day in the East – Furnas + Thermal Bath + Tea Plantation
- 1 day in Ponta Delgada – walking tour + whale watching
These two full-day tours are the most traditional ones on São Miguel Island, and almost all tour companies follow a similar route. Tours are usually done by van or jeep. If you are unsure which tour or vehicle to choose, or if you are looking for a guide who speaks French, Italian, or another language (other than English), send us a message via WhatsApp — we can help you with that.
Get ready for a journey filled with adventure, local flavours, and unforgettable views!
Day 1: Ponta Delgada
This is the day to go whale watching and explore the city on foot. Use one part of the day for the whale watching tour and the other for a walking tour around Ponta Delgada. The city is small, and you can explore it calmly in 3 to 4 hours, with time for a wine or coffee break at one of the local cafés or terraces.
Must-see places in Ponta Delgada:
- Ponta Delgada Marina: Start your day with a pleasant walk along the marina, enjoying ocean views and watching the boats.
- Mercado da Graça: Visit the local market and taste fresh regional products such as cheeses and fruit.
- Portas da Cidade: One of the city’s main landmarks, perfect for photos. Also visit the Church of São Sebastião.
- Pineapple Plantation: Learn about the cultivation process of the famous Azorean pineapple.
This article includes 10 tips for places to visit on foot in Ponta Delgada and can be very useful: https://azoresgps.com/o-que-fazer-a-pe-em-ponta-delgada/
Local curiosity: Walk through the cobblestone streets and notice that every street in Ponta Delgada has a different pavement pattern. Locals can often recognise where a photo was taken just by looking at the design of the sidewalk.
During the other part of the day, you should definitely go whale and dolphin watching!
This is the most popular activity for visitors to São Miguel Island. Currently, the tour costs €70 per person, and children up to 11 years old receive a 50% discount.
Use our affiliate code AZORESGPS5 to get a discount on your online booking: Click here to Book
If you prefer not to do this activity, here are other suggestions:
- Food Tour: Discover local cuisine and visit traditional spots.
- City Tour: Explore Ponta Delgada with a local guide.
- E-bike Tour: Go further with a group on an electric bike.
Restaurant suggestion for lunch in Ponta Delgada: Xitaka or São Pedro.
Explore São Miguel like a local!
160+ spots: from must-visits to hidden gems.
Day 2: Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo
This will be a day filled with breathtaking views! Remember to bring a waterproof windbreaker, even in summer or spring. These areas can be very windy, and due to the island’s humidity, it can feel cold.
Tip: Wind speeds on the island can reach up to 90 km/h, although 20–40 km/h is more common. Be careful when taking photos at viewpoints — your phone might fly away like a bird! Drone users should also be extra cautious.
Sete Cidades – Must-see places:
- Lagoa do Canário: Start the day with a visit to this peaceful lagoon.
- Grota do Inferno Viewpoint: Enjoy stunning views of the volcanic caldera.
- Vista do Rei Viewpoint: One of the most famous viewpoints, offering iconic views of the lakes.
- Lagoa das Sete Cidades: Explore the blue and green lakes surrounded by lush vegetation.
From April to October, it is possible to rent a kayak to paddle on Lagoa das Sete Cidades, operated by Futurismo. It is a very calm and beautiful experience. To book, click here.
Important: Swimming in the lagoons of São Miguel is forbidden. For your own safety and to protect nature, please respect this rule.
- Lagoa do Fogo – Must-see places:
- Pico da Barrosa Viewpoints
- Lagoa do Fogo Viewpoint
- Salto do Cabrito Waterfall
- Santa Bárbara Beach (the surfers’ beach)
It is possible to fly over Lagoa do Fogo by paratrike or paragliding. If you enjoy thrilling adventures, this activity is for you! More information and a video about this experience can be found here.
On the way back to Ponta Delgada, you can still stop at
- Salto do Cabrito Waterfall. Be aware that the descent is very steep and cannot be done by car. Do not underestimate the hike! The scenery is worth it — the waterfall is 40 metres high, and in summer it can be a refreshing swim.
Rent a car in the Azores from €15 per day
Compare prices from local companies.
Day 3: Furnas and Ribeira Grande
A day to relax in a thermal bath, taste food cooked underground using volcanic heat, and admire beautiful waterfalls.
Start your route along the south coast and stop at:
- Nossa Senhora da Paz Viewpoint: An excellent spot for panoramic views of the coast, overlooking the town of Vila Franca do Campo and its islet.
But … If you enjoy discovering traditional Azorean culture, stop by the historic
- Ceramics Factory before heading to the viewpoint. With over 150 years of history, this family-run factory has been passed down through five generations, preserving traditional handcrafted techniques from its earliest days. More information here: https://azoresgps.com/pottery-factory/
Furnas – Must-see places:
- Pico do Ferro Viewpoint: Spectacular views over the lake and the village.
- Lagoa das Furnas: Visit this picturesque lagoon surrounded by nature. This is also where the most traditional Azorean dish, cozido das Furnas, is cooked underground.
- Furnas Village: Walk through the village and experience the local culture. Explore the volcanic fumaroles, observe geothermal activity, and soak your feet at Poça da Tia Silvina.
- Thermal Bath: Choose between Poça da Dona Beija or Terra Nostra Garden.
Tip: Arrive at Lagoa das Furnas around 11:00 a.m., when the cozidos start being taken out of the ground. Click here to learn more about this dish and where to eat it.
Important: There are five thermal pools on the island. Dona Beija and Terra Nostra are very beautiful, but also consider Caldeira Velha — it is more natural, has a waterfall, and the entrance fee is cheaper.
On the way back to Ponta Delgada, return via the north coast- Ribeira Grande – and visit:
- One of the Azores tea plantations: There are two — Gorreana and Porto Formoso. At both, you can see the tea production process, walk through the plantations, and enjoy a free tea tasting.
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