Traveling alone is an act of freedom. It’s a chance to connect with nature, immerse yourself in local culture, and, most importantly, reconnect with yourself. If there’s a perfect European destination for this experience, it’s the Azores.
This guide focuses on São Miguel Island, the largest of the nine volcanic islands of the Azores. The other islands are also safe, welcoming, and full of breathtaking nature—but São Miguel is the ultimate base for solo travelers looking for both adventure and tranquility.
On São Miguel, you’ll discover incredible viewpoints, scenic hiking trails, natural thermal pools, adventurous activities, and year-round whale and dolphin watching.
The island is easily accessible from several European countries, including Spain, France, Germany, Italy, and Belgium. There are also direct flights from the United States and Canada, making São Miguel a top nature and adventure destination in Europe.
How to Get Around São Miguel
One of the most common questions for travelers is: How do I get around São Miguel?
Public Transportation: Yes, there are buses on the island. They are usable, but routes are limited, schedules are infrequent, and wait times can be long. If you want the freedom to explore hidden gems at your own pace, relying solely on buses isn’t ideal.
Car Rental: Renting a car gives you full freedom to discover the island at your own pace and spend more time in places you love.
Group or Private Tours: If you prefer not to drive, group tours are perfect for solo travelers who want to meet new people. For those who prefer a personalized experience, private tours allow you to set your own pace.
All guides speak English. If you need Italian, French, or other languages, or if you prefer a female private guide, we can recommend the right guide for you. Send us a message: https://azoresgps.com/private-tour
Where to Stay in São Miguel for Solo Travelers
Choosing where to stay depends on the type of experience you want:
Ponta Delgada: Ideal for convenience, nightlife, restaurants, and cafés.
Pro tip: Most group tours offer free pickups in downtown Ponta Delgada. For other areas, extra fees or taxis may apply — or pickup may not be available at all, and you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point.
Ribeira Grande or Lagoa: Quieter than Ponta Delgada, yet still with restaurants, markets, and healthcare options.
Pro tip: Great for travelers who want to stay close to the beaches.
Furnas, Sete Cidades, or Nordeste: Perfect for tranquility and nature immersion. Renting a car is recommended, as supermarkets and pharmacies are less accessible, and nightlife is limited.
Accommodation Recommendations for Solo Travelers
Hostels and guesthouses are excellent choices for solo travelers—not only are they budget-friendly, but they also make it easy to meet other travelers.
Things to Do Alone in São Miguel
The list of solo activities is long, but some highlights include:
Whale & Dolphin Watching: Tours run almost all year round.
- Special discounts available through our affiliate link. Available for two partners, in Ponta Delgada with the company Futurismo and Vila Franca do Campo with the company Terra Azul.
- Guided Hiking Tours: Many hikes lead to stunning waterfalls. Note: some tours require a minimum of 2 or 4 people. Recommended trails:
- Moinho do Félix (Waterfall)
- Salto do Cabrito (Waterfall)
- Grota do Inferno (Sete Cidades)
- Lagoa do Fogo (Fogo Lake)
Relax in Thermal Pools: After an active day, hot springs are perfect for relaxation. At Terra Nostra Park, you can also enjoy the botanical gardens. At Poça da Dona Beija, each ticket allows for 90 minutes, but the pools are open until 11 PM—making it a great nighttime experience. My favorite one is Caldeira Velha. Watch 4 hot spring options on YouTube.
Adventure Activities: Boat trips, diving, kayaking, paragliding, e-bike tours, and sunset tours will make your solo trip unforgettable.
👉 Click here to see all available activities on the island.
If you need help choosing, contact us via WhatsApp.
How to Meet People While Traveling Alone
Traveling solo in the Azores doesn’t mean being alone all the time. Hostels and group tours are the easiest ways to socialize. You can also attend local events or try group activities like yoga, dance, or Azorean cooking classes—learning something new while meeting people from around the world.
Digital Nomad Tips in São Miguel, Azores
São Miguel isn’t just a vacation destination—it’s increasingly a retreat for digital nomads seeking a high quality of life while working remotely. Imagine working with an ocean view, taking a break for a dip in a thermal pool, and ending the day watching the sunset in Mosteiros. Few places in the world offer this combination.
Where to Work Remotely in São Miguel
- Coworking Spaces: Full infrastructure, fast internet, and networking opportunities. Check out these options: One Solmar or unOffice.
- Public Library: Centrally located in Ponta Delgada, well-organized and with good Wi-Fi. Please note that silence is required—playing videos with sound or making calls is not allowed. From 9am to 7pm. Google Maps.
- Accommodation with Reliable Internet: Always confirm your need for fast and stable Wi-Fi when booking.
Eating Alone in São Miguel
Azorean cuisine is a treat, especially for seafood lovers. Don’t miss the Mercado da Graça in Ponta Delgada, where you can try local fruits like the iconic Azores pineapple. Restaurants and cafés are welcoming for solo diners, making it easy to enjoy meals alone.
In the center of Ponta Delgada, there are several restaurants that offer a “menu of the day,” which usually includes a soup, a main course, and a coffee, costing around 16 euros. At dinner, however, you won’t find these set menus, and the average price will be 25–30 euros per dinner in one of the restaurants in Ponta Delgada.
Read here: 10 Foods to Try in São Miguel, Azores
Is it safe for a solo female traveler to visit the Azores?
Yes! The Azores feel very safe. You can walk around on your own, head to the beach, or even enjoy an evening stroll without feeling uncomfortable. Of course, it’s always good to stay aware of your surroundings — just as you would anywhere else — but compared to most places in the world, the islands are super calm and peaceful. It’s a small community vibe where everyone seems to know each other, often as friends, cousins, or neighbors.
How Much Does Solo Travel in São Miguel Cost?
There are options for every budget. You can choose budget hostels, comfortable guesthouses, or luxury hotels.
- Lunch in Ponta Delgada: Quick meals or “dish of the day” from €12–18, often including a drink or a coffee.
- Dinner in Ponta Delgada: Around €25–30, including starter, main course, and one drink.
- Group tours: €50 for half-day, €80–85 for full day.
- Car rental: €35 in winter and up to €80 in summer (standard car with full insurance included).
Capturing Memories of Your Solo Trip
A trip to São Miguel deserves to be remembered. Besides your own photos and videos, you can hire a local photographer for professional shots in stunning locations. Services range from €100–300 per day depending on experience and equipment. Contact us via WhatsApp for recommendations.
Ready for Your Solo Travel Adventure in São Miguel?
Exploring the Azores alone is one of the most transformative experiences you can have. From nature immersion to tranquility and new friendships, São Miguel is the ultimate destination for solo travelers.
If you found our tips useful, book your activities or tours with us — we’re resellers/affiliates for almost all companies in the Azores. And if you’d rather rent a car and explore on your own, consider getting our interactive island map — with over 160 pins, photos, videos, links, and insider tips.
Happy travels and see you in São Miguel!
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