São Miguel Island is the kind of place that stays with you long after you’ve left. Picture emerald-green landscapes, volcanic craters filled with crystal-clear water, and cozy villages built from volcanic stone. Whether you’re looking to soak in natural hot springs, explore stunning coastlines, or simply enjoy the slower pace of island life, São Miguel is the place to be.
This 3-day itinerary “3 Days in São Miguel, Azores: The Ultimate Island Itinerary” covers everything you need for an amazing trip: stunning viewpoints, lush gardens and unique local experiences. Let’s dive in and discover the magic of São Miguel, Azores.
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Índice
Itinerário
Dia 1
- Praia de Mosteiros
- Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado
- Igreja de São Nicolau
- Lagoa das Sete Cidades
- Miradouro da Vista do Rei & Monte Palace
- Lagoa do Canário
- Miradouro da Boca do Inferno
Dia 2
- Lagoa do Fogo
- Ermida Nossa Senhora da Paz
- Lagoa das Furnas & Mata Jardim José do Canto
- Parque Terra Nostra
- Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeirões
Dia 3
Final São Miguel Travel Tips
Plan Your Trip to São Miguel
Best Time to Visit
The Azores enjoy a mild, temperate climate year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to September, when the weather is warm, and the landscapes are at their greenest. For fewer crowds, consider visiting in late spring or early fall. Regardless of when you visit, be prepared for sudden weather changes throughout the day.
How to Get There
São Miguel is accessible via direct flights from several European cities and some North American hubs. The main airport, João Paulo II Airport, is located in Ponta Delgada. Airlines such as TAP Air Portugal, SATA Azores Airlines, and Ryanair frequently service the island. Be sure to check for seasonal routes.
How to Get Around
Renting a car is highly recommended to explore São Miguel fully. Public transportation only gets you to certain towns, and most of the beautiful places you should visit are only accessible by car. The island’s scenic roads and remote locations make driving an adventure in itself.
Where to Stay
São Miguel offers diverse accommodations, from luxury resorts to charming guesthouses. For convenience, consider staying in Ponta Delgada, the island’s capital, but in reality, you can reach everywhere in just a short car ride.
Where to Eat
São Miguel’s traditional Azorean flavors and fresh local ingredients will not disappoint you. In Ponta Delgada, try “A Tasca” for authentic Azorean cuisine or “Taberna Açor” for modern takes on island classics. For a meal near Furnas, “Tony’s” is renowned for its cozido das Furnas, a stew cooked using volcanic steam. On the north coast, go to “Associação Agrícola” for a taste of traditional food. Don’t forget to make a reservation or go early since these places are extremely popular.
Itinerário
Dia 1
Start your adventure in the island’s western region, home to some of São Miguel’s most iconic sights.
Praia de Mosteiros
Begin your morning with a visit to Mosteiros Beach, or Praia de Mosteiros, a stunning black-sand beach framed by volcanic rock formations. It’s an ideal spot for a peaceful stroll or soaking in the serene views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado
Head to this viewpoint for breathtaking panoramas of the coastline and the small fishing village of Mosteiros below. It’s a perfect photo stop.
Igreja de São Nicolau
This charming church in the Sete Cidades village is worth a quick visit to admire its architecture surrounded by beautiful hydrangeas.
Lagoa das Sete Cidades
No trip to São Miguel is complete without visiting Lagoa das Sete Cidades, a twin lake formed in a volcanic crater. Spend time exploring the area, hiking, or simply admiring the contrasting blue and green waters.
Miradouro da Vista do Rei & Monte Palace
Stop at the Miradouro da Vista do Rei for the most famous view over the Sete Cidades crater. Check the weather first though, because if it is foggy you can say goodbye to one of the most beautiful views of São Miguel. Nearby, explore the ruins of Monte Palace, an abandoned hotel with a mysterious charm and incredible views. Check the balconies facing the lagoon and the rooftop for the best views!
Lagoa do Canário
This small but enchanting lagoon is surrounded by dense forest and makes for a peaceful stop. It is conveniently located on the way to my favorite viewpoint in São Miguel:
Miradouro da Boca do Inferno
End your day at this iconic viewpoint. With panoramic views of several crater lakes, lush greenery, and the Atlantic Ocean beyond, it’s one of the most breathtaking spots on the island. Words cannot explain how amazed I was by this view.
Dia 2
Dive into São Miguel’s geothermal beauty and lush greenery with a day full of highlights.
Lagoa do Fogo
Start your day with a visit to Lagoa do Fogo (“Lake of Fire”), a pristine crater lake surrounded by untouched nature. Whether you hike to the lake’s edge or admire it from a viewpoint, it’s a must-see. It is the highest-altitude lake in São Miguel, so beware that you can encounter fog. Even though Miradouro Alto da Lagoa do Fogo is the most famous viewpoint over the lake, there are many other places to stop and admire it along the main road.
Ermida Nossa Senhora da Paz
This small hilltop chapel in Vila Franca do Campo offers stunning views over the town, the ocean, and the surrounding countryside. Climb (or simply admire) the beautiful stairs lined with traditional Azorean tiles for wonderful views of the Vila Franca islet.
Lagoa das Furnas & Mata Jardim José do Canto
Explore Lagoa das Furnas, a picturesque lake with fumaroles along its shore. Don’t miss Mata Jardim José do Canto, a lush botanical garden nearby, perfect for a quiet stroll. There, you will find Ermida Nossa Senhora das Vitórias, a neo-Gothic chapel that is a hidden gem surrounded by the lush greenery of the garden.
Parque Terra Nostra
Parque Terra Nostra is THE must-visit place in São Miguel. Located in Furnas, this park includes a huge botanical garden to explore. Take a dip in the warm geothermal pool surrounded by tropical plants and vibrant flowers. Terra Nostra Garden is a true highlight of São Miguel Island, and you can read all about it in my Terra Nostra Guide.
Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeirões
End your day at this scenic park, known for its waterfalls, mills, and lush surroundings. It’s a wonderful spot for photography or a leisurely walk.
Dia 3
Spend your final day uncovering unique and tranquil spots on the island.
Plantação de Chá Gorreana
Visit Europe’s oldest tea plantation, where you can learn about the tea-making process, sample local teas, and wander through the picturesque tea fields. The Gorreana Tea Plantation is a must-see for any Azores itinerary.
Lagoa do Congro
This hidden lagoon, surrounded by dense forest, offers a serene and secluded atmosphere. The short hike to the lagoon is well worth the effort.
Arruda Pineapple Plantation
Conclude your trip with a visit to this pineapple plantation, where you can learn about the unique Azorean pineapple-growing process. Don’t forget to try some fresh pineapple or pineapple-based treats!
Closing Notes: São Miguel Travel Tips
- Packing: The weather in the Azores can change quickly, so dress in layers and bring waterproof gear. Keep swimwear, flip flops and a towel in your car, you never know when you will find an inviting beach or some relaxing thermal pools.
- Respect Nature: Stick to marked trails and respect the island’s pristine environment. Swimming in the lagoons is not allowed.
- Try Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on traditional dishes like cozido das Furnas, a geothermal-cooked stew.
- Capture the Moment: With so many scenic spots, bring your phone and camera and make sure you always have enough storage.
São Miguel’s unique natural beauty makes it an unforgettable destination. If you love nature destinations as much as I do, I am sure the island’s charm will leave you longing for a return visit.
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I hope this article “3 Days in São Miguel, Azores: The Ultimate Island Itinerary“ helped you plan your trip to São Miguel! Leave your opinion in the comments and follow me on social networks so you don’t miss my next trips. Usa #travelplannerholic para partilhares as tuas fotos comigo.
Um beijinho,
Catarina Vieira
