The Azores Islands of São Miguel are a perfect blend of volcanic nature, endless greenery, and thermal springs. If you are looking for a complete 7-day itinerary that includes everything from the iconic Sete Cidades lagoons and waterfall hikes to relaxation in the Ferraria hot springs, you are in the right place.
Based on our personal experience, we have prepared a practical guide for you, featuring a map, tips for car rental, accommodation, and all the TOP spots you must see on this portugal “Green Island.”
Practical Tips Before Traveling to the Azores
☀️ Ideal Time to Visit the Azores (Weather and Seasons)
Although the Azorean tourist season lasts year-round, you will experience the most stable weather and highest temperatures from July to September. However, if you are looking for lower prices and fewer crowds, May and June or the turn of September and October offer a great mix of sun and affordability. If you are planning hiking, avoid the peak of August when it can be too hot and dry. Remember that the Azores follow the motto “four seasons in one day.” Regardless of the month, be prepared for both rain and sun – a waterproof jacket and sunscreen are always a must!
🚗 Car Rental in the Azores (Essential Tip!)
If traveling during the high season (June–September), book your car ideally 3-4 months in advance. Demand significantly exceeds supply, and on-site prices are astronomical. We recommend a smaller car (even with a manual transmission), as many roads, parking lots, and bridges on the Azores are extremely narrow. Investing in full coverage insurance will save you potentially high fees for scratches, which are hard to avoid on the narrow Azorean roads.
✈️ Flight to the Azores
Since there are no direct flights from many parts of Europe, look for connecting flights through Lisbon (LIS) or Porto (OPO). For the best price, consider combining low-cost and traditional airlines, such as flying to mainland Portugal and then taking a local flight with SATA/Azores Airlines to São Miguel (PDL). The Azores are in the GMT-1 time zone (two hours behind Central European Time), so always double-check this difference when planning connecting flights to avoid stress. Always fly to the largest and most accessible island, São Miguel (Ponta Delgada – PDL).
🏕️ Where to Find Affordable Accommodation
For the best value, look for accommodation designated as Alojamento Local (local guesthouses with a kitchen). These are often cheaper than hotels and offer a more authentic experience. The most affordable option is camping; the campsites on São Miguel, such as those near Rabo de Peixe or Furnas, are well-maintained and offer a great chance to be close to nature. To save money, avoid July and August.
🏝️ Other Azorean Islands (Pico, Terceira, Faial)
If you plan to visit other islands, you must rely on ferries (SATA Ferry) or local flights (Azores Airlines). For fast travel between distant islands (e.g., São Miguel ➡️ Terceira), choose flights. For nearby islands (Pico, Faial, São Jorge), ferries are more economical. If you want to visit São Miguel and one other island, allow yourself at least 10 days to account for travel time.
The Iconic West: Ponta Delgada, Sete Cidades & Hot Springs
This is where your 7-day São Miguel itinerary begins, featuring the island’s most famous landmarks.
- Ponta Delgada: City Sights and Gardens
- Sete Cidades: Lagoons in the Crater
- Ferraria Hot Spring: Thermal Bathing in the Ocean
The Emerald East: Tea, Lagoons, and Furnas
The East is known for unique thermal activity and lush greenery.
Best Hiking Trails and Waterfalls
The island is a true paradise for hikers:
Conclusion: Our Azores Takeaways
São Miguel is full of incredible experiences, and we hope that our personal experiences and recommendations will help you plan your journey. Every article we write is lived, authentic, and written with passion. We are confident you will fall in love with the Azores too!
