Top 10 Things to do in Sao Miguel, The Azores

The Azores are quickly becoming one of the world’s hottest travel destinations. And for good reason. From its striking landscapes and astonishing greenery to its picturesque hikes and prominent volcanic activity, the Azores are simply unrivaled when it comes to exploration and natural beauty. Charles of TripTins.com shares the very best things to do on Sao Miguel Island in the Azores.

Best Things to do On Sao Miguel, Azores

Where are the Azores?

For those of you who are unfamiliar, the Azores is an archipelago composed of nine islands. Located in the middle of the Atlantic about 900 miles off the coast of its home country of Portugal the Azores are one of the most exotic destinations on earth. Each island maintains its own unique character and distinct cultural identity.

If you are planning a trip to the Azores, the odds are that you will be spending at least a few days on the largest and most developed island of Sao Miguel, which accounts for over 50% of the archipelago’s population. From its natural geothermal springs and vast craters to its charming towns and fresh cuisine, Sao Miguel is sure to be a fun-filled and action-packed place to visit.

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1. Sete Cidades Viewpoint at Sunset

Arguably the most famous viewpoint of the Azores is the Miradouro da Boca do Inferno overlooking the various lakes and craters of Sete Cidades. While visiting during the day is certainly one option, why not head out to the viewpoint at sunset as well?

You will need to walk the 15-minute trail (as the path is closed to vehicles later in the day), but having the entire place to yourself will surely be worth it. Take some time to sit back and enjoy one of the most beautiful views that this island has to offer.

2. The Only Tea Plantation in Europe

You read that right! Sao Miguel, a small island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean is the only place in all of Europe where you will find a tea plantation.

Not only can you walk around the Cha Gorreana factory, participate in a tasting, and learn about the tea-making process, but you also can wander through the tea field itself. While there is an official trail to take part in, you can also just walk your way up to the top of the fields, where you will get some spectacular views from above.

3. Stop at a Miradouro (or 10 of them!)

4. Have Dinner Overlooking the Atlantic

One of the top restaurants in Sao Miguel is Bar Caloura, a fish-based restaurant located about a 20-minute drive east of the main town of Ponta Delgada.

The restaurant offers a wide variety of fish options, all of which are among the freshest in the Azores. Try to snag a table closer to the water so you can truly enjoy your dinner with a view. Bonus tip: There is a swimming pool right near the ocean if you are up for a pre-meal dip.

5. End Your Day at a Hot Spring

If there is one thing that Sao Miguel has no shortage of, it is the number of natural hot springs located all around the island. After a long day of sightseeing and hiking, head over to one of these to relax and soothe those muscles. You can opt for the natural ocean hot spring of Ponta da Ferraria.

The warm waterfall and pools of Caldeira Velha, or head to Furnas, where you can find Poca da Dona Beija and the orange pool of Parque Terra Nostra.

• Tip: head there closer to low tide for the full effect
• Insider Tip: Be careful with your swimsuit choice! The sulfuric water can give it quite the smell and potential stain.

6. Walk the Trail at Lagoa do Fogo

Many people who visit Lagoa do Fogo head there to take in the spectacular view from above and then make the short 30-minute walk down to the beach. However, it should be noted that there is actually a second hike that is one of the top options on the island.

The four-hour back-and-forth trail from Praia to Lagoa do Fogo brings you through farmland, forest, and lush open greenery before arriving at the base of Lagoa do Fogo. Believe me, this is one hike you have to experience for yourself!

7. Party at a Festival

Throughout the Azores, you are bound to come across a festival or two and Sao Miguel is known to have their fair share of them. One of these is the famous PDL White Ocean Festival which occurs in the summertime when tens of thousands of people make their way to Ponta Delgada.

In every direction, people will have their white tees and pants on, with bars overflowing and concerts blasting their music. It definitely has a much different atmosphere than what you would experience on a normal night out in town.

8. Eat Cozido – Food Cooked in the Ground

In the town of Furnas, you will come across a few geothermal areas to walk around and explore. What you might also notice around these areas are small covered holes in the ground sprinkled throughout. In these holes is where the local restaurants cook a local stew called Cozido.

That’s right; they cook their food on the ground and let mother nature take over! If you want a combination of beef, chicken, pig, vegetables, and more, then this meal is for you. Many restaurants around town will have it available, so be sure to head to one and give it a try yourself.

9. Hike Around the Lakes of Sete Cidades

Another stunning hiking trail takes you around the crater of Sete Cidades. The two lakes of Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde, one blue and one green in color, can be viewed from every angle as you walk the circumference of the crater and down into the town of Sete Cidades itself. The start of the hike is right down the road from the Miradouro da Boca do Inferno mentioned above. Read about the full Sete Cidades hike here.

10. Relax in the Town of Ponta Delgada

While there are no limits to all of the incredible natural beauty and hiking trails that Sao Miguel has to offer, spending some quality time leisurely strolling through the quaint town of Ponta Delgada is a great way to start or end a day.

The town is full of beautiful Portuguese architecture, cobblestone streets, and unique street art. Sitting down in a plaza or outdoor café is a perfect way to take in and enjoy your surroundings.

That about does it for the 10 things you simply cannot miss out on when visiting Sao Miguel Island of the Azores. I hope you enjoy your time there. Feel free to reach out with any questions, and be sure to leave your tips in the comments below!!

Charles is the founder of TripTins.com, a travel website full of detailed iTINeraries and comprehensive guides that take the hassle out of travel. He is continuously seeking out his next adventure and looking forward to sharing it with the world. Follow him on Social at Instagram @triptins and Pinterest. Contact: [email protected]