10 day Azores Travel Itinerary for Adventurers

Looking for the ultimate hidden gem adventure within Europe? The Azores NEED to be on your bucket-list for the perfect outdoor escape in a tropical paradise just a few hours flight from London. Much like its Portuguese sister island, Madeira, the Azorean island chain could be mistaken for the Hawaii of Europe with vast, towering cliff-faces, powerful waterfalls hidden in lush, green jungle, and oceans teeming with marine life.

For outdoor adventurers, these islands are the perfect place for an off the beaten track escape – I spent 10 days exploring and only met US and Canadian tourists – we Brits are sleeping on the Azores! If you want to get ahead of the crowds and discover epic mountain hikes, spectacular viewpoints, delicious fresh seafood and thermal hot springs and natural pools, this is the place!

I've created the ultimate 10 day Azores travel itinerary for adventurers – this archipelago consists of 9 volcanic islands just waiting to be explored. But I've chosen just two of the islands to ensure minimal travel time and maximum times for adventures. If you love an adrenaline rush, pushing outside your comfort zone and have a taste for adventure, this is the itinerary for you! I was lucky enough to be exploring the islands with Visit Azores.

Plan the Ultimate 10 Day Azores Travel Itinerary:

1. Azores Travel Itinerary FAQs
2. Planning your Azores Travel Itinerary
3. Booking Flights for the Azores
4. Where to Stay in the Azores
5. Hiring a Car in the Azores
6. Solo Travel in the Azores
7. Group Travel in the Azores
8. 10 day Azores Travel Itinerary for Adventurers
9. Travel Insurance For the Azores
10. What to Pack for an Adventure in the Azores
11. SIM Cards in the Azores

Azores Travel Itinerary FAQs

Is Azores worth going to?

The Azores are 100% worth visiting! After visiting, it has become one of my favourite parts of Europe and was a real bucket list experience to visit this incredible island chain. If you're looking for real adventure just a few hours flight form the UK, the Azores are a must-visit for hiking, wild swimming and much more.

Is Azores more beautiful than Madeira?

The Azores is one of the most beautiful places I have visited, especially in Europe. Both the Azores and Madeira are incredibly beautiful and worth visiting. While Madeira has a wilder coastline, the island infrastructure is more developed for tourism. I found that the Azores feel far less developed and a more adventurous destination. The scenery is more diverse with the contrast of the volcanic coastline, the craters and mountains, and the waterfall hikes. For me, the Azores have the edge and are my favourite, but you would never regret a visit to Madeira, and this island is probably better to visit if you have less time.

Are Azores like Hawaii?

The Azores, Canary Islands, and Madeira are considered the "Hawaii of Europe" and after visiting these incredible, volcanic, wild and rugged islands, I can completely see why. The islands offer breathtaking views, incredible volcanic landscapes contrasted with lush jungles with waterfalls and vast national parks above the clouds. If you're looking for landscapes that feel like you're on another planet, places that will quite literally take your breath away, you need to visit the Azores.

Which is better, Azores or Canary Islands?

Personally, having visited both the Azores and Canary Islands, I think the Azores are my favourite destination. They're still a lesser-known destination which makes them a great place to escape the crowds and touristy spots while I find the Canary Islands far more popular with UK tourists. If you're looking for a more unique adventure experience, I recommend a visit to the Azores. However, you wouldn't be disappointed with a trip to either.

How touristy is Azores?

While the main island of São Miguel is very popular and Ponta Delgada does get the busiest, it is still a very quiet destination and very easy to escape the crowds. The benefits of the Azores being an archipelago of 9 islands, means it's far easier to get "off the beaten track" than on the neighbouring island of Madeira. Overall I really didn't find the Azores that touristy, the infrastructure is in place for tourists but it is very quiet compared to the nearby Canary Islands. I found that many of the tourists in the Azores were actually American or Canadian as the area really isn't promoted as much to UK travellers. It's definitely the time to visit now before the Azores become more popular, experience the authentic Azorean islands in their natural state.

What is the best month to visit Azores?

The best time of year to visit the Azores is from late Spring to early Autumn (from June to October) when the weather is the best. It depends on what you plan to do during your visit, if you are planning a lot of hikes and adventure activities, you may prefer to visit later in the season or even out of season for the cooler temperatures. I visited at the end of September and the weather was a consistent 25ºC every day with some rain showers and stormier weather, but perfect for hiking and exploring, while still a great temperature for ocean swims. Please note, if you are visiting Pico to climb Mount Pico, the highest mountain in Portugal, it might be better to do this mid-season as we were unable to climb due to bad weather in September.

How many days do you need for Azores?

I highly recommend planning a week-long trip at the minimum to the Azores, if you can visit for longer, 10 days is perfect for exploring two islands. Don't try to squeeze in too much to your visit because there is so much to see and do, it is best to pick 1-2 islands to explore per visit so you have time to relax as well. If you are visiting for 1 week, I recommend staying on just one island, but perhaps taking a day trip to another island using the ferry.

How long does it take to travel between Azores Islands?

There are 9 islands in the Azores archipelago and these islands are split into 3 groups; the eastern islands, the central islands and the western islands. It is recommended that you travel between the three groups by plane, then travel between the Azores islands within those groups by ferry. Direct flights between the islands range from 30 minutes to 1 hour and 20 minutes. Ferries range from 25 minutes to 4 hours depending on your route. Not all of the islands are interconnected, so it is worth researching before you plan your trip to ensure you know the route you will need and how much time it will take.

Is Azores cheaper than Portugal?

The cost of living in the Azores is cheaper than mainland Portugal, however I would still consider pricing mid-range for those travelling to the Azores. There are a lot of ways to make your trip cheaper with a range of accommodation options including hotels, guest houses, b&bs and Airbnb, hotel prices are around €70-100 a night for two people. Where your trip might become more expensive is through internal flights and car hire so do factor in these costs. Generally eating out is fairly cheap with a meal costing €10-15 a head depending on the restaurant. A local beer costs €1.60 and there are lots of great local places to eat for cheaper – if you avoid the touristy areas and popular restaurants you could do this trip on a shoestring budget.

 

Planning your Azores Travel Itinerary

The Azores is packed full of adventure to suit all levels of fitness, accessibility and adrenaline-chasing! While this guide focuses on the adventure travel options for those fully able-bodied, there are also some fantastic options for those less able (or little legs that aren't ready for the big hikes!) including:

• 20 Best Wild Swimming Spots in the Azores
• Ultimate Guide to Whale Watching in the Azores
• 7 Best Hot Springs in São Miguel, Azores

Booking Flights for the Azores

If you're planning to fly to the Portuguese islands to start your Azores travel itinerary, you'll likely want to start your trip in São Miguel by flying into Ponta Delgada. Flights start from £105 and the cheapest airport to fly from in the UK is London Stansted. The flight takes 4 hours and 17 minutes and the cheapest flights are available with Ryanair and Wizz Air UK, but British Airways also offer direct flights. The cheapest month to fly to the Azores is June. >> Click to browse UK flights to the Azores.

Where to Stay in the Azores

Hiring a Car in the Azores

Hiring a car in the Azores is an absolute must! While there are tours available and public transport, they are far more time consuming and don't give you the freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace. By hiring a car in the Azores, I was able to go from hiking to waterfalls in the morning, to exploring hot springs in the afternoon, to swimming in natural pools at the ocean's edge. I also found the weather very changeable on the islands and was forced to change plans a few times due to certain hikes being engulfed in clouds and rain, or storms up on Mount Pico. Hiring a car meant this really didn't matter as we didn't waste any time or get stuck on a tour for the day in rubbish weather. Car hire in the Azores starts from as little at £5 a day.

Solo Travel in the Azores

If you're planning a solo visit to the Azores and want to travel on a budget, there are lots of great options for visiting. Please note that to really explore the islands, you do ideally need to hire a car to make the most of your visit or you will be very reliant on tours. If you prefer to explore independently, a car is the way to go. If you're hoping to stay in hostels in the Azores, there are lots of great options that are more budget-friendly. The islands feel very safe and I would feel comfortable exploring solo as a mixed-race woman. I would happily walk alone at night while exploring the island and the locals make you feel very welcome.

Don't forget to read Solo Travel in Portugal: The Ultimate Guide (2025)

Group Travel in the Azores

If you're keen to meet other travellers and would be interested in a group trip, G Adventures have an epic 6 day itinerary of hiking the Azores from Ponta Delgada to Angra do Heroísmo. You'll visit the highest lake in the Azores, wander through old towns, take a dip in volcanic hot springs and enjoy jaw-dropping scenery. It's a really unique itinerary that will show you a different side to the Azores and allow you free time to choose extra activities or explore at your own pace. If you're nervous to travel alone for the first time, or simply prefer a group experience, this tour cold be a great option! >> Book Hiking the Azores with G Adventures

10 day Azores Travel Itinerary for Adventurers

My 10 day Azores travel itinerary focuses on the islands of São Miguel and Pico which is the perfect combination of islands for a mix of volcanic landscapes, hiking, outdoors adventures, wild swimming and delicious food. Each of the Azorean islands has so much to offer, but I had an amazing time exploring these two islands and really recommend them. I spent four days exploring Pico and five days in São Miguel, with some extra travel time. I recommend going straight to the furthest island and then finishing your time in the Azores in São Miguel as it helps to break up the journey.

Pico Island 4 Day Travel Itinerary:

Day 1

• Fly to Ponta Delgada on São Miguel then catch a connecting flight to Pico Island 
• Pick up your hire car on arrival at the airport
• Arrive at your hotel after a long day of travelling, I recommend Pico Terramar Hotel & Spa, and unwind by the ocean.

Day 2:

• Start with breakfast at the hotel overlooking Mount Pico
• Drive the longest straight road in the Azores to Lagoa do Capitão
• Hike 9.3km at Lagoa do Capitão
• Go for a well-deserved lunch at Ilha food truck overlooking the ocean – I recommend the tuna!
• Swim and relax at Piscina Naturais São Roque or Piscinas naturais da Criação Velha
• Enjoy a sunset drink at Cella Bar 
• Tapas and wine at Garrafeira da Vila 
• Get an early night!

Day 3

• An early start to climb Mount Pico – prebook this experience and allow a few days in case of bad weather!
• Pack snacks and lots of water, plus warm clothes for the top.
• After the climb, relax in the hotel spa or by the pool
• Dinner at O Ancoradouro for sunset by the ocean

Day 4

• Breakfast at the hotel
• Take a walk through Pico’s vineyards and red windmills at Criação Velha
• Visit the biggest lava cave in Portugal, Gruta das Torres (make sure you pre-book!)
• Drive to the beautiful little town of Lajido and enjoy a beer with the locals
• While you're there, visit Casa dos Vulcões where you can experience an earthquake and travel to the centre of the Earth!
• Enjoy a leisurely lunch with a view at Magma (try the octopus salad, fish soup and Magma cake!)
• Then head for a wine tasting at Pico Wines to try the volcanic wines of the island
• Don't forget to wander to town to pick up the best gelato on the island at Pico Gelato!

If you have extra time around your flights, or four full days exploring the island of Pico, I really recommend planning a day of driving around the island to enjoy another hike and perhaps visit some of the natural pools. Some of my favourites of the natural pools included Piscina Natural, Zona Balnear das Arinhas and Piscina Natural “Simão Dias”. Be sure to check when planning hikes if they are circular or one-way as many of the Azorean hikes are one way and will take twice as long to return.

São Miguel 5 Day Travel Itinerary:

Day 1

• Arrive late in São Miguel, pick up your hire car at the airport and drive to your hotel, I recommend Hilton Lagoa Azores
• Dine at the hotel's restaurant with an open kitchen

Day 2

• Book the earliest slot at Caldeira Velha hot springs for a relaxing start to the day
• Take a short walk/scramble to Cascata da Ribeira Quente
• Go to Bolos Lêvedos - Glória Moniz for sandwiches, coffee & pastel de nata
• Explore Furnas and the caldeiras with some short walks
• Go for an early dinner to beat the crowds to A Tasca in Ponta Delgada (can't pre-book!)

Day 3

• Drive to Sete Cidades
• Hike Miradouro da Vista do Rei - Sete Cidades - Lagoa Verde (13.2km circular route)
• Stop at Miradouro da Vista do Rei for spectacular views
• Have a quick bifana, burger or a veggie option at Food & Friends food truck – chat with the owner!
• Stop at Miradouro da Lagoa de Santiago
• Don't miss kayaking and biking at Sete Cidades
• Finish the day with pizza at Nonnas Teeth & Tomatoes

Day 4

• Start the morning with this whale watching tour with Terra Azul – a real highlight!
• Head to TukáTulá Beach Bar for lunch
• Spend the afternoon hiking to Cascata das Lombadas waterfall (it's a steep and sketchy hike but so worth it!)
• Visit Plantação de Ananás dos Açores on your way back to the hotel - try the pineapple juice and cake!
• Relax at the hotel's rooftop pool or spa
• Dinner at Õtaka (book in advance!)

Day 5

• Start the morning at Poça da Dona Beija hot springs
• Head to Pico da Barrosa for a gentle 3km hike and beautiful views across the whole island
• Pick up a traditional bifana at a roadside stall for lunch
• Drive to Cascata do Salto do Prego for a 2 hour circular hike
• If you're a tea lover, you could visit the Gorreana Tea Factory – the only tea plantation in Europe
• A sunset dinner at Bar Caloura

Travel Insurance For the Azores

I thrive on adventure, but when it comes to my well-being, I don't compromise. SafetyWing's Nomad Insurance Essential provides coverage in 175+ countries, and I have complete control over when my policy starts and stops at any time. They've recently expanded coverage to include adventure sports and electronics theft too. Think of it as your safety net, if something goes wrong its great to have back-up in case you get sick, injured or your kit gets damaged. I know how frustrating travel can be sometimes, so it's good to know that when things go wrong I've got a good insurance policy in my corner.

My favourite thing about the policy, as a digital nomad, is that I can add-on electronic theft insurance for up to $3000 worth of electronic valuables. This is HUGE for someone whose entire life and business is their laptop, camera, phone and tech. They also cover:

• Meals & accommodations if you have a travel delay over 12 hours
• Emergency dental care up to $1000
• Medical care including prescriptions, emergency care and hospital stays
• Coverage for lost checked luggage
• Flights home if something bad happens
• Continued coverage for visits back home
• Coverage for motor accidents
• Coverage for injuries from leisure sports & activities

If you need coverage for a longer period, you might consider looking at their Complete plan - includes all Essential features, plus comprehensive health coverage with routine healthcare, mental health support, and maternity, most countries in the world, including in your home country.

Read my full blog post on Choosing Travel Insurance for Solo Female Travellers

What to Pack for an Adventure in the Azores

It doesn't matter what time of year you visit, you'll want to pack for all weathers. Within just a 20 minute drive across one island, we found thick fog and cloud, heavy rain, storms and wind, compared with bright sunshine and sunbathing weather on the other side of the island. I went from hiking in a bikini and shorts barefoot, to a rain mac and was soaked to my skin. I really recommend packing these items for your adventure in the Azores:

• A raincoat / waterproof trousers
• Waterproof hiking boots & good hiking socks
• Back-up trainers
• Sunscreen
• Lots of layers, I even took a thermal layer for a mountain climb
• Swimwear & a towel/sarong for drying off
• Water shoes / jelly shoes / waterproof sandals for wearing at waterfalls
• Hiking backpack & water bottle
• A dry bag or a plastic bag to protect valuables if it rains
• Hiking clothes – shorts / leggings

Then just pack what you would take for a normal holiday! >> Shop my outdoor essentials and favourite travel bags

Get an eSIM for the Azores

If you're planning an adventure in the Azores, one thing I definitely recommend is getting an eSIM for your phone, that way the second you touch down on the islands, you will have phone connection. If, like me, you are hiring a car, this will be super useful for picking it up at the airport and easily navigating to your hotel. When you're out exploring the islands, often due to weather you will have to be ready to change your plans and explore a different part of the islands, at times like this, it's great to have an eSIM so you can quickly look up another place to visit. If you're wanting to try some of the hikes around the island, you'll definitely want to have some kind of maps on your phone whether they are online or offline, they're a lifesaver when you get lost on a waterfall hike like we did! I always use Airalo eSIMs, so if you're looking for an eSIM for Portugal for your trip to the Azores.