Days 1-2 – Authentic Lisbon
Spend the first three days of your holiday in Portugal’s bustling capital city of Lisbon. It’s a city of yellow trams, picturesque streets and buzzing restaurants. You’ll stay in a centrally located hotel within walking distance of an array of eateries and iconic sights.
You can explore Lisbon independently, but for a real insight into the city we will arrange a walking tour with a Lisbon resident, who knows the city like the back of their hand. This way you can discover the city in a less touristy way. You’ll avoid the crowds, see the most important sites and some of the city’s hidden spots.
Day 3 – Olá Azores!
From Lisbon you can fly directly to the island of São Miguel in just under three hours and your Azores holiday can really begin. After arriving at the small airport, pick up your rental car and drive 45 minutes to Furnas on the east of the island. What makes Furnas special? It’s located on top of an active volcano! Don’t worry, the last time there was an eruption was in 1630! As you enter the crater, the sulphur smell hits you and you’ll see bubbling mud pools, steaming springs and geysers everywhere. You will stay in a comfortable hotel with its own hot pools for the next few nights. Because you will be staying at an altitude of over 800 metres, it can cool down considerably in the evening, especially in winter, so don’t forget to bring warmer clothing.
Day 4 – Bubbling mud and hot springs at Furnas
Furnas seems like one big tropical garden, created by the fertile volcanic soil and the humid climate. You will have plenty of time to explore. We can give you tips on walking routes in the area. In less than two hours you can drive around deep cliffs, rolling landscapes, lighthouses and waterfalls. We would recommend a walk along the green-blue crater lake of Lagoa das Furnas. Near your hotel there are many hot springs that have medicinal properties where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful view. Also an ideal activity for a rainy day.
In the evening we suggest trying the speciality of the region – ‘Cozido das Furnas’ – a traditional stew that is simmered for hours in the volcanic ground. Most local restaurants have it on the menu.
Days 5-6 – Ponta Delgada and whale watching
After breakfast, drive back to Ponta Delgada – the capital of São Miguel and the largest city in the Azores. Once you have settled into your centrally located hotel, take a stroll. The historic centre features 16th century architecture, cobbled streets and white-washed buildings. Look for maritime icons of the islands’ seafaring history on facades in the city.
The seas around the Azores are home to various species of dolphins and whales, as well as an abundance of marine life. So, during your stay we will arrange for you to head out on a whale and dolphin watching tour. Walk to the harbour to board the boat that will take you along the coast of São Miguel. Onboard, the marine biologist guide will explain everything about the marine life around the Azores. The sperm whale lives in these waters year-round and if you’re lucky you may even see the largest animal in the world: the blue whale!
Day 7 – Adeus Azores!
It is already your last day in the Azores. Drive back to the airport where you return your rental car in time for your flight home.
Each island in the Azores has its own unique landscape, so we recommend visiting more than one island. Check out our Azores bite-sized trips and speak to our Travel Specialists about how to combine the islands. Or check out our Azores island hopping itinerary. It’s easy to add a stopover in Lisbon onto the beginning or end of the trip.
Accommodation
