São Miguel Island, Azores
Travel Tips for visiting
the Azores
About the Azores
The Azores Islands are located in the middle of the Atlantic, about 2 hours west of Portugal by plane, and about 5 hours from Boston. Many call this the "Hawaii of Europe" for good reason. While you won't find white sand beaches, the beauty of being able to experience all four seasons by driving 15 minutes in a single day is unbelievable.
Azores Airlines offers direct flights from a handful of cities—like Boston and NYC—direct to São Miguel. They also offer several flights from the Azores to destinations in Europe, making it an ideal destination on its own, or as a stop on the way to other cities on your list!
Feeling adventurous?
Azores Airlines (SATA) offers "Stopover" options that allow you to add a stop in the Azores, between North America and Europe, or additional islands in the Azores, with your round trip flight from your origin to São Miguel.
Where you're headed
Ponta Delgada, São Miguel Island
We recommend guests travel to Ponta Delgada–João Paulo II Airport, named after Pope John Paul II. It's an international airport located on the island of São Miguel, in the Azores.
Airport code: PDL
What to do
We fell in love with the Azores when we visited, and we know you will too. Here are some of the things we recommend trying, based on our experience, and some tips from locals who know their stuff!
Restaurants & Dining
The island’s food scene reflects its rich cultural heritage, blending traditional recipes with modern flavors from the land and sea. Look for iconic dishes like Cozido das Furnas, lapas, Queijadas de Vila Franca do Campo, and local beef, seafood, pineapples, wine, and cheese!
Where to Eat & Drink in São Miguel Island
From breakfast pastries to cocktails, here are some of the places we loved along the way!
Drinks
Résvés Street Bar
A quick walk from most restaurants in Ponta Delgada, this was our favorite place to grab an after-dinner cocktail. The team mixed up delicious & inventive drinks in a lively, laid-back lounge. Reviews & Location
Rooftop Bar (Whale Watching Bar)—Octant Hotel
Pop in for a spritz and beautiful views of the pier. Don't expect much more than a standard hotel rooftop, but it's worth a glimpse of the action during high season! Reviews & Location
Breakfast &
Pastries
Queijadas do Morgado
A short drive from downtown is this unassuming cafe, steps away from a marina. Grab a coffee, a Queijada de Vila Franca do Campo, and sit on the patio or take a stroll around to see the sights. Reviews & Location
Louvre Michaelense (Brunch!)
Brunch, dinner, drinks, apps—we loved everything here! Fun environment, excellent cocktails and delicious food. We visited at least two times on our short trip. Reviews & Location
Lunch
Bar Caloura
Come for the views, stay for the fresh, simple seafood! Choose from their catch of the day, try some Lapas, and enjoy the fresh ocean air from their patio. Get there before noon to score the best seats! Reviews & Location
Restaurante Associação Agrícola de São Miguel
While we didn't have a moment to stop by ourselves, we've heard from a very good source (*ahem* Buns & Bites) that this might be one of the most delicious steaks you'll ever have. Reviews & Location
Restaurante Tony´s
Our favorite guy on the island, and recommended Tour Guide, Rui, took us to Tony's to try Cozido das Furnas. We loved this casual stop-in and had plenty to share, splitting a portion for one. Make the trip out to Furnas to visit the area and plan a stop-in for lunch! Reviews & Location
Dinner
Õtaka
Make a reservation and prepare to enjoy some of our favorite bites of the trip! They do only two seatings a night, and offer a few options for tastings—we're still thinking about the local beef! Reviews & Location
Tasquinha Vieira
One of the smallest restaurants we've ever visited, but bursting at the seams with creative, delicious food & excellent local wine options. If you're feeling frisky, let the staff order for you! Reviews & Location
Casa Nostra Açores
If you don't get your fill at the Welcome Festa, join them for a meal a la carte or enjoy one of their tasting menus. We were impressed by the quality, hospitality, and cozy environment. Reviews & Location
Tours on São Miguel Island
A new Portuguese friend of ours, Rui, owns a private tour company on São Miguel. We've asked him to lead two group tours of the Island on Saturday for our guests—One to Furnas (The active volcano) and one to Ciete Cidades (The dormant group of 7 volcanoes in one!). Join one or both, pending availability. More info coming soon—visit his website for more details on what to expect.
Furnas
Saturday Morning
See an active volcano with hot springs, and watch your lunch being cooked in the volcano's active fumerols.
Morning - 9 AM
Tour of Furnas & Hot Springs
Relax in soothing hot springs, stroll through lush gardens, and experience the island’s geothermal charm on this unforgettable São Miguel escape.
Caldera Cooking Tour
Watch your lunch (a portuguese stew) being lowered into active fumerols, then travel to Tony's to eat!
Lunch - 11 AM
Cozido das Furnas @ Tony's
A very simple stewed meat dish, cooked in the active volcano. An experience of eating delicious food cooked by a volcano that you won't soon forget.
Afternoon - 12:30 PM
Arrive at pick-up spot
Ciete Cidades
Saturday Afternoon
See the beauty of seven volcanoes in one caldera and overlooks you won't believe.
Afternoon - 1 PM
Journey to Ciete Cidades
Sweeping views of volcanic craters, lush valleys, and serene lakes. A stunning escape into São Miguel’s most picturesque natural wonder.
More information coming soon
Afternoon - 4:00 PM
Arrive at pick-up spot
Private Tours Available
Didn't see enough of the island or want a more intimate experience?
Book a private tour with Rui!
