If you're planning your trip to São Miguel and wondering about the best things to do in Furnas, this guide has everything you need to organize your visit to this famous area of the Azores, known for its geothermal activity, iconic hot springs, and delicious cuisine.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you can visit and do in Furnas, home to some of São Miguel’s must-visit spots, such as the renowned Terra Nostra Park with its botanical garden and thermal pool, Furnas Lagoon, and the fumarole and caldera area. Plus, we’ll share some lesser-known gems in the region that are also worth a visit.
But Furnas isn’t just about nature. One thing you absolutely must do in Furnas is try the famous Cozido das Furnas, a traditional dish cooked using the natural heat of the earth. Don’t miss our recommended restaurants where you can enjoy this unique culinary experience.
And if you’re still looking for a place to stay in São Miguel, we’ve got some great hotel options in Furnas to help you make the most of your trip.
Let’s get started!
Things to Do in Furnas – Table of Contents:
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How to get to Furnas
Getting to Furnas is very easy, although, as with many areas in São Miguel, the most convenient and practical way is by car. If you’ve been reading our previous articles about the island, you already know that the best way to get around São Miguel is by renting a car. In fact, we highly recommend it, and we tell you everything about car rentals in São Miguel in this article. We assure you, you won’t regret it!
Getting to Furnas by car and parking
From Ponta Delgada, driving to Furnas takes approximately 40-45 minutes, making it the perfect distance for a day trip from the capital to explore this incredible area. If you’re in Ribeira Grande, the drive is even shorter, taking only about 30 minutes.
As for parking, don’t worry. Although Furnas is a popular tourist spot, especially for its hot springs, there are several parking options near the main attractions, even during peak season. Keep in mind that there is a paid parking lot in the fumaroles and calderas area (€3), but we’ll tell you more about that here.
Getting to Furnas by public transport
While it is possible to reach Furnas by public transport, it’s neither the most comfortable nor the fastest option. If you’re coming from Ponta Delgada, the bus ride can take over 1.5 hours—twice as long as by car! Additionally, if you’re in Ribeira Grande, there’s no direct bus service to Furnas, meaning you would have to transfer in Ponta Delgada, extending your journey to almost 3 hours.
If you’re not renting a car, a great alternative is joining one of the organized tours to Furnas. These tours allow you to experience everything the area has to offer without worrying about transportation. Plus, you’ll have the chance to learn about the history and secrets of Furnas from expert local guides.
MOST POPULAR TOURS IN FURNAS:
Things to do in Furnas, one of the most visited villages in São Miguel, Azores
1. Furnas Lagoon
Furnas Lagoon is one of the main attractions of São Miguel. This volcanic crater lagoon is famous for its greenish color, caused by the accumulation of organic matter at the bottom. However, be cautious—these waters are not suitable for swimming. The surrounding landscape, with its fumaroles and calderas, is absolutely stunning.
2. Fumaroles and calderas of Furnas
The fumaroles and calderas of Furnas are among the island’s top natural attractions. Here, you can see boiling water pools and sulfurous steam vents. The area is fully equipped for tourism, with wooden walkways allowing you to safely walk among the geothermal features.
This is a very popular spot, so if you want to avoid crowds, we recommend arriving early. This is also where the famous Cozido das Furnas is prepared—a traditional dish cooked underground using the earth’s natural heat. If you’d like to try it, be sure to book in advance at one of the local restaurants.
For more details on visiting this site, check here.
3. Furnas village
The charming village of Furnas is another highlight of the area. While it’s known for its volcanic activity, it’s also one of the most visited villages due to its hot springs. The most popular attraction is Terra Nostra Park, featuring a botanical garden and its famous iron-rich thermal waters.
One thing you absolutely must do in Furnas is try the Cozido das Furnas—a must-try dish in São Miguel! Restaurants like Tony’s or Caldeiras & Vulcões are great options to taste this delicious meal. However, reservations are highly recommended, as many restaurants prepare cozido only upon request.
4. Terra Nostra Park
Located in the village of Furnas, Terra Nostra Park is a must-visit destination. Spanning 12 hectares of lush vegetation, this botanical garden is perfect for relaxing, strolling among native plant species, and enjoying fresh air.
What truly makes the park special are its brownish thermal waters, which originate from an iron-rich spring. With temperatures ranging between 35°C and 40°C (95°F - 104°F), bathing in these mineral-rich waters is incredibly relaxing. Even during peak season, the pool is large enough to avoid feeling overcrowded.
Important tip! Bring an old swimsuit or one you don’t mind staining, as the iron-rich water may discolor your clothing.
For more details on Terra Nostra Park, click here.
5. Dona Beija Hot Springs
Just minutes from Furnas, Dona Beija Hot Springs is another major thermal attraction in São Miguel. This set of natural pools, with water temperatures around 39°C (102°F), is ideal for a relaxing soak in a stunning natural setting. What makes this place unique is that it stays open until 11 PM, allowing for a magical nighttime experience with beautiful lighting and an incredible atmosphere.
Again, we recommend bringing an old swimsuit, as the water may stain it permanently.
6. Tia Silvina Hot Springs
Tia Silvina Hot Springs is a quieter and free thermal option. These thermal pools, at around 38°C (100°F), are located next to a cold-water river, creating a fun contrast when dipping between the two. Although they are not large enough for full-body immersion, it’s a worthwhile stop in Furnas if you have time.
7. Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitórias
Located on the southern shore of Furnas Lagoon, Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitórias is a small neo-Gothic chapel built in the late 19th century. While it’s not usually open to the public, it’s worth stopping by to admire it from the outside.
8. Grená Park
Grená Park is a nature park on the shores of the lagoon, near the fumaroles and calderas. Originally a summer residence built in 1855, it has been restored and opened to the public after a period of abandonment.
The entrance fee is €10, and the park features well-maintained trails, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna.
9. Pico do Ferro Viewpoint
One of the most well-known viewpoints in São Miguel, the Pico do Ferro Viewpoint offers a stunning view of Furnas Lagoon from above. At 570 meters (1,870 feet) of altitude, this viewpoint provides a complete panorama of the lagoon and the calderas situated just below.
The great thing is that it’s accessible by car, but if you’re up for some exercise, there’s a hiking trail that starts at the calderas and fumaroles area (we talk about it here). But if you’re not in the mood for the hike, you can easily reach the viewpoint by car.
10. Salto do Cavalo Viewpoint
Located about a 20-minute drive from Furnas, Salto do Cavalo Viewpoint is another must-visit viewpoint on São Miguel Island. From here, you’ll enjoy a spectacular view of the Furnas Valley surrounding the lagoon, with a mix of greens, blues, and turquoises that’s a true feast for the eyes. Plus, you can see both the north and south coasts of the island!
THE BEST ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES IN SÃO MIGUEL!
Where to stay in Furnas
Staying in Furnas isn't the most common choice, but it can be a unique experience on São Miguel. Though it's located on the eastern side of the island, its proximity to the south coast makes it an interesting spot.
One of its major advantages is being close to hot springs like Dona Beija Hot Springs and the ones at Terra Nostra Park. In fact, if you stay at the Parque Terra Nostra hotel, you’ll have unlimited access to its hot springs, although it’s not the most affordable option in the area.
That said, to get around the island, you'll need a car since public transport is limited, and there aren't many organized tours from here. If you haven’t rented a car in São Miguel yet, you can do so here.
Recommended accommodations in Furnas:
VICTÓRIA GUEST HOUSE ($): A guesthouse at a very economical price in the center of Furnas. The rooms are private, and most have bathrooms. Additionally, it has free private parking. You can book here.
HOTEL VALE VERDE ($): Also a fairly economical hotel in the center of Furnas. It’s an old house converted into a hotel that doesn’t lack detail. It has a traditional ambiance that you’ll love. And the best part is that breakfast is included! You can book here.
Hotel Vale Verde (Photo from Booking)
TERRA NOSTRA GARDEN HOTEL ($$$): The hotel at Parque Terra Nostra needs no introduction. This iconic hotel is located within the botanical garden of the park, making it one of the best settings to stay in. The best part is the unlimited access to its thermal pools. However, it’s not suitable for all budgets. You can book here.
Terra Nostra Garden Hotel (Photo from Booking)
Where to eat in Furnas
Cozido das Furnas is the area’s signature dish, a stew cooked underground thanks to the island’s geothermal heat. Made with meat, sausages, vegetables, and tubers, each bite is a true delight. Some restaurants even offer vegetarian options. If you’re visiting Furnas, this is a dish you can’t miss, so check out our restaurant recommendations!
One of the best places to try it is Caldeiras & Vulcões. Here, you can enjoy a perfectly cooked Cozido with fresh ingredients and a preparation that respects tradition. The restaurant also has a cozy atmosphere and exceptional service. However, it’s quite popular, so you'll need to book at least 24 hours in advance.
Another well-known restaurant is Tony's, famous for its delicious Cozido. You can’t book through their website, but you can call them directly. At both restaurants, the price per person is usually between €15-25.
By the way, if you're a cheese lover, don’t forget to visit Queijaria Furnense. The place is really cool, and it has several tables if you decide to stay and eat. Besides trying or buying different varieties of local cheese (we recommend the garlic-flavored one, though all of them are great), you can stay and try other dishes, like their famous Angus burgers or steak, all incredibly delicious!
