Top 10 Must-See Places in the Azores
- Aina & Dani
- Apr 30
- 5 min read
Planning a trip to the Azores and not sure what to include in your itinerary? You've come to the right place! In this article, we've put together a list of the top 10 must-see places in the Azores to help you plan your adventure.
The Azores are a one-of-a-kind archipelago full of nature and history. If you check out our full guide on what to see in the Azores, you’ll discover that each island has its own charm. And while it’s tough to choose, we’ve created this top 10 list of what we think are the unmissable highlights of the Azores.
Exploring all nine Azorean islands takes time—especially if you want to truly enjoy them—so chances are you won’t be able to see them all in a single trip. That’s why this top 10 guide is perfect not only to inspire you, but also to help you decide which islands and sights to include in your route. Who knows? It might even spark ideas for your next trip.
Here’s our top 10 must-see places in the Azores:
Top 10 Must-See Places in the Azores – Content:
9. Ribeira do Ferreiro Waterfall
10. Caldeirão on Corvo Island
1. Lagoa das Sete Cidades – First on Our Azores Top 10
When people think of São Miguel Island, the image that often comes to mind is Lagoa das Sete Cidades. And with good reason. This is one of the Azores’ most iconic landscapes, with two lagoons—one blue, one green—surrounded by lush, mountainous terrain.
Walking along the shores, biking the trails, or kayaking on the lagoon are some of the best ways to enjoy this magical spot. We tell you all about it in our guide on what to see and do in Sete Cidades.
And best of all, even though it’s one of the most visited places in our São Miguel travel guide, it still retains that peaceful atmosphere that defines the Azores. A must-see on São Miguel Island!
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2. Lagoa do Fogo – Another Must-See in the Azores
Another absolute highlight of any Azores itinerary is the stunning Lagoa do Fogo. This volcanic crater lagoon, located in the heart of São Miguel, is a protected nature reserve—and it shows. The landscape around it remains almost untouched.
The best way to take it all in is from one of the viewpoints or by hiking the trail that leads down to the shore—a somewhat demanding route, but totally worth it.
Just a heads up: in summer, access is regulated and you’ll need to take a daytime shuttle bus. A small extra effort, but well worth it. Check out our full guide on how to visit Lagoa do Fogo.
3. Caldeira Velha – Best Hot Springs in the Azores
Another São Miguel must-see is Caldeira Velha. This small natural park on the slopes of the Água de Pau Volcano is the perfect place to relax in hot springs surrounded by waterfalls and lush scenery.
In addition to soaking in the thermal pools, you can visit the interpretation center to learn more about the volcanic activity that shapes this magical corner of the island. Note: Visits are limited to 90-minute time slots, so it’s wise to book ahead if you’re traveling in high season (we explain it all here).
4. Azores Tea Plantations
Did you know that São Miguel is home to the only tea plantations in Europe? Near Ribeira Grande, you’ll find two must-visit spots: Porto Formoso Tea Factory and the Gorreana Tea Plantations. Both are great for walking among tea fields, learning about the island’s tea history, and of course, enjoying a cup.
If you’re up for a walk, Gorreana also offers an easy trail through the tea fields. A unique plan that combines nature, history, and local culture.
Planning Your Trip to São Miguel?
Get organized with our complete São Miguel Travel Guide, where you'll find all the must-visit spots by region.
5. Angra do Heroísmo – The Prettiest Capital in the Azores
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983, Angra do Heroísmo is much more than just the historical capital of Terceira. Strolling through its cobblestone streets, past churches, palaces, and colonial buildings, feels like stepping back in time to the days when the Azores were a key point on oceanic trade routes.
Angra has a unique charm, with its natural harbor, fortress, and the ever-present Monte Brasil watching over it from above. It’s also one of those places where you can really soak up the relaxed island vibe—cafés, plazas, markets…
6. Algar do Carvão – Another Azores Highlight
Stepping into Algar do Carvão means literally going into the heart of an ancient volcano. Located on Terceira Island, this volcanic cave is one of the few in the world you can explore all the way to the lava chimney. Covered in moss with a subterranean lagoon, it’s a jaw-dropping experience.
To make it even better, nearby you’ll find the Misterios Negros Trail and spots like Furnas do Enxofre, a geothermal field where the Earth still breathes.
7. Capelinhos on Faial – A Different Azores Landscape
On the western tip of Faial, the scenery changes dramatically in Capelinhos. A volcanic eruption in 1957 added a new chunk of land to the island—an arid, almost lunar terrain that stands in stark contrast to the rest of the Azores’ greenery. Walking here feels like you’re on another planet.
Visit the Interpretation Center to learn more about the eruption, or climb the old lighthouse, now half-buried in volcanic ash. This place is a reminder that the Azores are still a living, ever-changing natural wonder.
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8. Mount Pico on Pico Island – Highest Peak in the Azores (and Portugal)
At 2,351 meters (7,713 feet), Mount Pico is not only the tallest mountain in the Azores, but in all of Portugal. Towering and majestic, this volcano is a symbol of Pico Island and a challenge for hikers. Climbing to the summit isn’t easy, but the reward is immense: a sea of clouds at your feet and, on clear days, views of several islands.
If hiking up over 1,000 meters of elevation isn’t for you, just admiring the mountain from the base is already awe-inspiring. Mount Pico is one of those places that commands respect—and steals your heart.
9. Ribeira do Ferreiro Waterfall – A Top Natural Wonder in the Azores
The island of Flores is synonymous with wild nature, and few places show it better than Ribeira do Ferreiro Waterfall. Tucked away in a green-walled valley, dozens of small waterfalls cascade into a serene pool.
The trail to get there is neither long nor difficult, but the experience of slowly approaching this natural spectacle is pure magic. It’s one of those spots that leaves you speechless—where the only sound is water falling. Pure Azores essence.
10. Caldeirão on Corvo Island – One of the Most Stunning Landscapes in the Azores
On Corvo, the tiniest island in the Azores, lies one of the most breathtaking landscapes of the archipelago: Caldeirão. This massive volcanic crater covers much of the island and contains a miniature world inside, with small lagoons, islets, and green hills.
The road leading up to the viewpoint is an experience in itself, but peering into the crater’s silent interior is unforgettable. If you’re into hiking, you can walk around the rim. Without a doubt, this is one of those places that reminds you just how remote the Azores truly are.
CHECK OUT THE BEST TOURS & ACTIVITIES IN THE AZORES!
