Complete Guide to Azores (2025)

In the middle of the Atlantic, between the United States’ east coast and Portugal’s mainland, lies an archipelago of nine volcanic islands known for their stunning green hills, dark volcanic soil, and unique wines.

The Azores are also famous for having the happiest cows in Portugal! Dairy farming is a major economic activity here, producing almost half of the cheese and milk consumed in the country. It’s often said there are two cows for every Azorean, enjoying lush green pastures with ocean views.

Ponta Delgada, the capital and largest city of the Azores, was a significant merchant port in the 15th century. Today, you can admire its medieval charm, with white-washed city gates adorned with dark basalt. Explore the historical center, featuring São Sebastião Main Church and the beautifully crafted Portuguese cobblestone at Gonçalo Velho Cabral Square.

However, to truly experience the Azores, venture beyond the city to embrace the breathtaking landscapes.

Lagoa das Sete Cidades, one of the 7 Portuguese Natural Wonders, is a must-see. This lagoon, divided in appearance, occupies a massive subsidence caldera. Hiking around it offers stunning views of the green and blue waters surrounded by lush vegetation.

On Pico Island, you can climb Portugal’s highest mountain and spend the night at 2,351 meters above sea level. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Pico vineyards, admire the volcanic landscape, and venture into the Torres Cave, a majestic volcanic cave that feels otherworldly.

Other islands offer unique experiences as well. Santa Maria Island boasts white sand beaches, while São Jorge Island offers hikes through traditional Fajãs, fertile plains formed by volcanic activity and sea erosion.

Visit the extinct Capelinhos volcano on Faial Island, explore the world’s only accessible volcanic chimney on Terceira Island, and discover the lesser-known islands of Flores and Corvo for even more natural beauty and adventure.

Cities of Azores

History of Azores

Prehistoric Times in the Azores

The Azores were uninhabited before their discovery, with no evidence of prehistoric human activity. The islands were formed by volcanic activity, creating a unique ecosystem with endemic plants and animals. While there are no known prehistoric settlements, the rich biodiversity and volcanic landscapes suggest the Azores were untouched by humans until their eventual discovery and settlement.

The Azores in the Age of Exploration

The Azores were first discovered by Portuguese explorers in the early 15th century, though it is not entirely clear whether they were sighted or visited by earlier seafaring cultures. Diogo de Silves and Gonçalo Velho Cabral are often credited with the first Portuguese explorations and settlement efforts in the 1420s. The islands were strategically important during the Age of Exploration, as they served as a stopping point for Portuguese ships crossing the Atlantic and on their way to Africa, India, and the Americas. The Portuguese quickly established settlements on the islands, developing agriculture and livestock farming.

The Azores under Portuguese Rule

Throughout the 16th century, the Azores became an integral part of Portugal’s empire. The islands were valued for their strategic location in the Atlantic and their role in transatlantic trade routes. The economy was primarily agricultural, with crops like sugarcane, tobacco, and grapes being cultivated. The islands also became a center for the production of wool and cork, which were exported to other parts of Europe. The region’s isolation and relatively peaceful existence meant that the islands continued to thrive under Portuguese governance.

The Azores in the 18th and 19th Centuries

The 18th century saw the Azores playing a role in the Atlantic economy, although their influence began to wane with the decline of Portugal’s global empire. The islands’ agricultural economy remained strong, but the Azores faced significant challenges, including the destruction of crops due to natural disasters like volcanic eruptions and hurricanes. The 19th century brought further changes, particularly with the industrialization of Europe and the rise of new global trading networks. The Azores’ relative isolation meant it was slow to industrialize, but it became an increasingly important place for the Portuguese government and military due to its position in the Atlantic.

The Azores in the 20th Century

The 20th century brought political turmoil and the modern world to the Azores. During the Portuguese Republic era and later under the Estado Novo dictatorship, the islands remained loyal to Portugal, even as global tensions such as the World Wars affected Europe. In 1949, the NATO established a military base in the Azores, reflecting the region’s importance during the Cold War. The islands experienced economic challenges, with many residents emigrating to North America, particularly to the United States and Canada, in search of better opportunities.

In the second half of the 20th century, the Azores began to see the rise of tourism, though it remained a remote and less-visited destination. The 1974 Carnation Revolution in Portugal led to significant political changes, but the Azores retained a special administrative status within Portugal.

Contemporary Azores

Today, the Azores are an autonomous region of Portugal, known for their stunning landscapes, volcanic formations, and lush vegetation. The islands are a popular destination for eco-tourism, offering a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, whale watching, and exploring the many lakes and volcanic craters. The economy is now driven by tourism, agriculture (including dairy and cheese production), and fishing. The Azores also continue to be a hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of environmental science and marine biology. The islands remain a symbol of natural beauty and resilience, blending their rich historical heritage with a modern outlook.

Best Time to Visit Azores

Visiting the Azores in Spring

Spring (March to May) in the Azores is a mild and pleasant time to visit, with daytime temperatures ranging from 14°C to 17°C in March, gradually warming to 17°C to 20°C by May. Nights are cooler, with temperatures ranging between 10°C and 13°C. This season is ideal for outdoor activities, as the region’s lush landscapes begin to bloom, and the weather is perfect for hiking, sightseeing, and exploring the volcanic terrain.

Visiting the Azores in Summer

Summer (June to August) in the Azores is generally mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C. Nights are cooler, ranging from 15°C to 18°C. The summer months offer the best conditions for outdoor activities, including hiking, whale watching, and exploring the islands’ coastlines. The weather is typically sunny, though showers are possible, especially in the mountains. Coastal areas such as Ponta Delgada and Horta remain relatively cool compared to mainland Portugal.

Visiting the Azores in Autumn

Autumn (September to November) is an excellent time to visit the Azores, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 24°C in September, cooling to 15°C to 18°C by November. Nights become cooler, with temperatures between 12°C and 15°C by November. The weather is still mild, and the crowds have thinned out, making it a peaceful time to explore the islands. This season is also ideal for vineyard tours and other agricultural activities.

Visiting the Azores in Winter

Winter (December to February) in the Azores is mild compared to mainland Europe, with daytime temperatures ranging from 14°C to 17°C. Nights can be chilly, with temperatures ranging between 9°C and 12°C. While it is the rainy season, winter is still a good time to visit for those seeking fewer tourists and a quiet, more intimate experience of the islands. The weather can be unpredictable, but the lush landscapes and dramatic coastal views remain stunning year-round.

Annual Weather Overview

January 16°C
February 15°C
March 15°C
April 16°C
May 18°C
June 20°C
July 22°C
August 24°C
September 22°C
October 20°C
November 18°C
December 17°C

How to get to Azores

Getting to the Azores by Air

The main gateway to the Azores is Ponta Delgada João Paulo II Airport (PDL), located on the island of São Miguel, the largest and most populous island in the region. This airport is well-connected to major cities in Portugal, including Lisbon and Porto, as well as several international destinations in Europe, North America, and beyond. Other airports in the Azores include Horta Airport (HOR) on Faial, Lajes Field (TER) on Terceira, and Santa Maria Airport (SMA), all offering flights from mainland Portugal and other international locations.

Getting to the Azores by Sea

Although Ponta Delgada is the main point of entry by air, the Azores are also accessible by sea. The islands have ferry connections that link them to mainland Portugal, particularly from the ports of Lisbon and Portimão. Ferries are operated seasonally, and they provide a scenic way to travel between the islands in the Azores archipelago. However, ferry travel is less frequent than air travel, and schedules depend on the time of year.

Getting Around the Azores by Air

Once in the Azores, inter-island travel is most efficiently done by air. The regional carrier, SATA Air Açores, offers flights connecting the main islands, such as São Miguel, Terceira, Faial, and Pico. These flights are frequent and provide a quick way to get between islands, with flight durations typically ranging from 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Getting Around the Azores by Ferry

For those looking to explore the islands by sea, ferries are a popular option. The Azores have an extensive ferry network, with routes connecting the islands of São Miguel, Terceira, Faial, Pico, and São Jorge. Ferries run regularly during the warmer months, but services are reduced in the winter. Traveling by ferry offers a more leisurely way to see the islands’ coastlines, and it is particularly popular between islands like Faial and Pico, which are close to each other.

Getting Around the Azores by Car

Renting a car is the best way to explore the islands at your own pace. The islands are well-connected by roads, with scenic drives offering access to various towns and natural landmarks. São Miguel, with its stunning volcanic lakes and hot springs, is best explored by car, as many of its attractions are spread out. Other islands like Terceira, Faial, and Pico also offer a network of well-maintained roads for visitors to drive along. Car rentals are available at the main airports, including Ponta Delgada, Horta, and Lajes, making it easy for visitors to access the towns of Ponta Delgada, Angra do Heroísmo, Horta, and Madalena.

Getting Around the Azores by Public Transport

Public transport in the Azores is available but limited compared to mainland Portugal. The islands have bus services that connect the main towns, including routes between Ponta Delgada, Angra do Heroísmo, and Horta, but these are not as frequent as those in larger cities. Buses are more common on the larger islands like São Miguel and Terceira, but traveling by bus may take longer compared to using a rental car. If you’re visiting smaller islands, such as São Jorge, local buses can be less frequent, so planning ahead is advisable.

Festivals in Azores

Festas de Nossa Senhora da Luz
When: August
Where: Horta, Faial
A religious festival honoring Our Lady of Light, celebrated with processions, music, traditional dances, and local festivities, bringing together locals and visitors in the charming town of Horta.

Semana do Mar
When: August
Where: Horta, Faial
A lively maritime festival held in Horta, featuring boat races, concerts, seafood feasts, and cultural performances, celebrating the region’s connection to the sea.

Festa de São João
When: June
Where: Angra do Heroísmo, Terceira
A vibrant festival in Angra do Heroísmo with processions, live music, dancing, and traditional festivities in honor of St. John, one of the Azores’ most popular saints.

Carnaval da Praia
When: February
Where: Praia da Vitória, Terceira
A lively carnival celebration on the island of Terceira, featuring colorful parades, street parties, and traditional costumes, attracting locals and tourists alike.

Festival da Nossa Senhora da Piedade
When: September
Where: Cova da Piedade, São Miguel
A religious and cultural festival with processions, music, and traditional activities, honoring Our Lady of Piety in the town of Cova da Piedade.

Festa de São Pedro
When: June
Where: Ribeira Grande, São Miguel
A traditional festival in Ribeira Grande, featuring a blend of religious observances, folk music, dancing, and a vibrant celebration of the town’s heritage.

Festa do Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres
When: May
Where: Ponta Delgada, São Miguel
One of the largest religious festivals in the Azores, held in Ponta Delgada with processions, celebrations, and rituals honoring the Lord of Miracles, drawing pilgrims from across the islands.

Festa de Nossa Senhora da Conceição
When: December
Where: Lajes, Pico
A religious celebration in Lajes, with processions and local festivities in honor of the Immaculate Conception, marked by traditional music and community gatherings.

Festival de Música da Ilha de São Jorge
When: July
Where: Velas, São Jorge
An annual music festival held in Velas, São Jorge, featuring classical, jazz, and contemporary performances by local and international artists, celebrating the island’s cultural vibrancy.

Festa do Divino Espírito Santo
When: May
Where: São Miguel
A festival celebrating the Holy Spirit, with processions, traditional food, music, and local gatherings across the island of São Miguel, deeply rooted in the Azorean culture.