Pedro DominguesSão Miguel is the largest island in the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores, right in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Visiting it should be a priority in your travels there, as it is the most beautiful in my opinion, and the most complete for a first trip.
In this article I want to show you the best things to see in São Miguel, as well as what to do there, what are the main attractions, so that you can enjoy the best that the island has to offer in a 5 to 7 day itinerary.
In addition, I will give you useful tips about São Miguel: where to sleep, where and what to eat, how to get to the island, when to go and much more. This is an itinerary to do by car, but I will also mention the best hikes on the island, so you can enjoy nature better.
Perhaps you have already heard of Lagoa do Fogo, or Lagoa das 7 Cidades, or the thermal waters of Furnas region. But there is much more to discover than these wonders! 😉
Note that: in this travel blog you can find information about other islands in the Azores: - Terceira Itinerary and Things to do in Angra do Heroísmo - Faial Itinerary - Pico Itinerary You also have an itinerary to visit Madeira Island here, in case you are planning a trip there. And also an article with Things to do in Funchal.
Check also my article about Things to do in Ponta Delgada.
Historical Note on the Island of São Miguel (Azores)
São Miguel was discovered in the first decades of the 15th century by Portuguese navigators, beginning to be populated in the 1440s. Initially the capital was Vila Franca do Campo, and it so remained until 1522, when an earthquake destroyed it. Officially, Ponta Delgada became the capital in 1546.
The period of the Philippine dynasty in Portugal was hard on São Miguel, as this island was occupied by Spanish troops who wanted to put an end to the opposition of the Azorean people to the king. It was also a period of successive attacks by pirates.
With the Restoration of the Portuguese Monarchy in 1640, São Miguel regained its position as a strategic commercial center, and strengthened its relationship with Brazil.
Many of the island’s historic buildings date back to the 18th century, and their construction is due to the production and export of oranges mainly to the United Kingdom. The orange groves were eventually decimated by a disease in the second half of the 19th century, and São Miguel entered a crisis: many of its inhabitants emiggrated then to Brazil or the United States.
To overcome this crisis, São Miguel started plantations of tobacco, tea, and pineapples. Since the end of the 20th century, tourism has been the main focus of the island.
Location and Geography of the island of São Miguel (Azores)
São Miguel is the largest island in the Azores and Portugal. It is 65 km long and 16 km wide. It is estimated that nearly 140,000 people live there.
It is part of the eastern group of the Azores archipelago, together with the island of Santa Maria and Ilhéus das Formigas. Its highest point is located to the east of the island, at Pico da Vara, at about 1103 meters above sea level.
As an island of volcanic origins, there are hot springs and fumaroles on São Miguel, with emphasis on the Furnas region. Craters of ancient extinct volcanoes are now occupied by lagoons that have become the main tourist attractions on the island for their natural beauty: Lagoa das 7 Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo or Lagoa das Furnas.
São Miguel Itinerary (Azores) | Useful tips
1. Best time to visit São Miguel and Azores
I would say that the best time to visit São Miguel is in the summer months (June, July, August or September): better visibility, better water temperature, best time for the main activities to do there. This also applies to the other islands of the Azores.
- Air temperature fluctuates between 14º in winter and 23º in summer, on average.
- Water temperature varies between 16º in winter and 25º in summer, on average.
>>> It should be noted that hydrangeas, the characteristic flowers of the Azores, will only begin to bloom in May or when they reach the month of June. This is yet another proof that summer or late spring are the best times of the year to visit São Miguel.
São Miguel is considered “the green island” due to its green landscapes, tea plantations, and for being fertile. Those who visit will understand why, and if you look at the photo above from Lagoa do Fogo, you will also easily understand.
2. How to get to São Miguel Island?
There are several ways to get to the island of São Miguel, depending on where you come from. I leave you all that information below! 😉
Option 1 – By plane
São Miguel airport is named after John Paul II and is located near Ponta Delgada, the island’s main city. From mainland Portugal (Lisbon or Porto), there are regular flights from SATA, TAP and Ryanair.
To book my flights I use Skyscanner, Google Flights or the airlines’ own websites.
Option 2 – By boat, from another Azores island
I, personally, have already visited 4 islands in the Azores, all on the same itinerary, on the same trip. I only took the boat from Faial to Pico because they are very close, all other transfers were by plane (São Miguel – Faial – Terceira).
If you need the boats, the ferry company that operates in the Azores is Atlânticoline and they sell individual tickets, or even travel passes. This is the link to the company website.
3. Take out Travel Insurance to visit São Miguel
I also recommend that you take out travel insurance for your stay in São Miguel, as it is a nature destination where you will certainly want to go hiking. Shit happens, and you should always opt for prevention.
4. How to visit São Miguel, in the Azores?
As for how to visit São Miguel in 5 to 7 days, my recommendation is to use a car and go exploring. However, there are other possibilities, such as organized tours.
Option 1 – Rent a Car to visit São Miguel
This itinerary to visit São Miguel was developed to be done by car. So, if you haven’t thought about renting a car yet, start thinking about doing so: this is how you can access the most incredible places more easily, and above all, you can stop wherever you want, for as long as you want, and do it on your own rhythm. I recommend that you use Discover Cars to handle your reservations and compare prices between the different companies available.
Note that: For a trip between several islands in the Azores, it is generally not advantageous to go with the car on boat, although it is possible. It is easier, simpler, and more convenient to rent a different car on each island.
Option 2 – Go on a tour while visiting São Miguel
I don’t recommend visiting São Miguel without a car, as I mentioned! However, even if you have a car, there are organized tours that you can do anyway: I leave it to your choice.
Below are some of the best organized tours to do when visiting São Miguel, to the top tourist attractions and locations on the island. Click on my recommendations, and if you feel like it, search for other possibilities with Get Your Guide, Viator or Civitatis.
The important thing is that you always look at the comments of those who have already taken each tour, and at their ratings. Likewise, book those that allow free cancellations latter on, in case you change your mind.
Excursions to visit São Miguel with Get Your Guide: 1 - Whale watching expedition 2 - Swimming with Dolphins 3 - São Miguel East: Full day tour 4 - 7 Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo - Full day trip 5 - São Miguel West: Full day tour 6 - Furnas hot springs at night with dinner 7 - 7 Cidades: Half day ATV Quad Tour 8 - Canyoning Experience in São Miguel
Excursions to visit São Miguel with Viator: 1 - Azores Whale Watching & Islet Boat Tour 2 - Half Day Quad Biking 3 - Ponta Delgada Food Tour in Azores 4 - São Miguel West Full Day Tour 5 - São Miguel East Full Day Tour 6 - Canyoning Experience in Ribeira dos Caldeirões
Excursions to visit São Miguel with Civitatis: 1 - Buggy Tour around São Miguel 2 - Vila Franca do Campo Kayak Tour 3 - Furnas Day Trip + Gorreana Tea Plantations 4 - 7 Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo day trip 5 - Swimming with dolphins in São Miguel 6 - South São Miguel Cruise
Option 3 – Visit São Miguel on foot, hiking
This way of visiting São Miguel can be combined with car hire: there are places that really have to be discovered on foot, and along my itinerary I will suggest you some. Anyway, here are all the ones I think might be worth doing, in a nutshell. If one interests you, do not hesitate to do so by staying longer and increasing the number of days visiting the island.
PRC05 SMI – Serra Devassa + Boca do Inferno Viewpoint
- Circular Route with the possibility of exploring some lagoons and seeing the best viewpoint in São Miguel. Highlight for the Canário Lagoon, Lagoa das Éguas, Lagoa Rasa, Lagoas das Empadadas.
- This trail appears as a suggestion in my itinerary to visit São Miguel in 5 to 7 days
- São Miguel trail map
- 9km, total 3-4h
PR29 SMI Salto do Cabrito waterfall hike
- Circular Route passing by the Fajã do Redondo Dam and the Hydroelectric Power Station. Highlight for the Salto do Cabrito Waterfall.
- This trail appears as a suggestion in my itinerary to visit São Miguel in 5 to 7 days
- São Miguel trail map
- 9km, 3h in total
PR09 SMI + PR11 – Salto do Prego and Salto do Carragão Hike
- Two trails that can and should be made together. Highlight for the waterfalls of Salto do Prego and Salto do Carragão. Circular Route.
- This trail appears as a suggestion in my itinerary to visit São Miguel in 5 to 7 days
- São Miguel trail map
- 12km, 4 to 5 hours total
Ribeira dos Caldeirões Hike
- Circular route that allows exploring the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park.
- This trail appears as a suggestion in my itinerary to visit São Miguel in 5 to 7 days
- São Miguel trail map
- Less than 3km
PRC02 SMI – Lagoa do Fogo Beach
- Circular route to go down to Lagoa do Fogo and visit the beach. If you do the official trail, it’s 11km, however I recommend a simplified one with just 3km. They are very different!
- This trail appears as a suggestion in my itinerary to visit São Miguel in 5 to 7 days
- Trail map – my recommendation
- Official trail map in São Miguel
PRC05 SMI – Pico da Vara
- Circular route that takes you to the highest point of São Miguel. It’s difficult!
- You need to fill a form before doing it, and the form is at trails.azores. There you also have access to the map.
PRC37 SMI – Water Route – Hell’s Window
- Circular route passing through the conduits and tunnels that connect to Água de Pau.
- São Miguel trail map
- ~8km, 3h in total
PRC28 SMI + TM05 – Gorreana Tea Plantations + Gorreana Water Path
- Circular route next to Gorreana Tea Plantations
- São Miguel Trail map
- 6km, 3h in total
PR21 SMI – Salto da Farinha
- Linear trail to the fantastic waterfall of Salto da Farinha and Poço Azul.
- This trail appears as a suggestion in my itinerary to visit São Miguel in 5 to 7 days
- São Miguel trail map
- 5km, 4h total
Lagoa das Furnas and Salto do Rosal Trail
- Trail around the Furnas lagoon with access to the Salto do Rosal waterfall.
- This trail appears as a suggestion in my itinerary to visit São Miguel in 5 to 7 days
- São Miguel trail map
- 15km, 6h
Other Hikes and trails to visit São Miguel
There are many more, but these are the most interesting to me. For access to others, search the website Trails Visit Azores. In fact, I advise you to consult this website before you think about going on a trail, to confirm if there is any impediment at the time of your visit. Note that some of the trails above are small variations of the official ones.
5. Where to sleep while visiting São Miguel?
Regarding accommodation, the main tip I have for you is to divide your stay in two or three locations on the island, so that you save time while moving around by car. I recommend that you split your stay between Ponta Delgada and Furnas.
From Ponta Delgada you will discover the left part of the island, where you will find Lagoa das 7 Cidades, as well as Ribeira Grande and Lagoa do Fogo. As for Furnas, you will relax in the thermal baths at Parque Terra Nostra, and then head to the east and northeast coast of the island.
I use Tripadvisor in parallel with Booking to book accommodation during my travels. Below are my hotel recommendations in São Miguel, and I took the liberty of including some that are from other parts of the island, in addition to Ponta Delgada and Furnas. I stayed at the Azoris Royal Garden in Ponta Delgada and it was very good.
| Accommodation | Score | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Azoris Royal Garden | 8.8 | Ponta Delgada |
| Octant Ponta Delgada | 9.1 | Ponta Delgada |
| Grande Hotel Açores Atântico | 9.3 | Ponta Delgada |
| Azores Dream Hostel | 8.1 | Ponta Delgada |
| Atlantic Home Azores | 8.7 | Ponta Delgada |
| Casa do Contador | 9.0 | Ponta Delgada |
| Herdade do Ananás | 9.6 | Ponta Delgada |
| Quinta de Santa Clara | 9.6 | Ponta Delgada |
| Terra Nostra Garden Hotel | 9.4 | Furnas |
| Octant Furnas | 9.1 | Furnas |
| Pestana Bahia | 8.7 | Vila Franca do Campo |
| SENSI AZORES | 9.5 | Region of the 7 Cities |
| Moinho das Feteiras | 9.5 | Region of the 7 Cities |
| Quinta da Queiró | 9.6 | Region of the 7 Cities |
| Mosteiros Place | 9.1 | Region of the 7 Cities |
| The Lince Nature Hotel | 8.7 | Nordeste |
| Aldeia do Priolo | 9.2 | Nordeste |
| Hotel Verde Mar | 8.8 | Ribeira Grande |
| Volcanic Charming House | 9.3 | Ribeira Grande |
6. Gastronomic Guide | What to eat and drink when visiting São Miguel?
To eat
- Furnas Stew, of course, prepared underground next to Lagoa das Furnas. It is a mandatory experience in any itinerary to visit São Miguel.
- Bolos Lêvedos or “Sweet muffins”.
- All kinds of cheese.
- A steak from the “happy cows” of São Miguel.
- “Fofas de Povoação” if you are looking for something sweet.
- Another option are the “Queijadas” (cheesecakes) from Vila Franca do Campo.
- And finally, São Miguel pineapples.
To drink
- The awesome liqueurs of São Miguel, for example, from Mulher do Capote. I also loved the pineapple liqueur from Ananases A Arruda.
- The tea, of course.
- KIMA soda.
7. Gastronomic Guide | Where to eat when visiting São Miguel?
- A Tasca – to taste the delicious tuna fish.
- Alcides – Famous for its “Alcides steak”
- Mané Cigano – fried fish
- Tonys Restaurant – Best Furnas stew
- Associação Agrícola de São Miguel – for a good Azores beef steak
- Lagoa Azul Restaurant – with buffet service, simple but affordable
- Quinta dos Sabores
- Gastronomo Restaurant
8. Festivities when visiting São Miguel
In addition to the typical months when the temperature is better for visiting São Miguel (I mentioned them above), it is important to keep in mind when the main festivities and events on the island take place. If any interest you, book your trip for that time, and complete your itinerary with what they have to offer.
- Festa do Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres – Probably the biggest event in the Azores. It takes place on the fifth Sunday after Easter. Religious festival.
- Pilgrims of São Miguel – A regional tradition, in which groups of men travel the island of São Miguel on foot during Lent period, in honor of the Our Lady Mary.
- Cavalhadas de São Pedro in Ribeira Grande, at the end of June – Knights parades.
- Carnival in Ponta Delgada
- The Great Festivities of Divino Espirito Santo – Early July everywhere on the island
- Anda & Fala Arts Festival in July.
São Miguel Itinerary for 5 days in the Azores | Things to do and see
São Miguel top attractions can be visited and seen in a 5-day itinerary, although 7 days are, in my opinion, much more suitable for this island.
Day 1 | São Miguel Itinerary: Lagoa das 7 Cidades and surroundings
You will start this São Miguel itinerary big: with the most famous place in the Azores, and in my opinion the most beautiful. Lagoa das 7 Cidades is located in the Crater of Sete Cidades Volcano, and although the name of the place suggests that it has one lagoon, there are actually several, the most relevant being Blue Lagoon, Green Lagoon and the incredible Lagoa de Santiago.
There is a legend about the colors of the first two lagoons. She was once a princess who fell in love with a shepherd and her love was forbidden (as always in these stories!). In their last meeting, they cried so much that they created two lakes: the green one colored after the shepherd’s green eyes and the blue one after the princess’s blue eyes.
Note that: you should check everyday SpotAzores website for webcams of all São Miguel top attractions. The weather shifts a lot there, and some fog is normal on the island. Through the webcams you can check wether it is worth going to a specific place or not on that day / hour. Sometimes you will need to adjust your plans.
- Accommodation for 7 Cidades region: SENSI AZORES | Moinho das Feteiras | Quinta da Queiró | Mosteiros Place
1. Boca do Inferno Viewpoint and Serra Devassa Lagoons
The first stop of the day will be Serra Devassa and what is for me the best viewpoint of São Miguel: Boca do Inferno. I recommend the PRC05 hike in Serra Devassa (more information in the hikes section).
The starting point of the trail is next to the Canário lagoon, where you have parking. It will take you all morning to do this hike, but it will be completely worth it, and it’s not difficult at all! Going on this hike will help you discover the various lagoons in the region, such as Lagoa de Santiago (magnificent view from Boca do Inferno Viewpoint), Lagoa das Empadadas, Lagoa de Éguas, Lagoa Rasa and the aforementioned Lagoa do Canário. It’s a 9 km hike that I highly recommend! If you don’t consider yourself capable of doing it, at least make sure you visit Boca do Inferno viewpoint.
2. Vista do Rei Viewpoint and Abandoned Hotel Monte Palace
Vista do Rei Viewpoint is accessible by car and quite easy to reach. It is located next to the abandoned five-star Monte Palace hotel, which was one of the most luxurious developments on the island. In 1990 it opened and won the award for Hotel of the Year in Lisbon: 19 months later it closed due to lack of clientele. When it stopped being surveilled, the robberies started, and it seems that they really stole everything, even the bathtubs and elevators, and the hotel is now completely vandalized.
The viewpoint is a fantastic observatory overlooking the green lagoon, and further away, the blue lagoon. This is probably the most famous viewpoint on the island, and unlike the previous one I mentioned, all tourists come here, because it is a mandatory stop on any excursion on São Miguel island.
Excursion examples on the region are 7 Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo – Full day trip or this one.
3. Sete Cidades while visiting São Miguel
After passing by Vista do Rei viewpoint, I recommend that you go down to the village that gives its name to the lagoon and, of course, to the bridge that divides the green and blue lagoons. I’m sure you will be able to see the difference in the color of the waters.
4. Cumeeiras Viewpoint
You will now drive around the lagoon up to Cumeeiras viewpoint. It will allow you to enjoy Lagoa das 7 Cidades full beauty from an opposite direction to that which you had the opportunity to observe from Vista do Rei.
5. Cerrado das Freiras Viewpoint and Lagoa de Santiago Viewpoint
Cerrado das Freiras viewpoint offers yet another different view of Lagoa das 7 Cidades. It is close to Lagoa de Santiago Viewpoint.
Even if you have time for more, I recommend you to stay in the region. There is a picnic area near these two last viewpoints, so why don’t go for a snack there, or by the lakes? Relax and recover from the walk in the morning, just make the most of this beautiful region.
Important Tip: The best roads to travel on this day are the roads of the Azores Rally, which are emptier from the floods of tourists, and with the most breathtaking views.
Day 2 | São Miguel Itinerary: Ponta Delgada and the West Coast of the island
On the second day of this itinerary you will discover the capital of São Miguel, and after that you will search for other interesting places in the west of the island, around Lagoa das 7 Cidades that you visited the day before.
1. Ponta Delgada (Main City of São Miguel)
You should start your day walking around Ponta Delgada center. There are several places you should visit, and I recommend the following ones, which can be visited in the presented order:
- Start with Campo de São Francisco, visiting the worship places in the square: Church of São José, Convent of Nossa Senhora da Esperança, Sanctuary of Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres. Don’t forget the Garden Bench where Antero de Quental (famous writer) committed suicide.
- Discover Fort of São Brás.
- Walk by the sea to the City Doors (Portas da Cidade) and Church of St. Sebastian.
- Go up to the Chapel of the Mother of God (Capela da Mãe de Deus).
- Then down to Graça Farmers Market and São Miguel Theater.
- Finally, stop by another church at Colégio dos Jesuítas and end up at António Borges Garden.
- If you want, walk more through the streets of Ponta Delgada and enjoy lunch in the capital city of São Miguel.
For accommodation, check the following tips, and you have others in the respective section of this article: Azoris Royal Garden | Octant Ponta Delgada | Grand Hotel Açores Atântico.
2. Ananases A Arruda when visiting São Miguel
A few kilometers from Ponta Delgada you will find the Ananases A Arruda greenhouses. There you learn about how they develop pineapples and you can taste and buy what for me is the best pineapple liqueur on the island.
This place has its own website: Ananases A Arruda.
The History of Pineapple in Portugal is quite interesting because initially, when pineapple was discovered in Brazil by the Portuguese, it was considered as just ornamentation, as a kind of garden plant. Only later its incredible flavor was discovered. The first pineapple greenhouse was built in São Miguel in the 19th century, and in short time it went to thousands.
São Miguel pineapples are produced in glass greenhouses, as you will be able to see during your visit. They need 2 years to be ready to be harvested.
3. Santa Bárbara Beach, Black Stones Viewpoint and Poços Vicente Ferreira
Cross the island to the north coast and make an optional stop at Santa Bárbara dark sand beach, excellent for one of those awesome photographs that show the contrast between the black sand and the sea. Then head west, passing by the Black Stones viewpoint and by Poços Vicente Ferreira, next to the village of Capelas.
4. Ponta dos Mosteiros and Mosteiros Beach
The final destination for this day is Mosteiros and Ponta da Ferraria. In Mosteiros you’ll have another black sand beach of volcanic origin, as well as natural pools, with the islets of Mosteiros creating a fantastic cenery for the sunset. I recommend Ponta da Ferraria sunset in this itinerary, but this place is also great. It’s up to you to choose the one you prefer.
5. Ponta do Escalvado and Ponta da Ferraria
On the way to Ponta da Ferraria, be sure to stop at Ponta do Escalvado viewpoint.
Ponta da Ferraria is a mandatory stop on the island of São Miguel due to its thermal waters next to the sea, in natural pools. This place was born from the flow of lava down the slope towards the sea.
You’ll certainly want to soak in it! There is also another optional viewpoint that you can visit before going down to the pools, which is the Sabrina island viewpoint.
Extra Tip: Visit the place when the tide is at a medium level, neither too high nor too low, so that the water is at a mild temperature, neither too hot nor too cold.
Some people say that in addition to being hot, these thermal waters are therapeutic, and great for those who have rheumatism problems. Being by the sea, the thermal waters are salty!
Take the opportunity to watch the magnificent sunset here.
Day 3 | São Miguel Itinerary: Lagoa do Fogo, Ribeira Grande and Caldeira Velha
On the third itinerary day you will discover another of the main lagoons on the island of São Miguel: Lagoa do Fogo. You will also head towards Furnas, passing through Ribeira Grande and Caldeira Velha.
1. Lagoa do Fogo (“Fire Lagoon”)
Start the day by going up to Lagoa do Fogo, but pay attention to the weather conditions beforehand, because fog is frequent there (Spot Azores!). When you get there, there are two viewpoints to stop at: Pico da Barrosa viewpoint is one of them.
There is a trail that you can follow down to the water of the lagoon, where you will find a nice beach to relax. I would choose to do the other hike that I recommend for this day, since bathing there is not allowed.
Note that: when visiting São Miguel in 7 days, this is one of the trails that you should definitely include in your itinerary for greater contact with the nature of the place. For a 5-day itinerary, in my opinion it is just optional!
2. Caldeira Velha and Bela Vista viewpoint
Before going to Caldeira Velha, stop by Bela Vista viewpoint.
Caldeira Velha is a mandatory stop in Água de Pau mountain range. Here you have several thermal water pools at more than 30º, and a small waterfall. The water is rich in iron, as in Terra Nostra Park, which I will talk about later, so white bathing suits are not recommended: they will be dyed orange. Pack something old in your suitcase, so you can enjoy these pools when visiting São Miguel.
Note that: Entrance is paid, and the number of people inside is limited, with the maximum length of stay defined. Consult full conditions on this website.
3. Ribeira Grande and Salto do Cabrito Waterfall
I hope that the thermal waters invigorate you and prepare you for the trail ahead: the Cascata do Salto do Cabrito trail. It is a circular one and relatively easy, but it is almost 10 km. You can find more information in the hikes section of this article.
I consider it only optional because it is possible to get close to the waterfall by car, with parking available less than 100 meters away from it. Next to Salto do Cabrito waterfall you have a small but fantastic lake where you can bathe. It’s really worth it in my opinion.
The hike starts in the Caldeiras area of Ribeira Grande. Don’t forget to visit the center of Ribeira Grande and the famous liquor shop Mulher do Capote.
- Accommodation tips next to Ribeira Grande: Hotel Verde Mar | Volcanic Charming House
4. Santa Iria Viewpoint and Moinhos Beach
In the afternoon, make a mandatory stop next to Santa Iria Viewpoint, one of the best on the island. Let yourself stay there for a while and enjoy the view. If you took Salto do Cabrito waterfall trail, then relax on Moinhos beach, in Porto Formoso region.
5. Gorreana Tea Factory
The tea plantation fields of São Miguel are one of the most extraordinary landscapes you will have the opportunity to visit on the island. Walk through the fields (even if you don’t have the time to do the full trail that I recommend in the trails section), visit the factory, and see how tea is still prepared in such a manual way in this place. Buy it as a souvenir, if you like.
The Gorreana Tea plantation is the oldest in Europe, and as with the pineapples, tea has been produced in São Miguel since the 19th century. What determines the quality of this tea is undoubtedly the characteristic climate of the Azores, the clayey soil rich in minerals, and the sea breeze, combined with cultivation techniques “copied” from the East.
6. Poça da Dona Beija in Furnas
After your visit to the Gorreana Tea factory, head to Furnas or return to Ponta Delgada. If you follow my advice, you will stay for the next few days in Furnas region, and therefore, you will be able to relax in the thermal waters of Poça da Dona Beija right this day, in the evening.
Poça da Dona Beija is open at night, closing only at 11 pm, so it could be a good option for one of your nights visiting São Miguel: enjoy!
- Accommodation tips in Furnas: Terra Nostra Garden Hotel | Octant Furnas
Day 4 | São Miguel Itinerary: Furnas and Vila Franca do Campo
On the 4th day of this itinerary to visit São Miguel in 5 days, I recommend that you stay in Furnas region and discover the best it has to offer, for example Terra Nostra Park and Lagoa das Furnas. You will taste the famous stew, too. 😉
1. Furnas Town Center and Inverted House
Start the day with a walk through the center of Furnas, and don’t forget to pass by the Inverted House (Casa Invertida).
2. Lagoa das Furnas and Surroundings
After that you should go for a walk around Lagoa das Furnas, following the trail I recommended on the trails section. It is a long trail, but it will take you through the top attractions of Lagoa das Furnas in São Miguel, such as the Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitórias, the Grená park, and Mata-Jardim José do Canto.
If you don’t want to walk much, at least go to the places mentioned above and marked in bold.
Remember not to miss the removal of Furnas stew pots next to the fumaroles around lunchtime, by the restaurants. Each pan is buried for 6 to 8 hours so that all the ingredients are cooked to the point.
Tony’s restaurant is probably the most famous and well-known restaurant that offers this stew, but there are others at your disposal. Nothing like a heavy stew for lunch, and then an afternoon soaking in Terra Nostra Park thermal waters.
3. Terra Nostra Park when visiting São Miguel
Relax in the iron-rich thermal pools (no white bathing suits!) at Parque Terra Nostra, and discover the park itself. Entrance is paid, but it’s worth it: the park has a giant thermal water pool!
4. Pico do Ferro Viewpoint and Castelo Branco Viewpoint
After a good while relaxing in thermal water, head to the best viewpoints in Lagoa das Furnas: Pico do Ferro viewpoint and Castelo Branco viewpoint.
5. Nossa Senhora da Paz viewpoint to Vila Franca do Campo islet
The essential place to visit in Vila Franca do Campo is the viewpoint of Nossa Senhora da Paz, and others that overlook the most famous islet in the Azores: Vila Franca do Campo islet.
The islet became famous as one of the stages of the Red Bull Cliff Diving event. It is a natural reserve, and has a natural pool in its center that is almost a perfect circle. A wonder of nature.
6. Lagoa do Congro
Lagoa do Congro is also very beautiful, but little known. It’s just a short walk away, and I recommend that you don’t forget about it while heading to Vila Franca do Campo.
If you didn’t do it the day before, go to Poça da Dona Beija. Or do it again, why not?
Day 5 | São Miguel Itinerary: O Nordeste (The Northeast)
On the last day of this itinerary to visit São Miguel, you will go to Nordeste region, and I advise you to do it very early, for the sunrise. If you prefer, stay there and sleep the day before, and for that I have some tips for you: The Lince Nature Hotel ou Aldeia do Priolo.
1. Ponta da Madrugada (Dawn) Viewpoint and Ponta do Sossego Viewpoint
The two most famous viewpoints in the northeast of São Miguel are Ponta da Madrugada viewpoint and Ponta do Sossego viewpoint.
The first is famous for the sunrise, so many people go there at that time of the day. Both viewpoints are located in small parks / gardens, so they are very beautiful and pleasant spaces to visit.
2. Lomba do Cavaleiro Viewpoint, Pôr do Sol (Sunset) Viewpoint and Pico dos Bodes Viewpoint
Other viewpoints not to be missed are these three. They are close to Povoação, where you can also visit the beach.
3. Salto do Prego and Salto do Carragão (Faial da Terra)
One of the great activities of the day is the trail to Salto do Prego and Salto do Carragão. It starts at Faial da Terra bus stop.
You can choose to simply walk the trail that goes to Salto do Prego and return, or continue all the way to Salto do Carragão. These places consist of two waterfalls that are totally worth visiting. You can find more information in the trails section of this article.
4. Vista dos Barcos Viewpoint and Arnel Lighthouse
Vista dos Barcos Viewpoint is another viewpoint in the northeast of the São Miguel Island, and from there you can see the fantastic Arnel Lighthouse. This lighthouse is so important because it was the first to start operating in the Azores, and dates back to the 19th century, having already undergone several improvements over the years.
The lighthouse can only be visited on Wednesdays. You should not go there by car due to the lack of parking and the steep road.
5. Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park or Salto da Farinha and Poço Azul
I leave the decision of the last activity of this day to you, because I don’t think you will have time for both of these places. They require a walk and you need to choose which one to go for: Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park or Salto da Farinha and Poço Azul.
The one you don’t do on this day, you must go for if you have more than 5 days in your São Miguel itinerary. Before starting them, you can optionally stop at the Vigia das Baleias viewpoint.
São Miguel Itinerary for 7 days
I have already shared everything to do if you are in São Miguel for 5 days. If you have 7, however, add the next options to your list of things to do and see. São Miguel is an island with immense potential, and you can stay there exploring for weeks with new stuff to do everyday.
Don’t forget, and as a priority, the trail you didn’t do on the fifth day.
1. More from Vila Franca do Campo
In Vila Franca do Campo you can discover other places, in addition to the viewpoint of Nossa Senhora da Paz. You can even go by boat to the islet in the summer months.
I recommend this boat tour only for 7-day itineraries visiting São Miguel, or for those who stay even longer than 7 days. To buy tickets and check prices and conditions, visit cnvfc.net. I advise you to dedicate a whole day to the islet, or to go in the morning and return in the middle of the afternoon, still having time for another activity.
There is no infrastructure on Vila Franca do Campo islet, so you should take everything you need with you. The islet’s natural pool, or lagoon if you prefer, is considered a good spot for diving and snorkelling when visiting São Miguel and the Azores.
Did you know that this islet, due to its shape, is also called the Princess Ring? The islet is the result of an underwater eruption, and next to it there is a rock over 30 meters high used for cliff diving competitions.
In the historic center of Vila Franca do Campo, don’t forget the marina, Bento Góis square, Antero de Quental garden, the Church of São Miguel Arcanjo, the Church of Senhor Bom Jesus da Pedra, the Church of São Pedro, and Corpo Santo beach, overlooking the islet. As an alternative to the previous one, Poço Largo beach.
2. Água de Pau, Lagoa and Caloura
In Água de Pau, Lagoa and Caloura, you should not miss Monte Santo Viewpoint, Galera Viewpoint, and Pisão Viewpoint. There are also some black sand beaches to discover in the region, such as Água d’Alto beach.
3. Segredo (secret) Waterfall and Ribeira Quente Waterfall
They are both waterfalls in the south of the island of São Miguel. The first is close to Vila Franca do Campo, and the second is close to Furnas, in Ribeira Quente.
4. Praia do Fogo (Fire Beach)
Ribeira Quente is also home to one of the most beautiful beaches in São Miguel, namely Praia do Fogo, or Fire Beach. The name alone piques curiosity, or am I wrong?
5. Beaches of São Roque, Milícias and Pópulo
The beaches of São Roque, Milícias and Pópulo are close to Ponta Delgada, so access could not be better. These are optional beaches on a shorter itinerary to visit São Miguel, but in 7 days you will have time for at least a brief visit to them.
6. Whales and Dolphins Sighting Tour
In the respective section of this article, I left several recommendations for organized tours to do in São Miguel. There were some related with the sighting of whales and dolphins.
1 - Whale watching expedition 2 - Swimming with Dolphins 3 - Azores Whale Watching & Islet Boat Tour
São Miguel Itinerary for 10 Days
- If you have 10 days, visit other Azores Islands: Terceira, Pico or Faial.
- You can relax at the beach or in the thermal pools.
- There is another tea factory to visit: Porto Formoso Tea Factory.
- Just go for more hikes or trails in São Miguel, and enjoy the awesome views.
São Miguel Itinerary for 3 days
If you only have 3 days in São Miguel, then you need to be selective on things to do there. Opt for the following mandatory top attractions of the island:
- Lagoa das 7 Cidades, Boca do Inferno Viewpoint and Vista do Rei Viewpoint.
- The Natural Pools of Ponta da Ferraria (thermal waters next to the sea).
- Lagoa do Fogo
- Santa Iria Viewpoint
- Lagoa das Furnas e Terra Nostra Park
- Ananases A Arruda and Gorreana Tea Plantations.
- Ponta Delgada City Center.
São Miguel Itinerary Map
This map has my detailed itinerary to the four islands I already visited in the Azores: São Miguel, Terceira, Pico and Faial. Just zoom it for São Miguel Island details.
Azores Curiosities!
To finish, here are some curiosities, not only about São Miguel, but also about the Azores in general! 😉
1. Island Colors
Each island in the Azores Archipelago has been assigned a color:
- São Miguel – Green Island – for the green landscapes, the tea plantations, and for being a fertile island. Visitors understand why, more than any other island, São Miguel is green.
- Terceira – Lilac Island – for the special color of the hydrangeas on this island.
- Faial – Blue Island – because of its strong connection to the sea, and blue hydrangeas that cover the island.
- Pico – Gray Island – associated with the dark gray color of the basalt that covers the island, a legacy of past volcanic eruptions.
- Santa Maria – Yellow Island – Because it is the only island with yellow sand on the beaches.
- Flores – Pink Island – because of the pink azaleas.
- São Jorge – Brown Island – the color of its cliffs by the sea.
- Graciosa – White Island – as for São Jorge, due to the color of its rocks and cliffs.
- Corvo – Black island – because it is basically represented on the map as a black dot, it is so small.
2. The Azorean Hydrangeas
When visiting the Azores, I was told that hydrangeas produce some kind of substance that drives away cows and other animals on the fields. Hence they are not eaten by them, and serve to separate the fields, replacing fences or even walls, which in this way are not necessary.
3. The Azores Happy Cows
Azorean cheese and milk are famous, and this is due to the cows that play here on the islands, overlooking the sea, and grazing in green fields 365 days a year. 😀 There was a song in Portugal based on this, do you believe? Check below!
>>>> What if I told you that the milk and butter that McDonalds in Portugal serves is of Azorean origin? All over the country!
Finished?
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Have a nice time in São Miguel! I hope you enjoy this piece of my country!
Other Itineraries and Travel Guides in Portugal
- N2 Portugal Road Trip Itinerary
- Madeira Itinerary and Travel Guide
- Terceira Itinerary and Travel Guide (Azores)
- Pico Itinerary in Azores
- Faial Itinerary in Azores
- Minho | Northern Portugal Itinerary
- Porto Itinerary and Travel Guide
- Things to do In Braga (Minho)
- Things to do in Guimarães (Minho)
- Things to do in Viana do Castelo (Minho)
- Peneda Gerês National Park Itinerary
- Douro Valley Itinerary
- Trás-os-Montes Itinerary
- Things to do in Bragança
- Montesinho Natural Park Itinerary
- Douro International Natural Park Itinerary
- Things to do in Aveiro
- Things to do in Coimbra
- Things to do in Leiria
- Things to do in Fatima
- Things to do in Nazaré
- Things to do in Peniche
- Things to do in Évora (Alentejo)
- Things to do in Beja (Alentejo)
- Algarve Road Trip Itinerary
- Things to do in Lagos (Algarve)
- Things to do in Portimão (Algarve)
- Things to do in Faro (Algarve)
- Things to do in Tavira (Algarve)
