Azores

"Find tranquility in the lush, volcanic landscapes and serene shores of the Azores islands."

🌋

Currency

Euro (EUR) €

Best Time

May - September

Population

250,000

Weather °C

17

The Azores are a hidden gem in the Atlantic, offering dramatic landscapes and a calm, untouched environment. Visitors can take advantage of the islands' geothermal activity by visiting hot springs or watching geysers in action. With an abundant marine life, the Azores is one of the best places for whale and dolphin watching in the world. The combination of stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique culture makes the Azores a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure and tranquility in equal measure.
State

Azores

Year

1439

Airport

Ponta Delgada

Cost of Living (10)

Medium

Minimal List TL;DR

🏔
Mountain Hiking
Mount Pico
An adventure for seasoned hikers
🍇
Vineyard Tours
Pico Island Vineyards
Unique volcanic wine-growing region
🌋
Hiking
Caldeira do Faial
A large crater with scenic hiking paths
💧
Thermal Baths
Poça da Dona Beija
A must-visit for natural hot springs lovers
🌊
Waterfall Hike
Poço da Alagoinha
A hidden gem for hikers
🏞
Natural Park
Parque Terra Nostra
A botanical garden with natural hot springs
🌋
Crater Exploration
Caldeirão Crater
Ideal for adventure lovers and hikers
🐋
Whale Watching
Horta Whale Watching Tours
Best location to observe marine life
🌄
Cliff Viewing
Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo
Remote area perfect for dramatic cliff views
💧
Lake Viewing
Lagoa das Sete Cidades
One of the most beautiful lakes in the Azores
🏖
Beach
Praia Formosa
Best beach for relaxation
🕳
Cave Exploration
Algar do Carvão
Amazing underground experience
🌊
Coastal Walks
Capelinhos Volcano
A unique chance to walk in a volcanic landscape
🌿
Hiking
Lagoa do Fogo
A stunning lake surrounded by nature
🕳
Cave Exploration
Gruta das Torres
A fascinating underground experience
🏖
Beach
Praia de Santa Bárbara
Popular beach for surfing and swimming
🍲
Restaurant
Tony's Restaurant
Traditional volcanic cuisine
Café
Louvre Michaelense
Cozy café with history and great coffee
🧀
Cheese Shop
Queijo Vaquinha
Delicious local cheeses
Coffee Shop
A Colmeia
Charming café for a coffee break

Places to See

🏖
Praia Formosa
Beach
Rua da Praia Formosa
4.8
Free
24/7
One of the most pristine beaches in the Azores
Vibe:
Tranquil
Tip:
Beachgoers
Get To:
No
Best beach for relaxation
🕳
Algar do Carvão
Cave Exploration
Algar do Carvão Road
4.8
$$
9 AM - 6 PM
A unique volcanic cave with stunning formations
Vibe:
Mystical
Tip:
Cave Explorers
Get To:
Yes
Amazing underground experience
🌊
Capelinhos Volcano
Coastal Walks
Capelinhos Road
4.8
Free
24/7
Recent volcanic eruption site with rugged landscapes
Vibe:
Peaceful
Tip:
Nature Walkers
Get To:
No
A unique chance to walk in a volcanic landscape
🌿
Lagoa do Fogo
Hiking
Lagoa do Fogo Road
4.7
Free
24/7
Crystalline volcanic lake
Vibe:
Peaceful
Tip:
Nature Walkers
Get To:
No
A stunning lake surrounded by nature
🕳
Gruta das Torres
Cave Exploration
Rua das Lajes, Velas
4.7
$$
9 AM - 6 PM
Largest lava tube cave in the Azores
Vibe:
Adventurous
Tip:
Explorers
Get To:
Yes
A fascinating underground experience
Praia de Santa Bárbara Road
4.7
Free
24/7
Surfers’ paradise with white sand beaches
Vibe:
Relaxing
Tip:
Sun Seekers
Get To:
No
Popular beach for surfing and swimming
Must Visit:

Whale Watching, Festivals

The Azores are a hotspot for whale and dolphin watching, offering one of the best spots in the world for marine life observation.

Places to Eat

🍲
Tony's Restaurant
Restaurant
Rua Largo do Vale das Furnas
4.8
$$$
12 PM - 10 PM
Famous for 'Cozido' cooked in volcanic heat
Vibe:
Traditional
Get To:
Yes
Tip:
Foodies
Traditional volcanic cuisine
Rua António José D'Almeida
4.7
$$
9 AM - 8 PM
Trendy café in a historic building
Vibe:
Cozy
Get To:
Yes
Tip:
Coffee Lovers
Cozy café with history and great coffee
A Colmeia
Coffee Shop
Rua de Lisboa
4.6
$$
9 AM - 8 PM
Historic café with locally sourced coffee
Vibe:
Cozy
Get To:
Yes
Tip:
Coffee Enthusiasts
Charming café for a coffee break
🧀
Queijo Vaquinha
Cheese Shop
Vila Nova Road
4.6
$$
9 AM - 5 PM
Local farm shop offering traditional cheeses
Vibe:
Rustic
Get To:
Yes
Tip:
Cheese Lovers
Delicious local cheeses
Must Try:

Cozido (a stew cooked in volcanic heat), fresh seafood (octopus, tuna), local cheeses, passion fruit desserts.

Places to Drink

Music / Dance:

Traditional folklore music and the famous “Cantares ao Desafio” (a form of competitive singing).

Places to Network

We'll be updating more places soon!
Key Industries:

Tourism, Agriculture

Azores

"Experience the untouched beauty and peaceful serenity of the Azores, where nature thrives."

Places to Shop

For More Places and regular updates, Subscribe today

Luxury

For More Tips Read Further

Rugged & Natural

stunning volcanic landscapes, lush greenery, and dramatic coastal cliffs that define the islands.

The Azores are known for geothermal activity.

The Azores are a breathtaking archipelago of volcanic islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, known for their stunning natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and geothermal activity. With lush greenery, towering volcanoes, and crater lakes, the Azores offer some of the best hiking and outdoor activities in Europe. The islands are a paradise for nature lovers, where travelers can enjoy whale watching, hot springs, and unparalleled scenic views. Each island offers unique experiences, from the city of Ponta Delgada to the beautiful Sete Cidades Lake, making it a top destination for adventurous travelers.

Watch Out

Watch out for Crowded Areas
Skip Super Touristic Places

Off the beaten path places in

Azores

Transportation

Well-connected by air, ferries to islands

City Overview

The Azores, an archipelago in Portugal, is known for its stunning landscapes, volcanic craters, and rich biodiversity. It's a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Azores

3 Day City Guide

- Day 1: Morning: Hike around Sete Cidades. Afternoon: Visit the local market in Ponta Delgada. Evening: Dinner at a traditional restaurant. - Day 2: Morning: Take a whale-watching tour. Afternoon: Relax in the hot springs at Furnas. Evening: Sample local cheeses and wines. - Day 3: Morning: Explore the hiking trails on Pico Island. Afternoon: Visit a local botanical garden. Evening: Attend a cultural performance.

Current Trends

- Eco-tourism: Increasing interest in sustainable travel experiences. - Culinary trends: Emphasis on local ingredients and traditional recipes. - Outdoor adventures: Growing popularity of hiking, birdwatching, and marine activities.

Local Events Guide

- Festas do Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres (May): Celebrating religious and cultural heritage. - Azores Fringe Festival (July): Showcasing local arts and culture. - Whale Watching Festival (September): Celebrating the marine life of the islands.

Local Insider Tips

- Explore the Sete Cidades crater lakes. - Discover local whale-watching tours. - Enjoy the hot springs at Furnas.

Sustainable Travel

- Sustainable tourism: Focus on eco-friendly practices in accommodations and tours. - Conservation efforts: Protecting native flora and fauna. - Community support: Promoting local artisans and traditions.

Azores

Explore the Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences:

Ready to see through a local’s eyes?
Our curated guide unveils top hidden gems, secret spots, and local favorites that you won’t find in typical travel guides.
Whether it’s a cozy café tucked away in a historic neighborhood, a scenic trail only known to insiders, or unique cultural sites, has so much more to offer beyond the tourist hotspots.
Dive into our off-the-beaten-path guide and discover the true heart —perfect for adventurous travelers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an authentic journey

Sign below for Fresh Updates

We will send you the latest curation of places and cities straight to your inbox along with access to the pop-up store & exclusive events.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Join us to stay connected. Read our updates

Unlock the Hidden Side:

Each spot in our City guide is handpicked to help you experience the city like a local, avoiding the crowds and discovering the best-kept secrets.
From charming local eateries and breathtaking viewpoints to tucked-away art galleries and vibrant local markets, this guide lets you explore beyond the surface.
Follow our recommendations for an unforgettable adventure and see why these places stand out as favorites among locals.
For more unique experiences like these, explore our full collection of off-the-beaten-path city guides and make every trip a journey of discovery.

More Cities to Visit:

🏰
Nuremburg
Medieval Charm
7°C – 16°C
Medium
Euro (EUR) €
Medieval Charm
Vibe:
Famous for its half-timbered houses and old town.
Tip:
Nuremberg's medieval charm, with its cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses, creates a unique atmosphere. The city’s rich history is reflected in its well-preserved monuments, museums, and the haunting memory of its role in World War II.
🇨🇿
Prague
Prague Unveiled
9.6
6
Czech Koruna (CZK) Kč
Prague Unveiled
Vibe:
The Charles Bridge, a historic stone bridge, is adorned with 30 statues, many of which are replicas.
Tip:
Prague enchants visitors with its magical blend of old-world charm and modern-day vibrancy. Stroll through the historic Old Town, explore the winding streets, and discover the city’s rich cultural heritage. The music scene in Prague features a variety of genres, from classical to traditional folk. The city is also known for its stunning castles, including the Prague Castle, and its cozy beer halls, making it a must-visit destination for those who appreciate history, culture, and great food.
🇺🇸
Chicago
Local Chicago
10.4
8
US Dollar (USD) $
Local Chicago
Vibe:
Chicago has the world’s first skyscraper, the Home Insurance Building, built in 1885, shaping modern architecture.
Tip:
Chicago is a city of contrasts, where the old and new coexist. Its towering skyscrapers, like the Willis Tower, offer panoramic views of the city. In contrast, the rich blues and jazz culture continues to thrive, with legendary clubs that have hosted the likes of Muddy Waters and Buddy Guy. The city's food culture is just as diverse, from its signature deep-dish pizza to the internationally recognized Chicago-style hot dog. Whether you're visiting for its architectural wonders, live music, or culinary delights, Chicago promises an experience like no other.
🇮🇹
Amalfi
Amalfi Coast
16.8
6
Euro (EUR) €
Amalfi Coast
Vibe:
The Amalfi Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its breathtaking scenery and historical significance.
Tip:
Amalfi offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, with steep cliffs that descend into crystal-clear waters. The town’s beaches are among the most beautiful in Italy, making it a popular spot for relaxation. Amalfi is also known for its traditional cuisine, especially the fresh seafood dishes served at local restaurants. Visitors can enjoy the town’s vibrant culture, from its festivals to its artisan workshops. The Amalfi Cathedral is a must-see for history lovers, offering a glimpse into the town’s rich religious and architectural history. Amalfi also attracts visitors with its tranquil atmosphere and scenic views, making it the perfect destination for a getaway.
🇵🇹
Cascais
Local Cascais
15.5
6
Euro (EUR) €
Local Cascais
Vibe:
Cascais was once a fishing village and became a royal summer retreat in the late 19th century.
Tip:
Cascais is a coastal gem offering a perfect blend of Portuguese culture and modern leisure. From the historic center with its cobbled streets to the lively marina, Cascais offers something for everyone. The town’s history as a royal retreat adds an extra layer of charm, with beautiful beaches, gourmet seafood, and relaxing vibes. Cascais is a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon.
🇩🇪
Berlin
Berlin Hidden Gems
9.9
7
Euro (EUR) €
Berlin Hidden Gems
Vibe:
Berlin is home to over 1,700 parks, including the sprawling Tiergarten, and is a city that blends history and modernity effortlessly.
Tip:
Berlin’s unique cultural blend creates an exciting atmosphere. It offers a perfect mix of history, art, and innovation. Explore the remnants of the Berlin Wall, immerse yourself in contemporary art at the East Side Gallery, and visit its 170+ museums. Berlin's ever-evolving food scene, from vibrant street food markets to upscale dining, showcases the city's fusion of tradition and modernity. Whether you're in a minimalist café or a techno club, Berlin is constantly changing, with new trends emerging every day.