TWYS — The Best Travel Guides for Hidden Gems & Local Secrets
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.
Cost of Living (10)
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Minimal List TL;DR
TWYS curates the best places to SEE, EAT, DRINK, SHOP & MORE — uncover hidden gems, must-visit landmarks, top restaurants, unique bars, boutique shops, luxury stays, and networking spots.
SeeMountain Hiking
🏔Mount Pico
5An adventure for seasoned hikers
SeeNatural Park
🏞Parque Terra Nostra
4.9A botanical garden with natural hot springs
SeeThermal Baths
💧Poça da Dona Beija
4.9A must-visit for natural hot springs lovers
SeeHiking
🌋Caldeira do Faial
4.9A large crater with scenic hiking paths
SeeScenic View
📸Miradouro da Vista do Rei
4.8A viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Sete Cidades Lagoon and surrounding area.
SeeMiradouro Craveiro Lopes
🌄Miradouro Craveiro Lopes
4.8An incredible lookout point offering sweeping views of Pico Island and the Atlantic Ocean.
SeeCave Exploration
🕳Algar do Carvão
4.8Amazing underground experience
SeeBeach
🏖Praia Formosa
4.8Best beach for relaxation
SeeLake Viewing
💧Lagoa das Sete Cidades
4.8One of the most beautiful lakes in the Azores
SeeCliff Viewing
🌄Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo
4.8Remote area perfect for dramatic cliff views
SeeBotanical Garden
🌳Jardim Botânico António Borges
4.7A tranquil botanical garden with lush greenery and exotic plants.
SeeWhale Watching
🐋Naturalist Whale Watching
4.7Experience the thrill of whale watching in the crystal-clear waters around Pico Island, with a chance to see various marine species up close.
SeeForest
🌲Reserva Florestal de Recreio do Pinhal da Paz
4.7A tranquil park ideal for nature walks, hiking, and picnicking in lush forests.
SeeHiking
🌿Lagoa do Fogo
4.7A stunning lake surrounded by nature
EatRestaurant
🍽️Rotas da Ilha Verde
4.8A unique restaurant offering farm-to-table dining.
EatSunset Beach - Restaurante & Bar
🍹Sunset Beach - Restaurante & Bar
4.8A beachfront restaurant and bar offering great cocktails with an incredible sunset view.
EatRestaurant
🍲Tony's Restaurant
4.8Traditional volcanic cuisine
EatJapanese
🍣Õtaka
4.7A trendy fusion restaurant offering Azorean twists on Japanese dishes.
EatRestaurant
🍲Tasquinha Vieira
4.7A local favorite offering traditional dishes from the island.
EatBakery
🍞Padaria Flora
4.7A beloved bakery offering a wide range of pastries.
EatCasa do Bife O GALEGO
🥩Casa do Bife O GALEGO
4.7A family-owned restaurant offering mouthwatering steaks and traditional Portuguese dishes.
EatCafé
☕Louvre Michaelense
4.7Cozy café with history and great coffee
EatCheese Shop
🧀Queijaria Furnense
4.6A cheese shop offering a wide selection of regional cheeses.
EatRestaurant
🍽Quinta dos Sabores
4.6A delightful farm-to-table restaurant specializing in organic, local ingredients.
EatPortuguese Cuisine
🍴Casa do Abel
4.6A traditional restaurant with a homely atmosphere, offering delicious regional meals.
EatGaroupas Inn
🍽️Garoupas Inn
4.6A charming inn offering delicious local seafood dishes in a cozy setting.
EatCoffee Shop
☕A Colmeia
4.6Charming café for a coffee break
DrinkCocktail Bar
🍸Colmeia Avenida
4.6A trendy cocktail bar offering creative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere.
Places to See
Discover breathtaking landmarks, hidden gems, and offbeat sights that make every destination unforgettable.
Rua do Miradouro, 9555-307 Sete Cidades
4.8
Free
Open 24/7
Stunning panoramic views
Get:
Bus: 21 (Sete Cidades)
A viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Sete Cidades Lagoon and surrounding area.
Ponta do Pico, Pico, Azores
4.8
Free
Open year-round
Spectacular views of Pico Mountain and ocean
Vibe:
Panoramic and Peaceful
Tip:
Miradouro Craveiro Lopes
Get:
Car rental available
An incredible lookout point offering sweeping views of Pico Island and the Atlantic Ocean.
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
Savor the best local flavors, street food gems, and must-try dining spots curated for true food lovers.
São Miguel, Azores
4.8
€10 - €20
Open daily from 12PM–12AM
Amazing sunset views and cocktails
Vibe:
Relaxing and Scenic
A beachfront restaurant and bar offering great cocktails with an incredible sunset view.
Rua Dr. José Nunes da Ponte, Ponta Delgada
4.8
€20 - €40
11AM–10PM
Known for seasonal, organic Azorean cuisine
Get:
Bus: 160 (from central Ponta Delgada)
A unique restaurant offering farm-to-table dining.
Rua José do Canto, 9500-315 Ponta Delgada
4.7
€3 - €10
7AM–7PM
Local favorite with freshly baked goods
Get:
Bus: 150, 160 (from central Ponta Delgada)
A beloved bakery offering a wide range of pastries.
Rua dos Mercadores, Ponta Delgada
4.7
€15 - €35
12PM–11PM
Specializing in Azorean-inspired Japanese cuisine
Get:
Bus: 150, 160 (from central Ponta Delgada)
A trendy fusion restaurant offering Azorean twists on Japanese dishes.
São Miguel, Azores
4.7
€20 - €40
Open daily from 12PM–10PM
Specialty in steaks and local cuisine
Vibe:
Tasty and Satisfying
Tip:
Casa do Bife O Galego
A family-owned restaurant offering mouthwatering steaks and traditional Portuguese dishes.
Rua de São João, Ponta Delgada
4.7
€10 - €25
12PM–10PM
Known for hearty Azorean dishes
Vibe:
Traditional and Cozy
Get:
Bus: 150 (from central Ponta Delgada)
A local favorite offering traditional dishes from the island.
Rua do Mercado, 14, 9500-057 Ponta Delgada
4.6
€12 - €18
11AM–9PM
Known for traditional Azorean dishes
Get:
Bus: 12, 15 (Ponta Delgada)
A traditional restaurant with a homely atmosphere, offering delicious regional meals.
Must Try:
Cozido (a stew cooked in volcanic heat), fresh seafood (octopus, tuna), local cheeses, passion fruit desserts.
Places to Drink
Unwind at vibrant bars, cozy cafés, and craft breweries, handpicked for the best drinks and atmosphere.
Avenida João Bosco Mota Amaral, Ponta Delgada
4.6
€8 - €15
6PM–2AM
Great cocktail selection
Get:
Bus: 15 (Ponta Delgada)
A trendy cocktail bar offering creative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere.
Music & Dance:
Traditional folklore music and the famous “Cantares ao Desafio” (a form of competitive singing).
Places to Network
Connect with like-minded travelers, digital nomads, and entrepreneurs at the best networking spots.
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
Explore local markets, unique boutiques, and artisanal stores for one-of-a-kind finds.
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Luxury
Indulge in high-end experiences, exclusive stays, and premium services tailored for refined travelers.
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
Avoid overrated tourist traps and discover alternative experiences worth your time.
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.
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.
TWYS: Your Ultimate Guide to Unique Travel Experiences & Insider Tips
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
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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:
🍷🌉🎨
PortoHistoric City Porto
Portugal
15°C average, ranging 10–20°C
Euro (EUR) €
Porto is famous for its port wine production, with historic wine cellars lining the banks of the Douro River. The city’s old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and beautiful churches. Porto is also recognized for its traditional cuisine, including the famous Francesinha sandwich. The city’s vibrant cultural scene includes art galleries, theaters, and music venues, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in history, food, and wine.
Netherlands
10.2°C
Euro (EUR) €
Amsterdam, often referred to as the "Venice of the North," boasts over 1,500 bridges, a series of picturesque canals, and beautiful 17th-century architecture. Known for its laid-back vibe, the city is also famous for its world-class museums, including the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. Amsterdam is a haven for cyclists, with an extensive network of bike paths. Visitors can enjoy the city’s rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant arts scene. The city’s historic center, with its narrow houses and winding streets, provides a charming and authentic European experience.
🎼☕🎻
ViennaUnseen Vienna Treasures
Austria
11.4°C
Euro (EUR) €
Vienna is known for its rich musical heritage, being the birthplace of composers like Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. The city is home to many historic coffeehouses, a key element of its coffeehouse culture, where locals and visitors enjoy pastries and coffee in an elegant setting. Vienna is also famous for its stunning palaces, including the Hofburg and Schönbrunn, and its classical music scene, with opera houses and concert halls offering world-class performances. The city’s imperial past and modern artistic vibrancy make it a cultural hub.
🏔️🏞️⛵
KasCoastal Charm Kas
Turkey
15-30°C
Turkish Lira (TRY) ₺
Dalyan, located along Turkey’s southwest coast, is famous for its Lycian tombs carved into the cliffs, stunning diving spots, and the nearby Iztuzu Beach, known for its loggerhead sea turtle nesting grounds. The area’s natural beauty, hot springs, and mud baths make it a popular eco-tourism destination. Dalyan is also renowned for its crystal-clear rivers, which visitors can explore by boat. The blend of ancient history and pristine nature makes Dalyan a must-visit location for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
United States of America
10.4°C
US Dollar (USD) $
Chicago is the birthplace of modern skyscraper architecture, with the Home Insurance Building, the world’s first skyscraper, completed in 1885. Known for its stunning skyline, the city boasts a rich architectural heritage, with landmarks like the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) and the John Hancock Center. Chicago is also famous for its deep-dish pizza, jazz music, and Millennium Park. The city has a vibrant arts scene, numerous parks, and a deep cultural history that makes it one of America’s most influential cities.
👗🎨🏙️
MilanChic Milan Lifestyle
Milan, a global fashion and design capital, is also home to Leonardo da Vinci's iconic painting "The Last Supper." The city boasts rich artistic heritage with historical landmarks such as the Milan Cathedral (Duomo), the Sforza Castle, and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Milan is the center of Italy’s fashion industry, with world-renowned shopping districts. The city is also famous for its opera scene at La Scala Theatre and is a hub for design, trade fairs, and business, making it one of Europe’s most important cultural and economic centers.
United States of America
4-28°C
US Dollar (USD) $
Cairo, the bustling capital of Egypt, is famous for its ancient monuments, including the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Egyptian Museum, which houses some of the world’s most famous archaeological artifacts. The city is also known for its bustling bazaars, vibrant street life, and unique blend of modern and ancient cultures. Cairo’s historical significance, combined with its lively atmosphere, makes it a top destination for history lovers, culture seekers, and those interested in Egypt’s fascinating heritage.
🍕⛴️🏛️
NapoliNaples Unveiled Treasures
Naples is home to an ancient underground city, with Roman ruins, catacombs, and tunnels that are open to the public. The city’s rich history can be seen in its historic buildings, including the Royal Palace and the Naples National Archaeological Museum. Naples is the birthplace of pizza and offers some of the best pizza in the world. The city is also a gateway to Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, and Mount Vesuvius. Naples is a vibrant city with a unique mix of ancient history, delicious cuisine, and Mediterranean charm.
United States of America
12-25°C
US Dollar (USD) $
Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, is famous for its bustling markets, street food, and iconic landmarks such as the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Wat Phra Kaew. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife, luxury shopping malls, and diverse cuisine, from street vendors to high-end restaurants. Bangkok’s mix of old-world charm and modern conveniences makes it a top destination for culture lovers, foodies, and those seeking adventure in Southeast Asia. The city offers something for every type of traveler, whether interested in history or modern attractions.
United States of America
11°C
US Dollar (USD) $
Detroit, known as the birthplace of Motown Records, has played a pivotal role in the history of music, with legendary artists like Stevie Wonder and The Supremes. The city is also famous for its deep automotive roots, being home to Ford Motor Company and the iconic Detroit Auto Show. While its history is marked by industrial might, Detroit has been undergoing urban revitalization, making it an exciting destination for history, music, and automotive enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the city’s rich heritage, vibrant arts scene, and emerging culinary culture.
