How to see the best of the Azores in a week

Sandra is an Azorean native who has researched and written the first Lonely Planet guide to the Azores. Here she shares a one-week itinerary for first-timers to São Miguel, Terceira, and Pico.

I was born and raised on the Azores Islands, and these are the questions people ask me the most: Is it always raining? Which islands should I visit?

The first one is easy: it’s not. As for the second one, sometimes answering involves me printing out a map of the archipelago, marking spots with a pen, and asking lots of follow-up questions. 

This one-week itinerary covers the three largest islands: São Miguel, Terceira, and Pico. I’m sure you’ll want to return to explore the other six.

• When to arrive: The best time to visit the Azores is between June and August. The weather is warmer; it’s beach season; it’s the best time for whale watching; and you’ll find more cultural events and festivals. 
• How to get to/from the airports: Driving is the best option to travel between the airports and the islands’ main cities – public transit on the islands is hit-and-miss, plus understanding each network is confusing and time-consuming. 
• What to pack: A light, waterproof jacket is your best friend in the Azores. Although it's not always raining, the weather can shift quickly throughout the day. In summer, pack swimwear – there's always a spot for an ocean dip somewhere.
• Planning tip: To travel between islands, optimize your time by choosing the earliest flights possible and the ones with the least layovers. Research and book flights using the multi-city option on Azores Airlines.  

Day 1: Start your Azores experience in São Miguel

Most international flights land in Aeroporto João Paulo II (PDL) on the largest island, São Miguel. I call it the “gateway island”, a great way to ease into the Azores experience – not too remote to feel isolated, but far enough from the mainland.

How to spend the day: Day one calls for a slow start. Explore the main city, Ponta Delgada, and get accustomed to urban life by the ocean. Shake any jet lag or long-flight drowsiness with a walk in the historic center. Take in black-and-white pavements, the deep blue Atlantic, and the aroma of sea air.

Dinner: A Tasca is a great place for your first taste of traditional Azorean cuisine, with local fish served grilled.