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For those looking to get away from it all, the breathtaking archipelago of nine volcanic islands in the North Atlantic known as the Azores is a well-kept secret. With their verdant scenery, geothermal marvels, and quaint seaside villages, the islands provide each visitor with an incredibly singular experience. Moreoever, The Azores has seen a sharp rise in tourism, especially from Americans, due to nonstop flights, good weather, and outdoor activities. In 2023, 1.2 million hotel visitors generated USD 175 million (EUR 157.8 million) in revenue, marking a 14.8 per cent increase from 2022. Tourist arrivals increased by 13.2 per cent between January and June 2024, with longer stays, and this trend is expected to continue with the opening of more upscale, eco-friendly hotels.
The island has plenty to offer, whether your interests lie in hiking up volcanic craters, whale watching, or just unwinding in natural hot springs. But in order to get the most out of your trip, thorough preparation is necessary. Check out our thorough guide, which covers all the information you should have before visiting this Portuguese paradise for the first time.
It's very easy for a citizen of the United States to visit the Azores. Americans do not require a visa for stays up to ninety days in the Azores because they are a part of Portugal and the Schengen Zone. A valid passport is all that is needed, and it should be valid for at least three months after the date of your intended departure. You will require a long-term visa or residency permit if you intend to stay longer than ninety days. Though most visitors only need to complete a few simple steps to obtain a visa, it's advisable to have documentation of your confirmed itinerary and return ticket with you to prevent any problems upon arrival in Portugal.
The official currency of the Azores, which is a part of Portugal, is the Euro (€). It is advisable to have some cash on hand, especially in rural and small towns where card transactions may not always be possible. Although most larger establishments, including hotels and restaurants, accept credit and debit cards, it can be more convenient to carry cash on hand for small purchases or unexpected expenses. Larger towns, such as Ponta Delgada on São Miguel Island, have plenty of ATMs, and airport ATMs are convenient to locate when you arrive. Prices in the Azores may be marginally higher than in mainland Portugal due to their relative remoteness, particularly when it comes to imported goods.
The weather in the Azores is renowned for being erratic, so packing for a trip there can be difficult. In a single day, you might encounter cool breezes, warm sunshine, and showers of rain, so it’s best to pack in layers to accommodate the weather. For warm days, pack light clothing, but don’t forget to pack a jacket or sweater for chilly weather, especially at night. Since you’ll probably be walking and experiencing some rain, it’s also imperative to pack a waterproof jacket and good hiking shoes. Wearing swimwear is essential if you want to enjoy the many ocean pools and natural hot springs that surround the islands. Finally, remember to wear sunscreen and sunglasses because, even on cloudier days, the sun can still be quite strong. If you’re coming from outside Europe, you’ll also need a power adapter since Portugal uses Type C and F outlets.
The people of the Azores are renowned for their friendliness and warmth, and they typically welcome guests with wide arms. Even though most people in tourist areas speak English, knowing a few simple Portuguese phrases can be appreciated and useful. To build rapport with the locals, a simple "Bom dia" (good morning) or "Boa tarde" (good afternoon) greeting will be very helpful. Although it's not required, it's considered courteous to leave a small tip (5 to 10 per cent) at restaurants or for cab services in Portugal. Appreciating nature and considering your impact is crucial because environmental preservation is deeply ingrained in Azorean culture. Refrain from littering, hike only on designated trails, and show respect for wildlife.
The Azores have little public transit, particularly on the smaller islands. Buses may not travel to more isolated areas, and their schedules may be irregular, even in larger towns like Ponta Delgada, where they operate frequently. Visitors who wish to explore the islands beyond the main towns are highly recommended to rent a car. Though some of the roads can be winding and narrow, especially in rural areas, they are generally kept up well. You can freely explore the islands at your own speed by renting a car, and the majority of rental companies offer reasonable rates. If you intend to travel a considerable distance from your lodging, think about making travel arrangements in advance as taxis can be expensive for longer trips.
Some of the world's most magnificent scenery can be found in the Azores. Though each of the nine islands has a distinct charm of its own, there are a few that you shouldn't miss. The Sete Cidades twin lakes are a must-see on São Miguel Island. Natural wonders, these two crater lakes (one green, one blue) offer breathtaking views from the surrounding hills. Furnas is well-known for its geothermal activity and is located in São Miguel. You may take a dip in the area's natural hot springs or eat the local speciality, Cozido, which is a stew cooked slowly over volcanic heat underground. Climbers can get a bird's-eye view of the surrounding islands by scaling Pico Mountain, Portugal's highest peak. Further on, Faial Island is home to Capelinhos Volcano, where the last volcanic eruption in the Azores occurred in 1957-58, creating a dramatic and otherworldly landscape.
Like in mainland Portugal, Portuguese is the official language of the Azores. Nonetheless, many locals speak English because of the islands' robust tourism sector, particularly those employed by hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions. Acquiring a few essential Portuguese phrases can improve your visit and demonstrate your appreciation for the local way of life. You can navigate everyday interactions by using basic phrases like "Olá" (hello), "Obrigado/Obrigada" (thank you), and "Sim" (yes). Although there won't be many significant language barriers in tourist areas, some elderly residents in more isolated villages might only speak Portuguese, so having a translation app or phrasebook on hand can be helpful.
With its emphasis on using local, fresh ingredients, Azorean cuisine is a feast for the senses. Naturally, seafood is the main attraction due to the islands' maritime location. Try the rich beef stew known as Alcatra, which is especially well-liked on Terceira Island, or Lapas, a type of mollusc that is frequently grilled and served with garlic and lemon. The previously mentioned Cozido das Furnas, made in Furnas by burying pots in the volcanic soil and slow-cooking them for several hours, is another culinary highlight. A speciality of the town of Vila Franca, Queijadas da Vila are creamy custard tarts that are not to be missed if you have a sweet tooth. The Azores are renowned for producing some of the best pineapples in the world, which are cultivated in greenhouses on São Miguel Island.
The summer months of June through August are the ideal times to visit the Azores. The warmest temperatures, which range from 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F), will be experienced during this time. The weather will also be generally more stable, with fewer cloudy days and a decreased likelihood of rain. Because of the calmer seas, summer is the best season for outdoor pursuits like swimming, hiking, and marine adventures1. But because so many people are visiting the islands at this time, it's also the busiest and most costly time to go. If you'd rather have a more sedate experience, think about going in the spring or fall, which are shoulder seasons. There are fewer people and less expensive prices, and the weather is still pleasant.
If you want to ensure that your trip to the Azores is respectful of the environment, you must follow certain rules. Always be mindful of the natural world, wildlife, and regional traditions. Because the locals highly value the islands' natural beauty, hikers should stick to designated routes to protect delicate ecosystems and avoid leaving trash behind. The Azores, being leaders in sustainable tourism, urge you to recycle as much as you can, cut back on waste, and select environmentally friendly activities. Certified tour operators prioritise sustainability and adhere to strict guidelines to protect marine life, particularly when it comes to wildlife encounters and whale watching. Locking your car and exercising caution when handling personal belongings are also wise decisions, even though the islands are generally safe.
