Visit São Miguel in 5 Days – Complete Itinerary and Guide

Visiting the Island of São Miguel in 5 Days is an excellent option, although we always recommend staying for as many days as possible. Nevertheless, we are sure that it will always feel too short. But think of it this way: it gives you one more reason to return to the Azores.

Planning and Booking Your Trip

Before diving into the 5-day itinerary for São Miguel, let’s start with the most important part: your trip and accommodation. Given the limited number of days, we recommend checking out these promotional travel packages for São Miguel that include flights, accommodation, and in some cases, a vehicle.

The earlier you book your trip, the better the prices you are likely to get.

Best Time to Visit São Miguel Island

There isn’t a perfect time to travel; we can say that it’s an excellent destination year-round. Obviously, during the winter months, rain tends to be more frequent, but there are always things to do in São Miguel when it rains.

In June, July, and August, travel prices are higher than average, as is the occupancy in various accommodations.

Should I Rent a Vehicle or Not?

For getting around São Miguel Island, renting a vehicle is recommended, as it gives you greater freedom regarding schedules and travel to the places we will share in this itinerary.

However, if you don’t like driving or prefer to explore differently, we also have some solutions:

• Guided Tours / Group Excursions: If you prefer to travel in the company of specialized tour guides who can explain everything about São Miguel like no one else, this could be a great option. You can book various tours around São Miguel here.
• Also check: The best tourism companies in the Azores

What Activities Should I Do?

When it comes to the range of activities on São Miguel Island, the list is quite extensive. We recommend you check the activities page and see which ones you want to do.

We can also highlight the most sought-after activities:

• Whale Watching (Whales and Dolphins);
• Diving;
• Boat Trips;
• Quad Tours;
• Jeep Tours;
• Canoeing in Sete Cidades

Due to the high demand for some activities, we always recommend booking in advance to secure tickets and/or participation. For activity bookings, we recommend GetYourGuide or Civitatis.

With your trip, accommodation, vehicle, and activities taken care of, it’s time to start your 5-day itinerary for São Miguel Island.

 

5-Day Itinerary for São Miguel

✅ The itinerary below was designed by byAçores after staying on São Miguel Island, with the team visiting the various locations listed below in the order presented, ensuring a good execution in terms of time and travel.

👉🏻 Based on a stay in Ponta Delgada, this will always be the starting point for each day. Ideal departure time: 09:00.

Day 01 – São Miguel Itinerary in 5 Days

Departure from Ponta Delgada heading towards Sete Cidades. After passing through the parish of Relva, we recommend you continue in the direction of Covoada. Enjoy the scenery until you reach the first mandatory stop listed below.

Miradouro do Pico do Carvão

This fantastic viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the entire northern and southern coast of São Miguel Island. A must-stop location.

Lagoa das Empadadas

Continuing on the national road, a few kilometers after your last stop, you will find the entrance to the Lagoa das Empadadas. You will be able to observe, up close or from a viewpoint, two fantastic lagoons.

Note: The access path to these lagoons is slightly steep and can be a bit slippery on rainy days. If you don’t feel comfortable driving under these conditions, park your vehicle at the entrance and walk.

Lagoa do Canário

One of the most popular lagoons on São Miguel Island, Lagoa do Canário is located just a few meters from the previous stop and holds two great treasures of the island: the lagoon itself and access to one of the most famous viewpoints, the Miradouro da Grota do Inferno.

Miradouro da Boca do Inferno

One of the most spectacular viewpoints on São Miguel Island, allowing you to simultaneously observe several lagoons, including the Lagoa das Sete Cidades. A true paradise on earth.

Note: To reach the viewpoint, you must follow a small dirt path with some incline. We recommend wearing suitable footwear.

Miradouro da Vista do Rei

Leaving the Lagoa do Canário, it’s time to travel to another fantastic viewpoint that offers a privileged view of the Lagoa das Sete Cidades, the Miradouro da Vista do Rei.

Curiosity: Here you will find an abandoned hotel, called Hotel Monte Palace, and you can learn more about it here. Although you may have seen photos of various tourists inside, entry into the current ruins is strictly prohibited for safety reasons.

Sete Cidades

Now you should head towards the center of Sete Cidades. To get there, you will travel along one of the most famous roads that, during spring and summer, are adorned with beautiful hydrangeas.

Upon arriving in Sete Cidades, enjoy the unique beauty of the Lagoa das Sete Cidades from the various stopping points around its shores. A magical and unique place. Enjoy.

There are several activities you can do in Sete Cidades, such as renting a canoe and getting up close to the waters of Lagoa das Sete Cidades, exploring the lagoon from a different perspective.

Lunch – Sete Cidades

Having left Ponta Delgada at 09:00 and enjoyed the previous sights at a leisurely pace, we recommend having lunch in Sete Cidades.

Suggestion: Quinta da Queiró or Restaurante Lagoa Azul

Summary map of the points and route followed in the morning:

Mosteiros

After lunch, you should leave Sete Cidades and head towards Mosteiros. Here, you can enjoy its fantastic beach with a unique view of the Islets of Mosteiros, set in the middle of the ocean.

Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado

At this viewpoint, you can also gain a different perspective of the Mosteiros locality and see the area around Ponta da Ferraria, your next stop.

Ponta da Ferraria

At Ponta da Ferraria, you can enjoy thermal baths at the Ferraria Thermal Spa. With a complete thermal experience, you can bathe in natural pools or in the sea with volcanic hot water. A unique experience.

Ponta da Ferraria Lighthouse

The Ponta da Ferraria Lighthouse attracts many tourists due to its location and architecture. You can visit the inside of the lighthouse only on Wednesdays when guided tours are conducted.

Return to Ponta Delgada

Next, you should head back to your starting point, Ponta Delgada. On the way to the city, you will pass through the parishes of Ginetes, Candelária, Feteiras, and Relva. Enjoy the journey and feel free to stop at any points of interest you see marked.

Summary map of the afternoon route:

Once in Ponta Delgada, depending on your arrival time, here are some suggestions for what you could do:

• Explore the city of Ponta Delgada on foot – Places to visit in Ponta Delgada >
• Stroll along the Portas do Mar / Waterfront / Historic Center;
• Visit a Pineapple Plantation;

Day 02 – São Miguel Itinerary in 5 Days

Today is the day to visit the municipalities of Ribeira Grande and Nordeste. Shall we?

Ribeira Grande

A fantastic city with much to explore, we recommend taking a walk through its historic center. A great spot for bathing: the Natural Pools of Ribeira Grande.

Areal de Santa Bárbara

Santa Bárbara Beach: One of the top spots for Surfing and one of the most popular beaches on the island. A long stretch of sand with a partial view of the northern coast of the island.

Miradouro de Santa Iria

Miradouro da Ponta de Santa Iria: We consider this one of the most emblematic viewpoints on São Miguel Island, and we always stop here when traveling to the northern part of the island. Its view of the coast and the sea is unique and deserves to be appreciated.

Chá Porto Formoso

At the Porto Formoso Tea Factory, you can closely appreciate its fantastic plantation, learn about its history, and enjoy a guided tour followed by a tea tasting.

Chá Gorreana

Not far from the previous point, you will find the Gorreana Tea Factory. Its plantation is quite extensive, and you can explore it, learn about the production process, and taste various types of tea produced.

Ribeira dos Caldeirões – Nordeste

A fantastic park for exploring and walking. You will find various streams and waterfalls. One of the main and most popular waterfalls is located here: the Cascata do Parque da Ribeira dos Caldeirões:

Vila do Nordeste

Vila do Nordeste is located in the Municipality of Nordeste, the most floral municipality of São Miguel Island. You will understand why at the next stop. In the meantime, we recommend you have lunch in Nordeste to recharge your energy for the afternoon.

In the center of the village, you will find one of the most emblematic bridges, the Seven Arches Bridge.

See also: Places to visit in the Municipality of Nordeste

Ponta do Arnel Lighthouse

Its location is imposing, and only the bravest will manage to descend there with their vehicle. If you don’t feel comfortable, leave the vehicle on the main road and walk down. You can visit the Ponta do Arnel Lighthouse.

Miradouros da Ponta do Sossego and da Madrugada

Two of the most beautiful viewpoints on São Miguel Island, given their abundance of flora and fauna, location, and their pristine condition. It is also at Ponta da Madrugada that you can enjoy the best sunrise.

Summary map of the route:

Return to Ponta Delgada

On the way back to your starting point, we have a suggestion for a small detour that could turn into one of the most fantastic experiences you will enjoy during your stay:

Poça da Dona Beija – Furnas

Although Furnas is on the itinerary as a place to visit the next day, after a long day exploring the northern coast and Nordeste, nothing beats enjoying some thermal hot springs to relax. At this point in the journey back to Ponta Delgada, it’s likely getting dark. Perfect, no worries; Poça da Dona Beija closes at 23:00.

Since there are two places with thermal hot springs in Furnas (Poça da Dona Beija and Parque Terra Nostra), by enjoying the evening here, you can explore Parque Terra Nostra tomorrow and have yet another unique experience.

After a soak in the hot springs, have dinner in Furnas or return to Ponta Delgada for some well-deserved rest, or if you prefer, head to the city center and enjoy the nightlife.

Day 3 – 5-Day São Miguel Itinerary

After a relaxing night in the thermal waters and a good night’s sleep, you’re all set to continue exploring the Green Island.

Today we will get to know the Municipality of Povoação. Departing from Ponta Delgada towards Vila Franca do Campo (we’ll go along the southern coast of the island). You can stop at the viewpoints along the way until we reach the first stop, as on Day 4 we will explore Vila Franca do Campo; let’s head straight to Furnas:

Castelo Branco

Although it’s not widely advertised and is located on difficult terrain to access by vehicle, Castelo Branco allows you to observe one of the most fantastic panoramic views of São Miguel Island. On one side, you will see the Lagoa das Furnas, and on the other, Vila Franca do Campo and other towns on the island. We recommend parking the car at the entrance and walking the trail to the castle.

Lagoa das Furnas

The vast and beautiful Lagoa das Furnas is one of the most stunning locations in Furnas. This area features several attractions, such as the famous holes where the Cozido das Furnas is cooked, walking trails around the lagoon, and the Monitoring and Research Center of Furnas. Enjoy this fantastic lagoon and experience moments of pure relaxation.

Caldeiras das Furnas

In the heart of the Furnas Valley, the Caldeiras das Furnas draw attention due to their fumaroles resulting from the secondary volcanism present in the area.

The activity of some of these caldeiras is immense, and during the summer, you can see corn being cooked in one of them:

Parque Terra Nostra

One of the most beautiful parks in the world, the Terra Nostra Park, is a botanical garden with an enormous variety of plants and trees, in addition to several lakes, streams, and of course, the famous orange thermal water tank that you may have already seen in various photos or videos.

The park is vast, so if you wish to explore thoroughly and calmly, the following locations in this itinerary may require a bit less time to enjoy, but since you have 5 days of stay, you can adapt as you see fit. When bathing in the hot thermal waters, don’t forget to check these tips.

Before or after visiting Parque Terra Nostra, consider having lunch in Furnas and trying the fantastic Cozido das Furnas, cooked in the holes near Lagoa das Furnas. See the list of Restaurants here >

Ribeira Quente

As you leave the Furnas locality heading towards Ribeira Quente, you will pass through a tunnel, the famous Ribeira Quente Tunnel. Halfway through the tunnel, there is a small opening, and to your right, you will find a fantastic waterfall (from Furnas to Ribeira Quente):

In Ribeira Quente, you will find one of the most beautiful beaches on São Miguel Island, Praia do Fogo, located in a bay surrounded by great natural beauty.

Povoação

Povoação is a village and municipality located on the southeastern coast of São Miguel Island. A municipality that gathers many attractions, being rich in natural beauty, fauna, and flora.

The tranquility of Povoação, combined with its points of interest, makes it one of the richest places in beauty on the island. Highlights include the Furnas, which we have already seen, Ribeira Quente, and the fantastic Faial da Terra next.

Tip: Try the Fofas de Povoação. See here what they are and how they are made.

Faial da Terra

The Faial da Terra is a magical place on São Miguel Island. A small locality rich in nature, highlighted by Sanguinho and its fantastic Cascata do Salto do Prego. If you have time, take this trail in the heart of nature, and you will find one of the most beautiful secrets hidden in this locality.

Caloura

To end the day, as we leave Faial da Terra heading back to Ponta Delgada along the southern side, we will finish the day in Caloura. One of the most beautiful coastal areas of the island, noted for its fishing port and natural pool.

Tip: Dine in the Caloura or Lagoa area and enjoy the fantastic fresh fish available.

Summary map of the route:

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Activities on São Miguel Island You Can Participate In

If you wish to participate in any of the activities below, we recommend making your reservation in advance to secure your ticket/participation. Given the high demand for some activities, book as soon as possible:

• Boat Trip Along the Southern Coast
• Canyoning Descent
• Whale Watching (book online)

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Day 4 – 5-Day São Miguel Itinerary

On the fourth day of the itinerary, you’ve surely seen and done plenty during your stay on the Green Island. Today, we will get to know and explore Vila Franca do Campo.

Leaving from Ponta Delgada, we will again head along the southern coast towards Vila Franca do Campo. There are two routes, the regional road and the expressway. You can take the expressway halfway and, upon reaching the exit for Caloura, head towards the regional road.

Miradouro do Pisão

On the way to Vila Franca do Campo, you will find the Miradouro do Pisão. This magnificent viewpoint gives you a privileged view over Caloura, Água D’Alto, and the Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo.

Praia de Água D’Alto

This beach is about 560 meters long and is set in a stunning landscape, surrounded by mountains and lush greenery. The sea water is calm and crystal clear. It is located between the Miradouro do Pisão and the center of Vila Franca do Campo.

Lagoa do Congro

Considered one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world, the Lagoa do Congro is a hidden treasure on the island and is off the traditional tourist route. Because it is a place of difficult access and requires a bit of a long walk through vegetation, not everyone ventures to discover it.

However, those who dare to walk about 700 meters do not regret it. Every effort is worth it.

Wear appropriate footwear.

Vila Franca do Campo

Vila Franca do Campo is rich in history, natural and architectural heritage. It is here that you have a privileged view of the Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo. Enjoy the nature throughout the municipality, as well as its historic center.

Miradouro / Ermida Nossa Senhora da Paz

The view from Miradouro da Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Paz in Vila Franca do Campo offers a unique view of the entire village as well as the Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo. More about the Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Paz here.

Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo

On the southern coast of São Miguel, in the Azorean archipelago, lies one of the region’s most precious jewels, the Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo. The islet, visible from the island’s coast, attracts attention with its shape and proximity, as it is less than a kilometer away.

It is possible to visit Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo and swim in its waters. See here for all information and how to buy tickets.

Queijadas Vila Franca do Campo

The Queijadas of Vila Franca do Campo are famous, and no one remains indifferent to them. At the Queijadas da Vila do Morgado, you can observe the entire process of making these fantastic cheese pastries up close and, of course, taste them.

Enjoy the rest of the day to wander around other places and points of interest on São Miguel Island. Being near Furnas, if you haven’t experienced the thermal waters at Poça da Dona Beija at night or even want to repeat it, it’s an excellent option for a relaxing end to the day.

Summary map of the route:

Day 5 – 5-Day São Miguel Itinerary

We have reached the last day of our itinerary. By now, you will have many images, memories, experiences, and stories that you will never forget. But let’s make the most of this trip and enjoy the last day?

Ponta Delgada

Take the morning to explore the Historic Center of Ponta Delgada (if you haven’t done so already at night or during other opportunities in the itinerary). See here the places you must not miss in Ponta Delgada >

Have lunch in the center of Ponta Delgada; in the afternoon, we will explore more places on the island.

Caldeira Velha

After lunch, head towards Caldeira Velha. Another excellent spot where you can enjoy thermal hot springs. It is at Caldeira Velha that you will also find one of the most famous waterfalls in the Azores, which you may have already seen in various promotional materials for the Azores, particularly for São Miguel Island.

You can learn more about the visit to this location, prices, and tips here >

Lagoa do Fogo

After a soak in the hot thermal waters at Caldeira Velha, we head towards the Lagoa do Fogo. It is also one of the most beautiful lagoons on São Miguel Island.

As you ascend to the highest point leading to the Miradouro do Pico da Barrosa, enjoy the various viewpoints overlooking Lagoa do Fogo.

Lagoa

Head towards Lagoa, this time along the southern side, enjoying the entire view you have over the southern coast of São Miguel Island. In the city of Lagoa, highlights include its natural pools.

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We have reached the end of our 5-day itinerary on São Miguel Island. Since it is the last day, the number of activities and/or places to visit is slightly reduced to allow for rest and/or time to do some shopping for souvenirs or Azorean products to take home.

Notes:

• The itinerary/routes presented are merely suggestions. You can always supplement or alter them or the order of the days according to the tourist points you wish to visit and/or weather conditions.
• We recommend always planning your route for the next day in advance and paying attention to the weather forecasts.
• Always use the application or the page SpotAzores to check the weather conditions at the locations you will visit.

Must-Do Activities in São Miguel

Check out some of the most sought-after activities currently available on GetYourGuide: