Visiting São Miguel in 5 days – Complete Itinerary and Guide
Atualizado: 3 de March de 2026
Visiting São Miguel Island in 5 days is an excellent option, although we always recommend staying for as many days as possible.
Even so, we are sure it will always feel too short. But think of it this way, it’s just another reason to return to the Açores.
Before the 5-day itinerary for São Miguel Island, let’s start with the most important part: your trip and your stay. Given the limited number of days, we recommend checking out these São Miguel travel packages on sale, which often include flights, accommodation, and sometimes a car.
The earlier you book your trip, the better prices you’ll generally find.
There isn’t one ideal time to travel; we can say that it’s always an excellent destination choice throughout the year. Obviously, in the winter months, rain tends to be more frequent, but there are always things to do in São Miguel when it rains.
To get around São Miguel Island, renting a car is recommended, giving you more freedom regarding schedules and travel to the places we’ll share in this itinerary.
However, if you don’t like driving or plan to travel differently, we also have some solutions:
Guided Tours / Group Excursions: If you prefer to follow routes with specialized tourist guides who will explain everything about São Miguel Island like no one else, this could be a good option. You can book various tours around São Miguel here.
Regarding the range of activities on São Miguel Island, the list is quite extensive. We recommend you consult the activities page and check which ones you’d like to do.
Given the high demand for some activities, we always recommend booking in advance to guarantee your tickets and/or participation. To book activities, we recommend GetYourGuide or Civitatis.
With your trip, accommodation, vehicle, and activities sorted, it’s time to start your 5-day itinerary for São Miguel Island.
5-Day São Miguel Itinerary
✅ The itinerary below was designed by byAçores after a stay on São Miguel Island, with the team having travelled to the various locations listed below and in the order presented, to ensure smooth execution in terms of time and travel.
👉🏻 Based on a stay in Ponta Delgada, which will always be the starting point for each day. Ideal departure time: 09:00
Day 01 – 5-Day São Miguel Itinerary
Depart from Ponta Delgada towards Sete Cidades. After passing the parish of Relva, we recommend you head towards Covoada. Enjoy the scenery as you make your way to the first must-see stop listed below.
Miradouro do Pico do Carvão
This fantastic viewpoint offers a panoramic view of both the north and south coasts of São Miguel Island. A mandatory stop.
Lagoa das Empadadas
Following the national road, a few kilometers after your previous stop, you will find the entrance to the Lagoa das Empadadas. You will be able to observe two fantastic lakes up close and/or from a viewpoint.
Note: The access road to these lakes is slightly steep and/or can become a bit slippery on rainy days. If you don’t feel comfortable driving in these conditions, park the car at the entrance and walk.
Lagoa do Canário
One of the most popular lakes 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 lake 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 observe several lagoons simultaneously, including the Lagoa das Sete Cidades. A true paradise on earth.
Note: to reach the viewpoint, you will need to follow a short, somewhat inclined dirt trail. We recommend wearing suitable footwear.
Miradouro da Vista do Rei
Leaving Lagoa do Canário, it’s time to continue your journey to another fantastic viewpoint that offers a privileged view of Lagoa das Sete Cidades, the Miradouro da Vista do Rei.
Curiosity: At this location, you will find an abandoned hotel called Hotel Monte Palace. You can learn more about it here. Although you may have seen photos of tourists inside, entry into the current ruins is strictly prohibited for safety reasons.
Sete Cidades
You should now head towards the center of Sete Cidades. Until you arrive, you will travel along one of the most famous roads which, in spring and summer, is adorned with beautiful hydrangeas.
Upon arriving in Sete Cidades, admire up close the unique beauty of Lagoa das Sete Cidades from the various stopping points around its shores. A magical and unique place. Enjoy.
There are several activities you can enjoy in Sete Cidades, such as renting a canoe to get up close to the waters of Lagoa das Sete Cidades and explore the lagoon from a different perspective.
Summary on the map of the points and route taken 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 Ilhéus dos Mosteiros (Mosteiros Islets), located in the middle of the sea.
Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado
From this viewpoint, you can also get a different perspective of the Mosteiros area and also see the Ponta da Ferraria area, your next stop.
Ponta da Ferraria
At Ponta da Ferraria, you can enjoy thermal baths at the Ferraria Thermal Springs. Given the existence of a thermal complex, it is possible to bathe in natural pools, in the sea with hot water of volcanic origin. A unique experience.
Ponta da Ferraria Lighthouse
The Ponta da Ferraria Lighthouse attracts many tourists due to its location and architecture. It is possible to visit the interior of the Lighthouse only on Wednesdays, the day guided tours are offered.
Return to Ponta Delgada
Next, you should head back towards your starting point, Ponta Delgada. As you approach the city, you will pass through the parishes of Ginetes, Candelária, Feteiras, and Relva. Enjoy these areas and feel free to stop at any points of interest that you encounter or that are marked along the way.
Map summary of the afternoon route:
Once you are in Ponta Delgada, depending on your arrival time, here are a few suggestions for what you can do:
A fantastic city with much to explore, we recommend a walk through its historic center. An excellent spot for swimming enthusiasts: the Natural Pools of Ribeira Grande.
Areal de Santa Bárbara
Areal de Santa Bárbara Beach: One of the top beaches for Surfing and one of the most popular on the island. A very extensive sandy area with a partial view of the island’s north coast.
Miradouro de Santa Iria
Miradouro da Ponta de Santa Iria: We consider this one of the most emblematic viewpoints on São Miguel Island and the one we always stop at when traveling to the northern part of the island. Its view over the coast and the sea is unique and deserves to be appreciated.
Chá Porto Formoso
At the Porto Formoso Tea Factory, you can appreciate its fantastic plantation up close, learn about its history, and enjoy a guided tour followed by a tea tasting.
Chá Gorreana
Not far from the previous spot, you will find the Gorreana Tea Factory. Its plantation is quite extensive, and you can walk through it, learn about the manufacturing process up close, and also taste the various types of tea produced.
A fantastic park to explore and wander through. You will find several streams and waterfalls. One of the main and most popular waterfalls is located here: Cascata do Parque da Ribeira dos Caldeirões:
Cascata Ribeira dos Caldeirões – Achada, Nordeste Fotografia de Lchacal
Vila do Nordeste
The Vila do Nordeste is located in the Municipality of Nordeste, the most flowery municipality on São Miguel Island. You will understand why at one of the next stops. In the meantime, we recommend having lunch in Nordeste to recharge your energy for the afternoon.
In the center of the town, you will find one of the most emblematic bridges, the Ponte dos 7 Arcos.
Its location is impressive, and only the bravest will manage to drive down there. If you don’t feel comfortable, leave your vehicle on the main road and walk down. You can visit the Ponta do Arnel Lighthouse.
Ponta do Sossego and Ponta da Madrugada Viewpoints
Two of the most beautiful viewpoints on São Miguel Island, owing to their abundance of flora and fauna, location, and the pristine conditions in which they are kept. They are always clean and well-maintained. It is also at Ponta da Madrugada that you can witness the most spectacular sunrise.
Route summary on map:
Return to Ponta Delgada
As you head back to your starting point, we have a suggestion for a small detour that could become one of the most fantastic experiences you’ll enjoy during your stay:
Poça da Dona Beija – Furnas
Although Furnas is scheduled for the next day’s itinerary, after a long day exploring the north coast and Nordeste, there’s nothing quite like enjoying the warm thermal waters to relax. It’s likely getting dark by the time you’re returning to Ponta Delgada. Perfect, no problem at all, as Poça da Dona Beija closes at 11:00 PM.
Since Furnas has two locations with warm thermal waters (Poça da Dona Beija and Parque Terra Nostra), by enjoying the evening at this one, tomorrow will be dedicated to exploring Parque Terra Nostra and having another unique experience.
After your thermal water bath, dine in Furnas or return to Ponta Delgada for a well-deserved rest. Alternatively, head to the city center and enjoy the nightlife.
Day 3 – 5-Day São Miguel Itinerary
Certainly, after a relaxing night in the warm thermal waters and a good night’s sleep, you’re all set to continue exploring the Green Island.
Today we’ll visit the Municipality of Povoação. We’ll depart from Ponta Delgada, heading towards Vila Franca do Campo (taking the southern coast of the island). You can stop at the viewpoints that appear along the way until our first planned stop. As we’ll explore Vila Franca do Campo on Day 4, we’ll head straight to Furnas:
Although not widely publicized and situated on terrain that’s difficult to access by car, Castelo Branco offers the chance to observe one of the most fantastic panoramic views of São Miguel Island. On one side, you’ll see Lagoa das Furnas, and on the other, Vila Franca do Campo and other towns on São Miguel Island. We recommend parking your car at the entrance and walking to the castle.
Lagoa das Furnas
Lagoa das Furnas – Vista aérea Fotografia de Lchacal
The vast and beautiful Lagoa das Furnas is one of the most stunning spots in Furnas. This area is home to several attractions, such as the famous pits where the Furnas Stew is cooked, walking trails around the lake, and the Furnas Monitoring and Research Centre. Admire this fantastic lake and enjoy moments of pure relaxation.
In the heart of the Furnas Valley, the Caldeiras das Furnas are notable for their fumaroles, stemming from the secondary volcanic activity present in the area.
The power of some of these caldeiras is immense. In one of them, especially during the summer, you can see corn on the cob being cooked:
Parque Terra Nostra
One of the most beautiful parks in the world, Parque Terra Nostra, is a botanical garden with an enormous variety of plants and trees, as well as several lakes, streams, and, of course, the famous orange-hued thermal hot spring pool that you’ve surely seen in many photos and videos.
The park is vast, so if you wish to explore it thoroughly and at a leisurely pace, you might have a little less time for the following itinerary stops. However, since you have 5 days, you can adjust your schedule accordingly. To bathe in the warm thermal waters, don’t forget to check these tips.
Before or after visiting Parque Terra Nostra, consider having lunch in Furnas and tasting the fantastic Furnas Stew, cooked in the pits near Lagoa das Furnas. See the list of Restaurants here >
Ribeira Quente
As you leave the village of Furnas towards Ribeira Quente, you’ll pass through a tunnel, the famous Ribeira Quente Tunnel. Midway through the tunnel, there’s a small opening where you’ll find a fantastic waterfall on your right (direction Furnas > Ribeira Quente):
Túnel Ribeira Quente, Povoação Fotografia de ByAçores
It’s in Ribeira Quente that you’ll find one of the most stunning beaches on São Miguel Island, Praia do Fogo, located in a bay surrounded by great natural beauty.
Praia do Fogo, Ribeira Quente Fotografia de ByAçores
Povoação
m.48.55edbb471950aff34c76802e50adcc9c946d4ac5 Fotografia de Pico Dreams
Povoação is a village and the seat of a municipality, located on the southeastern coast of São Miguel Island. This municipality boasts immense attractions, being equally rich in natural beauty, fauna, and flora.
The tranquility of Povoação, combined with its points of interest, makes it one of the most beautiful places on the Island. Notable areas include Furnas, which we’ve already covered, Ribeira Quente, and then the fantastic Faial da Terra.
Faial da Terra is a magical place on São Miguel Island. A small locality very rich in nature, with highlights including Sanguinho and its fantastic Cascata do Salto do Prego waterfall. If you have time, take this trail deep into nature and you’ll discover one of the most beautiful secrets kept in this locality.
Faial da Terra – Vista aérea Fotografia de ByAçores
Caloura
To end the day, heading from Faial da Terra towards Ponta Delgada along the southern route, we’ll finish at Caloura. One of the most beautiful coastal areas on the Island, its fishing port and natural swimming pool are particularly striking.
Tip: Have dinner in the Caloura or Lagoa area and enjoy the fantastic fresh fish found here.
Route summary on map:
Activities on São Miguel Island you can do
If you wish to participate in any of the activities listed below, we recommend booking in advance to guarantee your ticket/participation. Given the high demand for some activities, book as soon as possible:
We are on the fourth day of our itinerary, and you have certainly seen and done many things during your stay on the Green Island. Today, we will get to know and explore Vila Franca do Campo.
Departing from Ponta Delgada, we will again take the south 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
Caloura, Vista Miradouro do Pisão Fotografia de ByAçores
On the way to Vila Franca do Campo, you will find Miradouro do Pisão. This magnificent viewpoint offers a privileged view of Caloura, Água D’Alto, and the Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo.
Praia de Água D’Alto
This beach stretches for about 560 meters and is set in a beautiful landscape, surrounded by mountains and lush greenery. The sea water is calm and crystal clear. It is located between Miradouro do Pisão and the center of Vila Franca do Campo.
Considered one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world, Lagoa do Congro is a hidden treasure on the island, located off the traditional tourist route. Due to its difficult access and the requirement of a somewhat long hike through vegetation, not everyone ventures to discover it.
Vila Franca do Campo com ilhéu ao fundo Fotografia de Nuno Vieira
Vila Franca do Campo is rich in history, natural heritage, and architecture. It is in this locality that you will have a privileged and ever-present view of the Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo. Enjoy the nature of the entire municipality as well as its historic center.
Miradouro / Ermida Nossa Senhora da Paz
Vila Franca do Campo vista do Miradouro Nossa Senhora da Paz Fotografia de Lchacal
The view from the Miradouro da Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Paz, in Vila Franca do Campo, offers a unique perspective over the entire town and the Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo. More about the Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Paz here.
Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo
Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo – Vista aérea III Fotografia de Lchacal
Off the south coast of the island of São Miguel, in the Açores 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, catches the eye with its shape and proximity, being less than a kilometer away.
The Queijadas da Vila Franca do Campo are famous and no one is indifferent to them. At the Queijadas da Vila do Morgado facilities, you can observe the entire process of making these fantastic queijadas up close and, of course, taste them.
Take advantage of the rest of the day to stroll through other places and points of interest on São Miguel Island. Being close to Furnas, if you haven’t experienced the hot thermal spring baths at Poça da Dona Beija at night or even if you want to repeat it, it’s an excellent option for a relaxing late afternoon.
Route summary on map:
Day 5 – São Miguel 5-Day Itinerary
We’ve reached the last day of our itinerary. By now, you’ll have many images, memories, experiences, and moments that you’ll never forget. But let’s make the most of this trip and enjoy the final day, shall we?
Spend the morning exploring the Historic Center of Ponta Delgada (if you haven’t already done so at night or on other occasions during the itinerary). See the must-see spots in Ponta Delgada here >
Ponta Delgada vista da torre Sineira da Câmara Municipal Fotografia de Helena Botelho
Have lunch in the center of Ponta Delgada; in the afternoon, we’ll explore more of the island.
After lunch, head towards Caldeira Velha. Another excellent spot where you can enjoy hot thermal waters. It is at Caldeira Velha that you will also find one of the most famous waterfalls in the Açores, which you have surely seen in various promotional materials for the Azores destination, in this case, for São Miguel Island.
Caldeira Velha, Ribeira Grande Fotografia de Lchacal
You can learn more about visiting this location, prices, and tips here >
After a dip in the warm thermal waters at Caldeira Velha, we head towards Lagoa do Fogo. This is also one of the most beautiful lakes on São Miguel Island.
Continue towards Lagoa, this time along the southern side, taking in the views of São Miguel Island’s south coast. In the city of Lagoa, its natural swimming pools are a highlight.
We’ve reached the end of our 5-day itinerary on São Miguel Island. As this is the last day, the number of activities and/or places to visit is slightly reduced, allowing for some rest or time to do some souvenir shopping and pick up some Azorean products to take home.
Notes:
The itinerary/routes presented are merely suggestions. You can always add to and/or alter them, or change the order of the days, according to the tourist spots you wish to visit and/or the weather conditions.
We recommend that you always plan your route for the next day in advance and pay attention to the weather forecasts.
Always use the SpotAzores app or website to check the weather conditions at the locations you will be visiting.
Must-do activities in São Miguel
Check out some of the most popular activities right now on GetYourGuide:
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