Miradouro do Cintrão

Sao Miguel Island in Azores, Portugal is filled with vibrant lakes, volcanos, lush trails, hot springs, hydrangeas, and black sand beaches. Get insights into hidden coves untouched by time, trails that lead to the heart of the island, and gastronomic secrets that dance on the palate. Packed with insider tips, breathtaking imagery, and curated itineraries, this guide is your passport to an island less traveled✨ I share everything you need to know in organized lists, and how to split up your days on the island. You can expect: 🗺 Interactive google map with everything pinned (75 pins) ❓ FAQ and other tips (such as transportation and how to split your days/activities up on the island) 🥾 Hiking trails + waterfalls (AllTrails links included) 🔍 Viewpoints for simple yet insane sights (TripAdvisor links included) 🍲 Restaurants (menu linked when available) 🏝 Beaches 💧 Hot springs & Thermal baths 🛶 Tours with links (free options also listed) 🏨 Recommended accommodations (Includes budget, mid-range, and luxury options for the following regions: Ponta Delgada, Furnas, Ribeira Grande, and Sete Cidades) 📱 Useful apps & websites 📍 BONUS: 1 week recommended itinerary + 4 day recommended itinerary ____________________________________________ **I do make a small kickback at no cost to you on some of the tours and accommodations listed on this guide** Make sure to save this guide + tag me in your adventures @theguidedtravels. I know you’ll love the island as much as I did, and I would love to see where you decide to go(:

Welcome to the Azores, a group of nine volcanic islands and an autonomous region of Portugal in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean! Often referred to as the "Hawaii of Europe," these islands will amaze you with their breath-taking scenery, adorable towns, and many unique activities. The Azores are still an off-the-beaten-path destination, so you'll enjoy a quiet and nature-filled escape without compromising on wonderful food and experiences. This guide is a full five-day itinerary that will introduce you to the Green Island of the Azores, Sao Miguel - the easiest island to get to and around, and the largest and most populated of the nine. Five days is the perfect amount of time to see all sides of the island at a relaxed pace, with flexible time to do what you're most excited about - hiking, eating & drinking wine, swimming in hot springs, etc. The itinerary is based around having a car to drive around the island (and I include information about how to rent one!). For each of these five days, I give you a full list of recommended activities based on the must-see sights and attractions of Sao Miguel, from exploring historic Ponta Delgada, getting to the best viewpoints over the island's iconic lakes and coasts, going whale watching, relaxing in natural thermal hotsprings, and having wonderful dining experiences. I've included options based on your interests (relaxation, nature, culture), so it's easy to pick just one if you want a slower pace, or scale up if you're the kind of traveler who wants to do it all. I also provide recommended restaurants, bars, and accommodations around the island where you'll be staying. There's truly something for everyone in Sao Miguel, and with this guide, you'll have the perfect foundation and ease of mind to make the trip your own!