Discover São Miguel in 3 Days: The Perfect Itinerary to Explore the Island

I’ve crafted this 3-day itinerary in São Miguel as the perfect blend of hiking, beaches, cultural experiences, and relaxation. For me, walking and exploring trails is key to truly experiencing the lush nature of the Azores. So lace up your hiking boots and dive in!

Following this itinerary, you’ll discover São Miguel’s most iconic and captivating sites, taking in its contrasts — from verdant forests and volcanic landscapes to bubbling calderas and lava-carved coastlines.

Accommodation in São Miguel Island

If you don’t know where to stay for these three days in São Miguel, I recommend that you choose the central area: that way you’ll be close to everything. Although the island may seem small, it’s quite long from east to west, so staying there will save you from having to spend a lot of time driving.

Where to Stay?

Ponta Delgada, the capital, is a viable option if, in addition to touring the island, you want to be close to bars, restaurants, some live music, or even nightlife. Ribeira Grande or Vila Franca do Campo are great options for those who prefer tranquility and a deeper connection with nature. Choosing a rural house in these central areas, like Pico da Pedra or Santa Bárbara, will provide a serene environment perfect for enjoying the island’s natural beauty.

To make your stay easier, we’ve narrowed down the options for you. For various choices in accommodations, check out Airbnb for unique stays or Booking.com for hotels, guesthouses, and rural homes throughout São Miguel. Both platforms offer options across the island to suit different preferences and budgets, making it easy to find the perfect base for your trip.

Start Your Adventure (Day 1): Exploring the West of São Miguel

This 3-day itinerary in São Miguel begins at Mercado da Graça (Farmers Market) in Ponta Delgada, where you can purchase local produce for a picnic lunch. I love this plan in the Azores because there are ideal spots for outdoor dining. You’ll find it open Monday to Friday from 7:30 AM to 7:00 PM, and on Saturdays until 2:00 PM.

Explore Lagoa das Sete Cidades

Then drive to the Lagoa das Sete Cidades. This is one of the must-sees on the island. Surely, the most photographed spot. Stop at the viewpoints you find along the road so you can appreciate the impressive views.

For me, there’s no better way to enjoy the lakes than by walking. Park at Lagoa do Cánario, where you’ll find signs indicating the start of the Serra Devassa Hiking Trail (PRC05 SMI).

Did you know

The Serra Devassa Hiking Trail (PRC05 SMI) is a circular route of medium difficulty, spanning 4.9 km with an estimated walking time of 2 hours. This trail offers an immersive experience in the lush nature of São Miguel, allowing hikers to explore the region’s natural beauty.

You’ll traverse the Serra Devassa area, home to São Miguel Island’s largest lagoons, including Lagoa das Éguas, Lagoa Rasa, and Lagoa do Carvão. Along the way, you’ll also encounter the aqueduct known as “Muro das Nove Janelas,” which historically transported water to Ponta Delgada.

Once you finish, consider taking a stroll from the parking area to Lagoa do Canário and the Miradouro da Grota do Inferno for stunning views over the crater lakes and lush landscapes of São Miguel.

Lunch Break at Lagoa das Sete Cidades

After finishing the trail, you’ll likely have worked up an appetite, so make your way to the peaceful picnic area by “Blue Lake.” Marked on Google Maps as a “picnic area” near the “water tunnel,” this spot is ideal for a relaxing break.

Here, you can savor your lunch amid lush greenery, with the soft sounds of birdsong and rustling leaves adding to the tranquil atmosphere. Take in the scenic views of the lake, recharge, and immerse yourself in the serene surroundings before continuing on your journey through São Miguel.

Kayaking Adventure

Now for the highlight of the day! After lunch, one of my favorite activities is to rent a kayak and glide over the calm, tranquil lake waters — perfect for relaxing and unwinding. Kayaks are available for rent from nearby shops, letting you spend a peaceful hour immersed in nature.

Futurismo offers rentals at an affordable €12, and booking at least a day in advance is recommended to secure your spot for this serene experience.

→ Book here!

Sunset at Mosteiros Beach

Now completely relaxed, let’s go enjoy one of the most beautiful sunsets in the Azores. From the stunning black sand beach of Mosteiros, you can watch the sunset behind the islets. There are also a few bars nearby if you want to have a drink.

Midway Through (Day 2): Discovering the Heart of São Miguel

The second day of this 3-Day Itinerary in São Miguel will embark you on one of the most beautiful, complete, and enjoyable trails in the Azores: the Rota da Água — Janela do Inferno (PRC37 SMI).

Quick Info

This circular trail, classified as easy, spans 7.6 kilometers and takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete. Hikers will encounter several tunnels along the route, so it’s advisable to bring a torch for the hike.

Starting the Trail

Start the trail next to Casa da Água, walk down the path, pass the picnic area and take the secondary road to Água de Pau on the left (it is very well signposted). Follow the signs, and you will reach Janela do Inferno: a vertical wall rich in springs with a cavity created by water erosion. Take the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of this place and regain your strength. Along the way, you will see many aqueducts, some of which currently supply the municipality with public water. 

Next, we will head to Ribeira Grande for lunch, where there are many restaurants. On the way, stop at the Miradouro do Pico da Barrosa for a panoramic view of Lagoa do Fogo and the surrounding landscape. If time permits, you can also visit the Cascata do Salto do Cabrito, which is accessible by car.

Exploring Ribeira Grande

Once in Ribeira Grande, stroll through the historic center, known for its well-preserved 17th and 18th-century architecture. Then try one of the local restaurants that serve traditional Azorean cuisine. Don’t miss specialties such as fresh fish and seafood, limpets, cheese, beef pot roast, or grilled mackerel.

Another activity you can enjoy is exploring the local market, where you’ll find a vibrant display of fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional products unique to the Azores. In addition to the market, don’t miss the small shops specializing in ceramics, woven items, and other locally crafted goods, each one offering a piece of Azorean heritage to take home. These items make for authentic souvenirs, supporting local artisans and capturing the island’s cultural spirit.

Afternoon at Santa Barbara Beach

Next, a great plan is to go to Praia de Santa Bárbara. It is beautiful, surrounded by cliffs and has an international atmosphere among tourists and surfers. There are several surf schools here because it has good waves. If you swim, be careful because there is a strong current. It also has some bars and restaurants where you can have a drink facing the sea.

Final Explorations (Day 3): Unveiling the East of São Miguel

Today we are going to visit another part of the island that left me speechless when I visited it.

Tea at Gorreana Plantation

On the way there you will find the oldest tea factory in Europe, the Gorreana plantation, so it is ideal for a first stop in the morning and to have tea. They let you try it for free on the terrace, looking at the crops. Don’t miss walking through the tea plants or even visiting the factory from the inside. There you will see the old machines that were used and learn about the process.

Now, let’s visit one of the most impressive places on the island, where a phenomenon occurs that is not very common. In fact, of all the Azores islands, it only occurs in San Miguel. These are volcanic fumaroles. Areas where the magma is closer to the surface, heating it and causing the water to boil or smoke to come out from between the rocks.

Views from Pico do Ferro Viewpoint

The first stop is the Miradouro do Pico do Ferro, from where you can see the Lagoa das Furnas from above, and begin to appreciate the smoke from the geothermal activity. Now go down there to see it up close.

Visit Caldeiras das Furnas

Then go to another nearby area, the Caldeiras das Furnas, where you will see even more impressive demonstrations of this phenomenon.

Here, you can walk among active fumaroles releasing clouds of steam and a strong sulfur smell, witnessing the geothermal activity of the island up close. The area is filled with small, bubbling pools naturally heated by volcanic energy.

At some of these fumaroles, locals cook the traditional Furnas stew, using the underground heat to prepare this unique and emblematic dish of Azorean cuisine.

Trying the Traditional Furnas Stew

You’ve probably heard about “Cozido das Furnas” — the stew from Furnas. They cook many types of meat and vegetables underground for hours, with the heat of the volcano. The meat is super tender. There are many specialized restaurants where you can try it, but since it’s so touristy, they tend to be very full, so it’s best to book before you go.

Relaxing at Thermal Waters of Terra Nostra Park

You will surely end up very full after this heavy meal. Very close by are the natural hot springs, the best for a relaxing spa session outdoors. My favorite is Terra Nostra because the pool is big, it is not so crowded, and it has a beautiful botanical garden. The orange color of the water is given by the iron.

A few tips…

Towels and swimwear may get dyed, so it’s best to bring older items. Moreover, avoid submerging your hair as it can become very dry.

Stunning Views at Nossa Senhora da Paz

Before heading back to your accommodation, take a moment to visit the Nossa Senhora da Paz viewpoint, where you’ll be treated to sweeping views over the iconic Islet of Vila Franca.

This spot offers not only breathtaking panoramas but also a peaceful setting that captures the beauty of São Miguel, making it an ideal stop to reflect on the day’s adventures.

Complementary Information

Useful Tools & Apps

The weather in the Azores can be variable, so it’s helpful to use some apps before visiting the islands. Spotazores offers live camera feeds from the main tourist attractions, letting you check the weather and plan your visit. For accurate weather predictions, use Windy or Windguru — they provide the most reliable predictions.

How to Get to São Miguel Island

São Miguel Island is easily accessible with numerous flight routes. Lisbon and Porto are the main entry points to the continent, with direct flights to Ponta Delgada available. To find the best flight, use search engines like eDreams or Skyscanner.

These platforms allow you to compare prices and schedules from different airlines in one place. For more details on how to get to the Azores, look at our guide. Once you find the perfect flight, book it! You’ll reach one of the world’s most beautiful island groups in a few hours.

Best Season to Visit São Miguel Island

São Miguel Island, part of the Eastern Group of the Azores Archipelago, has a unique climate shaped by various factors. This climate fosters the island’s lush vegetation and stunning landscapes. Temperatures stay mild year-round, with only slight variations.

In spring, temperatures average 16 °C, summer peaks at 21 °C, autumn cools to 18 °C, and winter hovers around 14 °C. For more details on the weather in the Azores, take a look at the following links:

• The weather in the Azores in January
• The weather in the Azores in February
• The weather in the Azores in March
• The weather in the Azores in April
• The weather in the Azores in May
• The weather in the Azores in July
• The weather in the Azores in August

Cultural Agenda of São Miguel Island

São Miguel Island hosts a wide range of cultural events throughout the year. The complete list of events is on the cultural agenda!

Video of São Miguel Island

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy this 3-day itinerary in São Miguel. With it, you will be able to see the essentials of the island and combine hiking with the beach and gastronomy, while getting to know the Azorean culture.

This 3-day itinerary in São Miguel offers a rich and diverse experience, perfect for those looking to explore the island’s natural and cultural beauty. Enjoy the variety of experiences the island has to offer, such as hiking scenic trails, tasting the delicious local cuisine — including the famous Furnas stew — and relaxing in the thermal waters.

By the end of this itinerary, you’ll have explored the best of São Miguel, from lush forests to volcanic landscapes, creating unforgettable memories. Get ready to fall in love with this unique island that combines nature, culture, and hospitality at every turn.

FAQs

What is included in the 3-day itinerary in São Miguel?

This itinerary features a perfect mix of hiking, stunning beaches, cultural experiences, and opportunities for relaxation. You’ll explore iconic sites, from lush forests and volcanic terrains to bubbling calderas and beautiful coastlines.

Why is walking emphasized in the itinerary?

Walking is highlighted as it allows for a deeper connection with the Azores’ lush nature. Exploring trails lets you appreciate the diverse landscapes and hidden gems that São Miguel has to offer.

What types of attractions will I discover on this itinerary?

You’ll encounter São Miguel’s most iconic attractions, including picturesque lakes, volcanic landscapes, charming villages, and breathtaking viewpoints. The itinerary showcases the island’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

Is this itinerary suitable for beginners and experienced hikers?

Yes, the itinerary caters to all fitness levels. It includes various trails and activities, ensuring that both beginners and experienced hikers can enjoy the stunning landscapes and unique experiences in São Miguel.

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