Azores, Portugal — Girl’s Trip Itinerary: The Ultimate Getaway to São Miguel

If you’re craving a trip that feels wildly relaxing, effortlessly stunning, and culturally rich without being overrun by tourists, let me introduce you to the Azores; the Azores is a group of nine volcanic islands located in the North Atlantic Ocean, about 900 miles west of mainland Portugal, known for its lush landscapes, crater lakes, and geothermal hot springs. In April 2024, my girlfriends and I flew to São Miguel (the biggest island in the Azores, Portugal) for one of the most iconic, unforgettable trips we’ve ever done. Think: hot springs under the stars, hikes through lush jungles to hidden waterfalls, spontaneous gelato runs, and cappuccinos on cobblestone streets.

Let’s unpack…

This itinerary is full of adventure, leisure, and local culture. It’s the perfect guide for your first trip to the Azores. Whether you’re planning your own girls’ getaway or dreaming of solo travels, you’ll want to bookmark this one. Plus, don’t forget, all my outfits are included too—because you know I’ve got you covered on that front!

But first…

If you’re new here, I’m Taylor! I create content all about travel, fashion, and business/social media growth. If you love what I’m wearing, you can follow my outfit inspo at @whattaylorwore and shop my jewelry brand, Taylor Soul Designs, at https://www.taylorsouldesigns.com. Also, if you want even more behind-the-scenes on how I get free travel stays along with tips and social media secrets, come subscribe to my Patreon, I’d love to have you there!

Travel Day + Where We Stayed

Arrival in the Azores + Transportation
We flew SATA Airlines direct from JFK to Ponta Delgada on São Miguel Island, and the travel couldn’t have been smoother. Our flight left NYC Friday night and landed around 6:45 AM Saturday, which meant we had a full day ahead of us to settle in, explore, and try not to crash from the overnight travel. After landing, we had pre-booked a roundtrip airport transfer for 60€ total (about $10 per person), which made arriving with seven girls super easy.

Pro tip: Pack a hoodie or travel pillow because it’s a red-eye and you’ll definitely want some rest before the fun begins.

Neat Hotel Avenida, Ponta Delgada

For our home base in the Azores, we stayed at Neat Hotel Avenida in Ponta Delgada—and honestly, it was perfect for our girl gang of seven. We booked three rooms and loved that we were all just a few steps away from each other (ideal for spontaneous nights and last-minute outfit approvals). The hotel has this modern, boutique charm with clean lines and fresh coastal vibes, but still feels cozy and welcoming. Every morning, we started our day with their breakfast spread—which was such a lifesaver before heading out on hikes or island road trips.

We did consider booking an Airbnb, but for this trip, a hotel just made more sense for us. It was centrally located, walkable to cute restaurants and shops, and we didn’t have to worry about transportation or buying groceries and dealing with all the logistics. Plus, there’s something really nice about having a front desk and daily housekeeping when you’re traveling with a big group, it just made everything feel smoother and more relaxed. Neat Hotel was the perfect mix of convenience, comfort, and cute Euro charm, I would absolutely stay here again.

Things We Did

From jaw-dropping viewpoints to nighttime hot springs under the stars, our week in the Azores was packed with unforgettable moments. We hiked through lush greenery, canyoned down waterfalls (yes, actual waterfalls), and soaked in volcanic thermal baths that felt like something out of a dream. Each day brought a new adventure—and somehow, everything still felt so peaceful and untouched. If you’re looking for nature, thrill, and wow, is this even real? energy, this island delivers. Here is a list of the “must try” things I recommend you do in the Azores:

Outdoor Adventures

• Salto do Prego Hike – Map + Tips
  • This hike in Faial da Terra ended up being one of the highlights of our trip—rain and all. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from our hotel in Ponta Delgada, and we arranged roundtrip transportation through our guide for 140€ total (around $22 per person, which was super reasonable for the distance). The trail itself felt straight out of a movie, winding through mossy forest paths, alongside waterfalls, and past a small, almost hidden village tucked into the greenery. We crossed little bridges, said hi to chickens that roamed like locals, and even made a cat friend who guided us for part of the way. Despite the rain, or maybe because of it, the whole hike had a cozy, enchanted feel that made it unforgettable.

• Canyoning in Ribeira da Salga – Book Here
  • Adrenaline lovers…this is a MUST! We went canyoning in Ribeira da Salga for $95pp, which included gear, water, and transportation. It was physically demanding but insanely fun. Afterward, our guide Joel brought us to a local gem: Os Melos Restaurante — authentic, hearty food, and then we toured the Gorreana Tea Factory. (We also rescued a baby bird, NBD.)

• Gorreana Tea Factory
  • This stop was such a cool vibe after a long morning of canyoning. Gorreana is Europe’s oldest tea plantation, and you can take a free self-guided tour through the factory to see how their green and black teas are made. We loved the rustic feel of the space, and the samples were delicious. Fun fact: one of the girls and Joel even rescued a little bird, instant core memory. If you’re into tea or just want a cozy, scenic pit stop, this place is totally worth it. And yes, I did buy several bags of tea and goodies to take home with me.

• Furnas Night Hot Springs – Tour Info
  • Absolutely magical. For $75pp, we had a private tour that included a relaxing soak in the steaming thermal baths under the stars—truly one of the most peaceful moments of the trip (no photos were taken for proof, but just trust me when I say it was amazing). After our swim, we had a cozy dinner at Tony’s (don’t skip the cozido stew!) and ended the night with the coolest little science-meets-nature moment at Chalet da Tia Mercês: a glowing tea that literally turned purple right before our eyes. The tea starts out green, but when mixed with geothermally heated water from the volcanic springs, it transforms into a vibrant purple hue—like a mini chemistry lesson in a teacup. The tea is locally sourced from one of the island’s famous plantations (Gorreana or Porto Formoso), and paired with homemade treats, it was the perfect ending to an already dreamy evening.

• Ponta da Ferraria – Map
  A hot spring in the ocean! The natural thermal waters mix with the Atlantic here, creating a super unique (and very Instagrammable) spot. The water was rough the day we went, so only a few brave souls in our group made it into the swirling waves, but it was still absolutely worth the visit. The dramatic cliffs, black lava rocks, and crashing surf made it feel like we were on the edge of the world. Even if you just stay on the rocks and take it all in, it’s a must-see.

Full Day Tour: Sete Cidades + Lagoa do Fogo – Tour Info

For €75/$82pp, we got a full-day (9am–5pm) guided tour through jaw-dropping viewpoints, a pineapple plantation (Ananás dos Açores), and dolphin spotting over lunch at Ondas do Mar. Our Tour guide, Pedro, who one of the girls actually met ten years ago on her first Azores trip was the ultimate local hookup, taking us to incredible views all over the island. Here is a little breakdown of our day, and I highly recommend doing this if you want to hit all the key points of the island.

• Centro de Interpretação Ambiental da Caldeira Velha
  • This stop was such a cool combo of nature and education. Nestled in the forest, Caldeira Velha is full of geothermal magic, steaming hot springs, bubbling waters, and even a waterfall you can swim under. There’s also an eco-center where we learned about the volcanic origins of the island, making it feel like we were walking through a real-life science lesson (with spa perks). You can also do this at your own leisure, book here.

• Fábrica de Licores – A Mulher de Capote
  • We made a quick stop here and a little tour which was so interesting. The girls got to sample all kinds of local liqueurs made from passionfruit, pineapple, and other island fruits. It’s a family-owned spot with a cozy, old-school vibe, and tasting everything straight from the source was a fun way to get a little tipsy off island tradition, I had a great time just watching their reactions. You can even buy small bottles to bring home, too!

• Ondas do Mar
  • This seaside spot was a total hidden gem—laid-back, welcoming, and perched right above the waves with unreal views of the Atlantic. We stopped here for lunch during our day tour, and just as we sat down, a pod of dolphins started swimming right in front of us. It felt like a scene out of a movie—one of those “is this even real?” kind of moments. The food was incredibly fresh, with local flavors that really captured the heart of Azorean cuisine—simple, seasonal, and straight from the sea. Think grilled fish, hearty potatoes, and house-made sauces that taste like someone’s grandmother made them. The atmosphere was warm and unpretentious, the kind of place where locals linger over meals and chat with the staff. And to top it all off, they brought us a free dessert just because we were enjoying ourselves so much. It was one of those meals that made us feel truly immersed in the culture—where the food, the view, and the people all came together perfectly.

• Plantação de Ananás dos Açores – Pineapple Bar
  • Azorean pineapples are on a whole other level—sweeter, smaller, and packed with flavor—and this plantation gave us the full behind-the-scenes look at how they’re grown. Our guide Pedro walked us through the warm greenhouses where we learned that it takes two whole years for each pineapple to ripen, which made every bite feel even more special. After the tour, we cooled off at the on-site Pineapple Bar where they serve pineapple every way you can imagine—juices, cocktails, cakes, even spicy pineapple mustard. It was the perfect tropical stop to break up the day, with cute photo ops and laid-back vibes all around. This place was such a fun (and tasty) way to experience a unique part of Azorean culture.

• Lagoa do Canário + Miradouro da Boca do Inferno
  • This spot felt like something out of a dream. Just a short walk from the parking area, Lagoa do Canário is a peaceful, mirror-like lake surrounded by towering trees. But the real magic happens when you keep going to Miradouro da Boca do Inferno, the most iconic viewpoint on the island. We timed our visit with some sun, and the panoramic view of Sete Cidades was absolutely breathtaking. Pro tip: it can get foggy fast, so check the weather before you go and be ready to wait it out a little if needed, it’s so worth it.

• Miradouro do Cerrado das Freiras
  • This underrated lookout gave us one of the most peaceful views of Sete Cidades. Unlike the more famous Boca do Inferno, Cerrado das Freiras felt quiet and untouched, with a stunning perspective of the twin lakes nestled in the volcanic crater. We pulled off the road for a quick stop and ended up staying longer than planned just soaking it all in. If you’re doing a Sete Cidades day, definitely add this to your list—it’s a hidden gem.

Food & Drinks

The food and drink scene in the Azores was such a big part of what made the trip unforgettable. From cozy local restaurants serving up traditional stews with ocean views, every meal felt like a warm hug. Here is a list of all the spots we tried and I would recommend to check out.

• À Terra at Octant Hotel – Menu
  • Our “fancy” “get dressed up” dinner for the first night was at À Terra at Octant Hotel. The ambiance was upscale but cozy, and the food… unreal. We ordered the bone marrow, a hearty rice dish, and desserts with cappuccinos (a trip theme!). I don’t drink, so I went for a mocktail, which was just as fun as the girls’ cocktails and wine. Highly recommend for a first-night dinner if you want something elevated but still laid-back.

• A Tasca – More Info
  • This place was such a fun spot, it was buzzing with locals and travelers. It was a perfect experience for our first lunch spot in town. We ordered tapas-style dishes and shared everything which I highly recommend because then you get to try one of everything. The vibe was super authentic and gave us a little taste of what Azorean food is all about.

• Palma Sushi – Menu
  • This might sound crazy but this was my favorite meal that we had, and quite honestly probably the best sushi I have ever had. The fish was insanely fresh, the presentation was beautiful, and the vibe felt trendy but still relaxed. We were all a little quiet while eating because we were just in shock at how good everything was. If you love sushi, this spot is not to be missed. Hands down, some of the best sushi I’ve ever had. Highly recommend!

• Jardim Natural Food & Coffee – Instagram
  • The perfect cozy breakfast spot. It had such a chill, earthy vibe with what felt like you were eating in the middle of a garden—right up my alley. I ordered a cappuccino (of course) and the most delicious stack of pancakes I have ever had. It felt like the kind of place you could hang out for hours journaling or chatting with friends. Definitely a sweet little hidden gem I’d go back to in a heartbeat. Cute, cozy, and vegetarian-friendly.

• La Gelateria – TripAdvisor
  • Our nightly tradition—and for good reason. The gelato here was unreal. I kept going back for the pistachio and black cherry combo (highly recommend), and I’m still dreaming about it. It’s a cute little spot tucked into Ponta Delgada with tons of flavors and super friendly staff. We literally couldn’t stay away, some nights we went twice. It was that good.

• Louvre Michaelense – Menu
  • A cozy café/bar with vintage charm and creative cocktails, tucked into one of the cutest corners of Ponta Delgada. We sat outside at a little table on the cobblestone street, people-watched, and even ended up chatting with some locals who gave us unforgettable memories. The inside is just as charming; think old-school decor, mismatched furniture, and a ton of character. It felt like one of those places you just stumble upon and remember forever.

Other Worthy Mentions:

• A Grega – More Info
  • A Grega was such a fun surprise! It’s this bright, modern Greek café right in the heart of Ponta Delgada, and it was perfect for a casual lunch. The food was super fresh, think vibrant salads, grilled meats, and creamy dips. The vibe was chill and airy, and we loved getting a little taste of the Mediterranean in the Azores.

• Arriba Mexican – More Info
  • This was a cool spot to switch up the flavors while in the Azores. The atmosphere was colorful and lively, making it a fun place to unwind after a day of exploring. The tacos and margaritas (which the girls enjoyed) were fresh and flavorful, and even though Mexican isn’t what you’d expect in the middle of the Atlantic, it totally hit the spot for something different.

Nightlife & Going Out

Nightlife & Going Out in Ponta Delgada was a fun mix of laid-back and lively. While I’m not a drinker, I still had such a good time joining the girls at different bars and clubs. My go-to? Cappuccinos and mocktails, and luckily, most places had great options. One of our favorites was Bar Hintze, where we stumbled into an incredible improv music night with a full band jamming live — it was so unexpected and electric. We also stopped at Etc.Osteria Bar for a cozy, stylish vibe, and scoped out Nine Dots, a hotel bar and spa that looked like a total hidden gem (we almost booked spa treatments there!). Clubs like Elite and Ibiza were open on the weekends if you’re in the mood to dance — just check their Instagram for updated hours. Below is a list of all of my favorite spots:

• Etc. Osteria Bar
  • A warm, stylish modern place. It was the perfect spot to wind down after a long day of exploring. The girls grabbed drinks while I sipped on a cappuccino, and we just enjoyed the ambiance. It felt upscale but relaxed, with great music and cozy seating. It’s located sort of inside Nine Dots Hotel, which we ended up loving, we even looked into their spa services but they were booked solid. Definitely a spot I’d return to for the atmosphere alone.

• Bar Hintze Ribeiro
  • One of the coolest surprises of the trip. Tucked into a charming corner of Ponta Delgada, this spot had a super artsy vibe with live improv music that totally set the tone for the night. It felt like stumbling into a secret creative hub, locals and visitors mixed together, great energy, and the kind of place you want to linger.

• Ibiza Club, Elite, Karma, and Raiz
  • Ibiza Club, Elite, Karma, and Raiz are the main nightlife spots in Ponta Delgada if you’re looking to dance and let loose. These clubs are only open on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and they definitely bring the party energy. While we didn’t go too hard on the nightlife during this trip, it was fun to have the option, especially after our big dinners and exploring the town. Each spot has its own vibe: Ibiza is right on the water with that classic club feel, Elite and Karma are trendier with more of a dressy crowd, and Raiz is a more laid-back bar with a cool local following. Worth checking out if you’re in the mood for music and mingling.

• Lava Jazz
  • This was high on our list and came highly recommended by locals and travelers alike. It’s tucked inside the historic Coliseu Micaelense building and known for its intimate vibe, live jazz performances, and cozy, artsy interior. While we didn’t get a chance to make it there this time, it’s definitely on the list for next time, especially for anyone looking for a laid-back night filled with great music and atmosphere. If you’re into live performances and a more mellow scene, Lava Jazz sounds like a gem.

Shopping + Local Gems

We spent downtime exploring the streets of Ponta Delgada, and I scored a piece I had been dreaming about for so long, a solid gold Portuguese ring, the ones with the little charm that dangles off of them! This traditional ring features seven interlinked bands and often a dangling charm or heart. Though it looks like several rings, they’re all connected—symbolizing unity and eternity.

Here are some places to check out:

• Parque Atlântico Mall: The biggest shopping hub in Ponta Delgada, perfect for picking up souvenirs, fashion finds, or just escaping a rainy day. It’s clean, modern, and has plenty of cafés to recharge between shops.
• Rotas da Ilha Verde: A cozy, charming spot with a great menu featuring local flavors and fresh seafood. We loved the relaxed vibe here, it’s a fantastic place to enjoy a laid, back meal after a day of exploring.
• Esquina Steakhouse: A go-to for meat lovers, this steakhouse serves perfectly cooked cuts in a warm, inviting setting. The steaks are juicy and flavorful, making it a must-visit if you’re craving hearty, satisfying comfort food.

Botanical Gardens + Bonus Ideas

Wandering through the Jardim Botânico António Borges garden felt like stepping into another world—lush, peaceful, and filled with rare, exotic plants from all over the globe. The towering trees were so incredible and powerful to look at. It’s the kind of place where you slow down, breathe deeply, and feel completely connected to nature. Whether you’re a plant lover or just want a quiet break from adventure, this garden is pure magic.

• Jardim Botânico José do Canto: This lush, historic botanical garden is a peaceful escape filled with exotic plants, towering trees, and serene walking paths. It’s a perfect spot to soak in nature and snap some dreamy photos away from the crowds.
• Jardim Antero de Quental: A charming green oasis right in the heart of Ponta Delgada, this park is ideal for a relaxing stroll or a quiet moment on a bench. It’s surrounded by colorful architecture and gives a lovely glimpse of local daily life.
• Jardim Botânico António Borges: A peaceful, beautifully landscaped botanical garden right in Ponta Delgada, perfect for a relaxing stroll before your flight. The garden is free to enter and offers a serene escape with winding paths, exotic plants, and charming ponds — an ideal spot to soak up some calm Azorean vibes before heading home.

Other Activities to Consider:

Here are some other actives that we looked into and were on our list but didn’t get to:

• Gruta do Carvão Cave Tour: For just 9€, explore this fascinating lava tube cave filled with incredible rock formations and volcanic history. It’s a cool way to get up close with the island’s geology without breaking the bank.
• Coasteering in Caloura: Get your adrenaline pumping by climbing, jumping, and swimming along the rugged coastline of Caloura. This adventurous activity is perfect for thrill-seekers who want a unique way to experience the Azores’ natural beauty.
• Whale Watching Tour: Hop on a boat and set out to spot majestic whales and playful dolphins in their natural habitat. The Azores are one of the best places in the world for whale watching, and these tours are unforgettable.
• Furnas Day Tour Option: Discover the geothermal wonders of Furnas on a day trip that includes hot springs, traditional cozido cooking, and lush gardens. It’s a must for anyone wanting to experience the island’s volcanic heart.
• Island Ferry Schedule: Planning to island-hop? The ferry schedule keeps you connected between São Miguel and neighboring islands, so be sure to check times in advance to make the most of your Azores adventure.

What Taylor Wore

Packing for the Azores was all about balancing style with comfort and versatility. With so many different activities, from scenic hikes and canyoning to laid-back dinners and exploring charming towns, I needed outfits that could easily transition throughout the day. Lightweight layers, breathable fabrics, and a mix of casual and dressy pieces made it easy to stay comfortable and look good no matter where the day took me. You can find a ton of my outfit recommendations here for Amazon specific or here for everything else!

• Daytime Exploring
  • During the day, I kept things comfy but cute—think breathable linen tops, bottoms, and dresses, light layers (sweaters), and a pair of comfortable sneakers for all the walking. The weather was mostly mild, so I loved throwing on a denim jacket or a cozy crewneck sweater for those cooler mornings and evenings. Backpacks and crossbody bags were key and so were simple accessories.

• Adventure Activities
  • For canyoning and hikes, it was all about functionality (but make it cute) for me. I packed leggings, bathing suit cover-ups, lots of layers, and sturdy, waterproof, hiking shoes that could handle slippery trails. Layers were key, since the weather could change fast. Plus, I always had a waterproof jacket handy for those surprise drizzles.

• Evening & Night Out
  • Nights in the Azores called for something a bit dressier but still relaxed. I went for comfortable flowy dresses or light trousers paired with simple accessories. Comfy heels or flats kept things easy for wandering around local bars and restaurants.

Final Thoughts

If the Azores isn’t on your travel list yet, I hope this guide just earned it a top spot. From the surreal landscapes to the peaceful pace of island life, São Miguel gave us everything we didn’t know we needed—and more. I left feeling recharged, inspired, and already dreaming about going back. Whether you’re chasing adventure, connection, or just a break from the noise, this little slice of the Atlantic is pure magic.

Bookmark this, share it with your travel group, or DM me if you’re planning your own Azores adventure, I’d love to help. If you try any of these spots or tours, tag me on Instagram, I love seeing your adventures! Be sure to follow me on Instagram for daily updates, deals, fashion inspo, influencer tips, travel posts, food spots, and MORE!

UNTIL THE NEXT ONE,

TAYLOR