Have you ever heard of São Miguel, the verdant pearl of the Azores? Sailing between emerald lakes and dormant volcanoes, this Portuguese island offers an unforgettable travel experience. So, what's there to do on the island of São Miguel? Green landscapes rival each other in beauty on this Portuguese island of almost supernatural beauty. This dream island is the promise of a rejuvenating getaway, where the harmony between nature and culture envelops you wholeheartedly. We've made you want to come? Continue dreaming with us with these 17 places to visit in São Miguel.
1. Lake Sete Cidades, the island's must-see spot
Lake Sete Cidades is one of the many wonders to be seen on the island of São Miguel. Nestled in the heart of a volcanic crater, its crystal-clear waters reflect the changing hues of the sky and surrounding hills. Pure enchantment!
Did you know that this natural gem is surrounded by mystical legends? One of the most famous is that of two lovers, Princess Isabella and Prince Dom Pedro, who were separated by rival families, their tears forming the twin lakes of blue and green. It never hurts to add a little folklore to such a magical holiday! Are you a hiking enthusiast? The shores of Lake Sete Cidades will be an idyllic playground for you, leading you to winding paths offering breathtaking panoramic views.
Would you like to see all the must-see places on the island of São Miguel? We recommend you book this 2-day guided tour of the island which includes a panoramic view of Sete Cidades, a dip in the hot springs heated by the Furnas volcano and a visit to the Ribeira dos Caldeirões nature park.
2. Vista do Rei viewpoint, a touch of magic
The Azores are renowned for their lush green landscapes. It's adestination of choice for lovers of ecotourism and responsible travel. Don't miss the Visto de Rei viewpoint. One of the 25 must-see sights in Portugal, it's the perfect place to start your vacation!
Sete Cidades actually has several lakes. Want to enjoy the best view of these natural gems? You'll find it at the Vista do Rei lookout. Once you've admired the view (preferably early in the morning or late at night), you can hike back down :
- Take the western slope of the Sete Cidades caldera.
- Follow the dirt track to the asphalt road.
- Turn right.
- Descend to the dirt track on your left.
- Take this track, then follow it to the junction with the PR4 SMI trail.
- Turn right here.
You've arrived in town, where more wonders await you!
3. Lagoa do Canario, the splendor of the island
Lagoa do Canário is a little gem in the Azores, offering a serene experience in the heart of nature. Surrounded by lush vegetation, this emerald lagoon is distinguished by its blue hues. The contrast with the surrounding green is as striking as it is magical! In the background, admire the majestic forest and its famous hydrangeas. Accessible in just a few minutes on foot from the parking area, it's an ideal place for quiet family moments, even if you're traveling with children. The Canary Lagoon is one of those bewitching places that the Azores have a secret for: not to be missed!
4. Boca do Inferno viewpoint, superb view over the Lagoa do Canario
If the lagoon is already stunning up close, get a little higher and the magic will continue. There's just one goal to reach: the Boca do Inferno. The 360° view over the lagoon is spectacular! A short walk of a few kilometers is all it takes to reach it. Don't forget your camera - it would be a shame! Once you're up there, you'll also be able to contemplate other lagoons below, as well as the village of Sete Cidades. Don't forget that this charming little village is one of the must-sees of the Azores, so don't miss out!
5. Ribeira dos Caldeirões, a canyoning paradise
What to do on São Miguel Island? Visit the Ribeira dos Caldeirões nature park, of course! Accessible to all the family, it offers - as everywhere else on this island paradise - verdant landscapes that invite contemplation. Its waterfalls are among the most beautiful, and can be approached without getting wet, thanks to daring footbridges. You'll also find ancient watermills, one of which has been converted into an ethnographic museum.
It's a dream spot for a picnic, before setting off on a canyoning excursion. The surrounding scenery and the purity of the water will make this one of the most memorable experiences of your trip. Click here to book your canyoning experience with an instructor at Ribeira dos Caldeiroes!
6. Miradouro das Cumeeiras, a breathtaking view
Another mirador! There are plenty of them on São Miguel, which is hardly surprising given the lakes, craters and other natural wonders that populate the island. If the climb is a little steep, you should know that part of it can be done by Jeep, accompanied by a local guide by booking right here, for example. This excursion will give you the chance to visit natural areas you might not otherwise have seen.
From the mirador, the view of the surrounding lakes and peaks is simply superb. Many visitors agree that this is one of their favorite spots in the Azores: how about you?
7. Caldeira Velha hot springs
Take advantage of the island's volcanic influence to indulge in a natural 38° bath. It's one of the must-do activities on São Miguel Island! The hot springs of Caldeira Velha are pure enchantment. Imagine plunging into hot water, under a naturally warm waterfall, whatever the season... Here you are! While this unusual experience can be enjoyed in other parts of the world, it is absolutely unique in the heart of this lush natural setting. And to experience it, we recommend you book this guided excursion to Lagoa do Fogo, which will take you to the hot springs of Caldeira Velha.
Did you like it and want more? There are four other hot springs on the island of São Miguel:
- Terra Nostra,
- Caldeira da Ribeira Grande,
- Poça da Dona Beija,
- Ferraria.
There's plenty to choose from!
8. São Miguel's most beautiful beaches
To discover the Azores is to travel between ecotourism and the ocean, the latter offering pleasant moments of relaxation. As on any self-respecting island, superb beaches await you:
- Mosteiros beach, with its black sand and splendid sunsets.
- Santa-Barbara beach, ideal for surfing (grab your boards!).
- Moinhos beach, ideal for children.
- Ribeira Quente beach, with its mild temperature thanks to underwater hydrothermal springs.
Ribeira Quente is part of the short tour to follow for a week in São Miguel. Each beach has its own advantages, but all are nestled in a magnificent lush setting. It's the ideal place to rest after a few days of hiking and exploring, between lakes and craters.
9. Mirador do Cerrado das Freiras, nature in its raw state
The Mirador do Cerrado das Freiras, around 23 km from Ponta Delgada, offers a magnificent view of the Lagoa das Sete Cidades lake. A must-do on the island of São Miguel! We warned you: there are as many belvederes offering beautiful views as there are lakes in the area. With your back to the Lagoa de Santiago, walk about 300 metres to enjoy the view. More the adventurous type? Follow the path to the left of the lake lookout. You'll be able to descend towards the lake, admiring the magnificent natural surroundings along the way.
10. Arnel Lighthouse, guardian of the Azores
Discover the oldest lighthouse in the Azores! Yes, it's old, but that doesn't mean it's lost any of its beauty. With its beautiful red and white colors, it's impossible to miss from the top of its ledge!
You'll find Farol da Ponta do Arnel in the municipality of Nordeste. Accessible on foot via a small road, it offers a lovely walk along the way. The best time to visit is at sunrise: it's pure wonder! You can then continue on to the port, which also offers some beautiful scenery.
Tip: take a look at the paths behind the lighthouse. You might just find a lovely waterfall..
11. Follow the Hydrangea trail
The Azores are a veritable botanical paradise, and São Miguel is no exception! In addition to its superb natural parks, we recommend following the Hydrangea Route, an island must-see.
Coming down from the viewpoints mentioned at the start of our little tour, you'll follow this superb flower road. In addition to lush green vegetation, the road is lined with thousands of mauve and blue flowers. What splendor! The hardest part will be observing them at will without risking an accident... We recommend that you stop for a moment, respecting the safety rules, to admire this unusual road in the Azores. 100% Instagrammable photos guaranteed!
12. The island of Vila Franca do Campo, São Miguel's most unusual spot
It may seem tiny, lost in the middle of the ocean, but the islet of Vila Franca do Campo is a paradise for scuba diving in the Azores, so treat yourself! It's actually a nature reserve featuring a saltwater hole created by a volcanic crater. It's in this unusual water inlet that snorkeling enthusiasts are in for a treat. The richness of the seabed is absolutely incredible! Access to the islet is regulated in order to preserve this unique biodiversity as much as possible.
Finally, don't hesitate to take advantage of a relaxing day to go boating.Cetacean watching is possible in the Azores, offering superb excursions at sea. Click here to book your whale-watching boat trip and excursion to the islet of Vila Franca do Campo!
13. Admire Lake Fogo
Do you like walking? You've come to the right place! The Azores are a paradise for hikers and water sports enthusiasts alike. And there's plenty of walking to be done at this superb lake in the stratovolcano of the Água de Pau massif!
When you look out over the Lagao Do Fogo, you can't help but notice the island's abundance of beautiful scenery. At an altitude of 575 metres, it offers a panorama like no other... Let yourself be overwhelmed by the peace and quiet of this magical place. The best time to visit is when the sun is shining. Its light reflects off the blue waters, making them sparkle like thousands of stars. Not to be missed!
14. Terra Nostra Park, treasure of the Azores
Welcome to a veritable Eden on earth, the botanical garden of Parc Terra Nostra in Furnas. Leave your ideas of speed behind you, for here, time seems to pass with a gentle slowness. A romantic embrace envelops you, so if you've got a marriage proposal to make: go for it!
The walkways of the upper section open onto dense woods, while the lower section dances to the rhythm of streams, ponds and crystal-clear springs. Between themed gardens and brilliant flowers, a magical and enchanting environment awaits you. Here, you can take your time walking among the hundred-year-old trees and avenues of palm trees, offering yourself a moment of pure indulgence.
But the highlight of this natural spectacle is, of course, the large pool of thermal water, tinted a captivating yellow and watched over by the Maison du Parc, a testament to the passage of time. Immerse yourself in its healing waters, and let yourself be carried away by the magic of this garden, where every tree, every flower, seems to be an invitation to wonder. A real favorite! Click here to book your guided tour of Furnas and the Terra Nostra park: you'll finish off with a thermal bath in a hot spring, surrounded by nature!
15. Furnas Valley and its bubbling calderas
Stay a little longer in Furnas to discover the bubbling calderas and 22 hot springs. In the heart of this volcanic land, Lake Furnas reveals itself, offering yet another enchanting interlude (we can't get enough of it!).
From the majestic summit of Pico do Ferro, panoramic views stretch to infinity, revealing the splendour of the lake and the village that slumber at the foot of the valley. Let yourself be enchanted by a stroll around the lake, where parks and gardens weave a soothing canvas of greenery. Then head down to the village to sample one of the local specialties, such as Cozido das Furnas, the island's signature stew.
16. The tea plantations of São Miguel, a pure marvel
Have you ever seen photos of terraced tea plantations? There are some superb ones on the island of São Miguel. The Gorreana tea plantations are among the most beautiful (and oldest!) to visit on this incredible island. Established in 1883, it is one of the oldest tea factories in the world. Black and green teas, as well as organic infusions, are planted here on this 100% natural multi-storey estate. A true splendor! Don't hesitate to visit the factory, offering a 360° immersion into the heart of a privileged cultural heritage. This cultural tour immerses you in the island's traditions, at the heart of a fascinating world ready to be revealed to you.
Click here to to book your tea plantation tour in just a few clicks: you'll start your adventure with a visit to the Gorreana tea plantation, the oldest in Europe, and enjoy a free tea tasting at this picturesque plantation.
17. Portas da Cidade in Ponta Delgada
Take time to discover the city of Ponta Delgada, between sea and lush greenery. A marvel awaits you: the Portas da Cidade, those welcoming gates that open their arms to curious travelers, of which you are certainly one! Once sea gates, today they stand proudly as witnesses to a time when ships unveiled dreams of other lands.
Explore these emblematic gates, worthy of the most beautiful postcards, and let yourself be guided to the Igreja da Matriz, dazzling across the street. Then stroll through the charming cobbled streets of the center.
Where to stay in São Miguel?
A dream island accessible in just a few hours? A destination accessible without a passport? Go for it! This is definitely a destination you'll want to visit at least once in your life. But where to stay? Ponta Delgada is the ideal place to stay, close to all amenities. Would you prefer to enjoy the island's charming landscapes during your stay? Set down your bags in Sete Cidades! Ribeira Grande is recommended for families who want to be close to the best beaches.
Ponta Delgada's most complete
Come to The Lince Azores Great Hotel for a full range of services in a quiet setting. This well-located hotel features a swimming pool, sauna, Jacuzzi and gym. The rooms are comfortable and all at a very reasonable price: book your stay here !
The most atypical
Evolving between history and modernity, Hotel do Colegio is a great place to put down your suitcases in an original setting. The rooms, as well as the communal areas, have retained the old-world charm of this 19thᵉ century manor house. As for the amenities of this renovated establishment, they are as modern as they are comfortable. A beautiful address in São Miguel that you can book right here.
The cheapest
TheHotel Arcanjo offers some really appreciable services for a vacation, and you can book them here: a warm welcome, all the amenities you'd expect, easy access to the beach, comfortable rooms. The icing on the cake: some rooms have a beautiful view of the sea, all at an unbeatable price!
Click here to discover the rest of our favorite accommodations!
What to do in São Miguel when it rains?
When it rains on São Miguel, you need to have a plan B in reserve! The island enjoys mild temperatures, even in winter (around 15°), so you can easily find something to do, even outdoors if it's not pouring.
Natural pools, such as the Ponta da Ferraria natural pool, are good examples. Ocean water mingles with hot springs, creating a relaxing bath unhindered by a few drops. The thermal baths of Furnas are another ideal option for relaxing on rainy days. Places like Boca da Dona Beija and Terra Nostra also offer hot springs of varying temperatures.
For a cultural experience, treat yourself to a visit to a tea plantation such as Cha Gorreana or Porto Formoso. Sheltered in the workshop, you'll discover the tea-making process, accompanied by a tasting to warm up.
Passionate about history and culture? Take advantage of bad weather to explore Ponta Delgada's churches, such as :
- Santo Cristo,
- Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião,
- Sao Pedro.
Finally, rainy days offer the opportunity to discover local museums. Among the most interesting are
- centro de Monitorização e Investigação on the shores of Lake Furnas,
- the Museu Militar dos Açores in Ponta Delgada,
- the Observatorio Vulcanologico e Geotermico dos Açores to understand the geology of the region,
- the Museu Carlos Machado with its spectacular mosaics,
- the Santana Astronomy Observatory to explore astronomy,
You can also visit the museums of Ribeira Grande, including the Museu de Emigração Açoriana.
How to visit São Miguel in 5 days?
If you'd like to spend at least two weeks on this dream island, you can already see many wonders in just 5 days. Follow our short guide!
Day 1: Ponta Delgada
A visit to Ponta Delgada's churches, museums and gardens offers a captivating insight into local history and culture. Enjoy a pleasant stroll through the old streets of the city center and along the Portas do Mar marina.
Day 2: Sete Cidades
Set course for the natural wonders of Sete Cidades, where a walk around the crater reveals breathtaking panoramas. The descent to the natural pools of Mosteiros offers a refreshing escape, followed by a stroll along the north coast.
Day 3: Ribeira Grande
Take advantage of this third day to explore the surroundings of Ribeira Grande and Lagoa do Fogo. If you have a little time, visit the Museum of Azorean Emigration, not forgetting a trip to the hot springs and the beautiful local pages.
Day 4: The wonders of Furnas
The volcanic manifestations of Furnas await you on this fourth day! The north coast, from Porto Formoso to Maia, offers picturesque coastal landscapes, enhanced by a visit to a tea plantation. The magnificent Furnas valley, the tour of the lake and the discovery of the calderas will make this day a pure delight.
Day 5: breathtaking scenery
Admire the beauty of the east coast, with its viewpoints and the Pico Bartolomeu lookout. The Serra da Tronqueira road takes you to Povoação, a historic little nugget.
It's already time to fly back to France. But wouldn't you like to visit the rest of the island later?
If you like to move around on vacation, welcome to São Miguel! The Azores are a paradise for hikers and bikers, as nature is so abundant. Rest assured, there are plenty of places on the island of São Miguel that you can visit without being sporty, or if you're traveling with children. From the plane and throughout your stay, your eyes will sparkle at the sight of so many natural wonders. The colors of a fairytale landscape will stay with you for a long time, awakening the desire to visit the Azores again and again!
