I thought I knew what volcanic islands looked like until I landed in the Azores. The moment I saw Sete Cidades, with its twin lakes nestled in an ancient crater (one blue, one green!), I realized I was somewhere that defied logic. The whole scene looked like someone had taken Ireland, dropped it in the middle of the Atlantic, and added volcanoes just for fun.
Trust me, the most beautiful places in the Azores will mess with your brain in the best way possible. When I stood at the edge of Lagoa do Fogo, watching steam rise from hot springs while wild hydrangeas bloomed everywhere, I couldn’t believe this was real life. Here are 12 spots that made me question if I had somehow stumbled onto another planet entirely.
Jaw-Dropping Places to Visit in the Azores
Looking to explore the Azores’ most beautiful places? From the stunning landscapes of Sete Cidades to the lush greenery of Furnas, the Azores are packed with stunning scenery. Stroll through the charming streets of Ponta Delgada, marvel at the natural beauty of Lagoa do Fogo, or explore the volcanic wonders of Pico Island. Discover the tranquil allure of Terceira, the vibrant culture of Angra do Heroísmo, or the breathtaking views from Capelinhos Volcano. Whether you’re into hiking, hot springs, or island beauty, here are 12 of the Azores’ most breathtaking spots!
1. Algar do Carvão
Important Update: Algar do Carvão has been closed since October 2024 due to the construction of the new visitors’ center, which will take place over a period of 18 months, but the experience is still worth planning for when it reopens in 2025.
You can literally walk inside an ancient volcano at Algar do Carvão – and honestly, it’s way more incredible than it sounds. This 3,200-year-old lava tube on Terceira Island drops you 330 feet underground through a narrow tunnel and 338 steps into what feels like another world. I couldn’t believe I was standing inside an actual volcanic chimney when I first descended those stairs.
The underground lake at the bottom perfectly mirrors the silica stalactites hanging above, and when sunlight streams through the natural skylight opening, the whole cavern lights up in gold and red mineral colors. Normal ticket: 5€. Young Card Holders: 4€ when it reopens, though the price of the combined ticket (Algar do Carvão+Gruta do Natal) is 15,00€. The temperature stays around 12-13°C year-round, so bring layers even if it’s blazing hot outside. Terceira Island: Caves and Craters Tour, Private tour with a geologist guide tours include transportation and are actually worth the extra cost since there’s zero information inside the cave itself. Pro tip: wear sturdy shoes with good grip because those steps get slippery from constant water dripping.
2. Angra do Heroísmo
Angra do Heroísmo doesn’t just look like a UNESCO World Heritage site – it feels like stepping into a 500-year-old maritime movie set that’s somehow still alive today. This colorful Terceira Island capital has been the Atlantic’s most important stopover point since the 1400s, and you can actually feel that history in every cobblestone street.
The massive São João Baptista Fort offers killer views over the bay, and I spent hours just wandering through streets lined with pastel buildings that look like they were painted yesterday. June’s Sanjoaninas festival on the island of Terceira is one of the Azores’ most popular, most colourful week-long celebrations, with the streets of the island capital Angra de Heroismo filled with parades, concerts and live theatre – if you’re here in June, you’ll catch some of the most authentic street parties in Portugal.
Don’t miss the gold-covered Sé Cathedral or the lush Duke of Terceira Garden for a break from all the architecture. The real magic happens when you climb Monte Brasil for panoramic views of those famous red-tiled roofs against the deep blue Atlantic. I got lucky and stumbled into a random street performance during my visit, which made the whole experience feel even more authentic. The festival always adopts a theme – we’re still waiting for 2025’s to be announced, but the festival will run from 20th to 29th June.
3. Caldeira
Faial Island’s Caldeira is basically a massive collapsed volcano that’s 1.5 miles wide and creates its own weather system – seriously, you’ll watch clouds form and disappear inside this thing like nature’s own mood ring. The 5-mile rim trail offers constantly changing views as you walk around the edge of this geological amphitheater.
What makes this place special isn’t just the size, it’s the endemic plants that grow nowhere else on Earth. You’ll find juniper, cedar, ferns, and those famous Azores hydrangeas creating a unique ecosystem within the crater walls. I loved watching the morning fog slowly lift from the crater floor – it’s like nature’s own theatrical performance that changes every few minutes.
The best time to visit is early morning when mist fills the crater, creating this ethereal landscape that looks straight out of a fantasy movie. On clear days, you can see Pico Island with its towering volcano in the distance, which gives you a real sense of how these islands connect across the Atlantic. The visitor center explains how this unique protected ecosystem formed, though honestly, experiencing it firsthand beats any scientific explanation. The whole rim trail takes about 3-4 hours if you’re taking your time with photos, which you definitely should be.
- Read Next: Best Things to Do in Azores
4. Furnas
Furnas hits all your senses at once – sulfur steam rising from bubbling mud pots, the sound of geothermal activity underground, and the incredible taste of Cozido das Furnas stew that’s literally cooked underground using volcanic heat. This São Miguel Island valley is like stepping into Yellowstone, but with Portuguese charm and way better food.
Terra Nostra Park in the morning (as it closes in the afternoon) and then head to Poça da Beija at night, as it remains open until 10 pm is the perfect thermal bath combo. The Terra Nostra Garden thermal pool is massive and iron-rich, surrounded by an exotic botanical garden with over 2,000 tree species from around the world. I still can’t get over how this 18th-century garden manages to feel both manicured and wild at the same time.
The Cozido das Furnas experience is honestly unforgettable – watching locals pull pots of slow-cooked stew from underground holes after six hours of volcanic cooking. You can taste the earth in every bite, and it’s not weird at all, just incredibly rich and flavorful. The scenic walk around Furnas Lake shows you the fumaroles up close, where you can see exactly how this geothermal activity works. Don’t skip the smaller Poça da Dona Beija thermal baths either – these thermal baths offer a special experience: they can be visited at night since they are open until 11 p.m. and the nighttime atmosphere is genuinely magical.
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5. Lagoa do Fogo
Lagoa do Fogo (Fire Lake) isn’t your typical tourist lake – it’s one of the most pristine crater lakes in the Azores, sitting at 1,900 feet elevation and completely protected from development. The striking blue water nestled in this young volcano caldera creates scenes that look too perfect to be real.
Several rim viewpoints offer jaw-dropping vistas, but I highly recommend taking the moderate Trilho da Lagoa do Fogo trail that actually descends to the shoreline. The 2-hour hike down reveals white sand beaches where you can picnic in complete serenity since motorized boats aren’t allowed on the lake. It’s rare to find such untouched nature this accessible.
Visit on clear mornings before clouds typically gather – the weather changes incredibly fast at this elevation, sometimes creating magical conditions as fog rolls across the water. I watched mist part like curtains to reveal perfect reflections of the crater walls, then roll back in minutes later. The entire area protects diverse bird species, including potential sightings of São Miguel Island’s rare Azores bullfinch (Priolo). The contrast between the deep blue lake and the green endemic vegetation on the steep slopes makes every photo look like it’s been heavily filtered, but it’s just nature showing off.
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6. Montanha do Pico
Montanha do Pico isn’t just any mountain – it’s Portugal’s highest peak at 7,713 feet and a perfectly shaped stratovolcano that dominates the entire Azores archipelago. This beast rises so dramatically that it’s often visible above clouds from neighboring islands, creating this fantasy landscape that doesn’t seem real.
The challenging 7-8 hour round-trip hike rewards you with unparalleled views across multiple islands, but it’s not for casual hikers. Above the tree line, black volcanic rock creates an otherworldly landscape that makes you feel like you’re on Mars. Standing at the summit’s Piquinho (Little Peak), I watched wisps of sulfurous steam escape – a reminder that this volcano is just sleeping, not dead.
June to September for stable climbing conditions is your window for summit attempts. For the ultimate experience, book an overnight permit to camp near the top, which lets you witness both sunset and sunrise from above the clouds. Night climbing tours during summer offer exceptional stargazing since there’s virtually no light pollution at that elevation. The mountain doesn’t just shape the landscape – it shapes local culture, where people have adapted to living in its shadow while using the fertile volcanic soil for Pico Island’s famous vineyards. It’s challenging but absolutely worth it if you’re in decent shape.
- Read next: Islands in Portugal to Visit
7. Pico Natural Park
Pico Natural Park centers around that massive Mount Pico volcano, but the real treasure lies in the UNESCO World Heritage landscape surrounding it. Thousands of stone-walled enclosures called “currais” create this incredible geometric pattern where grapevines thrive in volcanic soil protected from harsh Atlantic winds.
These ingenious walls don’t just look cool – they absorb heat during the day and release it at night, creating perfect conditions for grapes. Local wineries offer tastings of distinctive Verdelho and Pico wines that taste unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere because they’re literally born from volcanic terroir. I couldn’t believe how different the wine tastes when it comes from grapes grown in lava soil.
Beyond wine, the park showcases bizarre lava formations throughout the landscape. Portugal’s longest lava tube, the Gruta das Torres, offers guided underground tours through a geological wonderland that feels like exploring alien architecture. The contrast is incredible – you can summit Portugal’s highest peak before lunch, then sample volcanic wines by dinner, and finish the day exploring underground lava tubes. This island perfectly blends adventure, geology, and wine culture into one unforgettable experience.
8. Poça da Dona Beija
Poça da Dona Beija | Find it Here: Lomba Das Barracas 1, Furnas | General Admission: €8 | Hours: Daily: 8:30 – 23:00, with last entry sold at 22:00 | Duration: 1 Hour and 30 minutes – and honestly, it’s the perfect thermal bath experience in Furnas Valley.
Work stress literally melts away the moment you slip into these rusty-orange thermal pools. The facility features five pools with varying temperatures around 39°C (102°F), all nestled among tropical vegetation that makes you forget you’re in the middle of the Atlantic. The mineral-rich waters come from an iron spring, so bring a dark swimsuit because light colors will get tinted – it’s not permanent, just temporary staining.
Evening visits offer the most magical atmosphere when steam rises against the night sky and the pools are lit up. I loved the contrast between the warm mineral water and cool Atlantic air – it creates this otherworldly experience that feels like luxury spa meets volcanic adventure. You can stay at Dona Beija Hot springs in São Miguel for 1h30. It may sound like a short time but TRUST ME, the water is so warm that you will not feel like staying for longer than that.
The wooden walkways connecting the pools maintain a rustic vibe, and there’s something incredibly relaxing about listening to the small stream that runs through the facility. We can assure you that the atmosphere, with the night lighting, is truly magical. Combine your soak with traditional Cozido das Furnas dinner at a nearby restaurant – your skin will thank you for the mineral infusion, and your Instagram followers will definitely be jealous.
9. Porto Pim Bay
Porto Pim Bay curves in a perfect golden crescent on Faial Island’s southern coast, creating the ideal beach day between all your volcanic adventures. This sheltered bay sits protected at the foot of Monte da Guia, offering calm, crystal-clear waters that invite swimming and paddleboarding after days of hiking.
The Porto Pim Whaling Factory Museum chronicles the island’s fascinating transition from whaling to whale conservation – and today, numerous operators offer tours to spot over 20 cetacean species in these same waters. I found it pretty amazing how the same bay that once processed whales now protects them through eco-tourism.
As sunset approaches, Porto Pim Bay transforms into the perfect spot for watching the day end behind the silhouette of Pico Mountain across the channel. The view is absolutely stunning, especially with those dramatic volcanic peaks creating this incredible backdrop. Waterfront restaurants serve fresh seafood paired with local wines, and the short hike up Monte da Guia rewards you with panoramic views of colorful Horta spreading along the coast. It’s one of those places where you can actually relax between all the intense volcanic sightseeing, which you’ll definitely need.
10. São Miguel Island
São Miguel Island offers dramatic landscape changes that’ll mess with your head – you can drive from steaming fumaroles to sapphire crater lakes to verdant tea plantations within 20 minutes. This natural playground is perfectly sized for a 4-day introduction without feeling rushed through paradise.
The island’s well-maintained ring road makes exploration incredibly easy, even for nervous drivers. Beyond the famous Sete Cidades and Furnas Valley, you’ve got Lagoa do Fogo (that pristine crater lake), the dramatic coastal cliffs in the northeastern Nordeste region, and charming rural villages that feel frozen in time. I loved how each area felt completely different despite being on the same island.
São Miguel, the largest island, offers the most diverse attractions including hot springs, lakes, and cultural sites and serves as your gateway to the Azores with direct flights from Boston and the best tourism infrastructure. Wildlife enthusiasts can join whale-watching tours from Ponta Delgada or Vila Franca do Campo – the marine life here is incredible. Don’t miss the unique gastronomy including underground-cooked Cozido stew and visits to Europe’s only tea plantations at Gorreana and Porto Formoso. The tea plantation tours are free and give you insight into this 150-year-old industry that somehow thrives in volcanic soil.
11. Sete Cidades
Need that ultimate Instagram backdrop that’ll make your friends question their vacation choices? Sete Cidades delivers with its jaw-dropping twin lakes – one blue, one green – nestled inside a volcanic crater. The legendary Vista do Rei viewpoint offers that perfect panoramic shot without breaking a sweat, but honestly, the colors shifting throughout the day as sunlight plays across the water is the real magic.
The 12km rim trail reveals different perspectives with every turn if you’re up for more active exploration. Down in the quaint village, that distinctive white church provides charming cultural contrast to the wild landscape surrounding it. I couldn’t believe how the lake colors actually change depending on the light and weather – it’s not just camera tricks.
Rent a kayak to paddle between the lakes or explore the hydrangea-lined roads that wind through this geological masterpiece. The abandoned Monte Palace hotel offers an alternative viewpoint that’s worth seeking out for photos without crowds. Twin lakes nestled in a caldera with vibrant landscapes, ideal for hiking, kayaking, and biking – though honestly, just standing at the main viewpoint and watching the colors shift is enough to justify the trip. The whole scene looks like someone photoshopped two different colored lakes into the same crater, but it’s completely natural and absolutely stunning.
12. Terra Nostra Gardens
Terra Nostra Gardens combines luxury spa vibes with Indiana Jones adventure through its famous ochre-colored thermal pool surrounded by an 18th-century botanical paradise. This 31-acre wonderland houses over 2,000 tree species from around the globe, making it feel like multiple ecosystems packed into one incredible space.
The garden unfolds in distinct sections that’ll keep you exploring for hours. The formal “Avenue of Jasmines” leads to English-inspired woodland areas, while the “Valley of Ferns” creates this Jurassic atmosphere with massive tree ferns towering overhead. The rare endemic plants showcase the Azores’ unique botany that exists nowhere else on Earth.
The thermal pool maintains a constant 95°F year-round, perfect for rejuvenating tired hiking muscles in mineral-rich waters. Bring a dark swimsuit because the iron-rich waters will temporarily stain light fabrics – it’s worth it though for this unique swimming experience. I loved how the pool feels both ancient and luxurious at the same time, surrounded by exotic plants that make you forget you’re in the middle of the Atlantic. The adjacent Terra Nostra Garden Hotel gives guests early-morning access before day visitors arrive, which is honestly the best time to experience this thermal wonderland without crowds. The combination of botanical garden and thermal pool creates this perfect balance of education and relaxation that you can’t find anywhere else.
