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Is it Worth Visiting the Azores? Find Out Here

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!

Is it Worth Visiting the Azores? Find Out Here

The Azores is an archipelago located in the North Atlantic Ocean that consists of nine volcanic islands. Despite being a hidden gem, Azores has been gaining popularity among travelers lately. Cuba, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic have been common travel destinations for North Americans, however, since they are closer to Europe, the Azores has been an option for the European appeal. If you’re still contemplating whether or not to visit the Azores, this informative blog post is for you.

Getting to the Azores

The Azores is located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 900 miles west of mainland Portugal. The easiest route to the Azores is by plane. There are direct flights available from North America and Europe. Different airline companies such as SATA and Ryanair offer trips to the different islands of the archipelago. The connecting airports are in Lisbon and Porto, Portugal. You can get to the Azores by boat, but it is a less common route due to the long travel time.

Is the Azores Expensive?

Compared to some other European travel destinations, the Azores is relatively inexpensive. Since the islands are part of Portugal, the currency used is the euro. The cost of living is lower than in Portugal’s other popular travel destinations such as Lisbon and Porto. The accommodations, although limited, are reasonably priced – especially the guesthouses called ‘pensions’. A mid-range meal would cost between EUR10-15. Compared to other travel destinations, the Azores is ideal for travelers who want to enjoy a tropical vacation but don’t want to spend too much money.

Things to Do in the Azores

The Azores is certainly not short on captivating activities. The nine islands of the archipelago each have their unique sights and experiences. The islands of Sao Miguel and Terceira are the most popular for tourists.

Sao Miguel

The Sao Miguel island offers attractions that relate to the natural beauty of the Azores. The Sete Cidades, a lake that is formed by a volcanic crater, is one of the popular features in the island. The water-filled crater is enormous and green with different blue and green shades. Other things to do in Sao Miguel island include visiting hot springs, whale and dolphin watching, and horseback riding.

Terceira

Terceira is the second popular island in the Azores archipelago. The island is popular for its 400-year-old historic towns and pristine beaches. The Angra Do Heroismo city is a UNESCO World Heritage site with colonial-era streets and alleyways. Praia da Vitoria is another area known for its long and stunning beaches.

Weather of Azores

The weather of the Azores is mild year-round. The region has a subtropical climate, making it enjoyable to be outdoor almost all year. Due to the location of the islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the weather conditions can change quickly. It is recommended to check the weather forecast frequently while on the island.

Is the Azores a Safe Place to Visit?

The Azores is a safe travel destination. The local people are friendly and helpful, and the crime rates are low. As always, it is wise to take precautions, especially when going out in the evening, and to take care of oneself and property.

Conclusion

The Azores is an exceptional travel destination. The island offers magnificent sightseeing and natural beauty. The Atlantic Ocean location of the archipelago gives it an enjoyable subtropical climate with friendly locals and is suitable for travelers who want a tropical vacation without spending a lot of money. The islands offer comfortable stays, activities, and experiences that suit all interests.

Insider’s Guide: Exploring the Natural Wonders of the Azores

Located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores archipelago is a hidden gem surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, crystal clear waters and a rich historical and cultural heritage that reflects the Portuguese influence in its architecture, cuisine and traditions.

If you’re considering visiting the Azores and wondering whether this destination is worth your time and money, the answer is a resounding yes! In this insider’s guide, we’ll walk you through some of the best things to do, see, eat and experience on your trip to the Azores.

The Best Attractions in the Azores

The Azores is a nature lover’s paradise, offering a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, whale watching, swimming, and surfing. Here are some of the must-visit attractions in the Azores:

Sete Cidades

Sete Cidades is a picturesque village located on the west side of Sao Miguel, the archipelago’s largest island. This charming town is best known for its twin lakes, which are known as the Green and Blue lakes. The view from the top of the mountain is simply breathtaking, and you can also hike around the lakes or even rent a kayak and explore them from the water.

Pico Island

Pico Island is famous for its imposing mountain, the Pico Mountain, which is the highest peak in Portugal. It’s a challenging climb, but the views from the top are well worth the effort. It’s also a great place to go whale watching, as you can spot sperm whales and other large marine mammals year-round.

Furnas

Furnas is a small town located on the eastern side of Sao Miguel island. It’s known for its hot springs, geysers, and volcanic landscape. The town’s main attraction is the Terra Nostra Park, which features a large botanical garden, a natural hot spring pool, and an iron-rich thermal bath.

Where to Dine in the Azores

The Azores offers a wide variety of restaurants and cafes. Here are some of the best places to eat in the area:

A Tasca

A Tasca is a traditional restaurant located on the island of Terceira. It’s a great place to try local dishes such as Alcatra (beef stew), Cozido (meat and vegetable stew) and Lapas (limpets).

O Carlos

O Carlos is located in the center of Ponta Delgada, the capital of Sao Miguel. This restaurant serves up delicious seafood dishes that are sourced from local fishermen, such as octopus, sea bream, and swordfish.

Experiencing the Azorean Culture

The Azorean culture is a combination of Portuguese and local influences. Here are some ways to experience the culture during your visit:

Festivals and Celebrations

The Azores offers many festivals and celebrations throughout the year, ranging from religious festivals to cultural events. Attend these events to experience the liveliness and passion of Azorean culture.

Architecture

The architecture in the Azores is a blend of Portuguese, Moorish, and Gothic styles. Explore the towns and cities in the area to see unique buildings with bright colors and intricate designs.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for something different, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions for your Azores trip:

Ilheus das Cabras

Ilheus das Cabras is a group of small islets located off the coast of Faial Island. This place is perfect for a peaceful hike or a picnic in a beautiful setting with amazing views.

Corvo Island

Corvo Island is the smallest and least populated island in the Azores, but it’s definitely worth a visit. This island is known for its natural beauty, hiking trails, and bird watching opportunities.

Termas do Carapacho

Termas do Carapacho is a thermal spa located on the island of Graciosa. This place is perfect for a relaxing day trip, where you can soak in the hot springs or enjoy a massage.

Overall, the Azores is a beautiful destination with natural wonders, delicious food, rich culture, and plenty of opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re a nature lover, foodie, or culture enthusiast, this little-known paradise in the middle of the Atlantic should definitely be on your radar for your next trip.

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Is it Worth Visiting the Azores? Find Out Here

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!