Best of Portugal - Azores & Lisbon

Welcome to São Miguel, the largest island in the Azoes archipelago, a hidden gem in the mid-Atlantic. Known as the "Green Island," São Miguel boasts stunning landscapes, lush vegetation, and volcanic craters filled with shimmering lakes. Explore the island's diverse natural beauty, from dramatic cliffs to tranquil beaches. 

Arrive at Ponta Delgada Airport and transfer to your hotel.

Depart from the hotel by bus to the western part of the island, passing through the mountain road and enjoying the "Pico do Carvão" viewpoint. Admire the view of the narrowest part of the island formed by the eruption of 290 small volcanoes millions of years ago. Visit the famous "Vista do Rei" viewpoint with a magnificent view of the Sete Cidades valley. 

Explore "Vista do Rei," named after King Carlos I of Portugal's first visit to the island in 1901. Stop at Serrado das Freiras and Santiago viewpoint to admire the lakes and visit a pineapple plantation in Fajã de Baixo. 

Depart from the hotel for a scenic drive along the south side of the island to Vila Franca do Campo, the island's first capital until 1522. Explore the village and enjoy some local pastries before heading to Furnas Valley, a historically active volcanic complex. 

Visit Terra Nostra Garden, one of Europe's most beautiful gardens, and relax in the thermal swimming pool. Experience the traditional Cozido das Caldeiras stew cooked in volcanic heat for lunch. 

Continue crossing the island to the north side where the tea plantations are located, the only ones in Europe with industrial purposes. After visiting the factory and tasting a sample of the local production it is time to return to Ponta Delgada. 

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Faial Island, which takes approximately one hour. Upon arrival, we will be transferred to our hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. 

OPTIONAL: Half-Day City Tour of Horta 

Departure on foot from the hotel for a Walking City Tour of Horta by the main streets and buildings of Horta. Visit the Horta Museum and the Republic Square. The tour will also include visits to the marina of Horta, to the Scrimshaw Museum and Peter’s Café, with gin service. Lunch and afternoon at leisure.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before transferring to the harbor in the morning for our short ferry ride to Pico Island Upon arrival at Madalena harbor, one group will embark on a visit to Gruta das Torres, while the other enjoys some free time for shopping in Madalena.  

After both activities, continue the journey along the scenic north coast towards Cachorro and Lajido. Make a stop in São Roque to explore the Whale Factory and the natural swimming pools. Next, take the mountain road leading to the picturesque Capitão Lake, situated at an altitude of 900 meters, where we pause for lunch.  

As we head along the south coast, enjoy a brief stop at Mistérios de São João before visiting the church in São Mateus. The journey will then take you to Criação Velha, renowned for its vineyards that have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage since 2004, before returning to our hotel for the evening. 

Today’s journey begins with a visit to the village of Flamengos, where we will explore the Island's Botanical Garden. Next, the tour continues to the Natural Reserve of the Caldeira of Faial is renowned for its stunning blue hydrangeas. 

From there, we proceed to the Ribeira das Cabras viewpoint, located along the Serra da Feteira. A stop will be made for lunch before descending to the Fajã in Praia do Norte. We will also visit the Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Centre, which commemorates the volcanic activity that occurred from 1957 to 1958. The day will conclude with a visit to Monte da Guia, where you can admire one of the finest panoramas of the city and the Bay of Porto Pim. 

Morning transfer to Faial Airport for our flight to São Miguel. Upon arrival, transfer from the airport to the hotel in Ponta Delgada. 

Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. 

With a free day in São Miguel, you have a wealth of options to explore this stunning island. Breathtaking hikes or enjoy a leisurely stroll around the area. If you're up for an adventure, consider whale watching off the coast or simply unwind at one of the island's beautiful beaches, like Praia de Mosteiros or Praia da Viola. End your day with a sample of local liqueurs, such as the famous Aguardente Velha, while taking in a stunning sunset. 

Another free day on the island to explore. Enjoy panoramic viewpoints, hiking trails, and opportunities for kayaking or biking. Discover the picturesque vineyards, waterfalls, and charming villages. For the more adventurous perhaps join a fishing charter for a fun day on the water. 

Today, bid farewell to the stunning Azores as you fly to Lisbon for the next part of your adventure! The Portuguese capital is a treasure trove of winding cobblestone streets, vibrant yellow trams, medieval towers, Baroque palaces, and grand dome-topped monasteries. Plus, you’ll find an exciting culinary scene, bustling markets, and a lively nightlife waiting to be explored. 

Once you’ve settled into your hotel, take some time to relax before embarking on an unforgettable foodie experience this evening. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll stroll through the city’s steep, cobbled streets and charming alleys, sampling traditional dishes along the way and discovering some of Lisbon’s most beloved neighborhoods. Your journey will include stops at popular eateries where you can indulge  in delights ranging from grilled sardines to the iconic pastel de nata (custard tart) and exquisite port wines. 

Departing from Lisbon, we journey to the enchanting town of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. Our first stop is the breathtaking Pena Palace, perched atop one of the mountain range's highest peaks. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Sintra's charming narrow streets, where you'll find quaint shops selling traditional Portuguese tiles and ceramics, making you feel as though you've stepped back in time. 

There will be free time for lunch at your leisure before we head to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, where you can take in the spectacular views.  

On our return to Lisbon, we will pass through the vibrant town of Cascais, a cosmopolitan destination that still retains an air of aristocracy. Here, enjoy some free time to explore. Originally a fishing village, Cascais flourished as a busy port in the 14th century and evolved into a fashionable seaside resort in the late 19th century when the allure of swimming in the sea took hold.

Today is a free day to immerse yourself in Lisbon to explore the city's key attractions and historical landmarks. Perhaps begin your adventure at the Elevador de Santa Justa, an elegant iron elevator constructed in 1902. Ascend to the top of this 150-foottall (45 m) tower for stunning panoramic views of the city and the sea beyond. 

Next, stroll through the impressive Arco Monumental da Rua Augusta, which opens into the bustling Comercio Square. Explore the vibrant Chiado district and the artistic Bairro Alto, where you can enjoy picturesque hilltop vistas over Lisbon. Take a moment to relax over coffee and a sweet treat. 

End your day with an optional dinner and musical performance in Bairro Alto. Savor traditional dishes at one of Lisbon's finest restaurants while enjoying the soulful sounds of fado, a traditional form of Portuguese music that dates back to the 1820s

Today the Portuguese adventure comes to an end. Transfer to the airport in time to catch your homebound flight. Or extend your journey with optional stays in Porto or the Algarve region.