The Azores: Europe's Last Undiscovered Archipelago

The Azores sit in the middle of the Atlantic, equidistant between Europe and North America, and they are unlike anywhere else in Europe. Volcanic lakes, whale watching, hot springs, and an almost complete absence of mass tourism — the Azores are a destination that demands more attention than they currently receive.

Getting There

TAP Air Portugal and Ryanair serve several Azorean islands from Lisbon. Discovia's air ticket booking covers all domestic and connecting flights, and airport transfers are available on the main islands including São Miguel (Ponta Delgada), Faial, and Pico.

São Miguel: The Green Island

São Miguel is the largest and most visited island — its Sete Cidades twin lakes (one blue, one green) are among the most photographed landscapes in Portugal. Car rental through Discovia is the most practical way to explore; the entire island can be circumnavigated in a single day.

Island Hopping

The inter-island ferry network covers most Azorean islands. Combined with Discovia's transfers at each port, island hopping is surprisingly straightforward. Most travellers dedicate 2–3 days to each island — São Miguel, Faial, and Pico form the classic trio.

Best Time to Visit

June through September offers the most reliable weather and the best conditions for whale watching — the Azores are one of the finest whale watching destinations in the world. Outside peak season, the islands are quieter but the landscapes are arguably more dramatic.