The Azores Revealed: 7 Reasons to Visit Now
From basalt peaks and bubbling hot springs to world-class wine and legendary tales of pirates and seafarers, the Azores is a destination like no other. Venture through the North Atlantic to explore Portugal’s hidden isles before the rest of the world discovers their secrets.
Take in Surreal Volcanic Vistas
The Azores sits atop a geothermal hotspot at the meeting point of three tectonic plates. On hikes and walks, you’ll traverse otherworldly volcanic landscapes, from craggy lava fields and gem-like crater lakes to soaring sea cliffs and black-sand beaches.
Vibrant Cultural Traditions
The archipelago is a rich cultural melting pot, shaped by the diverse visitors who have laid roots here over the centuries. Discover the unique identity that has emerged here while exploring traditions like winemaking and cheesemaking, and immerse yourself in a way of life that has remained mostly unchanged for centuries.
Explore the "Hawaii of Europe"
The Azores’ lush volcanic landscapes and temperate climate often earn comparisons to the Hawaiian Islands. While the natural treasures attract regional travelers, the archipelago receives far fewer visitors than its Pacific counterpart.
Uncover a Fascinating Seafaring History
During the Age of Exploration, the islands were a vital stop for repairs and resupply for ships traveling between the Old and New Worlds. Their strategic location also fueled the 19th-century whaling industry by showcasing the practice’s economic potential to foreign visitors.
A Unique Stopover
Break up your trip across the Atlantic with an extended layover off the beaten path. Flights from Boston, New York, Toronto and Montreal take you directly to the archipelago; following your voyage, you can continue on to places like Paris and Lisbon.
Yellow tram on a street with colorful houses and flowers on the balconies, Lisbon, Portugal.
Photo: Shutterstock
Embrace the Serenity of the Shoulder Season
Spring in the Azores brings mild weather and a stunning burst of wildflowers in full bloom. Plus, the season sees a fraction of the tourists that come during the summer peak.
A Leader in Sustainable Travel
Whaling was banned in the Azores in 1987; local knowledge was then used to inform whale watching, which you’ll do in the company of Azorean spotters and a marine biologist. Sustainability initiatives are now widespread here, with three islands—Corvo, Graciosa and Flores—earning recognition as UNESCO Biosphere Reserves.
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