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As lovers of the Azores, it’s easy for us to subjectively answer the question “are the Azores worth visiting?” To us, it’s an easy yes! But the answer is a little more complex than that.
There is no doubt that the Azores are a natural paradise with plenty to offer to visitors. Between the unspoiled landscapes, unique culture, and genuine hospitality, what’s not to like about the Azores?
If you don’t already know, the Azores are a cluster of nine islands belonging to Portugal but located about 1,400 km (870 miles) from mainland Portugal’s coast. Many coin the destination as the “Hawaii of Europe” (but we have our own controversial opinions about that).
Over the past few years, the Azores grasped the attention of travelers from around the world leading to an uptick in tourism. Let’s dive into the myriad of reasons why the Azores are a must-visit destination for many but may not be worth it for others.
Breathtaking Natural Beauty
The Azores islands boast some of the most awe-inspiring and diverse landscapes on the planet. Between the lush green meadows, dramatic cliffs, pristine lakes, and majestic waterfalls, the archipelago is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Positioned on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the Azores are also characterized by volcanic rock, craters, peaks, and thermal hot springs, creating a landscape like no other. Each island offers its own unique beauty that can leave adventurers exploring for weeks.
✅ If you appreciate nature, the Azores is for you.
❌ If you’re more of a city person uninterested in nature travel, the Azores may not be worth visiting.
Outdoor Adventure Opportunities
With all the natural beauty to explore, the Azores offers a variety of outdoor adventure opportunities! For the leisurely explorers, the islands offer a plethora of activities like hiking, whale watching, kayaking, swimming in natural pools, and soaking in hot springs. But don’t worry, there’s also plenty to do for the adrenaline junkies out there. Between the diving, paragliding, canyoning, and coasteering, you won’t get bored!
✅ For those seeking an active travel experience of outdoor adventures, the Azores are a dream destination.
❌ For those who’d prefer to spend most of their time indoors, the Azores may not be a good fit.
Rich Cultural Heritage
Beyond its natural wonders, the Azores have a rich cultural heritage as represented in their everyday life. Their villages marked by cobblestone streets and centuries-old churches reflect the islands’ history and heritage and make you feel like you stepped back in time. Another way to get a feel for their culture is to immerse yourself in local festivals and celebrations (AKA festas). Experiencing the Azorean way of life can help you travel deeper and feel more connected with the destination.
✅ If you’re looking for an authentic travel experience to immerse yourself in the local culture, the Azores is worth a visit.
❌ If you’re uncomfortable interacting with locals or prefer modern destinations, the Azores may not be the prime choice.
Wholesome Gastronomy
Typical Azorean cuisine showcases the best fresh, local ingredients with an emphasis on seafood, meat, cheese, and bread. Azoreans also love their wine, and you’d be remiss not to try some if you are a wine drinker.
✅ If you enjoy hearty food and trying new dishes, the Azores culinary scene will be a delight.
❌ If you are a picky eater or have dietary restrictions (vegetarian/vegan), you may have a difficult time (especially on smaller islands).
Simplicity and Relaxation
Azoreans enjoy a simple, slow way of life. It’s the perfect destination to soak in your surroundings and relax. While there is plenty to keep you entertained, you will never feel rushed in the tranquil environment of the Azores. Their tourism infrastructure also reflects this simplicity. While you can find select luxuries on the bigger islands, most accommodations, car rentals, and restaurants offer more of a casual vibe.
✅ If you want to slow down and unwind, the Azores provide the perfect environment.
❌ If you prefer a fast-paced or luxurious lifestyle and don’t look forward to slowing down, the Azores may be the wrong pace for you.
Safety and Accessibility
Safety is a top priority in the Azores, as represented by their low crime rates and local sense of security. The Azores’ commitment to safety also extends to their natural attractions with well-maintained hiking trails, clear signage, and visitor information centers.
The Azores also take steps towards inclusivity of those with mobility challenges. While many parts of the islands (especially the smaller islands) lack in proper accessibility infrastructure, many tourist sites, accommodations, and public spaces have made strides to accommodate wheelchair users (especially on the larger islands). In major cities, you’ll find accessible pathways, ramps, and facilities designed for wheelchair access. It’s important to note that many accessibility challenges still exist, but the Azores continue to work towards greater inclusivity.
✅ Fortunately, the safety in the Azores makes it comfortable for any traveler to visit with peace of mind.
💭 For those with mobility challenges, it should not be a deterrence to visiting the Azores. Rather, we recommend prioritizing stays in larger cities with stronger accessibility infrastructure like Ponta Delgada and Angra do Heroísmo.
Cost and Convenience
While getting to the Azores can be costly dependent on where visitors travel from, costs on the islands are affordable. For accommodations, restaurants, and transportation, various options serve a range of price points.
In terms of convenience, getting to and around the Azores is surprisingly straightforward. Direct flights connect major European cities and select U.S. cities to the islands’ main airports. Both flights and ferries accommodate inter-island travel for island hopping. Flights and ferries do have select timetables that require advanced planning and flexibility, as many flights have delays or inconvenient layovers. Once on the islands, rental cars, public buses, and guided tours provide convenient ways to explore.
✅ The Azores are a good fit for travelers looking to stick within a range of price points.
❌ The Azores may not be a good fit for travelers with a strict and inflexible schedule.
So, are the Azores worth visiting?
So, let’s revisit our original question… are the Azores worth visiting? As you can see, it depends on the type of traveler you are and your interests and priorities. While we like to say there is something for everyone in the Azores, we recommend considering what you’re looking for in a travel destination and seeing if the above points align with that.
The Azores may not be the perfect destination for everyone, but those who appreciate its unique offerings will find it an unbeatable experience. Whether you seek stunning landscapes, thrilling adventures, or a cultural escape, the Azores offer an all-encompassing experience that transcends typical tourist destinations. Pack your bags, and get yourself over to the Azores for an unforgettable adventure that will undoubtedly leave you wanting more!