Europe’s Best Kept Secret: Why the Azores Should Be Your 2026 Escape
If you’ve ever dreamed of a European getaway that doesn’t involve shoulder-to-shoulder selfie sticks or marathon museum tours, it’s time to look toward the North Atlantic.
Meet the Azores, a magical archipelago of nine islands that are often described as the "Hawaii of Europe". Despite their dramatic landscapes and "off-the-beaten-path" feel, they are surprisingly easy to reach with direct flights from the U.S. and mainland Portugal.
A Perfect Day on São Miguel
To give you a taste of island life, let’s look at a "Choose Your Own Adventure" day on the largest island, São Miguel:
Morning: Hike or Hydrate?
For the Zen Traveler: Start your day at Europe’s only tea plantation. Sip something warm and locally grown as you ease into the morning mist.
For the Adventurer: Jump straight into a morning hike. The island is famous for its stunning crater lakes and coastal scenery that set a breathtaking tone for the day.
Afternoon: Land or Sea?
On the Water: Head out onto the Atlantic for deep-sea fishing or join a local surf school to catch some of the North Atlantic’s famous waves.
On the Land: If you prefer to stay grounded, spend your afternoon soaking in natural geothermal thermal pools or indulging in a spa treatment.
Evening: Geothermal Gastronomy
End your day in the lively city of Ponta Delgada. For dinner, don't miss the local beef and fresh seafood.
Fun Fact: The locals often use geothermal heat to cook vegetables right in the ground. It’s a culinary experience so unique that even Anthony Bourdain featured it on No Reservations.
Why We Love It
The biggest perk of the Azores? They pair beautifully with the rest of Portugal. You can balance "island time" with a trip to the Douro Valley or use the vibrant energy of Lisbon as a bookend to your stay. It is the ultimate way to blend nature, culture, and city energy into one well-rounded trip.
The Azores are a perfect fit for you if:
You want to experience raw nature without it feeling too "rugged".
You are a couple who appreciates flexibility, great food, and plenty of choices.
You simply love a destination that embraces a slower, more intentional pace of life.
Ready to trade the crowds for crater lakes?
Let's create an Azores itinerary that's perfect for your travel style. Click HERE to begin planning!
P.S. We want to know—if you were on São Miguel today, would you start with the tea fields or the crater lakes? Let us know in the comments!
