Compare The Best of the Azores by Titan Travel vs Portugal & the Azores by Intrepid Travel

Day 1 London - Ponta Delgada, São Miguel
Titan’s VIP door-to-door travel service collects you from home, for your journey to London Gatwick or Heathrow Airport for a direct, scheduled Azores Airlines flight to Ponta Delgada or TAP Portugal flight via Lisbon. Upon arrival on the island of São Miguel, we transfer to the Azoris Royal Garden Hotel (4T).

Day 2 Furnas Valley - Ribeira Grande
Today we embark on an exciting full-day tour to explore the Furnas Valley, set within a 6km volcanic crater. Our first stop is Terra Nostra Garden with time to bathe in the thermal pool, visit the hot springs and sample some of the many natural mineral waters. After a delicious lunch, uniquely cooked for many hours underground using the steam of the hot springs, we continue to the north shore to view the Furnas Valley - the village, lake and lush vegetation - from the top of the crater. After tea at the oldest tea factory in Europe, the town of Ribeira Grande is our final destination, where some lovely examples of 18-19th century island architecture await.

Day 3 Ponta Delgada
Enjoy a day at leisure today, relaxing in the hotel or exploring the surrounding area. You may wish to join an optional excursion and there are two to choose from today. On the first you will embark on a scenic boat journey in search of magnificent whales, seeing them swim in the wild is an unforgettable experience. Or, travel to Fenais da Luz, where you will be treated to a taste of some of the local wines made from the region’s lush green vineyards.

Day 4 Ponta Delgada - Horta, Faial
We transfer to the airport for a flight to the island of Faial and upon arrival we check in at Azoris Faial Garden Hotel (4T) in Horta, where we stay for the next four nights, enjoying dinner here each evening.

Day 5 South Coast - Capelinhos
From the hotel this morning we drive along the south coast to Varadouro, where the sea has carved out a natural pool within the rocks. We begin a scenic coastal walk towards Capelinhos, a recently-formed landscape created by a volcanic eruption which occurred in the ocean here between 1957 and 1958. At Porto do Comprido, visit the fascinating Interpretation Centre to learn of the evolution of the volcano, as well as enjoying a delicious lunch. We continue to the protected volcanic crater of Caldeira, before journeying back to Horta, passing the place of settlement for the first Flemish to arrive on the island - Flamengos - and stopping for a view over the harbour of Horta, a popular stopping place for the worldwide yachting community.

Day 6 Horta
Enjoy a day at leisure where you can freely explore your surroundings or simply relax in our comfortable hotel.

Day 7 Pico Island
Today we discover Faial’s wonderful neighbouring island, Pico, travelling by ferry to the second largest island of the Azores which hosts the highest reaching mountain (2,351m) in the whole of Portugal. An abundance of typical vineyards allow time for a short walk, before driving along the south of the island to discover the charming church in Candelaria and the old whaling village of Lajes - inspiration for Herman Melville’s ‘Moby Dick’. Refreshed after a lunch stop we head north, passing Lagoa do Capitão to make a stop at São Roque’s former whale-processing factory that is now a museum. Our sightseeing adventure includes a final scenic journey back to Madalena to meet the return ferry back to Horta, however we make one quick stop at Lajido winery.

Day 8 Horta - Angra do Heroísmo, Terceira
We transfer to the airport for a flight to the island of Terceira and the town of Angra do Heroísmo. We spend the next four nights at the Hotel do Caracol (4T) and there will be time to settle in before enjoying dinner.

Day 9 Terceira Island Tour
Discover beautiful Terceira, visiting the region’s most scenic spots including Pico das Cruzinhas - on the volcanic cinder cone known as Monte Brasil - where we view the city of Angra do Heroísmo; the old fishing port of Porto Judeu, stopping at a local snack bar to capture picturesque views of the Cabras Islet, a collection of small rock formations from a volcanic eruption; and the forest reserve area of Lagoa das Patas. On the scenic journey we also see outstanding architecture including the Fortress of St John the Baptist and the fascinating ancient prisons found here; the monument of the Festa Brava - a statue of three enormous bulls; Praia da Vitoria’s historical centre; and the ‘Ramo Grande’ zone, with many wealthy farmers’ houses. As well as architecture and scenic spots this exciting tour calls at Europe’s main point for sighting Palearctic birds and the parish of Biscoitos Winery and Wine Museum, where we explore the museum and taste some of the best wines and local cheeses. Lunch is included at a local restaurant in Praia da Vitoria.

Days 10-11 Terceira
With two days at leisure you can choose to explore Terceira, relax at the hotel or choose an optional excursion. On day 10, choose a half-day whale watching trip with the aim to view these beautiful creatures swimming in the stunning deep-blue waters. On day 11, an optional excursion is available to explore the Islets of Goats - fascinating volcanic islets located on the picturesque southeast coast.

Day 12 Angra do Heroismo - Ponta Delgada, São Miguel
After breakfast we transfer to the airport for our flight back to São Miguel Island and Ponta Delgada, where we return to the Azoris Royal Garden Hotel (4T).

Day 13 Ponta Delgada
You have a choice of three impressive optional excursions today. On the first, spend half the day visiting volcanic caves - Gruta do Carvao and a pineapple plantation to see the growing process of this delicious fruit. The second is also a half-day city tour of Ponta Delgada, the bustling capital of The Azores, with fascinating history, immense green forested landscapes and beautiful architecture of white-washed houses and buildings dating back to the 17th and 18th century. Or, join a full-day excursion to the island’s centre and two of its three volcanic massifs - Sete Cidades and Lagoa Fogo. While here you can roam this legendary land and learn all of the geological history that has created this wonderfully beautiful place.

Day 14 Ponta Delgada
Enjoy a morning at leisure in São Miguel, or join one of the two half day optional excursions on offer - either an unforgettable swim with dolphins or a thrilling Jeep adventure to Sete Cidades. In the afternoon, we enjoy a delicious farewell dinner at Quinta Pico da Cruz and a fascinating display of Lusitano horses.

Day 15 Ponta Delgada - London
We transfer to the airport for a direct, scheduled Azores Airlines flight to London Gatwick Airport or TAP Portugal flight to London Heathrow Airport via Lisbon. On arrival you will be met and guided to your Titan vehicle, for the journey home.

Day 1 Porto

Welcome to Portugal! Stretching along the banks of the River Douro, Porto is one of Portugal's most romantic cities. Known for majestic bridges, medieval riverside district with its cobbled streets, merchants’ houses and cafes, Porto is also well known for one more thing; surprise surprise – Porto is the birthplace of the fortified wine, port. Today, there’s an important welcome meeting at 6 pm where you’ll meet your group leader and fellow travellers. After your meeting, why not get the crew together and head out to an optional dinner – your group leader will know of some great spots to go.

Day 2 Porto

Take a leader-led orientation walk with your group this morning to get your bearings. Otherwise, the day is free to do as you please. The city's World Heritage-listed Ribeira district is packed with twisting alleys, staircases, and baroque churches, and is great to explore on foot. Sao Francisco church is known for its lavish interior with ornate gilded carvings. The palatial 19th-century Palacio de Bolsa, formerly a stock market, was built to impress potential European investors. Make sure you also visit Mercado do Bolhao, Porto's market, one of the city's institutions since 1914. For a sensational view of the whole town head to the Torre dos Clerigos (Clerigos Tower), or head down Allies Avenue to see the French-inspired buildings. Late afternoon, meet your leader and the rest of the group again to test out Portugal’s famed wine on an included port tasting. Oh, and in the evening, why not book yourself on a Rio Duoro cruise on one of the historic 'rabelo' boats to see the city from the water.

Day 3 Porto / Coimbra

The morning is free for you to explore Porto at your own pace. As you’ll be traveling over to Coimbra after lunch, there will be a place to store your luggage for the day. With early evening arrival at your hotel, you can either relax or embark on a stroll to begin exploring Coimbra.

Day 4 Coimbra

Enjoy an easy day in Coimbra at your leisure. Sitting dignified on the banks of the River Mondego, Coimbra was once the capital of the country, and its royal heritage can be felt in its historic streets and buildings. Join your group leader on a wander through the lanes and squares of the Old Quarter and be sure to pass by the University of Coimbra – the oldest in Portugal. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy as you please before meeting with your group again for an evening Fado show. Coimbra's version of the fado is linked to the academic traditions of its university and musicians wear the traditional academic outfit: dark robes and capes. The music is characterized by sombre tunes and lyrics, often about the life of the poor, and inspired by mourning and melancholia.

Day 5 Schist Villages/Aldeia das Dez

Travel to Piódão, an enchanting historical Schist Village celebrated for its distinctive architecture and breathtaking natural setting. Tucked away in the Serra do Açor mountains, Piódão resembles a scene from a fairytale, showcasing charming schist and slate houses nestled into the verdant mountainside. Take a leisurely stroll through the village's narrow, winding streets before heading towards Aldeia das Dez, a typical mountain village located on the slopes of Serra da Estrela. Also known as Aldeia das Flores, its inhabitants have it as a tradition to decorate their streets with beautiful and colourful flowers. Experience the allure of rustic beauty, picturesque landscapes, and a slower pace of life, and immerse yourself in the rich local culture, creating lasting memories in a quaint setting that seamlessly blends tradition with modern comfort.

Day 6 Lisbon

Travel back to Coimbra in a private vehicle and from there transfer to Lisbon by train. After a brief orientation walk, you are free for the afternoon. Much of Lisbon’s character and charm lies in its beautiful renovated buildings, grand boulevards, impressive castles and churches. Maybe visit one of the most symbolic buildings in the city, Lisbon Cathedral, which was built on the site of an old mosque in 1150 by Lisbon’s first bishop, Gilbert of Hastings. Inside are nine chapels, each with their own story to tell, and the wonderful Gothic cloister. Another option is to visit the medieval citadel of Sao Jorge Castle. The citadel dates back to Moorish times and sits on the highest point of the Old Town. Although much of the original castle has been destroyed throughout history, some sections of walls and 18 different towers remain today. Look down on a city swarming with endless angular white houses and buildings with distinct red terracotta rooftops.

Day 7 Lisbon

Make some further discoveries of Lisbon in the morning at your own pace. Roam through the charming narrow streets of local neighbourhoods do a spot of people watching, visit Belem Tower (a wonderful building originally designed as a lighthouse) and the vast, spectacular Monastery of the Jeronimos. Otherwise, head out for a day trip to Sintra – a royal sanctuary full of pastel coloured Romanticist buildings. In the evening, regroup and experience more of Portugal’s way of life by enjoying a sunset walk with your group and a wine and cheese picnic.

Day 8 Sao Miguel Island / Ponta Delgada

At some stage today you’ll board a flight from Lisbon Portela Airport to the Azores, arriving in Ponta Delgada on San Miguel Island (flight time approximately 2.5 hours). Sao Miguel Island is treasured as the vibrant garden of the Atlantic thanks to its lush surrounds – hopefully you get a glimpse of this through the plane windows on the way in! Please note that today will be without a leader, and you will be on this flight by yourself or with other travellers who have booked the combination trip. Once arrived, you will be transferred to your accommodation and meet your group for the next stage of your Portuguese adventure at a group meeting tonight at 6pm.

Day 9 Sao Miguel Island / Ponta Delgada

Sao Miguel is home to some stunning scenery and by the end of the day, this should be more than obvious. Take a visit to Arruda’s Pineapple Plantation located at Faja de Baixo. These glass greenhouses often take two years to grow the delicious fruit within, and there might be an opportunity to snack on some during the visit. You’ll then skim along the south coast of the island towards Furnas. Marvel at the volcanic activity of the Furnas volcano and visit the great lagoon, then sit down to a truly unforgettable experience. Your lunch today is ‘Cozido das Furnas’ – a delicious stew cooked underground by the steam from the volcano – you’ll lava it! After lunch you’ll have the option to take a relaxing dip in a geothermal hot pool, then it’s time to hit the road again and travel to the fabulous Pico do Ferro viewpoint. Stop in at a local tea plantation for a tour and to sample some of the only tea grown in Europe – the only tea plantations on the continent are found in Sao Miguel! Finally, pay a visit to Miradouro de Santa Iria where you’ll soak in sweeping views of the north coast of the island.

Day 10 Sao Jorge Island / Velas

The morning is yours to discover more of the magic of Sao Miguel. You may like to pay a visit to Lagoa das Sete Cidades, an emerald green lake in a volcanic caldera that would look right at home on another planet. If you’d like to learn about Azorean natural history then the Museu Carlos Machado is the place for you, and the building it sits in, a 16th-century convent, is as much of an attraction as the museum itself. This afternoon, board a flight bound for Sao Jorge Island (approximately 1 hour), one of the most scenic islands in the Azores thanks to its steep cliffs and narrow landmass. In the evening you may like to get to know Velas, the island’s capital, by visiting one of the many local bars or sampling some of the region’s famous (and strong) cheddar.

Day 11 Sao Jorge Island / Velas

Start the day with a visit at local groceries to pick up a tasty snack, or if the days line up, you may instead go to the local market. Then it’s time to discover the island’s beauty on foot during a hike to the spectacular Caldeira do Santo Cristo. Begin your walk at Serra do Topo and climb a wide trail upwards. You’ll have the option to detour to a beautiful waterfall, then continue along a cobbled path towards Fajã da Caldeira do Santo Cristo. The views you’ll come upon on this walk are simply unforgettable – each one more breathtaking than the last. Follow the trail to the natural debris field of Fajã dos Cubres and explore the lagoon while your leader fills you in on the flora and fauna of the region. Stop off at a scenic spot along the trail to appreciate the views and enjoy a picnic lunch. Return to Velas after your hike for an evening at leisure.

Day 12 Faial Island / Horta

Today you'll travel to Faial Island by ferry (approximately 2.5 hours), sometimes referred to as Ilha Azul (Blue Island). Raul Brandao, the Portugese poet, famously made note of the iconic blue hydrangeas that bloom on Faial during the summer months, quipping 'the man that had the idea to border the road with these plants should have a statute on the island.' Visit the island's resident volcano, Capelinhos, or rather the volcano centre as the climb up is not considered safe. Capelinhos last erupted in 1957 and changed the island permanently, adding an extra kilometre of land mass and blanketing the surrounding area in five metres of volcanic ash. The rest of the day is free to explore the local port town, Horta, and discover its long maritime history.

Day 13 Pico Island / Faial Island / Horta

Leave Faial for the day to visit Ilha do Pico (Pico Island). Known as Ilha Preta (Black Island) for its black volcanic earth, Pico is the proud home of UNESCO-designated vineyards that have played a major part in the community’s development. Today you will set out on a marvellous tour on the island. Firstly learn about the island's volcanic past by visiting Arcos do Cachorro (lava tunnels) - the fascinating rock formations reveal this special force of nature. Then the hidden gem of a family-owned distillery awaits. Enjoy a tour through the distillery and learn about their special techniques and chat about the life on Pico Island over a tasting of their wonderful products. Next up is a stop at Criacao Velha for the stunning view of the UNESCO-listed landscape of Pico's vineyards. Free time afterwards and you may like to take part in an optional whale watching tour. Up until 1980, the island supported a substantial whaling industry due to the deep waters of the surrounding Atlantic. Fortunately, the end of the industry means whale watching has become a popular activity for sea-faring visitors. You'll be back on Faial Island for the evening and that means there's time for a cheeky G&T at Cafe Sport (aka Peter's Bar), perhaps the most famous sailor's bar in the world. This watering hole was once a crucial post office and gossip stop for travelling sailors in a pre-internet era. For some, it still is.

Day 14 Faial Island / Horta

Say goodbye Azores! Your trip comes to an end today after check-out.