Planning a trip to the Azores and wondering where to stay? This Portuguese archipelago consists of nine islands, each with its own unique charm. I recently spent a month on the largest island, São Miguel, and I can assure you, it’s a truly magical place. While I stayed in an Airbnb, there are also plenty of fantastic hotels to choose from. In this guide, I’ll help you find the best places to stay in the Azores, including top hotel and Airbnb recommendations. Let’s dive in!
Find a great hotel in the Azores on Trip.com!
Table of Contents
The Best Places to Stay in the Azores
Villa Highlight-Casa Da Belavista
I’ve stayed in many home rentals, but Casa Da Bellavista on São Miguel might just be one of the best. If you’re seeking relaxation with stunning views of the ocean, rolling hills, and charming villages, this is the place for you. I spent a month here, and it quickly became one of my all-time favorites. The house is beautiful, with a hot tub and pool—though I only used the hot tub during my winter visit. In summer, I imagine it’s even more perfect.
Book your stay at Casa Da Bellavista in the Azores here!
Located in Lomba da Fazenda, on the island’s easternmost tip, Casa Da Bellavista offers seclusion and tranquility. While it’s a bit of a drive from Ponta Delgada and some attractions, the peaceful setting makes it worth the journey. If you’re looking for a place to unwind and escape, this home is truly magical. I highly recommend it for a relaxing stay on São Miguel.
Where to Stay on the Island Sao Miguel in the Azores
I loved where I stayed, but the best area for you depends on your trip’s focus. If you’re on a short visit, staying closer to the main attractions might be more convenient. These recommendations are based on my personal experience exploring the island.
Furnas
If I were to return to São Miguel, I’d choose to stay in Furnas. This picturesque town, set in the heart of a volcanic crater, is rich with attractions. From relaxing in hot springs and exploring beautiful parks to enjoying excellent hotels and restaurants, Furnas has it all.
The town is walkable, full of local charm, and provides easy access to groceries and other necessities. While it’s somewhat isolated from the rest of the island, its proximity to top attractions like Grena National Park and numerous hot springs makes it an ideal base. With so much to do and see, Furnas is definitely one of the best places to stay in the Azores.
Find a great hotel in Furnas in the Azores on Trip.com!
Nordeste
Nordeste, the easternmost town on São Miguel, is one of the best areas to stay in the Azores, in my opinion. While it’s about a 45-minute drive from the airport and the main city, the peaceful and relaxing atmosphere makes it worth the distance.
I stayed in the small parish of Lomba da Fazenda within the Nordeste area and loved it. A car rental is essential due to the remote location, but many of the island’s best hikes and outdoor activities are on this side anyway. If you’re deciding where to stay on São Miguel, Nordeste should be a top contender.
Find a great hotel in Nordeste in the Azores on Trip.com!
Sete Cidades
Sete Cidades, nestled inside the crater of an ancient volcano, is one of the most unique and best places to stay in the Azores. The town offers a charming atmosphere with beautiful buildings, a grand church, and two stunning lakes surrounded by a waterfront park.
If you’re looking for a place in São Miguel that’s both scenic and close to the action, Sete Cidades is an excellent choice. The area is famous for hiking around the crater’s rim, making it one of the top attractions on the island. Staying in or near Sete Cidades puts you right at the heart of these popular spots.
There are plenty of Airbnbs and some lovely hotels in the area, with options to stay directly on the lake during the summer—an unforgettable experience.
Find a great hotel in Sete Cidades in the Azores on Trip.com!
Ponta Delgada
Ponta Delgada, the capital and largest town on São Miguel, is where you’ll find the island’s airport. The town features a developed waterfront with shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it the most populated area on the island.
While it may not be the most scenic place to stay in the Azores, Ponta Delgada is incredibly convenient due to its central location. Staying here gives you easy access to a variety of dining options, shopping malls, and large grocery stores. The city itself is compact and walkable, with the downtown area easily explored in just a few hours.
During my month-long stay, I only visited Ponta Delgada a few times, but it’s definitely worth a visit. If you’re looking for convenience and accessibility, Ponta Delgada could be the perfect base for your stay on São Miguel.
Find a great hotel in Ponta Delgada in the Azores on Trip.com!
Vila Franca do Campo
Vila Franca do Campo is a charming town located about 20 minutes from the airport, offering several benefits for those considering a stay. Its central location on the island allows easy access to most attractions within a reasonable time.
The town is also the departure point for some of the best whale-watching tours on São Miguel—check out my whale watching guide for more details. Additionally, Vila Franca do Campo is home to the must-visit Nossa Senhora da Paz Chapel, perched on a hill with stunning views of the town below. With its charm and convenient location, Vila Franca do Campo is definitely one of the best places to stay in the Azores.
Find a great hotel in Vila Franca do Campo in the Azores on Trip.com!
Best Hotels in the Azores on São Miguel Island
In addition to Airbnb rentals, there are many excellent hotels on São Miguel. If you’re staying for less than a week, a hotel might be a better option. However, for stays longer than seven days, I recommend considering an Airbnb for the convenience of having a kitchen to prepare meals.
While dining out is enjoyable, it’s also nice to relax and eat at your place. Although I stayed in an Airbnb, I visited several hotels for drinks and dinner during my trip. These recommendations are based on my experiences, but there are many more great hotels on the island to explore.
- Octant Furnas Boutique Hotel Thermal & Spa-Located in Furnas, this stunning hotel is one of the best on São Miguel. The attached restaurant, where I’ve dined several times, serves delicious food. The hotel’s interior is eclectic and upscale, with immaculate grounds featuring private gardens and even hot springs running through the property. It’s definitely one of the top places to stay in the Azores.
- Terra Nostra Garden Hotel: This luxurious hotel is set within the Terra Nostra Garden and thermal hot springs. The hotel is high-end, with a restaurant offering fantastic food and a bar serving some of the best cocktails on the island. The highlight is the exclusive access to Terra Nostra hot springs after day guests leave at 5 pm, allowing hotel guests to enjoy the springs in a more private, magical setting.
Tips on Finding the Best Places to Stay in the Azores
- Get Connected with Airalo e-SIMs: Stay connected during your trip by using Airalo e-SIMs. They offer affordable data plans, making it easy to navigate and stay in touch while exploring the Azores.
- Rent a Car: To fully explore São Miguel and reach all the best spots, renting a car is essential. Public transportation is limited, and a car gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace.
- No Central Air/Heating: Many accommodations in the Azores lack central air or heating. The Airbnb I stayed in only had a fireplace for heat, which is common. In summer, air conditioning may not be available either. Be sure to confirm these details before booking.
- Old Homes vs. New Homes: Older homes in the Azores can have moisture issues due to high humidity, potentially causing mold problems. If you have allergies, consider staying in a newer, more modern home to avoid these issues.
- Farther from Town, Less to Do: The farther you stay from Ponta Delgada, the fewer amenities you’ll find. While smaller grocery stores are available, larger supermarkets and restaurants are closer to the city. Staying farther out offers more tranquility but requires occasional trips to town for essentials.
- Small Winding Roads vs. Highways: While the island’s infrastructure is excellent, with new highways, some destinations involve long, winding roads. What looks close on a map may take longer to reach due to these winding routes. Keep this in mind when choosing your accommodation.
Conclusion
I hope this guide has helped you choose where to stay in São Miguel, Azores. There are plenty of excellent areas to choose from on this island alone, and the other eight islands offer even more amazing options.
No matter where you stay, you’re bound to have a fantastic trip. The Azores are incredibly unique, with stunning landscapes and countless activities to enjoy year-round. I’m sure you’ll find the beauty of these islands as captivating as I did. Be sure to check out my other Azores content to learn more about this fascinating region!
Pin this Article for Later– Best Places to Stay in the Azores
Leave a reply