Roamantics Guide to Portugal

A note from us...

We are Inna and Evan. We have many titles: photographers, videographers, dog parents, but most importantly husband and wife. We’ve travelled to 18 countries and counting, and we’ve fallen more in love with discovering the world with every trip. We want to help other couples do the same.

It was the day before New Year’s when we got the idea to book a spontaneous trip to Portugal. We knew we wanted to escape the winter, and Portugal’s mild weather sounded really nice. Not knowing much about the country, we decided to take the leap and book our flights. When we landed in Porto and set out on our month long journey, we had no idea what an incredible country we were landing in. With all the research we had done, Portugal still had plenty of surprises in store. We spent the next month traveling the country, with Porto as our home base. From the rainforests and rugged coastlines of the Azores to the bustling streets of Lisbon and Porto, to the cascading hills of the Douro Valley and beyond, we learned that Portugal has so much to offer. We’ve curated all of our favourite spots and recommendations to ensure you have a magical experience.

Before we get into it though, we want to say that Portugal has been an underrated country in Europe for a while. People flock to places like Italy and France but miss one of Europe’s oldest countries full of history, culture, architecture, world class beaches and incredible nature. Major cities like Lisbon and Porto have the old-world magic of places like Florence and the modern day fun of Paris. And while you can certainly travel in style, we found our dollar went a lot further here than during our trips to France or Italy.

We want to share our first hand experiences and knowledge to help you plan a memorable and meaningful trip to Portugal. Thank you for joining us on this quest, trusting us to help you with your trip, and we hope you’ll stick around for the next one!

Pictured: Inna (left), Evan (right), photo by Emily at www.elmshoots.com

PORTO

Porto was our homebase for our month long stay in Portugal. The second most populous city in the country, Porto boasts a UNESCO protected historic riverfront, a sophisticated and authentic food scene, and one of the best surfing destinations in the country. It’s a lot less crowded than it’s bigger neighbour Lisbon, but has just as much to offer and a lively nightlife. While many people only spend a day or two here, we really feel it deserves a longer stay on people’s itineraries.

What we adore about this city is the multitude of experiences it offers. From evening strolls by the river to surfing in Matosinhos, we’re confident that Porto will welcome you with open arms during your travels, just as it did for us. We kept finding new corners of the city, and there’s just no way you can see it all during a short visit.

We’ve got a whole list of accomodations, excursions, restaurants, and tips on the next page! Whether you are looking to relax by the beach, try authentic Portugese food, or simply take it all in while sailing through the historic port, you’ll find it all in Porto. We loved our experiences here, and we’re excited to spill our secrets so that you can have a stressfree trip that’s memorable for all the right reasons.

Happy Planning!

Did you know Porto’s downtown waterfront is a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

WHERE TO STAY IN PORTO

THE LUXURY PICK

Pestana Palacio do Freixo

If you want to fulfill your fantasy of living in a historic palace, Pestana Palacio do Freixo checks that box and more. It is one of the leading luxury hotels in the world, and we can definitely see why just by looking at the interior design. You can swim in an outdoor or indoor pool and there are free shuttles into the city from the hotel. This is definitely a splurge but if you’re on a honeymoon, we think it’s worth it even for one night.

THE MODEST PICK

Hotel Vincci Bonjardim

This hotel offers modern stylish rooms, an ideal location in the heart of the city, and a stunning rooftop pool perfect for a sunset dip. We want to especially highlight the staff here, who are so kind and will make sure you have the best experience possible. There is also an option to have a breakfast buffet downstairs, so if you like the convenience of not having to leave your hotel to find food, this has what you need!

THE BUDGET PICK

Vrbo

You can find some great stays on Vrbo in Porto, and this apartment is ideal if you are planning on staying in the city longer and want access to a kitchen (groceries in Portugal are SO cheap compared to North America!). Situated in the lovely Bonfim neighbourhood you have access to some of the best restaurants and shops in the city within a 10 minute walk.

FOR DIGITAL NOMADS

Outsite Mouco

If you are able to work remotely or looking for a place where you can get some work done while in Porto, we can’t reccomend Outsite Muoco enough! This accomodation has modern, stylish rooms with mini kitchens, a gym, pool, work lounges, and the best wifi we’ve had at any hotel ever. It’s also an amazing way to meet other travellers, and to have access to exclusive community events like concerts and yoga sessions. While it is a little further from the historic downtown of Porto, we found the 25 minute walk very pleasant and enjoyable. You’re also a minute away from the Heroismo Metro Station where you can catch a train to anywhere in the city.

WHERE TO EAT IN PORTO

A NICE NIGHT OUT

Wagon

This one was Evan’s find and it did not disappoint! These were some of the best cocktails (and food) we had on our entire trip. We recommend trying the Pina Colada and the Portugese classic duck sausage rice bake.

OUT TO LUNCH

A

Certain Cafe

Right down the road from Combi, A Certain Cafe does high quality pour-over coffee, and an inventive breakfast (we loved the dulce de leche french toast!) and lunch menu with local natural wines. It’s also one of the most aesthetically beautiful cafes we’ve ever been to, so if you want the perfect instagram shot you’ll definitely be able to take it here. Just be sure to grab a seat by the window for the beautiful light!

ON THE GO

Bolhao Market

This market was a near-daily stop for us in Porto. You can get everything you need to make a meal at home, or pick up a sandwich, a crepe, or any other variety of dishes, pair it with a glass of wine and sit down.

CAFFEINE FIX

Combi

This was our local coffee shop in Porto, and it is the best coffee in the city, hands down. Asides from the high quality beans roasted right in the shop, excellent pastries and a great breakfast menu, this place has a neighbourhood vibe that is lively and welcoming. We loved coming here every morning, grabbing our drinks and sitting on the patio people watching. We should also mention the “Prana Chai” on the menu is the most delicious chai latte you will ever order, so if the other things we mentioned didn’t already convince you, we hope this does.

SIX UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES

SUNSET SAIL ON THE RIVER

Seeing Porto from a sailboat was one of the most relaxing experiences we had. We learned a lot about the different neighbourhoods of Porto and the history of the city, while enjoying some local Port wine, snacks and watching the sunset. If you’re lucky, you might be able to see dolphins, too!

BOLHAO MARKET FOOD TOUR

We have to admit, we loved this market so much we kept coming back every day and discovering new things to try. This market isn’t just for groceries, there are food stalls and restaurants on the first and second level. Portuguese people are very proud of their food, and learning more about the local cuisine and the history of this market on this food tour is a must try in our opinion!

STROLL ALONG THE HISTORIC WATERFRONT

This UNESCO heritage neighbourhood is the reason most people come to Porto. Porto is connected to its neighbour across the river Gaia via a set of bridges, and one of them was made by Gustavo Eiffel, known for his tower in Paris. The road with his namesake features a variety of historic buildings, and makes for an amazing sunset walk.

PASTEL DE NATA WORKSHOP

One thing’s for sure when you come to Porto, you’ll be seeing a lot of Pastel de Nata pastries in local bakeries. This sweet and flaky dessert comes up a lot when talking about Portugal, so if you like baking we recommend taking this class to learn how to make these iconic sweets.

PORTO E-BIKE TOUR

There’s a lot to see in Porto, and plenty of hills too, so jumping on an electric bike with a local is a good way to see the city without depleting your energy. This tour takes you through the Ribeira neighbourhood, and allows your to explore Porto’s historic waterfront and the city centre all while riding on an electric bike!

THE TILE WORKSHOP

When you arrive in Portugal, you’ll immediately notice how beautifully decorated the buildings are with intricate tilework. If you’re feeling artistic you can join in the rich tradition of Portuguese tile painting known as Azulejos. You will encounter this marvelous tile work all over the country and this class will teach you how to make your own in the traditional style.

BONUS TIP

The Pastel De Nata is the national pastry of Portugal. You find them everywhere, their flaky crust with a gooey custard filling. The question is; who has the best one? You might find different answers, but our favourite, and the local pick, is Fabrica de Nata

MATOSINHOS

THE SIDE OF PORTO YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW ABOUT

Surf, Sun, Repeat

HOW TO SPEND A DAY IN PORTO’S SURFING NEIGHBOURHOOD, MATOSINHOS

Hop on the metro heading west from Porto's bustling city centre, and before you know it, you'll land in the coastal gem of Matosinhos! Nestled snugly by the Atlantic, it's like stumbling upon a laid-back paradise where the beach is your playground. Trust us, we couldn't get enough of this hidden gem – the chill vibes, killer waves for surfing, and the food! Pack your beach gear, because we've got the ultimate playbook for you to soak up all that Matosinhos has to offer!

•START YOUR MORNING AT THE COFFEE

The Coffee has locations from Brazil to Japan, and it is one of the best coffee shops we’ve ever tried. They have a variety of drinks for everyone, black coffee purists to matcha lovers, and some of their locations even have ice cream.

•GO FOR A DIP AT NATURAL OCEAN POOL, PISCINA DAS MARES

A pool in the ocean? Piscina das Mares is the best of both worlds. This public pool is an architectural gem, and is a great place to enjoy a sunny afternoon and salt water. Thank us later when you have the coolest photos from this location!

•GRAB A MICHELIN STAR LUNCH AT CASA DE CHA DA BOA NOVA

Built right in to the cliff this restaurant boasts 2 Michelin Stars, and one of the most impressive settings for a meal you’ll see. BOA NOVA focuses on harmony with the sea, both in its design and in its menu.

•TAKE A SURF LESSON WITH FLOWER POWER SURF SCHOOL

This was a highlight of our trip. Matosinhos is an ideal place to learn, with consistent waves and a large surf community. We took a lesson with Flower Power Surf School, and our instructor was helpful and supportive. Give it a try!

•SUNSET DINNER AT THE BEACH AT VAGAS RESTAURANTE

After you wash off the salt and sand at one of the showers at Matosinhos beach, you’ll probably be ready for a meal. Vagas offers beautiful views of the beach and the sunset, a perfect place to end a day in Matosinhos.

Off The Beaten Path in Porto

• Just outside of the downtown core is an outdoor park and a contemporary art museum worth visiting. The Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art lives within the Parque de Serralves, offering two incredible attractions in one. The park features an iconic art deco villa with an intricately designed garden. The garden is so big you can walk around for hours and there’s even a treetop boardwalk that lets you admire the trees from a bird’s eye view. You can buy tickets for either the garden, the museum only, or both.

The museum has one of the largest collections of Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, amidst a variety of other exemplars of modern art. Tickets for the full experience are 24 euros and you can purchase them online to skip the line.

HOW TO GET THERE

By Metro From Trindade Station: Take the A, Bx, C, E, or F Train west, to Casa Da Musica, from there take the 203 bus for 8 stops and get off at Serralves. Approx 25 minutes.

By Car/Uber: 15 Minutes from downtown Porto.

• There’s also a smaller, but equally as beautiful historic building and garden that is completley free to visit called Jardim Botânico Do Porto. The 19th century red mansion, pond and garden paths provide a peaceful stroll in nature while being very close to the city. You’ll find sweeping Wisteria, hedge mazes, and a lily pond.

HOW TO GET THERE

From Trindade Station: Take the A, Bx, C, E, or F Train west, to Casa Da Musica and then take the 204 bus for 7 stops and get off at Faculdade de Ciências. Approx 20 minutes.

By Car/Uber: 12 Minutes from downtown Porto

The stunning pond at Parque De Serralves (pictured left)

PARQUE DE SERRALVES AND JARDIM BOTANICO DO PORTO

Jardim Botanico Do Porto

The history of the palace at Jardim Botânico de Porto is quite fascinating. João da Silva Monteiro’s vision for the elaborate gardens laid the foundation for what would become a cherished landmark in Porto. It’s remarkable how the mansion has evolved over the years, transitioning from a private residence to an integral part of the Natural History Museum of Porto.

DOURO VALLEY

The Douro River is a scenic river that runs through the heart of downtown Porto, but it was also the main route for the transportation of Port wine from the Douro Valley. If you follow the river north you will arrive in the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as one of the oldest wine making regions in the world. Port might be an acquired taste, but the valley is quite the opposite; the cascading terraces on the hillsides leading down towards the water are a sight that will make you fall in love immediately. If you’re staying in Porto, we recommend at least a day-trip here, as it promises a beauty and serenity that can be a nice escape from the city.

There are two ways to get to the Douro Valley. Depending on the type of experience you want, you can take a scenic luxury train to get here from downtown Porto with a set itinerary, or you can explore the region on your own by car which allows you to plan out your own schedule and see parts of the valley that aren’t easily accessed otherwise.

We’ve got more info abou the luxury train option on the next page.

WHERE TO STAY IN DOURO

THE LUXURY PICK

Six Senses

Six Senses hotels are simply on another level. Their Douro Valley location is deeply connected to its environment, being situated in a restored manor house. It is know for its spa and resort amenities which it excels in, and the location is secluded but remains close to major attractions.

THE MODEST PICK

Quinta Da Corte

Quinta da Corte is an enchanting hotel which prides itself on its sustainable wine production, inviting guests to enjoy tours and tastings.

The hotel’s outdoor pool and terrace provide

the perfect relaxation spots, while its local cuisine offers an authentic Portuguese dining experience.

THE BUDGET PICK

Quinta do Bosque

This is a great pick if you want to relax outside, and enjoy some peace and quiet as Quinta do Bosque’s secluded location make it a perfect fit for nature lovers.

OUR FAVOURITE WINERIES

Quinta de Covela

This is a historic estate that has been producing wine since the 16th century.

Nestled in the Vinho Verde region, it overlooks the Douro River and boasts an

THE PRESIDENTIAL TRAIN

This train journey is the height of luxury and if you’re looking for a world class experience we think it might be the best way to see the Douro Valley. This historic train built in 1890 has hosted diplomats and world leaders and you can board it at São Bento station in Porto. It takes you through the Douro valley, while you relax in luxury, with leather seats and esteemed Michelin star chefs on board. This train is a combination of a trip through history with an excellent gastronomical expereince. Trust us when we say you won’t want this train ride to end!

organic vineyard that spans 24 hectares.

You can get tickets for a wine tour here

Quinta de la Rosa

Known for its high-quality Port and Douro wines, Quinta de la Rosa combines traditional methods with modern technology to create unique and expressive wines. The winery also offers wine tourism experiences, including vineyard tours and tastings, which you can get tickets for here

INSIDER TIP

Port wine can be very sweet, so if you don’t have a sweet tooth, we recommend trying it in a cocktail such as a Port & Tonic, Port Old Fashioned, or Port Lemonade.

One notable stop on the ride is Vesuvio. This Quinta is so exclusive it is reserved only for train riders! Records date this historic winery back to 1565 and it produces some of the most premium Port wines in the world.

While this train ride certainly comes with a price tag, we think it’s a oncein-a-lifetime experience that you will cherish forever.

You can check out the train journey and purchase your tickets here

Pictured here: The rolling hills of the Douro Valley

LISBON

The

city of youth, gastronomy, and an undeniable energy felt around every

corner.

Lisbon surprised us, in the best way possible.This is the cultural heart of Portugal, and you can certainly feel that with every step you take. Around every corner there is a cutting edge restaurant, forward-thinking bar, or coffee shop that is worth writing home about. We could not believe how much we wanted to do here, and every day felt like an adventure into a beautiful unknown. Its no wonder that Lisbon is a popular vacation destination for much of Europe in the spring, its history is undeniable (it’s actually older than Rome) and there is a vibrant energy in the air. Navigating all of it can be overwhelming so here are our recommendations for where to stay, what to eat, and what to do.

WHERE TO STAY IN LISBON

THE LUXURY PICK

Verride Palacio Santa Catarina

This historic hotel in the heart of Lisbon has rooms so luxurious you’ll feel like a Portuguese royal. If you’re on a honeymoon or wedding anniversary, we think this spot is worth the splurge. With clawfoot bathtubs, stunning terraces, and intricate tilework in every room, we can’t think of another place in Lisbon that makes you feel as fancy.

THE MODEST PICK

Jam Hotel Lisbon

Jam Hotel is a perfect mix of comfort and colour, with a really fun design. The rooms have an artsy bohemian theme, with plenty of room, and fun add ons like bluetooth speakers and a coffee maker in the hallway. There’s also a rooftop pool and bar that is perfect for enjoying on Lisbon’s hot summer evenings

THE BUDGET PICK

The Indy House

The Indy House has a variety of options in Lisbon for those looking for more of an apartment type stay. Beautiful lounges, private kitchenettes and balconies looking out to Lisbon, all in a central location. The rooms also have a really cute design, with colourful wallpaper, and an atomsphere that will make it feel like a home away from home.

WHERE TO EAT IN LISBON

ON THE GO

Vesuviano

If you’re grabbing something to go Vesuviano has a great menu of snacks and sandiwiches that are tasty, affordable, and great to eat while you’re walking around the city.

OUT TO LUNCH

Time Out! Market

If you’re not sure exactly what you want to eat, Time Out! Market has it all. A curated food hall that features some of the best restaurants in Lisbon, you can get everything from traditional Portuguese seafood to modern takes on American Hamburgers. The Time Out bar offers a wide selection of signature cocktails, and everything we tried was delightful.

CAFFEINE FIX

The Coffee We had The Coffee for the first time in Lisbon, and it was so good we kept coming back. The Lisbon location is great as you can grab an iced coffee and sit in the nearby park.

HAPPY HOUR

Boa Vista Social Club

This spot is a local favourite and we quickly saw why it was so popular. There are DJ’s spinning vinyl from an extensive record collection, thoughtfully crafted cocktails and modern cuisine. We know you’ll love coming here!

Our favourite things to do in Lisbon...

SAILING

Lisbon is a city built around the water, and a sailing excursion lets you see it from another angle. This amazing tour allows you to get up close to some of the historic sights of the city like the Belem Tower and the 25 of April Bridge.

“B-SIDE” OF LISBON E-BIKE TOUR

If you read our last guide to Italy, you know we love e-bikes. We just think they are such a great way to see a lot of the city without too much physical strain. This particular tour takes you through the seven hills of Lisbon. It offers some of the best views of the city and the ocean, while navigating the cobblestone streets and narrow alleys.

DOLPHIN WATCHING

Being near the ocean comes with some major perks, one of them being that you can get up close and personal with marine life. This dolphin tour allows you to learn more about these creatures from a marine biologist, and interact with them, plus it leaves right from the centre of Lisbon.

SINTRA

We’ll just go ahead and say it: Sintra is one of the most romantic, beautiful and magical places we’ve ever been. Only 45 minutes from Lisbon, Sintra is where the elite of the city came to build their palatial escapes. The result is hills dotted with mansions and gardens, many of which are open to public. The town of Sintra is one of the most charming in Portugal, with ancient streets and a wide piazza full of restaurants and shops. It makes for a wonderful day-trip from Lisbon, so we wanted to recommend a few things to do on your visit:

WHAT TO DO

PARK AND PALACE OF MONSERRATE

The history of this palace dates back a long time, but it has English, Moorish, Gothic, and Indian influences in its architecture, and boasts a rich art collection and extensive gardens. It’s less crowded than some of the other famous palaces in the area, but in our opinion it is the most beautiful one. Make sure to buy your tickets in advance so you don’t have to wait in line to get in!

VINTAGE COUNTRYSIDE GASTRONOMIC TOUR

What better way to see this region than in a vintage car, driving to picnics with local food and wine. You’ll see some iconic sites like Mafra palace and end on the Atlantic coast in a fishing village.

PALACIO E PARQUE BIESTER

Biester is another of Sintra’s many palaces and has some incredible glass work and even a coffee shop inside. It has been immaculately maintained over the years and feels like a trip to the past. We chose this one because it is also less crowded than others (are you sensing a theme here?)

WHERE TO EAT

BREAKFAST AT CASA PIRIQUITA

A famous spot for traditional Portuguese pastries, make sure to grab a Pastel de Nata.

LUNCH AT CASA DAS MINAS

The food here feels home made in the best of ways, and gives you a great view of the garden and the valley below.

DINNER AT TASCANTIGA

A variety of tapas and sandwiches with a cocktail menu, this is a great place to end your day or start your night.

PRAIA DA URSA

SINTRA’S MOST SCENIC BEACH

Sintra isn’t just rolling hills and palaces, it also has one of the most stunning coast lines in all of Portugal! Praia Da Ursa specifically feels like something out of a fairytale. It is nestled into a secluded cove at the bottom of a cliff side, with harsh rocks on either end. It is a steep 30 minute hike to get there though, so make sure to wear good hiking shoes. The entrance can be confusing, so we’ve linked our coordinates for you so you can take the easiest route down!

If you can’t hike down, not to worry! You can still enjoy the sights of this beautiful coastline with a Jeep tour. This tour takes you along the coasts in a 4x4, bringing you views of the cliff side and villages. It also takes you to the oldest wine cellar in the country, where you can taste the Port that this country is famous for.

Nazaré

At first glance Nazaré is a quaint seaside town, with authentic Portuguese culture and food ready to welcome you in. But there is one thing this place has over all others like it; this is the land of giants. Giant waves that is. Nazaré is home to the biggest waves on earth, and the largest one ever surfed was right off its coast at 86 feet. We fell in love with surfing in Portugal, and while you won’t be able to just paddle out and ride a big one (unless you’re already a pro) this is the mecca of water-sports, something Portugal is well known for, and we had to make a place for it on our travels and in our guide.

WHERE TO STAY

THE LUXURY PICK

Luxury Boho Stay

This apartment is right near the beach, has access to a stunning modern pool, outdoor terrace and offers incredible ocean views.

If you are going to be out in the water all day than this is a great place to come and relax. The hotel is only a 12 minute walk to the Nazare port and a 19 minute walk to the beach.

THE MODEST PICK

Hotel Praia

Located right in the centre of Nazaré, Hotel Praia is an upscale hotel with a stunning indoor pool, free breakfast and cozy rooms that have everything you’ll need. Plus, it’s only a 3 minute walk to the beach!

THE BUDGET PICK

T1 Apartment Bonanca

If your priority is getting to the beach as quickly as possible, you can’t really beat this place. It’s a bright apartment with a full fledged kitchen, a spacious dining room and an ideal location only 1 minute walk from the main beach.

WHAT TO DO

SURF LESSONS WITH A PRO

While you might not be riding giants, Nazaré is a great place to practice catching some waves. It can be a little rough for beginners depending on the day, but if you have some experience then you are going to love surfing off the main beach, just make sure to get some lessons with the pros at Nazaré Surf School!

FAROL DA NAZARE

If you’ve ever heard about Nazaré before then you’ve probably seen pictures of this lighthouse. This is where people watch the big wave surfing competitions, and inside there is a museum of surfboards honouring those who have conquered them. There is a small fee to get inside, but it’s so worth it, even just to get on top and have an unobstructed view of the massive waves crashing before you. Windy, stormy days produce some of the biggest ones!

E-BIKE TOUR

This is a hilly town, and it can be tough to see everything if you are going by foot. Taking this e-bike tour will allow you to see the different beaches in town, get different views of the lighthouse and see other landscapes in the area.

Magic in the Azores

Many people come to the mainland of Portugal and don’t even realize that there are beautiful islands that make up part of this nation. The Azores are a collection of nine volcanic islands, sitting about a 2 hour flight from the coast, and they offer a completely different experience to the Portugal we’ve described thus far. Lush rainforests, natural hot springs, and abundant marine life, the Azores gave us the ultimate nature experience we always look for when we travel. We spent our days hiking to waterfalls, soaking in mineral pools, and looking out on the ocean trying to spot some whales. The Azores get the name of the Magic Islands, and we think if you go there you will know why.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAO MIGUEL

THE LUXURY PICK

Octant Furnas

The Octant Furnas is a luxurious hotel located in the tranquil environment of Furnas Valley, on São Miguel Island in the Azores. It offers a wide range of facilities including a wellness spa, thermal pool, restaurant, and spa. Its proximity to various natural attractions such as the Sete Cidades and surrounding volcanos makes it an ideal base to explore the beauty of the Azores.

THE MODEST PICK

Solar dos Cantos

The Solar dos Cantos Botanic House & Garden is an excellent location to experience all that São Miguel has to offer. With an outdoor pool, a hot tub, spacious rooms, and bicycle rentals for exploring Ponta Delgada, this hotel, nestled in a scenic garden, will provide you with relaxation.

THE BUDGET PICK

Casa das Arcadas

If you’re looking to be in the heart of Ponta Delgada, Casa Das Arcadas is a great choice. The location is ideal, you have access to a shared kitchen for making any meals, and the rooms are big with plenty of storage. The area has some of the best food in town, and is a 2 minute walk from the marina, which is perfect for any early morning activities.

WHERE TO EAT IN SÃO MIGUEL

A NICE NIGHT OUT

Tuka Tula Beach Bar

Nestled right onto the beach side, we had a wonderful meal at Tuka Tula after a long day of beach hopping. It is consistently cited as one of the best restaurants on the island with a mix of comfort food classics and inventive seafood with a great cocktail menu. If you go, try the mushroom Risotto.

OUT TO LUNCH

Borda D’Agua

We walked into Borda D’Agua, right next to the harbour where fisherman bring in their daily catch, and had one of the best meals of our life. Everything was simple, yet delicious, and you could taste how fresh all the seafood was. We were surrounded by Portuguese families having a mid week lunch, and we knew we had stumbled upon a local gem. We couldn’t recommend this place enough.

HAPPY HOUR

Resves

An unassuming bar on a quiet street in the city centre, Resves was a welcome surprise. This bar is intimate, locally owned, and has some of the best cocktails we’ve ever had. The menu is small and the drinks are carefully crafted with a feeling in mind, using local ingredients and spirits.

THE OTHER ISLANDS

FLORES

Flores is a special bird sanctuary and has views of volcanic lakes, including the famouse Lagoa Negra and Lagoa Comprida site where two volcanic lakes meet. If you’re heading there from São Miguel you can either fly with Azores Airline or take a ferry in the summer.

PICO

The “mountain island” gets its name from its most imposing feature, Pico Mountain. The island is known for wine making and whale watching, while showcasing the beautiful scenery seen throughout the region. The easiest way to get there from São Miguel is to fly, but there are ferries from the other islands.

TERCEIRA

The capital of Terceira, Angra do Heroismo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it has buildings that date back to the 16th century and is well preserved. The volcanic island itself is full of natural beauty, including the Algar do Carvão, a volcanic cave that you can go inside. Getting there from São Miguel involves flying, but you can take the ferry from Pico to Terceira in the summer.

Pictured here: The natural hot spring pool at Ponta Da Ferraria. This ocean mixes with the hot spring water to create varying temperatures throughout the pool.

OUR FAVOURITE HOT SPRINGS ON

SÃO MIGUEL

POÇA DA DONA BEIJA

Furnas is the centre of hot spring activity on São Miguel, and our favourite in this town is Poça da Dona Beija There’s a variety of pools all that the same temperature, smooth paths between them and excellent changing facilities. You can even visit these pools at night and soak under the stars. The cost to get in is 8 euros and you can buy your tickets ahead of time at this link.

CALDEIRA VELHA

These thermal pools have a more authentic vibe and a gorgeous natural setting. Situated in lush rainforest, we remarked on how we felt like we were in Jurassic Park. The pools are the hottest we have found and you can actually see the spring that is fuelling the baths. Make sure to bring sandals and a towel as there aren’t any to rent at this location and the paths between the pools are gravel.

PONTA

DA FERRARIA

This is the most unique hot spring you will ever see. Ponta Da Ferraria is a thermal bath that is situated in a rock pool in the ocean. The cool waves from the ocean mix with the hot water in the pool, making the pool varying temperatures depending on where you’re swimming. You can only come here when the tide is low (refer to this tide chart) for safety reasons. It is totally free, and there are change room facilities on the way down. If you aren’t up for the natural pool, you can buy tickets to the heated pool next to the parking lot.

OUR FAVOURITE HIKES IN SAO MIGUEL

CASCATA SALTO DO PREGO

This moderate hike takes you to a secluded waterfall in the Azorean rainforest. Its a 4 kilometre loop and takes about 1.5 hours to complete. While the final destination is stunning, we have to admit that the hike was beautiful the entire way through. We saw plenty of wild chickens roaming about and several orchards along the path. You can find the beginning of the trail here. Parking is available on the residential streets near the trailhead.

VISTA DO REI

This hike in Sete Cidades is unusual in that it starts at a viewpoint, where you can see the picturesque sight of two volcanic lakes next to each other. Throughout this trek you will have views of those lakes as well as the ocean, and you will also encounter rolling meadows and the Azorean cows that graze on the landscape. This hike is 7.5 kilometres, and ends in the Sete Cidades village so you can grab a bite to eat after you’re done. The trailhead begins here.

Once you’re done the hike, we recommend stopping at this adorable tea house, Casa De Cha O Poejo, for a bite to eat. They not only have amazing tea and pastries, but they have full meals if you’re extra hungry.

More amazing things to do in Sao Miguel

OUR FAVOURITE EXCURSIONS SPANNING ACROSS LAND & SEA

WHALE WATCHING WITH FUTURISMO

The Azores are one of the best places in the world to see big marine life, because of their position as an important migration route for a number of whale species, and their plethora of dolphin families. We did a tour with Futurismo, an eco-friendly tour company which departed right from the Ponta Delgada marina and offers small zodiac boat trips so you can encounter the mammals up close. Seeing these creatures in their natural habitat is a memory worth making.

GORREANA TEA PLANTATION

This is the oldest tea plantation in Europe, having been established in 1883. Walking the fields is a wonderful experience, seeing the elaborate terraces and adorable goats roaming the farm. They also offer tours, and have a cafe and gift shop, with free tea for visitors! We really enjoyed the cafe, especially after hopping around the island sight seeing.

PRIVATE SUNSET CRUISE WITH DRINKS

The ocean is an essential part of life on The Azores, and it’s a must-do experience to go out onto the water and see the rugged landscapes of the island from the water. This tour takes you on a sailboat for a sunset cruise, so you can sip on local wine and enjoy all the views.

SWIMMING WITH DOLPHINS

One of the benefits of the marine conservation effort in the Azores is that there are opportunities to interact with marine wildlife in a safe and eco-friendly way. This tour will allow you to swim with dolphins in their natural habitat, an experience that will stay with you forever.

Pictured here: Mosterios beach on the island of Sao Miguel. This beach has black sand and volcanic rocks throughout.

THE BEST BEACHES AND SWIM SPOTS

SANTA BARBARA BEACH

A black sand beach nestled amongst rugged cliff-sides, this a popular spot for surfers. It’s also the beach that’s located beside our recommendation for a nice night out “Tuka Tula Beach Bar”. You can come here and lounge all day, and grab food or drinks at Tuka Tula whenever you feel like!

MOSTEIROS BEACH

This beach feels like it should be in Iceland, but it’s not. The black volcanic sand on Mosteiros is a beautiful sight, but so are the unique sea stacks just off the shore. his is a popular spot for photographers at sunset. Be careful of jellyfish (Portugese Man O’ Wars) that wash up on shore sometimes.

PISCINAS NATURAIS DAS CALHETAS

This is not what you think of when someone says a pool. Nestled into a natural enclave on the shore this is a pool in the ocean, with stairs down to the water and a ladder to get in. There are toilets, showers and lifeguards in the summer. Make sure to go between low and high tide, as the waves can get rough on windy days. We do think this is a super cool experience and worth trying!

Pictured here: A historic home in the volcanic town of Sete Cidades.

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