…and of all of Portugal, for that matter. The island of Pico is not only one of the top destinations when it comes to the Azores. With Mount Pico, it also has the country’s highest peak.
PICO – the Top of the Azores
Tag: Portugal
FAIAL – the Most Beautiful Island of the Azores
Our ferry slowly glided just off the coast of Faial’s capital Horta. Behind the marina, which was densely packed with sailing yachts, I spotted lavish townhouses and whitewashed church buildings in the Manueline style typical of the Azores stacked in rows up a slightly climbing hill. The place exuded elegance and noble serenity. Actually, already at first sight, Faial seemed to be the most beautiful island among the Azores.
And indeed, Faial is a stunning blend of volcanic landscapes, lush greenery, and striking ocean views. Known as the Blue Island for its hydrangea-lined roads, Faial is a paradise for sailors and adventurers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking serene sophistication.
This Way to the Whole Story ->SAO JORGE – the Best Viewpoints of the Azores
The extremely elongated island of Sao Jorge is one of the lesser touristy isles of the Azores, but offers, among other things, amazing viewpoints of the surrounding islands.
Small But Mighty: Why You Should Definitely Visit the Azores Island of GRACIOSA
Graciosa Island is the second-smallest of the Azores Archipelago and is often overlooked and underrated. Therefore, I think it’s time to show you why you should definitely visit Graciosa, the hidden gem that offers a peaceful retreat full of natural beauty and cultural richness.
Best Things to Do in SAO MIGUEL, the Most Varied Island of the Azores
The Azores islands offer pure nature, and as some people always feel the urge to compare places with each other, the archipelago is often referred to as the Hawaii of Europe. As a matter of fact, Sao Miguel, the largest one of the Azores, offers a comprehensive variety of the best things to see and do in a few days in this piece of paradise located about halfway between Europe and North America.
Basically all travelers of the Azores visit São Miguel, and many of them stay exclusively on this most prominent one of the islands. And indeed, you’ll find all the attractions the archipelago has to offer here in one spot: breathtaking natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural experiences. Yet, despite its growing popularity, São Miguel remains relatively unspoiled by mass tourism. It maintains an authentic, relaxed atmosphere that makes it perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and reconnect with nature.
This Way to the Whole Story ->Railroad Trip PORTUGAL
On my railroad trip through Portugal, I experienced how travelling the country by train is easy-peasy, cheap, and fun.
Hence, let me guide you from mesmerizing Porto all the way south to Lisbon – with some amazing whistle stops in between.
Do you hear the whistle blow? Quick – jump on the train and let’s go!
24 hours in LISBON
This is a completely revised, updated, and expanded edition of one of my first 24 hours in… posts. This series was created because, like most travelers, I’m always on the hunt for the cheapest flights possible. The downside is that this often includes connecting flights and, especially on transatlantic flights, I have a longer stopover in a city. Instead of killing time at the airport in annoyance, I venture to the center and this way, enjoy an extra city break. Funnily enough, my first two visits to Lisbon were stopovers: once on the return flight from Miami and the second time on the outbound flight to Santiago, the capital of Cape Verde. This inspired me to summarize in a short guide what you can see and do in Lisbon in 24 hours.
By the way, I now deliberately postpone connecting flights to include short stays like this when my schedule allows it. Hence, I recently booked the flights on my flight to the Azores so that I could spend time in Porto on the outward flight and in Lisbon on the return flight.
I hope I can inspire you to make a virtue out of a supposed necessity.
Best of LISBON – also for solo-travellers
I’m back in Lisbon. It’s been far too long – you know, with the pandemic and all. But now I’m back, and as I take a good look around, I realize how beautiful this city is and how much I’ve missed it: The steep cobblestone alleys, the past glory of the palaces alongside the boulevards, and the shabby charm of the houses in the backstreets. The majestic views from countless outlooks, and of course the lovely ring of the rickety trams.
Come on, follow me down memory lane, and let’s re-discover the best of Lisbon!
24 hours in PORTO
Although Porto is certainly not a major hub, it’s still Portugal’s second largest airport with many connections all over Europe and also to remote Portuguese territories such as the Azores. Since Porto is such a mesmerizing city full of beauty and wonders, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to get a taste of the city during a short visit – I’m sure you’ll come back soon for more. But now I’ll show you how you can have a perfect stay of up to 24 hours in Porto.
Best of PORTO – Also if You Travel Solo
Somehow Portugal also seems to be one of the countries overpowered by centralism. Everyone is flocking to the capital Lisbon, which is groaning under the masses of tourists and has to be careful to remain livable for the locals.
Hence, while others are stressed out, Porto pours herself a glass of amber-colored port wine and relaxes as she gazes down the Douro River.
Instead of overwhelming her visitors with innumerable presumably must-see landmarks, Porto invites her guests to take a relaxed stroll down picturesque streets and alleys and offers them a creamy Galão in one of the many charming cafés. The city impresses with cool street art and delights the eye with gorgeous church façades covered in exquisite Azulejos and what is probably the most famous bookstore in the world.
By now, you’ve probably noticed: Porto is one of my favorite cities in Europe and I’m excited to show you the best the city on the Atlantic coast has to offer – also if, just like me, you travel solo.
