Discover all there is to know about the archipelago known as the Azores! Located just a short flight away from the Portuguese mainland, this autonomous region is famous for its stunning natural beauty, fascinating history, delicious food and unique climate. From hiking to the highest peak at Mount Pico to its multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a grand adventure awaits every traveller, no matter which of its islands you visit.
Visit Azores: get started
Begin your visit to the Azores at the Farol do Arnel lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse of the archipelago, on São Miguel Island. Then, take a car rental to a volcanic cave, where you’ll unearth the mysterious geological phenomenon of the deep underground. For a sizzling lunch or dinner experience, go to a Furnas or Terceira hot spring, and don’t forget to take a cheese tasting tour in Ponte Delgada or Pico to find out where 50% of Portugal’s cheese supply comes from.
Azores travel guide
Destination facts
Language
Officially Portuguese, though English is spoken throughout the islands.
What to bring back
There are certain handicrafts considered to be favoured among tourists visiting these islands such as wicker baskets, blue and white ceramics, fish-scale flowers, and fig tree pith carvings. Azorean jam and beer are also quite popular.
What to eat
Enjoy a geothermal dinner with Cozido das Furnas. This stew requires different types of meats and vegetables to be lowered into a pot in the nearby volcanic soil, where it is cooked. Talk about a unique culinary experience!
If you’re feeling less adventurous, stick to the chicharros (fried mackerel) instead.
Fun fact
The Azores are composed of nine volcanic islands in the mid-Atlantic, of which São Miguel is the largest. Interestingly, São Miguel is also the only place in the world where pineapples are grown in greenhouses!
Important info
For more information on all necessary travel documents, visa, taxes and more, check Air Canada’s Travel Requirements page and the Government of Canada’s Travel and Tourism website.
Olá food lovers! Responsible for bringing authentic Portuguese gastronomy to Montrealers for over 20 years, the Ferreira family have partnered with us to take you on an unforgettable culinary adventure. Join their passionate quest to meet food and wine producers in the heart of Portugal!
Flavours of Portugal
Taste your way through Lisbon, the Alentejo region, and the Algarve with this 10-day Independent Escape. See full details
Tastes of northern Portugal
Travel through northern Portugal, with time in Lisbon, Porto and the stunning Douro Valley with this 12-day Independent Escape. See full details
Portugal gourmand
Need a little flavour inspiration before you go? Check out Portugal Gourmand, a web series that follows the Ferreira family around Portugal from one tasty stop to the next.
