Attractions Nearby Vila do Porto, Day Trips and Excursions

(Vila do Porto, Azores, Portugal)

Vila Do Porto does receive tourists, but isn't the most visited part of the Azores archipelago. Anyone based here will likely want to take extended day trips to enjoy the attractions of Sao Miguel, which has the best museums and whale watching opportunities in the archipelago.

Pico Island is populated but has relatively few tourist attractions, while Corvo and Terceira boast vineyards and are popular places to watch the running of the bulls. Bigger islands like Sao Miguel are easily reached by air, but many are only accessible by boat.

Sao Miguel Island

Often referred to as the 'Green Island', Sao Miguel is the biggest island in the Portuguese archipelago of Azores and has the most comprehensive tourist facilities. This is the best island to visit for whale watching tours, and it also has interesting museums and a great selection of hotels and restaurants. Volcanic activity has formed crater lakes in the interior, and tour guides regularly lead hikes and jeep safaris to these unusual natural attractions.

Corvo Island

Corvo is the smallest of the Azores islands and lies within a much more remote location. The island's main attraction is its vineyards, which are arrayed across the coastal countryside. Ocean-facing restaurants on Corvo serve locally made wines and fresh seafood, boasting a view that can only possibly enhance your dining experience. A number of notable volcanic structures are located on Corvo, such as the Basal Complex, which comprises some striking formations.

Terceira Island

Terceira is home to Angra do Heroismo, one of the most important historic cities in the archipelago. There is just one major beach here, the Praia de Vitoria, although it is true to say that most tourists come to Terceira for its running of the bulls celebration each summer. The culture here is particularly authentic, and tourists regularly arrive on day trips from Vila Do Porto for a more candid view of life in the Azores Islands.

Sao Jorge Island

Another appealing member of Portugal's Azorean archipelago, Sao Jorge lies to the north-west of Santa Maria, between Pico (south-west) and Terceira (east). Sao Jorge is a relatively lengthy and narrow island, with a series of towering cliffs and a total population of just over 10,000 people. The local culture, tourism scene and seasonal festivities are similar to other prominent islands in the Azores, with particular highlights including the Espirito Santo festivals following Easter, and the annual Semana Cultural (Culture Week) in the town of Velas, held at the beginning of July.

Pico Island

The island of Pico is perhaps most famous for its imposing volcano, which goes by the name of the 'Ponta do Pico' and dominates the island when viewed from the ocean. The resultant volcanic soil is incredibly fertile and supports a host of historic vineyards. Wine making has long been a mainstay of the island, along with shipbuilding. Pico's main towns and villages include Madalena (the capital), Lajes do Pico and Sao Roque.