São Miguel Island’s walking tours showcase the best of Portugal’s largest Azorean island, offering both natural and cultural experiences. The standout excursions include guided waterfall hikes to Salto do Cabrito, which combine moderate hiking with breathtaking views. The off-road volcanic tours, while not strictly walking tours, provide essential stops for short hikes through the island’s most dramatic landscapes. For urban exploration, walking tours of Ponta Delgada deliver an authentic slice of Azorean life, with stops at local markets and historic churches. We especially love the small-group format of these tours, where local guides share insider knowledge and cultural insights you won’t find in guidebooks. Below you’ll find our favorite walking tours on São Miguel Island.
Key Points
- The Guided Walking Tour to Salto Do Cabrito offers a 3-hour exploration of São Miguel’s natural features, culminating at the Salto do Cabrito Waterfall.
- The Sete Cidades: Full Day Jeep Tour and Walking Trail combines an off-road Jeep tour and a 2-hour hike in the Serra Devassa area, providing a comprehensive experience.
- The Historical Walking Tour of Ponta Delgada, the largest city in the Azores, covers key landmarks and includes visits to the Principe dos Queijos store and Mercado da Graça.
- The Walking Tour With Local Pastry and Coffee in Angra do Heroísmo, the historic capital of the Azores, offers a 3-hour guided tour with a 25-minute stop for coffee and Dona Amélia pastry.
- The Old Alfama Quarter Walking Tour in Lisbon highlights the city’s historic Alfama neighborhood, including the Lisbon Cathedral, Santa Luzia Viewpoint, and Tram 28.
Lisbon: Old Alfama Quarter Walking Tour
The Lisbon: Old Alfama Quarter Walking Tour offers visitors a captivating exploration of the city’s oldest neighborhood.
Priced at $15.79 per person, the 2-hour English-language tour allows guests to discover Alfama’s key attractions, including the Lisbon Cathedral, Santa Luzia Viewpoint, and the iconic Tram 28.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and flexible booking, the tour provides an exceptional value.
Boasting a remarkable 4.9/5 rating based on 50 reviews, the tour is renowned for its knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides, who create a comfortable atmosphere and share unique historical insights.
Accessible via public transportation from the starting point at the Boost Shop, this walking tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy Lisbon’s rich cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Lisbon: Old Alfama Quarter Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Angra Do Heroísmo: Walking Tour With Local Pastry and Coffee
Situated in the picturesque Azores archipelago, Angra do Heroísmo‘s walking tour offers visitors a captivating exploration of the island’s historic capital.
This guided 3-hour tour introduces participants to the city’s key attractions, including the Palácio Capitães Generais, Igreja da Misericórdia, and Sé Catedral. Guests will also enjoy a 25-minute stop at a local pastry shop for coffee and a traditional sweet, Dona Amélia.
With Portuguese, Spanish, and English language options, the tour caters to a diverse audience. Although not suitable for those with mobility issues, the tour’s overall rating of 4.8/5 based on 40 reviews highlights its popularity among visitors seeking an immersive cultural experience in Terceira.
Read our full review: Angra Do Heroísmo: Walking Tour With Local Pastry and Coffee Review
Book now: Check availability
Ponta Delgada: Historical Walking Tour
Exploring Ponta Delgada, the largest city in the Azores, takes visitors on a captivating historical journey through the island’s architectural gems and cultural heritage.
On this 3.5-hour walking tour, guests discover the city’s key landmarks, including the Portas da Cidade, the bell tower, and the Parish Church of Saint Sebastian.
The tour also visits the Principe dos Queijos store and the lively Mercado da Graça, offering an immersive experience.
Led by knowledgeable guides fluent in multiple languages, the tour provides a comprehensive understanding of Ponta Delgada’s past and present.
Priced from $36.85 per person, the tour is wheelchair accessible and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Ponta Delgada: Historical Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
From Ponta Delgada: Guided Walking Tour to Salto Do Cabrito
For travelers seeking a deeper connection with São Miguel’s natural wonders, the guided walking tour from Ponta Delgada to Salto do Cabrito waterfall offers an immersive experience.
Over 3 hours, guests explore the island’s hydroelectric power facilities and geothermal features, culminating in a close-up view of the stunning Salto do Cabrito Waterfall.
The tour includes transportation via van and a 2.5-hour guided hike through lush forest paths and over iron walkways.
With a maximum group size of 8, the experience provides an intimate look at São Miguel’s natural beauty.
Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended, and the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or young children.
Read our full review: From Ponta Delgada: Guided Walking Tour to Salto Do Cabrito Review
Book now: Check availability
Sete Cidades: Full Day Jeep Tour and Walking Trail
This full-day Sete Cidades adventure combines an off-road Jeep tour and an easy hiking trail, immersing visitors in the island’s volcanic landscapes and scenic lakes.
The tour starts with a pickup from your hotel, followed by an exhilarating Jeep ride through the forested slopes and lake valleys of the Sete Cidades region.
After the Jeep tour, you’ll embark on a 2-hour hike in the Serra Devassa area, taking in breathtaking views of Lagoa das Éguas and Lagoa Rasa.
Lunch, entrance fees, and transportation are all included, making this a convenient and comprehensive way to explore Sete Cidades’ natural wonders.
The small group size ensures an intimate experience guided by local experts.
Read our full review: Sete Cidades: Full Day Jeep Tour and Walking Trail Review
Book now: Check availability
Ponta Delgada: 2-Hour Guided Walk Along the Serra Devassa
After the exhilarating Jeep tour and scenic hike in the Sete Cidades region, the 2-hour guided walk along the Serra Devassa offers a more intimate and immersive experience exploring Ponta Delgada’s natural wonders.
This small-group tour takes visitors on a leisurely stroll through the lush Serra Devassa, a protected natural area just outside the city. Along the way, the knowledgeable guide shares insights into the island’s unique flora and fauna, as well as the area’s geological and cultural history.
With a maximum of 15 participants, the tour provides a personalized experience amidst Ponta Delgada’s striking volcanic landscapes. Priced at $44.22 per person, this walking tour is an excellent way to discover the beauty of São Miguel Island’s great outdoors.
Read our full review: Ponta Delgada: 2-Hour Guided Walk Along the Serra Devassa Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Sao Miguel Island?
The best time to visit Sao Miguel Island is typically during the spring and summer months, when the weather is mild and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the island’s natural beauty.
Are There Any Wheelchair-Accessible Walking Tours on the Island?
Yes, there are wheelchair-accessible walking tours on Sao Miguel Island. Several local tour operators offer guided walks that accommodate visitors with mobility challenges, allowing them to explore the island’s stunning landscapes and historical sites with ease.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Walking Tours?
Most walking tour operators on Sao Miguel Island don’t allow pets due to safety and liability concerns. However, some may make exceptions for service animals with prior notice. It’s best to check with each tour company about their pet policies before booking.
How Much Spending Money Should I Budget for the Tours?
When budgeting for walking tours on Sao Miguel Island, plan to spend around 30-50 EUR per person, depending on the length and type of tour. Most companies offer half-day and full-day options, so adjust your budget accordingly.
Are the Walking Tours Suitable for Families With Young Children?
The walking tours are generally suitable for families with young children, though the length and difficulty of the trails may vary. Parents should check tour details and consider their children’s abilities before booking to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Recap
São Miguel Island in the Azores offers a variety of walking tours that allow visitors to explore its natural beauty and cultural heritage. From the historic streets of Ponta Delgada to the stunning landscapes of Sete Cidades, these tours provide an immersive experience, showcasing the island’s unique charm and attractions. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local cuisine, there’s a walking tour to suit your interests and make the most of your time on this enchanting island.