The Azores are an archipelago, not one road-trip destination. Ponta Delgada and Angra do Heroísmo sit on different islands with separate airports, weather patterns and touring routes. For a one-week trip, one main island is usually more satisfying than several short transfers.
Choose the island first
Ponta Delgada is the main urban base on São Miguel. It suits travellers who want access to crater lakes, geothermal landscapes, coastal viewpoints and the island’s widest range of services.
Angra do Heroísmo is the historic base on Terceira. Its UNESCO-listed centre and Monte Brasil provide a strong city visit before road trips to volcanic interiors and swimming areas.
Give each island enough time
Allow five to eight days for São Miguel if the trip includes several parts of the island. Terceira can be explored in a shorter stay, but Angra deserves at least one complete city day.
Combining the two islands requires a flight or a ferry connection that operates on the relevant route and date. Never assume that a timetable from another season still applies.
Build in a weather buffer
Cloud, wind and rain can change quickly and may hide a high viewpoint while the coast remains clear. Keep at least one flexible day and avoid tying every major landscape to a fixed hour.
Flight and ferry disruption is possible. Do not place an unprotected international connection immediately after an inter-island journey.
Getting around
Cars provide the easiest access to rural viewpoints and dispersed natural sites. Organised tours suit travellers who prefer not to drive. Local buses connect settlements but may not form a convenient full-day sightseeing loop.
Use the route planner separately for each island. A line between Ponta Delgada and Angra represents an inter-island transfer, not a road.
Questions about Azores
Are Ponta Delgada and Angra do Heroísmo on the same island?
No. Ponta Delgada is on São Miguel and Angra do Heroísmo is on Terceira. Moving between them requires a flight or an operating ferry connection.
How many Azores islands should I visit in one week?
One main island is the safest plan for a week. Two can work when transport is confirmed and the itinerary includes a weather buffer.
Do I need a car in the Azores?
A car is useful for rural viewpoints and volcanic landscapes. City centres can be explored on foot, and organised tours are a practical alternative for non-drivers.
Sources and updates
This guide was last reviewed on 28 August 2026. Transport, access and opening arrangements can change, so check the official source before travel.
- São Miguel, Visit Azores
- Terceira visitor information, Government of the Azores