Overview
The Azores are an archipelago consisting of nine widely scattered islands in the middle of the Atlantic, which have remained almost completely untouched for more than 500 years due to their isolation. Because of their volcanic origin, the islands are dotted with deep craters, some filled with shimmering lakes, others overgrown by lush vegetation. Geysers and healing sulfur springs abound. Large areas of fertile arable land and whitewashed farms also characterize the landscape of the Azores. Wine and fruit trees grow on the gently sloping mountain slopes. The coast is mostly rocky and rugged. However, there are many bays and pebble beaches that invite you to swim and sunbathe. Water sports such as scuba diving and whale watching are common. Sailing, horseback riding, cycling and hiking are also popular.
Getting there
Arriving by plane
According to top-medical-schools, the airline of the Azores, SATA Air Açores (SP), offers connections to all Azores islands. Azores Airlines (S4) and TAP Portugal (TP) connect Frankfurt/M. with the airport in Ponta Delgada on the main island of São Miguel. Onward flights to all other islands can be booked directly. TAP Portugal (TP) also flies to the Azores from Munich, Vienna and Zurich with a stopover in Lisbon. Ryanair (FR) also flies to Ponta Delgada non-stop from Frankfurt-Hahn from March to October.
Flight times
Direct flight: Frankfurt – Azores: 4 hours 30 minutes. With a stopover: From Munich, Vienna and Zurich, the travel time depends on the length of the stopover. Flight time Lisbon – Azores: 2 hours 30 minutes
Departure fee
Included in the ticket price.
Arrival by car
Tolls: There are no toll roads in the Azores. Documents: The national driving license is sufficient.
Arrival by ship
All nine islands have one or more ports and are called at regularly. The largest and most important port is Ponta Delgada in the south of the main island of Sao Miguel. The port of Praia da Vitória is on the east coast of the island of Terceira, and the port of São Roque do Pico is on the south of the island of Santa Maria. The port of Horta is on Faial.
Cruise ships
Shipping companies such as Hapag-Loyd Cruises, Aida, Cunard, Holland America, Hurtigruten, Phoenix, Celebrity Cruises and Princess Cruises call at the Azores on their cruises.
Ferry provider
Atlanticoline ferries connect the islands.
