Travel advice for the Azores – your perfect holiday

The Azores are an autonomous region of Portugal and consist of nine volcanic islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. They are located approximately 1.500 km west of mainland Europe and are considered one of Europe's last true natural paradises. Their remote location, lush vegetation, hot springs, and impressive crater lakes make them an ideal destination for active vacationers, independent travelers, and nature lovers.

To ensure your trip runs smoothly and comfortably, you will find all the important travel information below.

Entry requirements and documents

Since the Azores belong to Portugal and therefore to the European Union and the Schengen Area, entry is simple and straightforward for EU citizens :

travel documents: For entry a valid identity card or passportChildren require their own photo ID. A residence permit is required for stays of more than three months.
Note transit: Anyone arriving via a non-Schengen country (e.g. Great Britain) requires a passport – an identity card is not sufficient.
Visa: For citizens of the EU and many other countries, no visa required.
Diplomatic Representation of Germany: Honorary Consul Joao Luis Cogumbreio, Abelheira de Cima, 86, 9500-459 Low Faja, Tel: +351 91 8792633, email: pontadelgada@hk-diplo.de.
tariff: EU citizens can import purchased goods in unlimited quantities duty-free, provided they are intended for personal use. The following guideline quantities may be imported: 800 cigarettes or 200 cigars or 1 kg of tobacco; 10 l of spirits; 20 l of fortified wine, aperitif, etc.; 90 l of wine; 110 l of beer. This rule applies to all adults - not to children. Scrimshaw (whale carvings) are prohibited. Different guideline quantities apply to Swiss citizens. Here, a duty-free import limit applies up to a goods value of 300 Swiss francs. The following guideline quantities may be imported: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 g of tobacco; 2 l of spirits under 15% or 1 l of spirits over 15%.

Safety and behavior

The Azores are considered an extremely safe travel destination :

The Police service is divided in Portugal into the PSP (Policia de Seguranca Publica) and the GNR (Guarda Nacional Republicana). The PSP handles all traffic offenses and thefts and is therefore the contact point in the vast majority of cases for TourPolice stations are only located in cities, and in rural areas, a longer journey is to be expected. Many police stations also have English-speaking staff.
The Crime rate is very low. Violent crimes are extremely rare. Nevertheless, you should never leave your valuables unattended. Most violent crimes are related to drug problems or domestic violence.
In urban areas or on tourIn some cases, there may be outbreaks in certain hotspots. pickpocketing come – usual caution is sufficient.
It is recommended Keep travel documents safe, e.g. in hotel safes or hidden on the body.
The people of the Azores are generally helpful, hospitable and reserved. A friendly approach is highly appreciated.

Natural hazards and the environment

The Azores lie on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, a geologically active zone. This provides some specific information:

Volcanism: There are currently no active volcanoes, but volcanic landscapes are visible everywhere.
EarthquakeMinor earthquakes occur regularly but are usually harmless. Stronger earthquakes are rare.
Weather extremes: Especially between October and March there may be heavy rain or storms Tropical cyclones (remnants of hurricanes) are possible, but rarely dangerous.
hiking trails should never be used without preparation or in bad Weather Always inform yourself about the current weather report and any warnings from the Civil Protection Agency (Proteção Civil).

Health and medical care

Medical care in the Azores is basically growing, especially on the larger islands such as São Miguel, Terceira or Faial:

Vaccinations: There are no mandatory vaccinations required. Current vaccination status according to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) is recommended, especially against tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and hepatitis A.
The emergency number is 115, and the emergency services can always be reached via the emergency number 112.
Pharmacies (farmácia) are well-equipped and easy to find in cities. They are recognizable by the green cross and can be found in many larger cities, but are rare in rural areas. Opening hours: Weekdays, usually from 9.00:13.00 a.m. to 15.00:19.00 p.m. and from XNUMX:XNUMX p.m. to XNUMX:XNUMX p.m.
Medical care: In Ponta Delgada there is a modern state HospitalIn Lagoa there is a private Clinic. Also Angra and Horta are very modernly equipped. There are health centers in the larger towns on every island. The ambulance service is provided by the fire department. Dentists are generally located in every larger town. The main doctors often speak English. If you need treatment, you should get a receipt for the treatment costs with a brief description (descricao da doenca).
It is recommended to take out a private International health insurance with repatriation, as not all services are covered by statutory health insurance. Otherwise, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is sufficient. However, insurance coverage is only available in state hospitals (Hospital) and health centers (Centro de Saude).
Bring important Sufficient medication Bring along, as not all medications are available on the islands. It's sufficient to bring a small first-aid kit and the most important medications with you. Important medications are available locally. Pharmacies are well-stocked and happy to help.

Arrival, traffic and mobility

How to Arrive

Flight connections There are year-round connections between Germany (e.g., Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, Munich) and São Miguel (Ponta Delgada), sometimes with a stopover in Lisbon or Porto. In some cases, an overnight stay in Lisbon or Ponta Delgada is necessary for onward flights to other islands. Generally, you can travel from Germany to the Azores via Lisbon and back in one day. From Lisbon there are Flights to Sao Miguel, Santa Maria, Pico, Faial and Terceira.At least one inter-island flight connects to all other islands.
direct Flights During the summer season, flights are offered by airlines such as Azores Airlines, Lufthansa, and Eurowings. The flight takes approximately 4,5 hours.
island hopping Thanks to SATA Air Açores, it is easy to Short-haul flight possible. Additionally, ferry between the islands, especially in the central island group (Faial, Pico, São Jorge).
A Ferry connection from the mainland there is no.

On site

Public transport is available on many islands only limited available. Bus connections on the islands are often poor and not always suitable. TourThe routes are suitable. They are geared towards the working lives of the population and students. Usually, a bus runs to the larger towns in the morning and back to the countryside in the evening. Bus timetables are available at tourist information offices or on the website. https://horarios.visitazores.de. The travel costs are very low and cannot be compared to a rental car or taxi.
The densest network of lines can be found on Sao Miguel and Terceira. Flores is reasonably well developed. On Faial In summer, a bus circles the island once; otherwise, connections are poor. On all the other islands, getting around by public transport is difficult.
For individual discoveries, a Rental car recommended, especially on São Miguel, Terceira and FaialOn smaller islands such as Corvo or Flores There are sometimes only a few car rental companies available, so booking early is recommended. Except on Corvo You can rent a car on all the islands. Make sure you get unlimited mileage and comprehensive insurance (CDW). Rentals are usually cheaper for three days or more. Generally, prices aren't cheap. Rental companies are often booked months in advance for major festivals. A German driver's license is sufficient for the rental agreement, but it should be valid for at least one year. The speed limit in built-up areas is 50 km/h, and 90 km/h outside of them. Seat belts are mandatory, and the blood alcohol limit is 0,5. A credit card in the name of the primary driver is required for the rental.
Between the islands Faial, Pico and Sao Jorge There are regular ferryIn summer the ferries also continue to Graciosa and TerceiraThere are no ferries operating between the three island groups. Corvo is operated year-round Flores Access is restricted in winter.
Cycles Bicycles can be rented in the Azores. While you'll have to compromise on comfort, you'll save yourself the hassle of flying and taking the ferry. Bicycle rentals are available on... Sao Miguel, Terceira, Pico and Faial And now almost every island offers them. E-bikes are also available. On the more populated islands, cycling on the roads is very stressful and involves competing with heavy car traffic. The islands' topography also demands a good level of fitness. In addition, there is usually a strong wind.

Accomodation

Hotels Are there any other options besides on Corvo Hotels are available on every island, but not everywhere in sufficient numbers. On the larger islands, the trend is towards more luxurious 4-star or 5-star resorts. Budget hotels are hard to find during the summer months.
Private rentals are prohibited. Renters must register their accommodation. Private providers and hostels fall into the category Local accommodationEach verified and approved landlord receives a license number RRAL xy. The accommodations are also identifiable by an AL sign on the exterior.
youth hostels: There are several youth hostels: in Ponta Delgada on Sao Miguel, in Sao Mateus on Terceirain Urzelin on Sao Jorge and in About Us | on Santa MariaThey have multi-bed rooms and also a very few double rooms.
Campgrounds are rare, and not all of them are of a good standard. Look for clean sanitary facilities with showers and toilets. Sometimes there are also barbecue areas.
The most beautiful place is probably Urzelina (Sao Jorge), Nordeste/Sete Cidades/Furnas (Sao Miguel) and in Almoxalife (Faial).
Free camping is prohibited and only permitted if you have obtained permission from the property owner.

SHOP

Large Shopping centers They are rare, but you can usually get what you need even in smaller towns. Large supermarkets are only found in the larger cities. Sao Miguel, Terceira and also on FaialEvery town has its own supermarket, or "Hipermercado," as the large stores are called. Continente Modelo and Pingo Doce have the biggest stores. The selection is overwhelming by Azorean standards, and the variety is enormous. There are fresh counters for fruit, fish, cheese, and meat. These large stores are open all week, even on Sundays. The smaller the island, the smaller the selection. The shelves are sometimes empty if the supply ship can't dock due to bad weather, and finding specific groceries becomes a treasure hunt across the entire island. Outside the major centers, however, supplies are still readily available, as virtually every village, no matter how small, has its own mini-market or mercearia. These corner shops are usually attached to a village pub. Here you can stock up on the essentials. They typically only carry two products—the expensive brand name and a cheaper alternative. If you can't find something, asking often helps, and then a cupboard door will open. A small dictionary will then come in handy. Even if this service isn't available, you can observe vendors on flatbed trucks during the day, making their rounds with all sorts of goods, especially fruits and vegetables, as well as bakers and fishmongers. So don't be surprised if you hear constant honking during the day – the vendor isn't far away.
Opening hours are relative in the Azores. What is written down is not necessarily true. In practice, many shops are therefore open irregularly. The many smaller stores in particular open and close more or less at will. In general, however, they are open Monday to Friday from 9.00:12.30 a.m. to 14.00:18.30 p.m. and from 12.00:8.30 p.m. to 15.00:9.00 p.m. Larger supermarkets such as Continente are open all day, including Saturdays and Sundays. In smaller towns, you can sometimes buy the essentials in small cafés and bars, as many corner shops are identical to the village pub or bakery. The few markets are only open in the morning until 12.30:14.30 p.m. Most restaurants are closed once a week. Museums are generally closed on Mondays. Banks are open Monday to Friday from 18.00:XNUMX a.m. to XNUMX:XNUMX p.m. The post office is open on weekdays from XNUMX:XNUMX a.m. to XNUMX:XNUMX p.m. and from XNUMX:XNUMX p.m. to XNUMX:XNUMX p.m.
The Postamt is on the sign post offices or CTT to recognize. Customer service counters are only available in larger towns. In smaller communities, there is usually a mailbox at the municipal administration. The delivery time for letters from the Azores to Central Europe is between two days and a week. Parcels take about a week. In Portugal, a distinction is made between express (correio azul) and standard (correio normal). Many mailboxes are divided accordingly. In practice, however, the delivery speed of letters and postcards to homes remains the same. At post offices, you can exchange money, buy stamps, and top up Portuguese prepaid mobile phone cards upon presentation of your postal savings book. The post office is open on weekdays from 2:9.00 a.m. to 12.30:14.30 p.m. and from 18.00:XNUMX p.m. to XNUMX:XNUMX p.m. In the three major cities of Ponta Delgada, Horta, and Angra, it is open XNUMX hours a day.
In some places there are local cooperatives and handicraft centersThe selection ranges from embroidery and weaving to basketry. Sao Miguel There are ceramic manufactories where earthenware is produced.
Souvenirs: Handcrafted souvenirs are both beautiful and useful. There are beautiful embroidery and lace, woven blankets, wicker baskets, miniatures made from fig tree pith, and flowers made from fish scales.

Essen

The Essen is inexpensive, good and filling. There are many specialties: Cozido the Furnas, Alcatra, Polvo Guisado, Lapas, or Cracas. Serve with a Vinho de Cheiro or Verdelho. For dessert, a passion fruit or pineapple liqueur. And, of course, lots of cheese.
Tip: 5% is customary in restaurants and taxis. In practice, tips are always rounded up to the nearest whole amount. In restaurants, tips are left on the table/plate and not added to the bill. Tipping is less common in cafés. Drivers, porters, and room service staff are also happy to receive 1-2 euros per guest.

Holidays

January 1: Ano Novo (New Year)
February: Entrudo (Shrove Tuesday)
April: Sexta-feira Santa (Good Friday)
April: Pascoa (Easter – Easter Sunday only)
April 25: Dia da Liberdade (Freedom Day during the Carnation Revolution of 1974)
May 1st: Dia do Trabalhador (Labor Day)
May: Espirito Santo (Pentecost)
Whit Monday: Dia da Autonomia (Day of Autonomy 1976)
June: Corpo Deus (Corpus Christi)
June 10: Camões / Day of Portugal (National Day in memory of the poet Camões)
15 August: Assumption of Mary
October 5: Implantacäo da Republica (Foundation of the Republic 1910)
November 1st: Todos os Santos (All Saints Day)
December 1: Restauracao (Day of Independence from Spain 1640)
December 8: Imaculada Conceicao (Mary Conception)
December 25: Christmas Day

Information

Small tourist information offices can be found in every larger town. They are often inconspicuously located in the town hall or on central squares. Unfortunately, the quality of information and advice often leaves much to be desired. Those inquiring about hiking trails are frequently given outdated information from a computer. These days, QR codes are usually displayed, allowing access to information. Information and downloads are available online at www.visitazores.com.

Internet + Media

Internet is no longer a foreign word; most Azores are online and have a Facebook account. However, internet addresses change very quickly and are often out of date. Those who want to stay online while on holiday can do so in the numerous cafés and restaurants with local hotspots. Even in some towns, there are entire WiFi Zones. The mobile network is broadband and 5G standard. Almost everyone has Glass fiber as a home connection with bandwidths over 500 Mbps.
In the Azores there is only one TV program (RTP Acores), which is produced and broadcast as a window program. Only in the evenings is there a local program with its own news and weather. The first part of the day is filled with continental programming. Reception is possible via satellite or DVB-T (TDT), which also broadcasts all other Portuguese channels. Foreign channels can usually also be received in hotels. German television, if at all, is usually only available via Deutsche Welle TV.
radio stations There are relatively many. On some islands, there are local programs with limited reach. There are also centrally produced programs that are broadcast on all islands.
German-language newspapers are rare. They are only available in major cities, are overpriced, and delivery is extremely delayed. National newspapers from Portugal are more readily available, usually at well-stocked kiosks. Local press In contrast, it is only represented in small numbers. There are several newspaper publishers that produce local editions with small print runs: Sao Miguel: Diario dos Acores, Correio dos Acores and Acoriano Oriental; Faial: O Telegrafo and Correio da Horta; TerceiraA Uniao and Diario Insular. The publishers usually offer online subscription editions. The newspapers typically also include emergency numbers and the local weather forecast.

Clothing

In summer, light clothing is sufficient. In other seasons, you should bring long trousers and a sweater. It can get a bit colder, especially in winter. A jacket and waterproof clothing should be in your suitcase all year round, as should a hat. For hikers, the usual equipment and a weatherproof cover are recommended. Sturdy shoes are a must, of course, as are telescopic hiking poles. If you want to save on luggage, modern, lightweight, and quick-drying functional clothing is a good idea. You should also bring a swimsuit for the many natural pools and other swimming opportunities. Short vacation trousers are conspicuous in Catholic Portugal. If you want to go to church, you should therefore wear long trousers out of decency.

Climate and best travel time

The Azores are known for their changeable oceanic climate , which is influenced by their proximity to the Gulf Stream:

The temperatures are mild all year round, with daily temperatures ranging from about 16 °C in winter to 25 °C in summer.
It can happen at any time sudden changes in weather come – rain, sun and wind often alternate every hour.
The best time lies between May and OctoberLate spring (May/June) and early autumn (September/October) are particularly pleasant, when the climate is stable and the islands are not yet overcrowded.
The water temperatures reach around 22–24 °C in summer – ideal for swimming, diving or whale watching.

Pets

Traveling with pets to the Azores is also possible, provided certain conditions are met:

Dogs, cats and ferrets need a EU pet passport, a Microchip identification and a valid rabies vaccination.
The entry requirements correspond to the requirements for travel within the EU.
Veterinary care is limited on some islands – this should be taken into account for longer stays.

Other information

Currency: The Azores use the Euro (€). Card payments are widespread, but not possible everywhere – especially in small towns Cash , the liquid and enriched version of the African BLACK SOAP is recommended.
Electricity: 230 Volt / 50 Hertz; adapters are not required.
On all islands there are in the larger towns banks or ATM-ATMs. Most machines accept KreditkartenBanks are open Monday to Friday from 8.30:15.00 a.m. to XNUMX:XNUMX p.m. At the ATM (Multibanco) you can get up to EUR 200 at once and can withdraw the same amount again on the same day.
time zone: The Azores are located behind Central Europe in terms of time. The Azores have -1 hour time difference compared to mainland Portugal (i.e., -2 hours compared to Germany). The time difference to Germany is -2 hours. Winter/summer time applies as in Central Europe.
Language: Official language is portugiesischEnglish is spoken in hotels, at car rental companies, and in the... TourThe language is well understood. German, on the other hand, is rare. For contacts in rural areas, you should know a few words of Portuguese. The Azoreans are friendly and helpful, so you should be prepared for hospitality. Although the islands are close to each other, there are linguistic differences. For example, on Sao Miguel A U quickly becomes an Ü.
emergency numbers: Uniformly across the 112 reachable (police, fire brigade, rescue).
Nude bathing It is forbidden in Portugal. One should respect the religion and way of life of the population and consistently adhere to the rules. Even at the few bathing spots and beaches, only inconsiderate people are seen. Touristen “topless”.
The Photograph is generally permitted. However, photography is often prohibited in museums and some churches. Out of decency and respect, however, you should briefly ask people before taking their picture for eternity. Hardly anyone will refuse your request.
A Holiday in the Azores It's not exactly cheap and certainly can't be compared to a package holiday or a last-minute deal. Flights, accommodation, and rental cars quickly add up to a hefty sum, especially in midsummer when the bargains are long gone.
Public toilets There are many places to eat in every town, and sometimes in some municipalities as well. The best chance is always around the church and the church square with its pavilion. However, cleanliness often leaves much to be desired. Ladies = Senhoras; Gentlemen = Homens. The bucket in the toilet isn't for garbage, but for toilet paper. Since there's usually no sewer system, and everything ends up in the pit, waste is separated in the Azores – something that's initially unusual for Central Europeans. This also applies to most accommodations!
Drinking waterNote: Tap water is not always drinkable according to strict purity criteria, but it is perfectly suitable for brushing teeth. Bottled mineral water is available inexpensively in every supermarket. Water from rivers and streams should not be consumed unfiltered. If you run out of water while traveling and there is no bar in sight, we recommend using the taps at the roadside fountains in the villages.
SmokingIn addition to international brands, there are also local products in the Azores. These brands, which are based in Sao Miguel They are produced under the names Alem Mar and Gigante. The local products are significantly cheaper than the international brands.
homosexualität: Gays and lesbians are a completely marginalized group in the Azores. Same-sex marriage is practically a foreign concept. Therefore, there are no official legal provisions for same-sex marriage.

People with disabilities

People with disabilities generally don't have it easy in the Azores. Those with walking difficulties, in particular, will repeatedly encounter steps and ledges that make it difficult to move around. Hotels and accommodations now regularly offer accessible facilities if you ask. Accessibility is therefore no longer a foreign concept.

Conclusion

The Azores offer a fascinating mix of unspoiled nature, active volcanoes, green pastures, and dramatic cliffs. The archipelago is safe, well-developed, and yet far removed from the crowds.tourIt is. Those who prepare well will be rewarded with authentic experiences, friendly people and an extraordinary landscape.