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Portuguese Islands are a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich culture, and diverse landscapes. Spread across the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores and Madeira archipelagos offer everything from lush green valleys and volcanic craters to golden beaches and vibrant coastal towns. Each island has its unique charm be it the dramatic cliffs of Madeira, the serene hot springs of Sao Miguel, or the untouched beauty of Corvo.Perfect for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those craving a peaceful retreat, these islands showcase Portugal’s diverse offerings. With mild climates, stunning scenery, and welcoming locals, the Portuguese islands promise unforgettable travel experiences.
10 Best Portuguese Islands You Can’t Miss
Discover the 10 best Portuguese islands that offer stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences in the Atlantic Ocean.
1. Madeira
Photo: Don Amaro / Wikimedia Commons
Often referred to as the “Pearl of the Atlantic,” Madeira is a paradise of lush greenery, dramatic cliffs, and a year-round mild climate. The island’s capital, Funchal, is known for its charming streets, historic architecture, vibrant markets, and beautiful botanical gardens. Adventure seekers can hike the scenic Levada trails or ascend Pico Ruivo, the highest peak, for breathtaking views of the island’s rugged terrain. The Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a unique ecosystem filled with endemic flora and fauna. Madeira’s vibrant culture, coupled with its stunning landscapes and world-famous Madeira wine, makes it a perfect destination for both relaxation and exploration.
Location: North Atlantic Ocean, 1,000 km southwest of Lisbon
Distance From Nearest Airport: Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport
2. Sao Miguel
Photo: José Luís Ávila Silveira/Pedro Noronha e Costa / Wikimedia Commons
The largest island in the Azores archipelago, Sao Miguel, is famed for its breathtaking volcanic landscapes, crater lakes, and geothermal wonders. The Sete Cidades twin lakes, one a vibrant blue and the other a striking green, are iconic natural features that offer spectacular views from the crater’s edge. In the town of Furnas, visitors can soak in therapeutic hot springs and sample “Cozido,” a traditional stew slow-cooked underground using natural geothermal heat. The island also boasts tea plantations, stunning waterfalls, and beautiful coastal vistas. São Miguel is a haven for nature lovers, combining outdoor adventure with relaxation in a lush, unspoiled setting.
Location: North Atlantic Ocean, 1,360 km west of mainland Portugal
Distance From Nearest Airport: Joao Paulo II Airport
3. Porto Santo
Photo: Bem bom / Wikimedia Commons
Porto Santo, often overshadowed by its larger neighbor Madeira, is renowned for its serene golden sandy beaches stretching over 9 km along the coast. These sands are believed to have therapeutic properties, attracting visitors looking for relaxation and wellness. Beyond the beaches, the island offers historical charm with sites like the Christopher Columbus House Museum, showcasing the explorer’s time on the island. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike to Pico do Castelo for sweeping views of the island or play a round of golf at the famous Porto Santo Golf Course.
Location: Madeira archipelago, about 43 km northeast of Madeira Island
Distance From Nearest Airport: Porto Santo Airport
4. Faial
Photo: José Luís Ávila Silveira/Pedro Noronha e Costa / Wikimedia Commons
Known as the “Blue Island” due to the vibrant hydrangeas that bloom across its landscape, Faial is a picturesque destination in the Azores. The island’s volcanic history is showcased at the Capelinhos Volcano, where the 1957 eruption created a dramatic, lunar-like landscape that visitors can explore alongside an informative interpretive centre. Faial’s capital, Horta, is a famous stop for transatlantic sailors, and its marina is covered with colourful murals painted by visiting yachtsmen. Nature lovers can hike the Caldeira, a massive volcanic crater with breathtaking views of the island and surrounding ocean, making Faial an ideal mix of adventure and tranquillity.
Location: North Atlantic Ocean, approximately 1,700 km west of mainland Portugal
Distance From Nearest Airport: Horta Airport
5. Pico
Photo: H. Zell / Wikimedia Commons
Pico Island, dominated by Mount Pico,the tallest peak in Portugal at 2,351 meters, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and wine lovers alike. The island’s volcanic soil and unique lava stone walls have fostered a UNESCO-designated vineyard culture, producing the distinctive Verdelho wine. Climbing Mount Pico offers adventurers stunning panoramic views of the Azores, while the surrounding waters make Pico one of the best places for whale watching in Europe, with frequent sightings of sperm whales and dolphins. The island’s rugged beauty, cultural heritage, and abundant marine life make Pico an unforgettable destination for those seeking both adventure and tranquillity.
Location: North Atlantic Ocean, about 1,600 km west of mainland Portugal
Distance From Nearest Airport: Pico Airport
6. Terceira
Photo: AnaMargaridaGA / Wikimedia Commons
Terceira, one of the most vibrant islands in the Azores, captivates visitors with its lively culture, colorful streets, and rich history. The capital, Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features charming colonial architecture, cobbled streets, and historic landmarks like the Sé Cathedral. The island’s volcanic heritage is showcased at Algar do Carvão, an ancient lava tube with stunning stalactites and a natural underground lake. Terceira is also known for its festivals, especially Festas Sanjoaninas, which light up the island with traditional parades, music, and bullfights, offering a taste of authentic Portuguese culture.
Location: Terceira, Azores, 1,600 km west of mainland Portugal
Distance From Nearest Airport: Lajes Airport is 15 km from Angra do Heroísmo
7. Flores
Photo: Dreizung / Wikimedia Commons
Often hailed as the most beautiful island in the Azores, Flores is a haven of lush greenery, towering waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs. The island’s crown jewel, Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro, is a breathtaking site where multiple waterfalls cascade into a serene, forested valley, resembling a scene from a fairytale. Adventure seekers can kayak across the serene Lagoa das Sete Cidades, surrounded by volcanic landscapes, or visit Rocha dos Bordões, famous for its impressive basalt columns formed by ancient lava flows. Flores offers a tranquil escape into nature’s untouched beauty.
Location: Flores, Azores, about 1,900 km west of mainland Portugal
Distance From Nearest Airport: Flores Airport
8. Graciosa
Nicknamed the “Graceful Island,” Graciosa exudes tranquility with its gentle landscapes, whitewashed windmills, and natural thermal pools. One of the island’s most remarkable features is Furna do Enxofre, a volcanic cave housing a sulfuric underground lake surrounded by dramatic rock formations. After exploring the cave, visitors can unwind at the Carapacho Hot Springs, soaking in naturally heated pools with ocean views. Graciosa’s charming windmills dotting the countryside add to its serene allure, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking relaxation and natural beauty.
Location: Graciosa, Azores, about 1,700 km west of mainland Portugal
Distance From Nearest Airport: Graciosa Airport
9. Santa Maria
Photo: Carlos Luis M C da Cruz / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Known for its sunny weather and golden beaches, Santa Maria is the warmest island in the Azores. The island’s standout feature is Praia Formosa, a pristine beach with soft golden sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Santa Maria also boasts unique landscapes like Barreiro da Faneca, often referred to as the island’s “Red Desert” due to its striking red-hued clay terrain. For geology enthusiasts, Ribeira de Maloás offers an impressive display of columnar basalt formations, adding to the island’s geological wonders.
Location: Santa Maria, Azores, about 1,500 km west of mainland Portugal
Distance From Nearest Airport: Santa Maria Airport
10. Corvo
Photo: Dreizung / Wikimedia Commons
As the smallest island in the Azores, Corvo offers a unique, untouched charm that appeals to eco-tourists and solitude seekers. The island’s main highlight is the Caldeirão Crater, a massive volcanic caldera with twin lakes nestled inside, surrounded by rolling green hills. The island is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, attracting rare migratory species to its peaceful shores. With only one village, Vila do Corvo, the island offers an authentic, slow-paced lifestyle, perfect for those wanting to escape modern distractions and immerse themselves in nature’s simplicity.
Location: Corvo, Azores, about 1,950 km west of mainland Portugal
Distance From Nearest Airport: Corvo Airport
Portugal’s islands are more than just picturesque destinations,they’re gateways to unique adventures and cultural experiences. Whether it’s hiking volcanic peaks in the Azores, diving into the vibrant marine life of Madeira, or unwinding on Santa Maria’s golden beaches, each island offers something special. From rich traditions and local cuisine to breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities, these islands promise diverse and unforgettable memories. Perfect for explorers, nature lovers, and those seeking tranquility, the Portuguese islands are destinations you’ll want to revisit. Their natural beauty and charm will leave a lasting impression long after your journey ends.Book your trip today to these mesmerizing islands with TripXL!
Cover Photo: Jules Verne Times Two / Wikimedia Commons
