2025 Sete Cidades Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in March)

The Miradouro da Boca do Inferno, also known as the Boca do Inferno viewpoint, is a popular tourist spot on São Miguel Island in the Azores. This viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of the Sete Cidades caldera, renowned for its twin lakes, Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde. Unlike some other viewpoints on the island, reaching Boca do Inferno requires a 20-minute hike. We parked our car at the Parque Estacionamento Lagoa do Canário and crossed the road to reach the trail entrance. Unfortunately, the weather was not ideal during our visits, and we were unable to get a clear view of the lakes due to heavy mist on both days. Despite this, the hike itself was enjoyable. #travelanywhere #roadtrip #vacation #portugal #azores #viewpoint #PontaDelgada #SãoMiguel #Island #driving #crater #volcano #lake #setecidades #caldera #tripblazers #gohiking #hiking

The El Rey Viewpoint on the Portuguese island of São Miguel is a breathtaking sight. This observation deck offers a stunning panoramic view of the crater lake and is one of the most famous viewpoints on the island. Standing here, you can overlook the most famous Setúbal Lake and Blue Lake on São Miguel Island. They each present different colors and beautiful scenery, and are a must-visit place for tourists who love natural scenery. 👍️Recommendation reason: 1. Stunning lake view: From the observation deck, you can see the famous Setubal Lake (Lagoa das Sete Cidades) and the Blue Lake (Lagoa Azul). These two lakes were formed by ancient volcanic craters. The water of Lake Setúbal is a unique green, while the Blue Lake is a deep blue, like two emeralds and gems inlaid between the valleys. 2. Perfect photo spot: King’s View is one of the best spots to take photos of the two lakes. You can capture views of the lake, mountains, and greenery, especially in the early morning or evening when the sun shines on the lake, creating a dreamy play of light and shadow. 3. Fusion of history and nature: This observation deck not only has charming natural scenery, but its name comes from the visit of the King of Portugal. In the 19th century, the King of Portugal came here and expressed his admiration for the beautiful scenery, so this place became a veritable "King's" viewing platform. 4. Path to Tranquility: Starting from the trails surrounding the observation deck, visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk through the natural landscape of the island. There will be various virgin forest landscapes along the way, and you can occasionally see some wild animals and plants. It is very suitable for tourists who like hiking and nature. 📅 Game guide: • Best time to visit: The best time is spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is most stunning. Especially in autumn and winter, the colors and light and shadows of the lake are richer, allowing you to take the most artistic photos. •Recommended visit time: To fully enjoy the beautiful scenery here, it is recommended to reserve at least 1 to 2 hours to explore the observation deck and surrounding trails. •How to reach the summit: It takes about 15 to 20 minutes to drive from the bottom of Lake Setúbal to reach the observation deck. If you like hiking, you can also choose to climb to the viewing platform from the surrounding trails. There will be some challenging uphill climbs along the way, but it is definitely worth a try. 🚗 Transportation tips: •How to get there: Ponta Delgada, the main city of São Miguel Island, is the starting point to reach the El Rey Viewpoint. It takes about 30 minutes to drive from Ponta Delgada to El Rey Viewpoint. If you don't have a car, you can choose to join a local tour group or take a taxi to the observation deck. • Transportation: If you plan to visit more natural attractions, such as the trails around Lake Setúbal, it is recommended to rent a car for a self-driving tour, so that you can choose your tour route more flexibly. 💗 Other tips: • Prepare your camera: The scenery here is very photographic, whether it is the vast lake, the misty valley, or the light and shadow in the early morning or evening, they are all great for taking pictures. So, don't forget to bring your camera or mobile phone to capture this beautiful moment. • Wear comfortable shoes: If you plan to walk on the trail, it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes, especially during the walk, you will pass through some rugged paths and slopes, good shoes can ensure your safety and comfort. •Weather considerations: The weather on São Miguel Island is changeable, especially in the mountainous areas, where fog is often present. Check the weather forecast before your trip and bring appropriate clothing and rain gear to ensure you can still enjoy the viewing experience in different weather conditions. 🌿 Summary: The King's Viewpoint is a shining pearl on São Miguel Island. Standing here, you can not only enjoy the beautiful scenery of the volcanic lake, but also feel the charm of the interweaving of Portuguese history and nature. Whether you are a photography enthusiast, a hiking adventurer, or a tourist who simply wants to relax in nature, this is a perfect destination.

Azores getaway #autumnbeauty

We stumbled upon this small restaurant when we passed by Sete Cidades during lunchtime. We were really happy that we discovered this hidden gem that serves authentic Azorean food in a lunch buffet. The prices are very affordable. For 15 euros you can eat all you want and it also includes a drink like wine or soft drink and a cup of coffee. We were able to sample different variety of Azorean food in a meal. There were more than 10 dishes available, most of them were meat and seafood. You can surely find some dishes that suit your taste. 📍 Restaurante Lagoa Azul R. da Caridade 28, Sete Cidades, Portugal V664+C8 Sete Cidades, Portugal #travelanywhere #buffet #vacation #portugal #Azores #PontaDelgada #SãoMiguel #Island #setecidades #restaurant #seafood #tripblazers

Quinta Da Queiró is a country house located in rural Sete Cidades, a town on São Miguel Island in the Azores, famous for its volcanic crater and twin lakes. The building was once the family home of the owner from the grandparents' generation. It was restored and turned into a holiday house and tea house. We visited the tea house named O Poejo in Quinta Da Queiró to have a bite. This beautiful tea house is a hidden gem in the small town. There is a very nice garden just outside the tea house where you can get an amazing view of the surrounding mountains. 📌 Sete Cidades Quinta Da Queiró 📍 Rua da Queiró 9, Rua do Queiro nº 9, 9555-203 Sete Cidades, Portugal #grouptravel #teahouse #vacation #portugal #Azores #PontaDelgada #SãoMiguel #Island #setecidades #holidayhouse #tripblazers

We stopped by O Poejo Tea House to have a bite during our visit to Sete Cidades, the most famous attraction on São Miguel Island, Azores, Portugal. This beautiful tea house is a hidden gem in the small town. The building was once the family home of the owner from the grandparents' generation. It was restored and turned into a holiday house and tea house. There is a very nice garden just outside the tea house where you can get an amazing view of the surrounding mountains. There is a wide variety of appetizers, light meals, desserts, teas, coffees, juices, alcohols, etc. on its menu. The prices are very affordable. 📌 CASA DE CHÁ “O POEJO” 📍 Rua do Queiro nº 9, 9555-203 Sete Cidades, Portugal #foodies #teahouse #vacation #portugal #Azores #PontaDelgada #SãoMiguel #Island #setecidades #restaurant #tripblazers