How much does a vacation in the Azores cost?

Round-trip economy fares from the US East Coast to the Azores (Ponta Delgada – PDL) start at about $700 in the low season. These tickets typically include one checked bag (up to 50 lbs) and one carry-on. Business class fares begin around $1,400, while premium economy options (available on some codeshares) start from about $1,100.

Most flights include a stopover in mainland Portugal, usually Lisbon or Porto, before continuing to the Azores. TAP Air Portugal, United (codeshare), and Azores Airlines are the most common carriers, while low-cost airlines also serve these routes via connections in Europe.

To secure the best price, it’s smart to book early. Fares are usually several hundred dollars higher during spring and summer peak travel periods compared to the off-season in fall and winter.

The average cost of an overnight stay in a 2–3-star hotel in the Azores starts at about $75. Comfortable 4-star hotels usually begin around $110 per night, while luxury stays or all-inclusive packages start from about $240 per night, with no upper limit.

Beyond hotel chains, travelers can also book vacation homes, guesthouses, or traditional accommodations such as quintas. A quinta is typically located in the countryside and offers a quiet retreat away from the busier towns.

Keep in mind that the high season runs from June through September, when accommodation prices rise significantly. Booking in advance is key — not only to save money, but also because availability is limited on the islands.

Popular activities in the Azores range from about $35–50, with the highlight being a whale and dolphin watching tour. Guided full-day excursions, such as visiting neighboring islands, usually cost $65–75.

The Azores also offer plenty of free activities to enjoy on your own. For example, you can hike on São Miguel to the Salto da Farinha waterfall or explore volcanic landscapes across the islands.

Some activities are both affordable and memorable. Entry to the Parque Terra Nostra botanical garden costs about $11, which also includes access to the famous thermal pools. Renting a kayak on the Sete Cidades crater lake is another budget-friendly option at around $8.

The cost of renting a car in the Azores starts at about $70 per day for a small car. Gasoline costs around $7.40 per gallon. If you’re traveling with family or friends, a larger vehicle is recommended — mid-size rentals start from about $90, while an SUV or off-road vehicle costs around $130 per day.

While the islands do have a bus network (mainly on São Miguel, Terceira, and Pico), buses run on limited schedules and routes. Public transport is the cheapest way to get around, but many of the best activities and excursions are only accessible with your own car. Renting a car also gives you more flexibility and saves time.

Keep in mind that rental prices can be up to 50% higher during peak season, especially from June through September. Booking early is highly recommended.

A meal in a typical restaurant in the Azores costs about $9–16 per person. Fast food meals are slightly cheaper, while a full three-course dinner usually runs $22–65 per person.

One of the island’s most famous specialties is Cozido das Furnas, a hearty stew of meat and vegetables that’s slow-cooked in natural geothermal steam vents. The cuisine of the Azores reflects its volcanic and oceanic setting — expect plenty of fresh fish and seafood, along with tropical fruit grown locally, especially pineapples and sugar melons.

Compared to mainland Portugal, food and drink in the Azores are generally a bit more expensive, though still reasonable — and sometimes slightly cheaper than in the US.