"When is the best time to travel to Azores Islands?" you ask? Well, the answer to this question is not a short one. Deciding when is the best time to visit Azores Islands is much more than just looking at the weather. Ultimately, it comes down to what activities you most want to experience on the island and what your interests are. Maximize your experience at Azores Islands, do your research and get going!
The Azores are located 1500 km west of Portugal's capital Lisbon, north of Canary Islands and Madeira and consist of nine islands in total. The largest island is São Miguel and the smallest is Corvo. All the islands have extreme nature and beauty, but each island has its characteristics that make it unique.
The weather in the Azores Islands
A mild and breezy climate with winter temperatures around 14°C and summer temperatures around 25°C make Azores Islands a perfect place to enjoy at any time of the year. Each season brings different highlights to the islands. Overall, the best time to visit Azores Islands is between April and October but read on to get to know the Azores month by month.
January and February
January and February are in the middle of the rainy season, but temperatures are pleasant. As it gets further into February, there may be a few fewer rainy days than in January. Whale watching, dolphin watching and bird watching are activities you can enjoy in the Azores at any time of year. Some people say that it is even better to see whales and dolphins when it rains.
March, April and May
In March, temperatures start to get a bit higher, even around 20°C. In April you can get a direct flight to Azores Islands and ferry trips are more common. The temperature rises higher in April and May and can reach up to 25°C.
June, July and August
This is the best time to visit Azores Islands! The weather is fantastic for walking, hiking, cycling, boating, surfing and hanging out on the beach. Explore the islands. The warm temperatures around 27°C and maybe with a little rain are the perfect combination. Go island hopping!
September and October in the Azores
As we approach autumn, the rain starts to increase but it's still warm. The temperature is around 20°C. Wind-based sports are perfect for the weather conditions at this time. There are fewer ferries and no direct flights, but there are also fewer tourists on the islands. You can explore the islands on horseback, it's a tradition there. It will surely be one of the most unforgettable moments of your trip.
November and December in the Azores
During this period, it is very quiet on Azores Islands due to the rain. However, the rugged and wild landscape is very beautiful. With the lower temperatures, it is great to enjoy the Hot Springs in São Miguel. Because of fewer tourists at this time, you can often get a great deal on flights and you have the islands all to yourself (...almost).
Renting a car in the Azores
If you want to rent a car in the Azores Islands, you can use the reliable car rental partners that we have on the Azores Islands. Most visitors pick up and drop off their rental car at the airport, but it is also possible to pick up and drop off a rental car in the city centres on some islands. You can visit several islands with your rental car, but not all of them. Most car rental companies charge an additional fee for one-way rentals if you want to drop off the rental car at a different location than where you picked it up. Most ferry companies will allow you to take the rental car with you, but you will have to buy an extra ticket for it. Some travellers find that it is easiest to drop off the rental car after exploring an island, hop on a ferry and rent a new car when you arrive on another island.
