Part of the central group of islands in Portugal’s resplendent Azores archipelago, Faial Island is a feast for the eyes. Lush green landscapes are ringed by the Atlantic Ocean and studded with vivid red windmills, painted houses, and crumbling churches. Like the rest of this remote cluster of islands, things to do here revolve around nature, whether you’re hiking the trails circling the Capelinhos Volcano, spotting abundant whales, swimming in the refreshing waters of Porto Pim Bay, or soaking up panoramic views from Nossa Senhora da Conceição Viewpoint.
For weather optimal for outdoor exploration, the best time to visit Faial Island is May through September. On the sixth Sunday after Easter, Faial Island celebrates the Feast of Nossa Senhora das Angústias in style, with colorful parades and processions through the capital of Horta. At the start of August, the Feast of Our Lady of Guidance sees a procession of boats carrying a Virgin Mary statue out to sea.
Flights depart regularly from Lisbon to Horta Airport; the journey takes around two hours. While the small city of Horta is walkable, you’ll need a car to explore the area further. You can also hop between the five islands in the Central Group (Faial, Pico, São Jorge, Terceira, and Graciosa) by ferry, which runs frequently during the peak summer months from June through September—you might even spot dolphins or whales along the way.
While Faial Island is more known for its nature than its nightlife, it is home to one surprisingly famous bar. Peter’s Café Sport in Horta has been a meeting place for sailors crossing the Atlantic Ocean for more than a century, thanks to the Azores' strategic position between Europe and North America. Inside, the walls are covered with messages from maritime explorers and artifacts such as shark teeth. If you’re here to drink, don’t leave without trying the gin tonic.
