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Cityscape of Angra do Heroismo on Terceira Island, Azores, Portugal

Things to do in  Terceira

Fortresses and festivities

Part of the rugged and remote Azores archipelago, Terceira Island sits almost 1,000 miles (1,500 kilometers) from mainland Portugal. Things to do in this volcanic paradise revolve around history and the outdoors. Explore the underground Algar do Carvão lava caves, discover ruined 16th-century fortresses on coastal walking trails, and admire the 400-year-old military architecture in Angra do Heroísmo. However you spend your time, you'll find yourself in one of the few places in Europe where you can escape the crowds and feel fully immersed in unspoiled nature.

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When to visit

The best times to visit Terceira are the spring and summer months, from April through September. Its remote location in the Atlantic means it's always prone to cloudy days and rain showers, but warm, sunny days are more likely during this time. Terceira is known as the “Festive Island” thanks to its rich cultural program. Dedicated to the patron saint of St. John, the 10-day Sanjoaninas Festival in June sees Angra do Heroísmo come to life with parades, fireworks, and concerts.

Getting around

Along with the Azorean capital of Ponta Delgada, Terceira is a transport hub. Regular flights depart from Porto, Lisbon, and the small islands of Horta, São Jorge, and Graciosa; it takes around two hours from mainland Portugal to reach. A ferry service also runs between Terceira, Pico, Graciosa, and São Jorge. Once you’re on the island, you really need a rental car as public transport is limited and irregular, though some guided tours offer hotel pickup and drop-off. Note that some areas require an ATV.

Traveler tips

Terceira boasts some of Portugal’s finest produce. Must-try dishes include alcatra, a slow-cooked beef stew flavored with red wine and peppercorns, and queijada da Dona Amélia, a honey and cinnamon tea cake that pays homage to the last queen of Portugal. The volcanic soil of the Azores also makes it a premier wine destination. The Wine Museum (Museu do Vinho) is a great place to learn more about the island’s winemaking history and sample varietals; it’s open Tuesday through Saturday.

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People Also Ask
Q:What are the must-see attractions on Terceira?
A:

The must-see attractions on Terceira are the UNESCO-listed historical center of Angra do Heroísmo; Monte Brasil, an army fortress with panoramic views; the 16th-century São Sebastião Church, famous for its azulejo tile panels; and the lakeside lava cave of Furnas do Enxofre.

Q:How long should you spend on Terceira?
A:

If you’ve got limited time in the Azores and are island-hopping, you can cover most of Terceira's highlights in a day, so long as you have your own transport or are on a guided tour. However, there’s enough to keep you occupied for at least three days, especially if you want to spend time soaking up the island's natural charm.

Q:What outdoor activities can you do on Terceira?
A:

The best outdoor activities on Terceira include sailing and windsurfing on Victoria Beach (Praia da Vitória), swimming in the natural pools of the Salgueiros bathing area, and scuba diving. You can also go horseback riding through the island's lush green landscapes, where blue hydrangeas grow in the hundreds.

Q:What wildlife can you see on Terceira?
A:

The Azores are one of Europe’s whale-watching hotspots. While sperm whales can be seen year-round, the peak whale-watching season is April–October, when blue whales and fin whales make an appearance (particularly in May). During your trip, you may also spot whale sharks, eels, mackerel, octopuses, and Atlantic spotted dolphins.

Q:What are the best hiking trails on Terceira?
A:

The best hiking trails on Terceira include the Algar do Carvão–Furnas do Enxofre route, which takes you through flower-filled meadows to important volcanic features, and the Passage of the Beasts to see the island's patchwork landscape. Baías da Agualva is a great route along the coast with plenty of towering sea cliffs.

Q:What are the best festivals on Terceira?
A:

As well as the Sanjoaninas Festival in June, Terceira hosts the Festival of Vine and Wine in early September and the Angrajazz festival at the beginning of October. Eight weeks before Pentecost, Terceira also celebrates the Feasts of the Divine Holy Spirit, a religious celebration with parades.

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