Terceira Travel Guide

Explore the rich natural beauty and cultural heritage of Terceira with this in-depth travel guide. Plan your itinerary, find the best places to eat and stay, and discover local customs and traditions.


If you’re dreaming of an island getaway with stunning scenery, rich cultural heritage and endless adventure, Terceira is the perfect destination for you. Located in the Azores, an archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, Terceira is known for its breathtaking landscapes, lively cultural scene, and charming towns. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip and explore everything this enchanting island has to offer.

Introduction to Terceira

Terceira is the third-largest island in the Azores, covering an area of 396.75 km². It has a population of around 56,000 people, and its main town is Angra do Heroísmo, the historic capital of the Azores. The island has a rich history, with evidence of human activity dating back to the 4th century BC. Today, Terceira is a popular destination for tourists seeking natural beauty, adventure, and culture.

List of Places to Visit in Terceira

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Angra do Heroísmo: The UNESCO-listed town of Angra do Heroísmo is one of the most well-preserved historical centers in Europe. It’s a must-see destination for anyone interested in history and architecture, with its impressive churches, fortresses, and colorful houses.
  • Algar do Carvão: This natural wonder is a lava tube cave that was formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. Visitors can explore the underground caves and marvel at the unique geological formations.
  • Museum of Angra do Heroísmo: This fascinating museum traces the history of the town and the Azores through a collection of artifacts, documents, and artworks.
  • Monte Brasil: This scenic spot overlooks the town of Angra and offers sweeping views of the ocean and surrounding hills. Visitors can hike to the top or drive up and explore the historic fortifications and picnic areas.

Natural Attractions of Terceira: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Biscoitos: This coastal area is known for its natural swimming pools, formed by volcanic rocks. It’s a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
  • Serra do Cume: This scenic viewpoint offers panoramic views of the island’s rolling hills and green pastures. It’s a great spot for hiking and picnicking.
  • Gruta do Natal: This underground cave system is home to colorful stalactites and stalagmites, as well as natural pools. Visitors can take a guided tour to explore the caves and learn about their geological formation.
  • Serreta: This lush forested area is a great place for a hike, picnic, or birdwatching. It’s home to a variety of bird species, as well as streams and waterfalls.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Terceira

Terceira is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with miles of hiking and biking trails that offer stunning views of the island’s landscape. Some popular routes include:

  • Monte Brasil Trail: This 2.5-mile trail offers panoramic views of the town of Angra and the surrounding ocean.
  • Serra do Cume Trail: This 4.5-mile trail takes hikers through the island’s rolling hills and green pastures, offering breathtaking views along the way.
  • Rua da Sé Trail: This 2.5-mile trail takes hikers through the historic town of Angra, passing by landmarks such as the Cathedral and the Palace of the Captain Generals.
  • Coastline Bike Tour: This 17-mile bike tour takes cyclists along the stunning coast of Terceira, offering a unique perspective of the island’s natural beauty.

Best Things to Do in Terceira: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or adventure, Terceira has something for everyone. Some of the best things to do on the island include:

  • Whale Watching Tour: Terceira is a great destination for whale watching, with several species of whales and dolphins inhabiting the waters around the island. Visitors can take a boat tour to see these magnificent creatures up close.
  • Walking Tour of Angra: A guided walking tour of Angra do Heroísmo is a great way to learn about the island’s rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the town’s historic landmarks and learn about its past as a hub of trade and commerce.
  • Surfing: Terceira’s rugged coastline makes it a great destination for surfing, with waves that are perfect for beginners and experienced surfers alike. Visitors can take a lesson or rent a board and explore the island’s beaches.
  • Horseback Riding: Horseback riding is a great way to explore the island’s natural beauty, with trails that take riders through lush forests and rolling hills.

Week-Long Itinerary for Terceira

For visitors who want to experience all Terceira has to offer, a week-long itinerary is a great way to explore the island’s natural beauty, culture, and history. Here’s a sample itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Terceira and explore Angra do Heroísmo Day 2: Visit Algar do Carvão and the Museum of Angra do Heroísmo Day 3: Take a whale watching tour and visit Biscoitos for a swim Day 4: Bike along the coastline and visit Gruta do Natal Day 5: Go horseback riding in Serreta and hike Serra do Cume Trail Day 6: Take a walking tour of Angra and visit Monte Brasil Day 7: Depart from Terceira

Food and Drink Scene of Terceira

Terceira’s gastronomy is a reflection of its culture and history, with a diverse range of dishes that reflect the island’s Portuguese and Azorean roots. Some must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Alcatra: This traditional meat stew is made with beef, bacon, and vegetables, and is slow-cooked for hours for maximum flavor.
  • Cozido das Furnas: This hearty meat and vegetable dish is cooked in volcanic hot springs, giving it a unique flavor and texture.
  • Lapas: These grilled limpets are a popular local snack, served with garlic butter and lemon.

Local Beverages

  • Verdelho Wine: This delicious white wine has been produced on the island for centuries, and is known for its crisp, refreshing taste.
  • Queijadas da Vila: These sweet pastries are made with fresh cheese and sugar, and make a great dessert or snack.

Where to Stay in Terceira: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Terceira offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and traveler’s style. Some popular choices include:

  • Terceira Mar Hotel: This beachfront hotel offers stunning views of the ocean and is conveniently located near Angra do Heroísmo.
  • Hotel Caracol: This stylish hotel is located in the heart of Angra do Heroísmo and offers comfortable accommodations and a range of amenities.
  • Casa do Barão: This charming guesthouse is located in a restored 19th-century building and offers a cozy, personalized experience for guests.

What to Buy in Terceira: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Terceira offers a range of unique souvenirs and local products for visitors to bring home, including:

  • Hand-painted ceramics: Terceira is known for its beautiful ceramics, which are often painted by hand and feature traditional designs and patterns.
  • Traditional embroidery: This ornate embroidery is a hallmark of Azorean culture, and can be found on a range of items such as tablecloths, clothing, and linens.
  • Local cheese and wine: Terceira produces some of the best cheese and wine in the Azores, and visitors can bring home a taste of the island to enjoy later.

Local Culture and Customs of Terceira

Terceira has a rich cultural heritage that is still celebrated today, with traditional festivals, music, and dance. Some of the island’s most notable customs and traditions include the bullfighting festivals, the Holy Ghost festivals, and the Bodo de Leite festival.

Best Time to Visit Terceira

Terceira can be visited year-round, with mild temperatures and sunny skies throughout the year. The peak season is from June to September, when the weather is warmest and the island’s outdoor activities and events are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Terceira

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, including the island’s famous cheese and wine.
  • Explore the island’s natural beauty, from its rugged coastline to its lush forests and pastures.
  • Learn about the island’s history and culture by visiting its museums, historical landmarks, and cultural events.

Don’t:

  • Touch or disturb the natural wildlife or flora on the island.
  • Drive off-road or on restricted areas.
  • Speak loudly or behave disrespectfully in places of worship or during cultural events.

Safety and Health

Safety in Terceira

Terceira is a safe destination to visit, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, visitors should take standard safety precautions, such as keeping valuable items secure and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Terceira

Terceira has a good healthcare system, with several hospitals and medical clinics located throughout the island. Visitors should ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage before traveling to the Azores.

Getting to Terceira: Transportation Options and Logistics

Terceira is well-connected by air and sea, with several transportation options available for visitors.

Airports Near Terceira

  • Lajes Airport: This international airport is located on the east side of the island, near the town of Praia da Vitória. It offers direct flights to Lisbon and other destinations in Europe and North America.
  • Angra do Heroísmo Airport: This regional airport is located near the town of Angra and offers domestic flights to other Azorean islands.

Bus Stations Near Terceira

  • Angra do Heroísmo Bus Station: This bus station is located in the center of Angra and offers connections to other towns on the island.
  • Praia da Vitória Bus Station: This bus station is located near Lajes Airport and offers connections to other towns on the island.

Other Options

  • Ferry: Visitors can also travel to Terceira by ferry from other Azorean islands such as Sao Miguel and Faial.
  • Rental Car: Rental cars are available at the airports and in the towns on the island, offering visitors flexibility to explore at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Terceira

Terceira is a small island that can easily be explored by car, bicycle, or on foot. Taxis and buses are also available for those who prefer not to drive.

Where to Go Next from Terceira: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Terceira’s central location in the Azores makes it a great starting point for exploring other islands in the archipelago. Some popular nearby destinations include Sao Miguel, Faial, and Pico.

Conclusion

Terceira is a destination that offers something for everyone, from its stunning natural beauty to its rich cultural heritage and exciting outdoor activities. By following this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can plan the perfect trip to this enchanting island in the Azores. Don’t forget to pack your sense of adventure and explore everything that Terceira has to offer!

Angra do Heroísmo Angra do Heroísmo


    Angra do Heroísmo
    Praia da Vitória