Curator’s statement
Still under the radar, the archipelago of nine islands that comprise the Azores all provide unique landscapes, activities and experiences. Terceira Island (the third island of the group to be discovered) is the second-largest inhabited island of the group and has an enchantment all its own. With seasides, natural rock pools, hiking and walking trails and volcanic caves to explore, there is something captivating around every turn.
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Where to stay on Terceira
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Things to do on Terceira
To get the most out of your visit to Terceira, I highly recommend renting a car. While the island isn’t that large, having your own vehicle will afford you the flexibility to travel and discover at your own pace. You can stop at the multitude of ‘miradouros’ along the way. They are numerous and each vista is pretty amazing.
On the south of the island
Explore the city of Angra do Heroismo (Angra, to locals). This is the first city of the Azores, established in 1470, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In Angra, go to the Duke of Terceira Gardens. These are the most beautiful classic gardens of the Azores.
For some additional cultural exploration: Castle of São Sebastião, the Castle of São João Baptista, the Angra Museum and Monte Brasil.
On the north of the island
Visit the town of Biscoitos and the surrounding area. Here, you’ll see vineyards divided by ‘curraletas’, which are stone-walled squares that protect the vines from the ocean winds and still allow the sun to enter. There are fields upon fields of them.
Museu do Vinho (Wine Museum) provides context, history and visuals of wine (made primarily from Verdeljo grapes) production in Terceira.
Praia do Biscoitos, the natural stone pools created by configurations of volcanic black rock. Lounge in the water, on the rocks or simply walk around.
The bathing site, Escaleiras, in Vila Nova. With pools created from basaltic rock, the color contrast between that and the blue water is gorgeous. Add to that some natural reefs. Very cool.
On the east of the island
Praia da Vitoria, Terceira’s other ‘city’. Easy to walk around, from the water up to the streets, shops and churches. Rua de Jesus well-known street with shopping that has typical and colorful architecture.
Weather permitting, go enjoy Praia Grande (beach). It’s broad and sandy and uncrowded.
In the central part of the island
Algar do Carvao Enter through an unassuming small building, and then descend into a volcanic ‘chimney’ that has stalactites and stalagmites, fauna and an underground lake. Loved it. Note to check the days and hours of operation, as it is typically open in the afternoons only (to manage both light and human disruption).
Misterios Negros hiking trails. The full loop is 5 km (3 miles) and takes about 2.5 hours. The paths are well-maintained, moss and shrubs and generally gorgeous. A rainforest atmosphere, the circular trail is considered medium difficulty. You can opt to retrace your steps back to keep it to an ‘easy walk’.
Gruta do Natal Another volcanic underground site, this one is more of a cave than Algar do Carvao. The footing can be tricky, so wear appropriate shoes.
Day trips
Watch Rope Bullfighting (yes, it’s a thing) The season runs from May 1-October 15 and events happen in different towns during that period. There will typically be a few food trucks set up, as well.
Places to eat & drink on Terceira
Padaria Délia Martins (Delia’s Bakery): Located in Biscoitos. On Wednesdays, they have fresh Massa Sovada (the island’s sweet bread).
Caneta (lunch only): Traditional Terceira-fare that includes Alcatra de Picadinho and Lapas Grelhadas (grilled limpets — in the mollusk family) and Queijo de cabra fresco. All of the beef and pork comes from their own production. Reservations recommended. Located in Altares (near Biscoitos).
Ti-Choa (lunch only): Traditional regional cuisine, located in Grota do Margarida.
Taberna Roberto: Don’t miss! Delicious food and extensive wine selection. Run by a husband and wife team (she’s the chef) with food cooked in wood-fired ovens.. We had a classic T-bone with roasted, lightly pickled garlic and fresh fish (we chose sea bass). (The filet mignon is also recommended.) The fish selection varies, based on what is caught and brought in that morning. We enjoyed a duck confit and tuna tartare for our first course. The lemon pie and cookie ice cream are a must. Great service and an overall excellent experience. If you go for dinner, you definitely need reservations. We were able to have lunch without one. Plan for a leisurely experience. Located in Porto Santo.
Restaurante Rocha: Tasty and casual by the water in the town of Porto Judeu. Grab a sweet pastry, bread from their snack bar for a quick bite.
O Pescador: Traditional cuisine in Praia da Vitoria.
Beira Mar Restaurant in Sao Mateus: Fresh fish and good views.
Vista Grill in Porto Martins: Creative bar & grill with nice wine and cocktail selection and outdoor seating by the water.
Travel Advisor
Susan Walser
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Azores page.